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Your new furry friend has a lot of growing to do, and you probably have a lot of questions. Your Golden Retriever puppy will go through a number of developmental stages throughout their first twelve weeks. Male Golden Retrievers generally weigh between 65 and 75 pounds and stand from 23 to 24 inches tall. Females are generally smaller weighing between 55 to 65 pounds, and will grow to stand .At 4 months, your Golden Retriever puppy will reach about half their adult height. When it comes to mental development, it can take even longer than that before the Golden Retriever is fully mature. However, every puppy is a unique individual, and these are merely milestone guidelines. Disparities exist between the working and show Goldens, as well as between males and females. Golden Retriever puppy growth can also be quite sporadic. As an overall average, many Golden Retriever puppies will weigh just approximately 1. Golden Retrievers are classified as a gundog breed, and these dogs are often divided into those bred for show and those meant for work. However, the body of the show Golden is typically larger, taller, heavy-boned, and fuller in the chest. Small Parents Like people, puppies inherit physical traits from their parents. And even puppies from the same litter can vary in size. Neither of these scenarios is healthy for a puppy. Larger breeds like the Golden Retriever are more at risk for growth disorders than small breed dogs. This article will give you a lot more information on how much to feed, what to feed, and how often to feed a Golden Retriever puppy. Illness and Puppy Growth If a puppy has been seriously ill for a prolonged period, it may affect their ability to grow normally. However, once the puppy is free of worms, they should continue to grow at a normal rate. The best way to determine if your puppy is too thin or too fat is by how he looks and feels. When looking at your puppy from above, he should have a noticeable waistline. Another way to tell is by putting your hands on either side of his ribcage. You should be able to feel his ribs using a gentle pressure. But if his ribs are visible, he could be underweight. Obesity is a huge problem for many dog breeds. Although there are ways to make your puppy grow bigger, this is not something you should attempt. It could also mean you end up with a fat puppy. One of the best ways to ensure your puppy has a long, healthy life is to ensure he stays at an optimal weight. Hip and elbow dysplasia and other musculoskeletal disorders are associated with excess weight in larger breeds. Having your dog neutered at a young age can also cause them to grow taller. The problem is, this can also cause abnormalities in joint formation. Neutering also makes Golden Retrievers more at risk for certain types of cancers. Typically it will take approximately 18 months for your Golden Retriever to become an adult dog. Even though they can reach their full height at anywhere from 9 to 12 months, it will usually take them longer to fill out to their full weight. Remember that there are wide variations in size within the Golden Retriever breed. If this is the case, you should contact your veterinarian to seek advice. Beginning the puppy development stages before birth Puppy development stages week by week Amazingly, in a way the puppy development stages begin before your dog is even born. Your puppy spends approximately 9 weeks developing inside his Mom. The mother dog has a womb or uterus, that has two long tubes, and the puppies grow in a row along each tube rather like peas in a pod. The puppies are joined to their mother by a placenta which provides all the nourishment they need for those few weeks. To begin with, the puppies have plenty of room to move but they grow fast and as the time for birth draws near they are packed in quite tightly. The one week old puppy Your puppy is born fully furred but with his eyes and ears closed so he cannot hear or see. His front feet are strong and he can pull himself towards his mother with them. He can cry if he is uncomfortable and his mother will respond to his cries by moving him towards her and licking him. Your puppy spends most of his time sleeping or suckling. He cannot regulate his own body temperature and needs his mother for heat, or an artificial heat source. In the first week to ten days of his life your puppy grows rapidly and will double his birth weight. His forelegs are getting much stronger. She licks the puppies bottoms to stimulate a bowel or bladder movement and eats the result. There is no cleaning up for the breeder to do yet. The breeder will begin to handle the puppies more though, and get them used to human contact. She will worm the puppies for the first time at the end of this week. Puppies begin to get their personalities. Your puppy can stand and sit up by the end of the week. Tails can be wagged, ears will be completely open and puppies start play growling and interacting with their littermates. Your puppy can regulate his body temperature more effectively and will start to cut his first teeth in preparation for weaning. The front teeth, canines and incisors are cut first. Toward the end of the week he may have his first tiny taste of puppy food. They also start to move away from the sleeping area to empty their bowels and bladder. They may try to climb out of the whelping box. If she lives indoors, she may rejoin the family for more of each day. Your puppy will cut his back teeth and the breeder will get weaning underway this week and by the end of it, your puppy will be getting quite a bit of his nourishment from puppy food. She will also worm the puppies a second time. If the mother is allowed near the puppies after she has been fed, she may regurgitate her dinner for them. This is completely natural and normal. He is a proper little dog. Rolling around with his brothers and sisters and playing with toys. Teething toys, puppy Kongs, balls and rope toys are big favorites with puppies. He can bark too and some puppies can be quite noisy at this age! He chases after his mother whenever she appears and suckles hungrily, but she is starting to get fed up with it, and may be reluctant to feed her brood for very long. His mother is teaching him not to bite too hard. If he lives in outdoor kennels he should spend part of each day indoors with the family. By the end of the sixth week, most are fully weaned, and eating five or six little meals of puppy food each day. Socialization must begin in earnest. He is now two months old and ready for his new life. It is the time during which they become fearful of anything unfamiliar and need to be thoroughly socialized. This is also the time during which most puppies get to grips with house-training, learning to wait before eliminating and start sleeping through the night without a potty break. It is a busy time for new puppy owners. Your puppy will have his vaccinations during this month. Biting can be a big problem during this stage and you need to be patient and consistent in order to teach the puppy not to hurt people when he plays. Provided you use force free methods, this is a great time to get puppy training under way, and especially to teach a puppy recall, and to get your puppy used to working with food. So, for a 2. You can do the same calculation for medium pups at sixteen weeks and large breed pups at 20 weeks — just divide his weight by his age in weeks before you multiply by .Medium to large pups will reach about half their adult height by the end of the month. If the weather is warm you can get your puppy swimming now. He should be able to come when he is called, in and around your home, provided there are not too many distractions. It all depends on what you have taught him. He may still be chewing a lot and biting too. Use frozen Kongs to help him and give your furniture and fingers a break. Puppies can go for short walks now. By the end of this month your puppy could have a twenty minute walk each day. He may also enjoy fetching a ball and playing with other dogs, but take care to stop before he gets very tired. Less dependence This is the month during which some puppies start to become less dependent on their humans for security. Keep your puppy close to you outdoors by changing direction frequently so that you puppy has to keep coming to find you. And engaging him in games. The foundations of a great recall are often build or spoilt during this month. If your puppy knows how to sit or lie down at home, start some simple proofing exercises with him in public places. A healthy puppy can usually manage on two meals a day from around six months. During this month a Retriever, Spaniel or GSD puppy will reach around two thirds of his adult weight. A Great Dane and other large breeds will have reached about half their final weight and little dogs will have almost completed their growth. Some female dogs will come on heat for the first time during this month, or the next, so keep an eye open now for swelling of her vulva and any discharge. Your dog will become increasingly confident over the next few months so practice, practice and practice that recall! Make it a habit he cannot break. And be generous with your rewards. Small breed pups may now be more or less mature. Your puppy will enjoy half hour off lead walks now, and should be able to walk on a loose lead for short periods with plenty of encouragement and rewards. Keep practicing that recall! These help to slow his growth further and to build his confidence. Make sure you practice good outdoor management on walks to maintain the good recall you have built and work hard on thoroughly proofing all his obedience skills. Read up on neutering before you take this important step, for dogs of either sex. Once your dog is a year old he can participate in more strenuous activities and sports. Now is the time to think about the kinds of activities you would like to do with him — go jogging together for example — and if necessary, to start to get him fit. Puppy development stages — Summary There is huge variation in the way in which dogs develop and mature. The puppy development stages and ages outlined above are a rough guide. We hope you enjoyed them and found the information interesting. When it comes to training, you get out what you put in. Your progress depends as much if not more on you rather than your puppy. If you train your puppy five times a day, six days a week he will learn many, many times faster than a puppy that is trained once a day at the weekend. Enjoy watching your puppy grow and develop. And have fun! Trooper is nearly a full 2 pounds lighter than his bro, Patriot. When we volunteered as fosters our German Shepherd mix litter from 10 years ago had a lot more variety. By the end of week 8, I had them completely weaned off of mama we were feeding these youngsters mostly solid foods by week 7. We let the food sit for about 10 minutes and then mush it up for easier digestion. Many moons ago we did a short write-up about deer antlers for dogs, wondering if it was a good chew toy for dogs. Be sure to check out the comment thread. Golden Retriever puppy and his deer antler. You can see some of the teeth marks in the upper left corner of the photo. We had a full and half door for our whelping box and by this stage, our little pups could easily escape the half wall. By the time week 8 rolled around a couple of these pups were escaping the full-sized door! I found this photo interesting because from left to right only puppy number 2 is not blurry. Our little puppies have become curious, mischievous, adventurous, and are now little explorers. They are almost ready for their new homes. So that concludes week 7 with these Golden babies! Just in case you missed one of our weeks take a look at our recap: Week 1 — Six Golden Retriever puppies are born! Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — This is Week 7! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. What do you think? Have you ever experienced raising a little of puppies? If so, tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Back in the day we volunteered with Cuddly Canines and fostered several dogs and litters of puppies through them. A great DVD and workbook that teaches what you need to do when raising a litter of puppies Are you about to pick up a seven-week-old Golden puppy? This book will give you a solid foundation for raising and training a puppy. Our litter of Golden Retriever puppies week seven. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Final Thoughts 13 Black Mouth Cur Mixes Black Mouth Cur mixes are the perfect choice for anyone who wants an active dog with a twist of other dog breed personalities. Aside from being trustworthy companions, they are also fearsome guard dogs. However, since their Black Mouth Cur parent has the tendency to be aggressive, one must consider training the Lab Black Mouth Cur mix while it is young. Fortunately, since both its parents have a history as working dogs , this hybrid usually responds well to training. An additional perk of owning this mix is that it is devoted to its owner and will do whatever it takes to defend its family. Brave, loyal, and protective, the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix will do anything for the people they love. This hybrid is a hard-working pooch, yet it melts into a lovable, cuddly bundle of softness around its owner. Given their German Shepherd gene, this mix will need a lot of exercise. Also, expect them to be playful and curious like their parents. Taking the German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix on daily walks exposes it to new people, places, and things, which helps it adjust to its new environment and socialize more easily. Pitbull Curs are excellent working dogs. Hunting and herding are two of their primary functions. Moreover, they are known for their warm and genuine personalities and will always have your back. These dogs have a high level of obedience and are excellent guard dogs. However, it may exhibit aggressive, anxious, or irritable traits, especially towards strangers and other pets. Therefore, giving them adequate training and socialization while they are young is crucial to control their aggression as they grow older. This mix tends to be serious and dignified. The Siberian Black Mouth Cur is very devoted to its family and enjoys spending time with them. In addition, the tenacity of Siberian Husky may enhance their hunting abilities. This mix has a pleasant demeanor and is perfect for families with kids and other pets. They are resilient, high-energy canines. Thus, they will need to go for walks more frequently than their parents. Cursset, coming from a hunting dog breed, can also show excellence in hunting. Furthermore, you can definitely rely on this mix. As a fierce canine, it becomes overly protective of its owner when it perceives a potential threat in the household. You must teach them to distinguish between welcomed and unwanted guests. Training a Cursset will not be much of a problem, as it can easily be trained with positive reinforcement. You can rely on them as independent canines. They can handle themselves in quiet situations or when the house is busy. Both of their parents have the potential to be fearsome fighters with powerful predatory and aggressive impulses. Moreover, they are bright, eager-to-please canines that thrive on mental and physical activities. Like other dogs, they learn most effectively when praised and rewarded. It is highly intelligent and very energetic. This mix grows similarly to its parent breeds. Black Mouth Curs are excellent hunters of hogs, bears, and lions, while Catahoulas are recognized for their working ability in herding cattle, tracking wildlife, and other similar tasks. Therefore, their mix will likely be brave and active canines as well. They inherit the lovely disposition and gentle nature of the Beagle while also inheriting the hunting prowess of the Black Mouth Cur. Moreover, they make excellent watchdogs. The Beagle Black Mouth Cur mix is friendly and cheerful. However, socialization is essential for them. They need to be socialized early on to develop positive behavior towards other people and animals. They are indeed rare gems. Typically, they are medium-to-large-sized canines with short coats that come in shades of brown or yellow. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is exceptionally athletic, whereas the Black Mouth Cur is known for its fearlessness. Combining the two will result in a dog with impressive stamina, boundless energy, and a graceful demeanor. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Black Mouth Cur mix will take after its energetic parents and be full of energy and enthusiasm for playing, socialization, and exploration. Socializing them from a young age will help them adapt easier to new people and other pets. These mixes are often vocal dogs. Given that its Border Collie parent is a smaller breed, this hybrid usually weighs between 35 and pounds and can live for about 12 to 16 years. In general, they are a mix that responds well to training, and their playfulness makes them a lot of fun to spend time with. In addition, they tend to be sensitive canines. Thus, they will appreciate it if you spend quality time with them, as they are also affectionate fur babies. Their outgoing nature and loving personalities are perfect for families and even those living alone. The cross of the Black Mouth Cur with the Australian Shepherd is known for being kind and patient with young children. On top of that, they are wary of strangers and may likely take up a protective stance. Hence, they can be your adorable fur friend and a guard dog in one. Shower them with love, and they will be devoted to you. As a result, this mix only cares about spending time with and pleasing its owners. Furthermore, they can distinguish between friends and enemies. Although they are not overly reactive, they will defend their owners anytime. They possess courage, self-assurance, alertness, audacity, and a strong will. They can bond with other dogs, but be cautious as they can still possess aggressiveness toward other canines, which can lead to a fight, given that its AmStaffs parent has a reputation as a fearsome fighter. As mentioned, this mix is a loving dog and will do anything to please its owner. Its Carolina ancestor was a wild dog that typically belonged in a pack. Therefore, once this pooch accepts you into its pack, expect it to be loyal and devoted to you. It is an intelligent breed that can learn and adapt with the correct training and socialization. However, you should know that training a Carolina Black Mouth Cur mix can be tough and will require patience and consistency. Their price may also depend on their parent breeds, as some mixed breeds may be more expensive or less expensive than others. The cost of owning a Black Mouth Cur mix puppy extends far beyond the initial investment in a puppy. You also need to consider budgeting for veterinary care, supplies, and other essentials to maintain a healthy canine. For a more detailed breakdown of the initial costs of owning a Black Mouth Cur mix puppy, check out the table below: Type of Expense. This designer cross is more familiar with puppy mill breeders than reputable breeders, which somewhat increases the chances of getting a sick or inbred puppy. These dogs may become very large, and the size is somewhat less predictable because of crossbreeding. They may have a strong prey drive requiring caution around smaller animals because of their hunting heritage. You need to be able to take your dog on regular long hikes or walks to keep his energy level at bay. These dogs are challenging to train because they have strong alpha tendencies you need to keep in check. When you see one of these dogs, you immediately identify them as ready for action. Despite being effective hunting and working dog, these dogs have loving personalities where their families are concerned. These dogs will welcome attention from their families and may even like to snuggle a bit. These dogs have short coats that require little care relative to other breeds. Most of these dogs will feature coats in some shade of brown, typical of both parent breeds. The signature black mouth of a Black Mouth Cur is also particular to these dogs. Brindle and fawn are also standard colors in these dogs. Boxsets with brindle or fawn coats may also have the black mouths common in purebred Curs. A Boxset will usually have a lifespan ranging from ten to 18 years. Great longevity is likely if bred from lines on both sides that lived long lives. These dogs are more likely to live longer if the Cur side is more influential. Black Mouth Curs usually live 12 to 18 years, while Boxers live an average of ten to 12 years in most cases. One of the essential things is to look for a reputable breeder. When a breeder is reputable, they put the quality of the dogs they raise above all else. When breeding designer mixes, a good breeder will ensure the dogs come from lines with optimal health. If the breeder keeps the dogs in unsanitary or unsafe conditions or will not let you see where they live, this should be a red flag. A good breeder will be willing to answer your questions, even questions that may seem silly to you. When a breeder cares about the quality of their dogs, they are eager to a partner with the owners in making sure that their puppies thrive. You may also be able to find Boxset puppies through rescues or shelters. Rescue and shelter workers may misidentify puppies of this mix as other breeds. Some puppies of this type may have come from irresponsible breeders. Regardless of where you acquire your puppy, it is a good idea to ensure the person you receive it from will take him back if necessary. A responsible person making puppies available will want to make sure they are in safe hands. You might encounter more shedding during brief periods during the spring and fall. A quality de-shedding brush always helps. Drooling and slobbering can make major messes, so dog owners are relieved to discover this is not as much of a problem in some breeds. Flea bites can cause a lot of itching and scratching, often leading to hot spots and infections. Ticks can also transmit diseases like tick fever. Regular flea and tick treatments are commended, especially if your dog spends a lot of time outside. Bathing your dog about every four weeks with a quality dog shampoo will help avoid odors and messes. Shampoo formulated for dogs with healing elements like oatmeal or essential oils helps soothe itches and irritations. Dogs sometimes get tear stains from allergies that can spread across the muzzle, making a bit of a mess. Ear cleaning with an ear cleaner once a month helps prevent infections. Yearly vet visits are recommended to keep these hybrid dogs in optimal physical condition. The only health condition most commonly associated with Black Mouth Curs rather than Boxers is susceptibility to ear infections. However, proper ear hygiene will significantly reduce the chances of your dog getting an infection. Bloat is one of the most severe issues that these dogs may face, a condition that often turns into an emergency. The chances of this condition becoming an issue can be reduced if you feed your dog several smaller meals instead of one large meal. Cardiomyopathy, a type of heart failure, is another condition that might become a problem. Although heart disease in dogs is treatable, veterinarians cannot always assure owners of a good outcome for their pet. Cancer is a somewhat common problem in Boxer mixes as they age. Another type of common cancer in these dogs is mast cell cancer. These dogs grow quickly but at a slower rate than their smaller counterparts. Lower protein and carbohydrate levels are necessary to keep these dogs from growing too quickly. Puppies that grow too quickly may have orthopedic issues as adults. The leading cause of puppies growing faster than their bone structure can keep up with is having high levels of calcium and phosphorus. Although these are essential nutrients, too high levels will affect bone growth and development. Food for large adult dogs should contain ingredients that help support bone and joint growth, like chondroitin and glucosamine. These dogs are not the type to become couch potatoes by any means. The Black Mouth Cur has a higher energy level than the two parent breeds. With one of the breeds in the mix having a high energy level, you may want to plan to provide an hour-long walk every day. If you can walk for even longer, so much the better. Interacting with other dogs can provide a lot of fun for these pups. Visits to the dog park are also great for socialization, especially with younger dogs. These dogs are independent and capable of getting into mischief if left to their own devices. Your training needs to be consistent to have the best impact. Boxsets are very responsive to training that uses positive reinforcement. Rewarding your dog for obeying commands is an excellent way to let him know what you expect. Although caution is necessary around very young children or the elderly because these dogs can be rambunctious, the dogs enjoy being around and are tolerant of children overall. These dogs are likely to be very accepting of visiting friends and relatives. In the case of dogs who already live in your home, there might be a bit of a power struggle in play. Supervising the dogs and knowing when to intervene will help prevent trouble. You may need to use caution around cats and other small animals with your Boxset. Because these dogs have strong hunting backgrounds, they may see such animals as something to hunt. Boxer Black Mouth Cur Mixes are versatile dogs with a lot to offer to families, including loyalty and a willingness to participate in all your family fun. Gerard James Gerard James is a highly experienced veteran and dog lover who has dedicated his life to Rottweiler dogs. Gerard has been passionate about this particular breed since he was a child. He has extensively studied their characteristics and behaviors and acquired in-depth knowledge of their training requirements for optimal performance. He has devoted his time to volunteering in this field. Although never trained as retrievers , these herding hunters would move from place to place with their masters, hunting down rats, raccoons, squirrels, and even bears and boars. However, with their old guard dog instinct of protecting the master from intruders and perils, they are naturally territorial. By virtue of their loyalty and courage, this intelligent and kind dog is ready to even die for his owner, and love to live with him rather than in kennels. This breed also loves flock guarding, especially for horses, and are ready to act as guard dogs from a tender age of 6 months. Care Exercise Lots of exercise and a play and runtime with its family members in a wide but enclosed yard every day should meet with both their instincts of herding and hunting, as also of roaming and exploring, the instinct for which they feel very confined living an apartment life. Vigorous exercise keeps them physically and mentally fit. Grooming With a moderate-shedding short coat, the BMC hardly needs a trimming, but only a mild grooming from time to time including a daily hard-bristle brushing, checking their inner ears for possible infections, and extremely occasional bathing only if they are really dirty, are enough for them to be groomed. Training Prior to training your Black Mouth Cur, allow it to bond well with you for which it might take a few weeks. Be firm yet gentle while training your pet as these sensitive dogs are unable to withstand yelling and spanking, but can pick up things very easily owing to their smart nature. It is even essential to keep the training sessions short as this breed tends to get bored easily and are not comfortable with repetitive activities. Socialise them from an early age by exposing them to varied experiences, different kinds of noises as well as people of varying traits. Occasionally arrange for puppy parties so that your pet gets exposure to other canines and learns to interact as well as play with them. However, even when it is social enough, it is recommended not to leave your Black Mouth Cur with non canine pets, owing to its high preying instincts. You can impart agility training to these intelligent dogs. After this you can teach them jumping through tires or hurdles, walking over the teeter board or even crawling through tunnels. Do not forget to reward him with praises and treats every time he achieves his goal. Feeding The diet chart and the quantity of everyday food for the black mouth curs is the same like other curs of the same size. However, a good quality dry dog food is also recommended. Divide the meal into two equal halves for two main meals. Although this is basically a purebred dog, in the recent times, black mouth cur mixes have also been introduced by the breeders like the black mouth cur-pitbull mix, the black mouth cur-lab mix etc. Pecos , she was the most loyal and loving friend Iv ever had. She lived to be 1 mo short of 18 yr!!! Was scared of thunder and fireworks. Finding your perfect puppy The characteristics of the hard working, tough and confident Black Mouth Cur are best suited to the more experienced owner. But with the right training, socialization and exercise, this mix can make a good family pet, especially in homes with older children. Black Mouth Curs get their breed name from the dark pigmentation on the lips and inside the mouth. Some but not all Black Mouth Cur dogs also have a black face mask. Black Mouth Curs are born and bred to be working dogs: herding, hunting and guarding for people. Socialization and training from puppyhood is vital to helping your dog integrate into a community by tempering their protective instincts. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 50 to pounds, with males generally being larger than females. Health issues that can affect the Black Mouth Cur include hip and joint tears, eye issues and ear infections. The Black Mouth Cur can live as long as 12 to 16 years. Hybrid breeding today is often done to improve genetic diversity and overall breed health. This dog, like the Black Mouth Cur, is not a dog for new dog owners and trainers. But for an experienced dog owner who has the time and energy and expertise to give this dog the active, energetic life this hybrid needs, the American Foxhound Black Mouth Cur is a fabulous working canine companion. You can expect a dog with a loyal and protective temperament with plenty of smarts. This dog has a short, neat coat that sheds year-round. With this hybrid, you will get a tireless and loyal worker who makes for a close companion canine. This dog will weigh 40 to pounds and live 12 to 16 years. The short, close coat has medium shedding and is easy to maintain. This dog weighs 35 to pounds and lives 12 to 16 years. The coat sheds seasonally and year-round. This working dog breed has a high energy level and is highly intelligent. Expect a dog that cannot resist herding you and everything else they see. This dog has a moderate energy level except when scenting a trail. This dog also has a tendency to shed. But both dogs have an unstoppable drive to run and hunt that is highly complementary in this hybrid dog. This dog is quite docile and calm in all situations except when following their nose! Their short, smooth coat sheds consistently year-round. This dog is smaller than the BMC, giving this mixed dog a wide range of possible adult weights, from 25 to pounds. The Blue Lacy Black Mouth Cur mix is highly complementary because these two dog breeds have similar builds and skill sets. Both dogs contribute shedding double-layer coats. They have a lifespan of 10 to 16 years. This dog has a short, neat coat that sheds. Caroline Black Mouth Cur Mix The Carolina Dog has truly ancient origins and still retains some of the primitive behaviors and pack mentalities of their wild Asian wolf ancestors. This dog has an adult weight range of 30 to pounds with a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. Both parent dogs contribute short, shedding coats that are mostly self-maintaining. The Cur originated in the southern United States. Both dogs have short, neat coats that shed year-round and seasonally. Both are loyal, brave and highly protective. Even the weight range is similar at 50 to pounds. The young dog in this video is no longer available for adoption but she gives you an idea of what a German Shepherd Black Mouth Cur mix might look like. The life expectancy of this dog is 7 to 16 years. This mix dog has a short to medium-length coat that sheds year-round and seasonally. Both parent dogs share an interest and aptitude for hunting and a seasonally shedding coat, although in most other ways they are quite different. Your Golden Black Mouth Cur sheds both seasonally and year-round. This dog can easily weigh anywhere from 50 to pounds in adulthood! However, the Mastiff, like so many giant dog breeds, has a shortened life expectancy. This is a shedding breed, especially seasonally, but coat maintenance is easy. Also be prepared for a potential surprise contribution from the Mastiff parent — drool! However, they have similar temperaments and skillsets, including exceptional herding, hunting and guarding abilities. This mix dog will definitely be the best fit for a very confident, experienced dog owner and trainer. The Mountain Cur is smaller and slighter in weight and build than the BMC with a shorter overall life expectancy. This dog will have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years. The Siberian Husky is a sweet-tempered and friendly dog accustomed to working in close quarters with other dogs and people. When you are looking for a mixed breed, you need to be confident you would be happy with a dog that was like either of the parents. Because a cross breed can turn out like one, the other, or a combination of the two! Make sure that whichever traits your puppy expresses as they grow, you will be happy. Finding a Black Mouth Cur mix puppy might take a while, because they are not that common. But you still need to follow all of the usual rules for puppy selection. Make sure that breeder only uses health tested dogs, and that these dogs have a purpose in life beyond puppy sales. Where possible meet both parents, and make sure that they look healthy and have a confident, friendly attitude. Height: 16 - 25 inches at the shoulder Weight: 50 - lb. Lifespan: 12 - 16 years Boxer Black Mouth Cur Mix Personality Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed. Both of these parent breeds can be strong and powerful and have very strong prey and drive instincts. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. The Dalmatian mixed with the Black Mouth Cur might be prone to Cancer, heart problems, hypothyroidism, bloat, deafness, eye problems, patellar luxation, Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. Both of these dogs have rather shorter hair and should be pretty easy to groom. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him. What are the exercise requirements? Plan on taking them for extremely long walks and hikes to keep their energy level down. This exercise will keep them from being destructive. A tired dog is a good dog. A tired dog is a good dog though. What are the training requirements? This is an intelligent dog that will be a little bit challenging to train. They are going to want to take the alpha position and need someone with a firm, strong, hand that can let them know their place. The best thing you can do is break the sessions into shorter daily sessions to keep their attention span higher. It might have a prey drive and be disposed to running for and chasing small prey, but if handled properly this can be managed. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible. Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background. Links to other breeds you might be interested in.

Born: February 17, I am seeking my forever home! All household members and any dogs from the household need to be present at the time of your appointment. A photo ID will be required at the time of adoption. The shelter is currently open by appointment only with an approved application. Please note, all applications are considered general and stay on file for 6 months. Specific animals are NOT put on hold for adoption. When you visit, the adoption counselors will be able to make suggestions based on the type of pet you are looking for and help you find the best fit for your family. Animal House Shelter cannot guarantee the breeds of the adoptable animals. The animals are posted on the website as the breed or breed mix based on their physical characteristics they most resemble. We also cannot guarantee the ages of our adoptable animals or how large puppies will be when fully grown. We look forward to seeing you soon! Watch Us On YouTube! Follow Us On Twitter! Therefore, Walk-Through viewing of the dogs is NOT allowed at the shelter, due to the stress it creates. During your visit to the shelter, an adoption counselor will assist you through the adoption process and introduce you to as many dogs as you would like to meet, in order to make the best possible match for you, your family and your new pet. They are able to socialize all day with each other, staff, volunteers and potential adopter. Like people, animals have distinct personalities that make them unique. At Animal House we are proud to say that these animals are treated like our own. We care enough to be certain they go to the right loving, forever home. You must be at least 21 years old to adopt. All members of the household must be present, including any other dogs you may currently own, in order to do a final adoption cats do not have to come to the shelter. We will cat test here because we know how stressful it is on the cats to be transported. Fill out the Online Application and submit. At time of adoption an adoption counselor will take you through the process and answer any questions you may have, as well as ask you questions regarding the adoption. Tues adoption hours are 11am-4pm. Sat our adoption hours are from 9am-7pm. There is no appointment necessary. We are always open during the same hours on holidays. You are also offered pet insurance through ShelterCare. Please Remember, all other dogs and family members must be present at the shelter for any final adoption. Boxer puppies in Madison, WI. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale. He is social and plays well with other dogs. There is 7 Males and 1 females. He is potty trained, loves to eat, and. This sweet, lovable guy is looking for a home to call his own! Once he's warmed up to you, he offers unlimited hugs, kisses, and cuddles. He's a friendly guy who loves other dogs. Find Boxer Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Boxer information. The Boxer Pitbull mix is a popular hybrid breed of dogs that can be an eager learner and have a lot of energy. Mom is half of boxer and half of Pit, and dad is Pitbull. Puppies for sale pitbull boxer mix. Boxers for Sale in Manchester, NH. On average, they reach heights between 16 and 20 inches and weigh between 50 and 80 pounds. Please text only to meet and reserve your puppy, deposit is , due at pick up. Find the best Dogs for sale in Saudi Arabia. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, better do your research about the breeder and the puppy's parents and living conditions. They understand some of basic. Fukuji's breeder is a certified European expert who breeds only Akita puppies. For Sale on FazWaz: 0 property. Bullboxer Pit Puppies for Sale. You can expect them to run around the vicinity or getting your attention to play fetch. Boxer Pitbull mix puppies for sale may. Post your classified ad for free in various categories like mobiles, tablets, cars, bikes, laptops, electronics, birds, houses, furniture, clothes, dresses for sale in Saudi Arabia. All of our puppies are seen by our veterinarian, dew claws remo… more. Bo Phlap, Mueang Nakhon Pathom. Two Bull Boxer Puppies for Sale. Mixed Breed Dogs for Sale. For more than 2 decades we have been the choice of over 12, happy families. Puppies for Sale in Arizona. Boxer pitbull mix puppies! I have 6 Boxer Pitbull mix puppies for sale. The Boxer Pitbull Mix dogs need little attention in the grooming department. Boxer puppies in Appleton, WI. But, they can adapt to apartments as long as they get exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. Pitbull Mix Breeds With Photos. Health problems that the Pitbull Boxer Mix may get. We have 2 female Bull Boxer Puppies for Sale. Search for restaurants, hotels, museums and more. The Boxer Pitbull dog is a large dog with a high energy level. Boxer puppies in Kenosha, WI. They understand some of basic comands. Male Gardner is a 2 year old pittie mix who weighs about 55 pounds. Boxer mix !!! They will be current on all vet care. She knows some basic » Read more ». Riyadh, pitbull puppy. Bulldog Mixed Puppies for Sale You'll love the docile, friendly and gregarious nature of bulldog mix puppies. Conway is in NH and available for adoption. The Boxer breed of dogs is a popular breed that is known for its loyalty and protective nature. But before you finalize the transaction and make payments, check with the breeder about the puppy's parents, living conditions, vaccines, health screening tests, and clearances. Boxers for Sale in Wisconsin Boxers in Wisconsin. Trust Euro Puppy to do all the work and bring you the very best puppy. I am looking for a free female. These loyal and intelligent dogs can be trained to do a variety of tricks and commands with patience and dedication. Boxer Mix Puppies For Sale. Boxers are moderately adaptable dogs. The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Find boxer puppies in wisconsin from local breeders near you or advertise your boxer puppies for free at DogsNow. Boxers are also known for being intelligent and playful, making them a popular choice for families with children. Puppies for Sale. Boxers for Sale in San Diego. Feel free to browse classifieds placed by German Shepherd dog breeders in Pa and the surrounding areas. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in Pa and the surrounding areas. The word Pitbull evokes many different. Find your new German Shepherd puppy here! The mix of these three breeds results in a sociable family dog that is fearless and loyal. Boxer Mix Puppies for Sale. This breaks my heart to make this post but he needs far more then I can give him at this time! He is an amazing. Showing 10 of 10 ads for sale. Mixed Breed Dogs. Because of their energy, they tend to do better in homes with yards where they can run. The Boxer Pitbull mix is an intelligent and energetic dog that loves to play and enjoys being around people. He's a mild mannered pup who loves his foster brothers and sisters both human and canine. Ready to find their furever homes. She a huge cuddler, needs other dogs in. Adopt Boxer Dogs in Virginia. Parents on premises,Dew claws and tails docked. Currently, we do not have any Boxer Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Boxer Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Pennsylvania Boxer Rescue. Find Puppies in your area and helpful tips and info. Gardner is in NH and available for adoption. Boxer puppies in Racine, WI. And we make certain your puppy comes from a wonderful, caring breeder, whose focus is on the quality and comfort of their bloodlines, not on the quantity of the pups. Currently, we do not have any Boxer Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Boxer Mix. German Shepherd Mix Puppies for Sale. Printable version Email this Page. Bullboxer Pit Puppies for Sale in Pennsylvania. History: English Bulldogs have a long history in the United Kingdom, as they were, unfortunately, bred and used for dog fighting since the 13th century. Ready to go to their new homes Nov. Boxers are a medium to large breed of dog, and typically have a lifespan of years. Bulldog Mixed Puppies for Sale. It is the combination of two medium to large and powerful dogs. Six bullboxer puppies available. AKC parents, 2 health guarantee He will have two sets of vaccines before he goes home at 8 weeks. Boxer puppies in Green Bay, WI. Before you hand over your hard-earned money, better do your research about the. For Rent on FazWaz: 0 property. They can be quite vocal and make good watchdogs, but can be quite protective of their homes and families. Although all dogs are sensitive to heat, the Boxer is even more so because of their short snout. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height. Sam and his brother, Will, are stray rescues. Find Bullboxer Pit dogs and puppies from Arizona breeders. Find the best Dogs for sale in Riyadh. While they may have a rough-and-tumble reputation, Boxers are actually a gentle, loving family breed. Post your classified ad for free in various categories like mobiles, tablets, cars, bikes, laptops, electronics, birds, houses, furniture, clothes, dresses for sale in Riyadh. Boxer puppies for sale in Wisconsin from trusted breeders. Bullmastiff Puppies For Sale. They were born December 17 .Say hello to Leon! Looking for a new home for my 4 year old boxer mix named Bodhi! I am changing careers and will be gone a lot and as. Meet Boxer Puppies for Sale No puppies available at this time. They are so sweet and playful and very smart!! Great with kids and other dogs and cats. StoneBull Bullmastiffs Puppies coming soon. Boxer Dogs adopted on Rescue Me! This hybrid dog is also called the Bullboxer Pit. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Wisconsin. For you who are dreaming of having grey pitbull puppy, you can consider Boxer Pitbull mix. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. He does not do well with other dogs of children. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Iowa. Vet checked, dewormed , ready with first. The average lifespan of the Boxer Pitbull mix is around 10 to .Dogs for sale in Saudi Arabia. Golden Doodle Puppies for sale. They have a short and smooth coat which is often.

This is Anna's 4th and final litter. Out of the 7 pups born I have 4 boys and 2 girls. We want to offer an exceptional quality English Bulldog to you by producing gorgeous puppies with lots of wrinkles and beautiful markings. We breed for excellent temperament, health and appearance. Pups are sold with vet check, shots up to date, and are on a deworming program. Puppy Match 4 You specializes in the most beautiful English Bull dogs with the perfect Bull dog look. Please if interested Text or Call back now xxx xxx-xxx7 for more information and recent photos. View Detail Best English Bulldog Puppy locations or not but it is for sure covered until May at the loganville banfield. We just bought her a new cage that will go with her. View Detail English Bulldog puppies ready for their new home. English Bulldog puppies ready for their new home. They are very playful and active. Text or call me via xxx xxx-xxx9 or xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Excellent English Bulldog puppies for Adoption. We have 2 English Bulldog puppies for free adoption. Our puppies are absolutely gorgeous and home raised puppies. They are playful are current on their shots. Puppies are available now. They are one female and one male, and will be the perfect companions you have ever dreamed of having. They love playing, they know they are adorable and their confidence makes up for their size. Would you like? I'm really looking for a good home for them. They are still available for anyone willing to pay enough attention and love, where they would be spoiled with so much love and all their needs. Puppies have very good temperature and love to play with children and other animals from home, very playful, email us for more information and pics at xxx xxx-xxx9 View Detail Charming English Bulldog Puppies xxx xxx-xxx9 Both male and female English Bulldog puppies have been vaccinated and de-wormed current on shots and are medically healthy and fit to live in any pet loving home. Our bullies are AKC registered and will come with their health certificate from a certified veterinarian up to date on vaccinations and dewormings. All of our puppies are raised in my home with my family and our 2 cats so they have very loving and affectionate temperaments. Wrinkly, chubby, with the sweetest personalities, we think they will make some families very happy! He is from a great line of healthy puppies. You can view him by contacting me. Please feel free to call, email or text with any questions you have. Shipping is available for him. He is AKC registered and up to date on his shots and dewormings. Check out our tips for family travel. We want to help make your flight smooth and comfortable for your little ones. Find out some tips and resources to help make your trip as enjoyable as possible! A few tips to know about traveling with kids: Bring a well-stocked carry-on bag, including diapers, wipes, bottles, snacks, a sippy cup, a book or two, and some quiet toys. If the child is old enough, download a couple of educational videos onto an iPad. This is a great attention-holder. If you're bringing electronics for your kids, make sure they are charged and ready to go before your flight. Comforting toys are great but keep other passengers in mind. Leave the noisy toys at home. More leg room for you and extra space for toys is always a good thing on a flight with kids. Our stretch seating is a great way to get the space you need. Babies and young children do not know how to clear their ears to reduce the pressure during takeoff and landing so unless your child is asleep, you will need to help them. We suggest a bottle for infants and gum or hard candy for older kids. If you opt for packing your own snacks, bring along a Ziploc bag for wrappers and other garbage. This will come in handy throughout your flight with kids. Safety and Policies We know you want to make your child's trip easy and safe. There are some federal rules we need to follow to ensure the safety of infants and children. Please Note: A birth certificate may be requested for age verification purposes if the infants' age appears questionable. Lap children may not sit in any seat that has an airbag seat belt installed which includes row 1 on most aircrafts. Two adults with two lap children cannot sit in the same side of a row because there are only four oxygen masks per every three seats. Only one child is allowed per adult lap. If you are traveling with two infants and you are the only adult in your party, you will need to purchase a ticket for them and have an approved car seat for the second child. Our seat widths vary depending on the size of the aircraft. Minimum seat widths on the A and A are .Car seats cannot be placed in emergency exit rows, in the rows directly in front of or behind emergency exit rows, or in the very first row. We also suggest placing car seats in window seats so they do not impede access to the aisle by other passengers. If you're bringing a stroller, you can take it to the gate but it must be checked from there. Breast pumps are also welcome aboard. We consider a breast pump to be a medical device. Unaccompanied Minors Effective November 1, , Frontier Airlines will no longer accept children traveling alone under the age of 15 yrs of age. Any child under the age of 15 must be in the same reservation as an accompanying adult. Traveling with Pets Traveling with pets? Pets are like family. If you would like to take your critter on your next trip, there are few things you need to know first. Need to add pets to your reservation during initial booking? Or add them on to an existing reservation? Learn how here. A few things to know before traveling with pets: A one-way, directional charge will apply and may be paid in advance during booking. An additional fee will apply for the carry-on bag. We do not allow pets to be checked as baggage. Be sure to look into the applicable laws, customs, and other governmental regulations, requirements or restrictions of the country, state or territory to which your animal is being transported. This is your responsibility. We recommend that pets have no food or water within four hours of departure. A few things to know about traveling with pets in the cabin: Only certain animals are allowed in the cabin: Domesticated dogs and cats must be minimum 8 weeks of age. Domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, or small household birds may be carried on flights within the United States. The following species are never accepted: Large birds e. Only domesticated dogs and cats may be carried to or from international destinations. You may not sit in row one or an exit row when traveling with a pet. For safety reasons, your pet must remain in the travel container at all times. Please Note: While it might be tempting to help comfort your pet, most veterinarians advise against sedating pets for travel since the effects of tranquilizers on animals at higher altitudes are unpredictable. We ask that you do not provide food or water to your pet while traveling on the aircraft. The stress of traveling, the motion of the aircraft, and other factors could make your pet uncomfortable. Please Note: No oxygen will be administered to a pet in the event of an emergency. Your pet needs to be harmless, not disruptive, odorless, and require no attention during flight. The carrier must also fit underneath the seat in front of you. There may be certain seats that cannot accommodate your pet container, but we'll work with you to get a seat assignment with space. Maximum dimensions for a pet container are 18" length x 14" width x 8" height. We recommend the container be a soft-sided case. Your pet must stay in its container at all times. While we do not require a health certificate for pets carried in the cabin traveling within the U. For clarification, please call your veterinarian or see the U. Department of Agriculture's Veterinary Services. For international travel, a health certificate is required. Each country may have vaccination requirements beyond the requirements listed here. Consulates can provide more information regarding other diseases for which your pet must be vaccinated. A few things to know about your pet's health certificate: Must be dated based on country on entry: Within 30 days of entry into Puerto Rico Within 10 days of entry into the U. Costa Rica defines adult pets as 4 months of age and older. Puerto Rico also defines adult pets as 4 months of age and older and requires immunization against rabies within 6 months. Please Note: The immunization must be administered no more than one year and no less than 30 days prior to international travel. If a pet received a rabies booster less than thirty days before an international flight, proof of the prior rabies shot is required. Additional requirements by country Mexico and the Dominican Republic require a statement on the health certificate that the pet is free from parasites and has been treated for parasite prevention. The following vaccinations are recommended: hepatitis, PIP and leptospirosis. Puerto Rico requires a sturdy collar and two identification tags. The tags should include both your permanent address and telephone number, along with an address and telephone number where you can be reached while traveling. All dogs and cats being transported to and from Canada are required to have both a rabies vaccination and a health certificate. The rabies vaccination certificate must be issued, in either English or French, by a licensed veterinarian from the country of origin. There is no waiting period after the vaccination is administered. Canada does also recognize the three-year rabies vaccination. Please note that if validity date does not appear on the certificate, then it will be considered a one year vaccination. A certificate of health must be in English or French and completed by a licensed veterinarian. It should identify the animal, the dates of vaccination, the manufacturer and the expiration date of the rabies vaccine. In addition to all other documentation requirements, parasitic treatment must be included in the health certificate. Traveling on a codeshare flight? Check the codeshare terms and conditions page for more details. Frontier Tip: On Frontier, car seats fly free! You are my favorite airline to fly with. I always receive world class customer service! New Pet Alert from AdoptaPet. What is This? Yes, I would like to receive communications from the Petco Love regarding their lifesaving work. By signing up for the New Pet Alert, you are allowing Adopt-a-pet. You can also optionally sign up to receive email communications from Petco and Petco Love as well. You can save up to 15 New Pet Alerts, and you can cancel or change them at any time at adoptapet. In fact, together with Petco and our community partners, we help find homes for thousands of dogs, cats, and rabbits and other pets every week. Learn More Let Petco store associates be your post-adoption support network. Petco's Welcome to the Family New Pet Parent Starter Guide provides new pet parents substantial benefits with hundreds of dollars worth of coupons for everything a new pet needs. And our Petco store partners will be there today, and every day, to answer all those new pet parent questions and make sure every adoption is a successful one. If adoption isn't possible for you right now, don't worry. You can still be part of our lifesaving work by making a donation. Not sure about adoption yet? Learn why it's a great way to welcome a pet into your home-and how we can help.

So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! Of that number, a large amount is returned simply because the owners couldn't care for them. This is especially common for puppies that don't receive proper training. You might think that German Shepherds are exempt from these numbers. They're so obedient. They're trained to be police dogs; they're in the military; they're even trained to herd animals on farms. They take a lot of training to get there, though, especially German Shepherd puppies. While adopting a German Shepherd puppy is possibly one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever think of, it's definitely something to think about before taking the plunge. Luckily, we're here to help you learn all you need to know about taking care of puppies and even what you need to know beforehand. Read on to learn all you need to know about taking care of and raising German Shepherd puppies. Also don't forget to check out our custom german shepherd gifts as well! Ensure You'd Like to Adopt a German Shepherd The very first thing you need to consider is whether or not a German Shepherd puppy is going to match your lifestyle. They're a physically demanding breed that requires a lot of regular exercise and stimulation. If they don't get this, you can expect behavioral problems like chewing on and getting into things they shouldn't a common thing for any breed. They're a particularly aloof breed, but they make excellent and watchful family pets. German Shepherds may take time to warm up to strangers and even children, but with proper training and boundary establishment, they're very well-behaved dogs. The two other large things to consider before you decide; how much their care costs and just how big they can get. While some females can be as small as 51 pounds, some males can weigh up to 90 pounds. Typically, females are smaller than males, but German Shepherds are by no means a small breed. Their average height is anywhere from 22 to 26 inches. If you need a size comparison, the average height of a Pomeranian is around 10 inches tall. The other thing to consider is how much they're going to cost not only to adopt but also to care for. Since German Shepherds are typically a large breed, they're going to cost more to feed, transport, and care for on a day-to-day basis. Tips for Picking a Puppy Once you've figured out whether you can handle the financial responsibility of a German Shepherd puppy , it's time to pick out the puppy themselves. Here are a few things to consider, whether you're adopting from a breeder or a shelter. Look for Signs of Abuse and Neglect Abuse or neglect is likely to be more common in shelter puppies, but it's definitely a possibility if you're adopting from a breeder. Some signs of abuse can include: Food aggression or refusing to leave food when called Separation anxiety Antisocial behavior Submission Submission can be a tricky thing to spot at times, but it isn't impossible to detect. Sometimes in it's a dog's nature to be naturally submissive, and it's an important trait to have if they're going to be around established packs. Here are a few signs of abnormal submission that can point to emotional abuse, though: Cowering in fear or hiding when approached Rolling over or walking away with tail tucked between legs when approached Laying down or cowering while urinating These puppies aren't impossible to rehabilitate, but they're going to require patience. Scolding or becoming angry with an abused puppy will only make the problem worse, so it's smart to consider whether or not it's something you can handle. If you're not adopting from a shelter, it's important to ensure the breeder you're looking to work with is a reputable one. Adopting these breeders is an especially important thing you can do to ensure you're getting a healthy and well-cared-for puppy. Look Out for Their Demeanor But also be aware that, while they're still a puppy, you do potentially have some effect on their personality as they grow older. While there are definitely things you might not be able to change how much they enjoy affection, whether or not they like playing for hours or a few minutes , but there are still a lot of things you can affect. The things you can affect usually have to do with their overall temperament. With proper training and boundary-setting, aggressive puppies can be taught to socialize. The same goes for shy or insecure puppies. Curious and hyperactive puppies are already set up for success on the socialization front, but you'll have to show them proper interactions with other dogs and even humans. Training Milestones Once you've decided on a puppy, it's time to start training. These are important guidelines to take into consideration and also important to ensure you can achieve. While this article is going to focus on GSD puppies specifically, they're also milestones to take into consideration no matter what breed of puppy you decide upon. Socialization Socialization is important for any breed because it ensures that you can take your dog out in public safely. It is especially important, however, for German Shepherd puppies from the age of weeks old. As we talked about earlier, this breed is naturally protective of its owners. That's why it's important to establish from an early age which strangers are friendly and what situations are not a threat. The more variety you can provide with your puppy's interactions, the better. This means typical interactions, like going for a walk or visiting the dog park, but also rarer ones. Some examples might be a blind person's white cane that helps them navigate or meeting a person in a wheelchair. While these interactions aren't exactly uncommon to see, if your puppy is unfamiliar with them as they grow older, they might see them as a threat the first time they come across them. The most important thing to remember when it comes to proper socialization, however, is that your puppy will pick up on your cues. This means that confidence is key when it comes to training. If you're nervous the entire time you're attempting to socialize your dog, they're going to notice and become hesitant as well. Ensuring that you're safely exposing your puppy to new sounds, smells, and sights will give you both the confidence needed to live and work together. Crate Training Crate training is a great way to help your puppy avoid developing social anxiety. Like socialization, confidence and safety are crucial to this particular method of training. Your puppy's crate isn't a punishment. In fact, it's usually seen as a safe space for them to go when they want some alone time. To start crate training, begin by placing them in their crate for feeding times and when you sleep at night. It might be difficult when you first start, but it's important to stay consistent, as this shows your puppy that their crate is a place they're safe in. It's also great to leave them in their crate when you leave the house. How long you're gone is going to depend on their age the older they get, the longer they can wait to use the bathroom , but it's still a good way to ensure they're safe when left alone. House Training Crate training is also a great way to supplement house training — especially for GSDs. House training is usually simple for this breed, especially accompanied by supervision, patience, and consistency on the owner's part. When you first bring your puppy home, it's important to take them out at least once an hour, though this number will go down as they get older. Reward them when they use the restroom outside, and don't punish them if they have an accident inside. When you use harsh reinforcement, like shoving their nose in their urine, they're not necessarily going to understand what's going on. Instead, if they have an accident and you catch them in the act, simply pick them up and take them outside. This shows them where they're supposed to go, reinforcing the boundary rather than training from a place of fear. Chewing The same goes for chewing on or getting into items they're not supposed to. Yelling, hitting, or scaring your puppy is not an effective way to train them. Instead — when they're getting into things they shouldn't — remove the item from their possession or move them to a different location while firmly saying "no. In this case, toys are expected to be chewed on. Setting clear boundaries and expectations from day one is not only going to make training your puppy easier, but it's going to make it easier for them to trust you. Obedience Training Starting at three months, obedience training should take place for your puppy. This includes basic commands, impulse control, and teaching them which behaviors are inappropriate for them to exhibit. For impulse control, that means teaching them to stay when food is set in front of them. Inappropriate behaviors will depend on the owner, but this usually means things like excessive barking, digging, chasing especially cats and cars , or even jumping and begging. Establishing trust is important for your dog because the key to obedience training is having their focus be on you. You're the one giving the cue, so they have to be able to trust that you're guiding them appropriately. Having your puppy sit before getting food, being greeted by house guests, playing with a toy, or opening the door to go for a walk is a great place to start. In these situations, the more you can have the puppy's attention on you instead of the impulse, the more effective their training will be. That means lots of positive reinforcement with lots of treats! After 1 Year For many breeds, one year old is considered the "end" of puppyhood, but for a lot of german shepherds , that doesn't come until the age of two to three years old. It's important to continuously reinforce training methods like impulse control, obedience skills, and even possibly advancing to other, more specific, training skills like agility, herding, and even protection work. GSDs are capable of performing all these duties and even excel at them. When you give your puppy something a job to focus on at certain points throughout the day, you give them something to look forward to — dogs of any breed thrive on this. No matter what decision you make, a puppy will make a wonderful addition to any family they're added to — German Shepherd puppies are no exception to this. Overall, the breed is a very loving, loyal, and protective breed. They're going to have a natural affinity for you from the start. If you give them the proper love, affection, and training, you're definitely going to reap the rewards of the decision you made to adopt. Once you decide to adopt, your puppy is going to need a few supplies of its own. Check out our custom german shepherd gifts to show off your love for your puppy no matter where you both choose to venture. Despite how great they are, they take time and commitment. Probably more so than most other breeds. However, even the best dogs come with their own set of challenges. Some traits are very similar, and some vary greatly between dogs, but most share typical traits of the German shepherd breed. Puppies are hard work Despite their irresistible cuteness, German shepherd puppies are hard work. Along with their need for lots of training, they are curious, bold, and into everything that captures their attention. They also love to puppy bite and chew everything that moves, including hands, feet, furniture, personal belongings, and small children. Puppy proofing the house and teaching them what is and is not okay to play bite is not optional when one of these tiny land sharks moves in. They need their people around From young pups to seniors, German shepherds become very bonded with their owners. Adult and senior dogs are happiest when their owners are nearby. If you work, you might consider day care, a dog walker, a dog sitter, or even another dog to keep them company. They are dog athletes and need lots of room to run and play so that they can burn off excess energy. They also have a lot of stamina and require plenty of time to get their exercise needs met. They get bored easily To say German shepherds are smart is an understatement. This breed is very clever and will invent things to keep their mind occupied when not given enough time, training, attention, and exercise. A bored shepherd can easily transform into a mischievous shepherd. They need lots of activities to keep their mind engaged as well as their body. The good news is, when you give them time and attention, they love nothing more than to focus on you. They can be expensive to take care of There is no such thing as a free dog but German shepherds cost more than other dogs to raise. For starters, the larger the dog, the more expensive it is to feed, spay or neuter. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention costs more for larger dogs. They also tend to require premium foods to keep their sensitive skin and stomachs happy. They can be prone to allergies, breed specific health problems, and certain orthopedic issues that can equal expensive vet bills. When getting a new puppy, pet insurance is something to seriously consider. Prepare to invest in lots of toys German shepherds love to play and are also power chewers. Most can quickly destroy even the toughest toys and chews. When you own a shepherd, gone are the days of a toy lasting for years. They shed on everything German shepherds shed all year round and twice a year, massively shed. They are totally worth the work but may not be the breed for people who like things kept spotless. They have a prey drive German shepherds were bred to be herding dogs so they have a strong prey drive. Which means, they love to chase things. This drive is fun because it makes them totally into a game of fetch or Frisbee. It also means they may love to chase things, including small animals like squirrels, rabbits, cats, hamsters, etc. Can some dogs get along with other small pets? Are some dogs, especially those with stronger working lines harder to train and may be unsafe with small pets? Talk to your breeder or test the dog before bringing it home whenever possible. Socialization is not optional These dogs are powerful, naturally protective, and extremely devoted to their family. They can also be leery and standoffish with strangers. Teaching them how to be confident, greet people, and to prevent unwanted guarding behavior is one of the most important things they need to learn from a young age. Playful and lively Despite being fearless, they are also very playful and love nothing more than having fun with their family. They love to play games, learn new things, go for rides in the car, adventure, and spend time hanging out with the people they love. Loyal to the end There is no breed more loyal than a German shepherd. They live to please and protect those they adore. They are happiest when near their family and will spend every day of their life watching over their loved ones. They make the best companions and friends to those lucky enough to own one. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. 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 German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog 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. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high 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. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds 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. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards.

The vet Getting them checked sooner rather than later will always be a good idea. Honestly, the sooner you take them to the vet the better. However, the first thing you can do is search for any swelling, redness, itching, or fleas. Hydration Sometimes the dry skin can appear because of a shortage of water, and the perfect solution is to keep them hydrated all the time. I keep my dogs hydrated with the help of a pet fountain like this one on Amazon. High-quality diet If they are allergic to some foods, avoid leaving that food around them. There are some ingredients you should avoid feeding them to your dogs such as corn, soy, wheat, and dairy. Bath Bathing your dog regularly will prevent most causes from happening such as parasites, infection, some allergies, for example, dust, grain, lice, and fleas. You can learn everything about bathing your golden retriever here. A good shampoo will be necessary if you are going to wash them once a week. You can check my recommended shampoos here. Check it out here on Amazon. Start with grooming after every time you wash them and up till grooming them every day to prevent any parasites, fleas, lice, and infection. Control the symptoms If the dog is allergic or suffering from an infection, other symptoms such as itching, biting, or licking can cause dry skin. Limit their exposure If your dog is allergic to something like the grass, dust, grains, or feathers, then you should try your best to limit your exposure to them. The vet can run some tests to figure out what they are allergic to. Related Questions How do you treat ichthyosis in golden retrievers? To treat ichthyosis you will need anti-seborrheic shampoos and ask your vet for a good moisturizing rinse. What is ichthyosis in golden retrievers? It is an autosomal recessive genetic mutation, it affects the skin and prevents the outer layer from forming in the right way which leads to thickened, flaked, and darkened skin, the disease is mostly detected when they are still puppies and symptoms take more than one year to develop. Conclusion Understanding Dog Dandruff Dogs will normally shed dead skin cells, but it becomes a problem when there is an excessive production of the dead skin cells in the haircoat. This is often accompanied by an increased production of sebum, or oils in the skin, or the opposite where the skin is really dry. It can also be a combination of excessive oils and dry skin. When your Golden Retriever has dandruff, you will find varying amounts of small white flakes in the fur. Sometimes called Seborrhea, these flakes can cause itchiness in your dog, often getting bad enough to cause inflammation, redness, or irritation. Simply put, dandruff is a collection of extra dead skin cells in the haircoat. There are primary and secondary causes of dandruff in dogs. Primary causes are rare, inherited conditions. There is a long list of common secondary causes. Primary Dandruff Primary dandruff, or primary seborrhea, is an inherited condition that causes an increased production of dead skin cells or oils in the skin. It is usually seen in dogs under one year of age. Golden Retrievers can get a primary dandruff condition called Ichthyosis. This is a genetic mutation that causes scaly, flakey skin, most commonly in puppies, but also seen in adults. Secondary Dandruff Secondary dandruff, or secondary seborrhea, is dandruff that develops due to another skin disorder. Secondary dandruff can be cured by treating the underlying skin condition once it is identified. Here are some disorders that can cause secondary dandruff. Below are a few of the common culprits. Fleas are visible with the naked eye and easily treated with various flea preventative products. Scabies Sarcoptic mange, or scabies, causes severe itchiness and skin irritation leading to dandruff. Demodex mites cause hair loss and dandruff. Cheyletiellosis Cheyletiellosis is caused by a mite and is known as walking dandruff since the mites move under the skin flakes. Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose these conditions through various skin tests and will treat your dog for mite infections with topical and oral medications. Allergies Allergies are most often environmental or food-related, but can also be caused by contact irritants or topical parasites such as fleas. Sometimes allergies are specific to a certain season, whether it is a cold and dry environment, a hot and humid environment, or the various pollens found during the season. Allergies cause extreme itchiness which leads to skin irritation, inflammation, redness, dandruff, and even skin infections. Treating allergies requires a multi-modal approach. The keys are to find and treat the cause of the allergy, stop the itching, treat any secondary infections, and support the skin with moisturizing supplements. Food allergies are treated with a special diet change depending on the protein causing the allergy. Contact allergies are treated by removing the source causing the irritation. Flea allergies are treated by treating and removing the fleas. You will find dandruff in many dogs with allergies because there is a disruption in their skin barrier due to the allergy and they are licking, chewing, or scratching at their skin. Skin Infection Dogs can get skin infections caused by bacteria or fungus, most commonly yeast. These skin infections are usually brought on after the skin barrier has been disrupted by excessive itching. Sometimes, dogs can get bacteria or fungus on their skin after swimming, if they have a dirty or matted haircoat, wounds, or allergies. Skin infections are treated with various topical and oral antibacterial and antifungal medications. Ringworm is a common type of topical skin fungus that can cause skin flaking. Patients with these diseases are often found to have dry, flakey skin and sometimes a thin haircoat with associated hair loss. These diseases are diagnosed through various blood tests, and treatment in these cases starts with treating the underlying disease. However, if you are feeding your dog a low-quality food, it may be lacking in important ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin E. Make sure you are feeding your dog high quality foods. Purina Pro Plan dog foods are a great start, and they make some for about every type of dog. Immune-Mediated Diseases There are several immune-mediated diseases where the body destroys normal skin cells or sebaceous glands, causing abnormalities such as dandruff, too much or too little oil in the skin, disruption of the layers of skin, wounds, and sores. These diseases are diagnosed through blood tests and skin biopsies and are treating with various medications and supplements. Treatments For Dandruff Since most cases of dandruff are secondary to another disorder, the first step is treating the underlying skin condition. This will often include various topical and oral medications. Bathing: Use a mild and unscented aloe or oatmeal soothing shampoo with lukewarm water. Make sure to lather up your dog well and rinse the shampoo thoroughly. It is also important to make sure their hair dries properly. Omega-3 fatty acids: These oral fatty acid supplements have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and are key in keeping the skin and haircoat healthy. Good quality diet: As previously mentioned, ensuring your dog is eating a well-balanced and nutrient rich diet can help prevent and solve many skin issues. Conclusion Overall, dandruff is a manageable condition once the underlying disease or disorder is identified and treated. Amanda Jondle Dr. Amanda Jondle is a veterinarian who practices small animal medicine and surgery. She enjoys helping pets and educating clients not only at her hospital, but also through writing and editing blog posts to inform pet owners on how to best care for their pets. Recent Posts. These days she writes professionally about dogs and is a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Her free time is managed by her two beautiful Belgian Tervuren, one crazy cat, and two zebra finches. She has a BA from Cornell University. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Updated on May 19, Just like us humans, dogs can sometimes suffer from the seasonal perils of dry skin. This usually happens in the winter or when exposed to a lot of wind or dry air. Dry skin that is just accompanied by mild itchiness and flaking is nothing to worry about, but additional symptoms or signs of discomfort could indicate something more serious. While there are a wide variety of potential reasons why your dog has dry skin, some are easy to fix while others are more challenging. Your dog's skin needs some moisture to maintain its elasticity and resilience, and really dry air can cause it to lose that moisture. If you notice that your dog is mildly itchy with some skin flaking during the winter, or if you live in an arid climate, try using a humidifier in your home. Forced-air heat in particular can really dry out your dog's skin. Using a humidifier can help to keep everyone more comfortable, including you and your human family members! Nutritional Needs Nutritional deficiencies can also cause dry skin in dogs. Your dog's diet may not be providing enough of the fatty acids that help to keep the skin healthy. Check your dog's food to make sure that it has an AAFCO Statement indicating that proper work has been done to make sure it contains all the nutrients your dog needs. If you feed a homemade diet, work with a veterinary nutritionist to create a recipe that meets all of your dog's needs—don't trust recipes off the internet. For many cases of dry skin, supplementing with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids does wonders for skin and coat health. These supplements are available in liquid and capsule forms. Choose a supplement that has been approved by the National Animal Supplement Council or is recommended by your veterinarian. Too Many Baths Another cause of dry skin in dogs is bathing too frequently. This can strip away the necessary oils on your dog's skin, leaving it fragile and dry. Most dogs only require baths on an as-needed basis, usually a couple of times a year. If you find yourself bathing your dog more frequently due to odor or greasiness, consult with your veterinarian to see if your dog has a skin condition that is causing the symptoms you're seeing. Oatmeal-based shampoos are a great option for soothing dry skin and can be used on most dogs. Always make sure you rinse your dog thoroughly after a bath to remove any shampoo residue. Some common skin conditions caused by creepy crawlies include: Seborrheic dermatitis Demodectic mange Cheyletiella mange In addition to parasites, more serious chronic health conditions including food and environmental allergies , Cushing's disease , and hypothyroidism can also dry out your dog's skin. All of these conditions are typically accompanied by other symptoms in addition to dry skin, however. Seek veterinary attention if your dog is experiencing hair loss, pustules, scabs, open sores, greasy skin, excessive dandruff , itchiness, licking his paws, ear infections, lethargy, weight gain, vomiting , or diarrhea. The underlying condition will need to be treated as well as the dry skin. Home Remedies for Dry Skin in Dogs As long as your dog doesn't have other signs of illness or discomfort, there are some remedies you can try at home to alleviate his dry skin without necessarily scheduling a vet visit. Use a humidifier to resolve dry air in your home. Bonus: this will make your own dry skin feel better, too! Start your dog on an omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplement to boost his skin and coat health. Supplements are not subject to the same level of regulation as medications, so not all supplements are equal. For the best results choose a product that has the National Animal Supplement Council Quality Seal or is recommended by your veterinarian. Give him a bath with an oatmeal-based shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Oatmeal works as a colloid and is soothing to the skin. Some people have also had success rubbing coconut oil onto their dog's coat and skin to help with dry skin. If you find yourself needing to repeat any of these remedies frequently or if they don't help, make an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure that something else isn't going on with your dog's skin. Was this page helpful? Skin inflammation Watery eyes A runny nose, If left untreated, can result in infections so if you suspect your Golden has an environmental allergy, it is important to consult your vet. Something you can do at home is to wipe your Golden Retriever with a damp cloth after they go out in order to remove allergens from their coat and skin. That thick coat is beautiful — but is also vulnerable to skin irritations. That thick coat is beautiful — but is also vulnerable to skin irriations Food Allergies Another common issue for Golden Retrievers is food allergies. The most common food allergens for dogs are animal protein sources such as chicken, beef, and dairy. A recent study revealed that animal-based ingredients beef, dairy, chicken, lamb, egg, pork, fish, and rabbit were responsible for over 3 times the amount of food allergy cases in dogs than plant-based ingredients. Beyond causing skin issues, food allergies can also cause other problems such as upset stomach and other gastrointestinal issues. Learn how Wild Earth can help your dog live longer and visit the vet less. Food allergies can develop at any age so even if their food has not been changed, it may still be the cause of their allergies. Hot Spots Hot spots are red inflamed skin lesions that ooze. They tend to appear quickly and may even contain pus. They develop as a result of scratching an initial itch. In Golden Retrievers, common causes of the initial itch are allergies and the hot, humid environment near the skin created by their thick undercoat. Once a dog begins licking the sore spot, they irritate the superficial nerve endings in the skin, which only further stimulates them to lick, causing more self trauma. In order to stop the self trauma cycle, the first step is to stop the trauma. This can often be accomplished by placing an Elizabethan collar on your dog. Remember that this does not address the cause of the itch, and so it is recommended you consult your vet. For severe cases, immediate veterinarian attention is recommended. Parasites Fleas are one of the most common culprits behind Golden Retriever skin issues. Much like allergies, they will cause your dog to itch a lot. They can infest your home too, spreading to other pets and living in soft furnishings. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In order to keep your fur baby parasite free, it is best to give your dog a monthly flea and tick preventative year-round. Speak to your veterinarian to determine which is best for your pup. Prescription preventatives are usually recommended as many over the counter preventatives are not very effective. Now you know about some common Golden Retriever skin issues, and more importantly, you know what to look out for. Thick undercoats make golden retrievers very vulnerable to skin issues, especially if they remain wet. Trapped moisture and a natural disposition for skin issues can be a problem. Since graduation, she has worked in general practice, on telehealth platforms, and in animal rehabilitation. She has worked tirelessly to gain expertise in the field of canine nutrition through numerous certifications and coursework, and plans to pursue her Masters in Animal Nutrition. In this article:. Soy Corn By putting on your allergy detective hat, you can solve the case and help your golden retriever live a much happier life. Some potential parasites your golden retriever may encounter that could affect their skin health include: Fleas Ticks Mites Treatment for parasites varies by the type of bug, but can include topical treatments, oral treatments, or a combination of both. Reducing uncomfortable symptoms caused by the hot spots helps your pet feel better, which in turn can help them stop scratching and biting the area. This gives the spot a chance to heal instead of devolving into a potential bacterial infection. It can help protect areas of your dogs skin suffering from rashes, sores, burns, or moist canine atopic dermatitis. In addition to helping your pet heal and feel better, antimicrobial hydrogel can also help prevent future hot spots. Medicated Shampoo — Medicated shampoo can help treat various skin conditions, including hot spots and itchiness. At Vetericyn , we combine science and innovation with our passion for helping animals to create products used and recommended by veterinarians across the world. Safe for animals at all stages of life, our products avoid ingredients like antibiotics, steroids, iodine, and tea tree oil. Instead, we focus on quality ingredients that help heal your pet, without creating unwanted side effects like stinging, burning, or harming healthy tissue. You can find Vetericyn products at Amazon , Chewy , and Petco. Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm. Sources: Golden Retriever Society. Canine atopic dermatitis: detailed guidelines for diagnosis and allergen identification. View Larger Image Ichthyosis in golden retrievers Excessive scale or dandruff flakes Several breeds of dog, notably the Golden Retriever, Jack Russell Terrier and Bulldog, can be affected by excessive flaking of the skin. This is present from birth, but may be very mild, so is not noticed until later in life. The belly may also have darkly pigmented, dry skin. It does not tend to be itchy unless there is also infection present with bacteria and yeast. The changes in the skin make it easier for infections to take hold. Owners typically notice large flakes of skin present in the fur when brushing their dog, or on the floor in areas where they spend time. Golden Retrievers typically have a very mild form of this disease, whereas other breeds can be more badly affected. How do dogs get Ichthyosis? This disease is inherited and multiple puppies in a litter may have the disease. It has what is called a recessive mode of inheritance, which means that both parents must carry the gene for the puppies to show signs. The parents may have two disease genes and so are scaly themselves or one normal gene and one diseased gene, so they look normal. If the puppies in the litter get one disease gene from each of their parents they will be affected with the scaling disease, which can be seen when you look at them. Alternatively, if they just get one diseased gene and one normal gene, they will look normal but will be at risk of passing the disease on if they have puppies in future. Testing for Ichthyosis? There are many other causes of scaling in dogs, so these should be ruled out by a veterinarian before a diagnosis of ichthyosis is made. In Golden Retrievers there is a genetic test available, which is recommended if you are planning to breed your dog. This will tell you if your dog is a carrier of the disease, even if they look normal. By responsible testing and breeding, this disease can be avoided in future generations of puppies. Results are normally back in weeks. Treatment for Ichthyosis? Treatment is tailored to the needs of each individual dog. The scaling cannot be cured, but in many mild cases can be managed by conscientious bathing and moisturising. In more severe cases oral medication may be needed which can help but not cure the problem. Related Posts.

Get on the list now to reserve your spot to take home a summer pup! Summer Sale running! We raise our dogs and whelp them in our home, giving them the individualized attention they deserve. We not only ensure we have healthy dogs, but that they are brought up in a loving, family environment so that they will be well adjusted and comfortable in your home, too. The puppies will be handled by adults as well as kids and will be introduced to the beginning stages of being house-trained. We hope your pup will seamlessly transition from our home to yours. Together, the two AKC purebreds create a fantastic Bernedoodle breed that is well-tempered and loyal. Poodles are extremely intelligent, with little to no shedding. They are a playful, athletic and hardy breed. Bernese Mountain Dogs Berners , are gorgeous tri-colored big dogs who are extremely faithful friends, and traditionally were used in the Swiss Alps to pull heavy loads around the mountains. They are low-to-no shedding dogs, and are lovable, easy-to-train, smart family pets. Why Bernedoodles? Meet the Parents Our first Poodle, Ivy, is incredibly playful, attentive, and has an affinity for squeaky tennis balls! Our second Poodle, Rosie, is the sweetest! She loves crossing her paws like a true lady when she lays down, and she will do anything for a good cuddle. Oak also known as Oakley , our stud, is a big teddy-bear with a heart of gold. He is goofy, smart, and thinks he is a lap dog! All three parents have been DNA-health tested. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Nashville Tennessee and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Look no further than our extensive stock photo collection. Our selection features high-quality images of cute and fuzzy newborn puppies that are sure to capture your audience's hearts and attention. The Best Stock Images of Newborn Puppies Our collection of newborn puppy images includes a variety of breeds, colors, and poses, making it easy to find exactly what you need for your project. Whether you're creating content for a pet store, veterinarian, or animal shelter, our images are a perfect fit. Where to Use Newborn Puppy Images Our images of newborn puppies are perfect for a variety of projects, such as website design, social media posts, blog articles, and marketing materials. They are particularly well-suited for businesses in the pet industry, but can be used for any project that needs a touch of cuteness and warmth. These images can help your audience connect emotionally with your brand and increase engagement with your content. Tips for Using Images Effectively When choosing and using images in your project, it's important to consider the context and target audience. For example, if your project is targeted towards children, you may want to choose an image that features a puppy playing with toys or children. Alternatively, if your project is more serious, you may want to choose an image of a puppy in a calm and reflective pose, or one that highlights a specific breed or feature of the puppy, such as its eyes or fur. Ultimately, the key to using images effectively is to choose images that reinforce your message and add value to your project. Our collection of newborn puppy images is diverse enough to fit a variety of contexts and project types, making it easy to find the perfect image for your needs. Start Browsing Our Newborn Puppy Images Today If you're looking for cute, heartwarming images of newborn puppies, you're in the right place. Browse our collection today and find the perfect image to support your next project. With our high-quality images, you're sure to capture the hearts of your audience and create an emotional connection that lasts. Scroll below the pictures to read about developmental information for newborn puppies. Developmental Information The average newborn Golden Retriever puppy weighs about 14 ounces. They are totally dependent on their moms. Their eyes and ears are closed and they depend on their already developing sense of smell to find their moms. They cannot walk, but rather scoot around on their bellies. During these first days, the mom is the primary caretaker. In fact, usually the moms are hesitant to leave the box even for potty breaks. The mom will not only keep them fed, but cleans them as well. However, newborn puppies need us humans for the best possible chance of surviving and thriving. We take turns keeping watch over the puppies for the first two weeks, including overnight. Puppies are so small at this age that without supervision, it is very common for the mom to accidentally lay on one of them. We handle them often and start clipping nails weekly at one or two days of age. We also give them daily probiotics which keeps their digestive system strong. At three days, we will start ENS early neurological stimulation. We ask families to wait until puppies are at least two weeks old before making definite plans and booking flights to pick up puppies. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.

Our thoughts But, while dogs may be able to digest all types of food, they tend to like meat and dairy products more than plant products. So, it is quite a hassle if you want to get your Labrador to change from a non-vegetarian diet to a vegetarian one. Can dogs survive on a vegetarian diet? Yes, dogs can eat a well-designed vegetarian diet. Many dog owners are vegetarian or vegan and they want their dogs to eat a similar diet. While not welcoming meat products in their house they let it be for the sake of their pets. People, regardless of how much they hate non-veg, want their pets to get all the required nutrients. They can get all the essentials from a well-balanced vegetarian diet plan as well. It is complicated to replace the protein from meat. If you can allow eggs, then you can add eggs and a mix of high-protein veggies such as corn, soy, beans, and whole grains. But before changing their diet, consult with your veterinarian. What do Labradors like to eat? Labradors enjoy eating a meat-based diet. Most dogs would not enjoy a change from eating meat to eating vegetarian since meat is their natural choice. How to switch a dog to a vegetarian diet You can start by adding a few vegetables to their bowl of food. I suggest, boiled or steamed vegetables mixed in with their food. Then continue to increase the vegetarian portion of their food, keeping in mind that the vegetarian food needs to meet their protein requirements. Are there any downsides to a vegetarian diet for dogs? While there are many medical journals and studies about the best diets and foods for our canine friends. There have never been any that can outright reject or support that a vegetarian diet is a more suitable or unsuitable diet for dogs. You must give your dogs a well-balanced diet and from time to time, according to their needs. Dogs may need a high quantity of any certain type of nutrient during pregnancy but only a little may suffice after the post-labor period. If your dog is on a vegetarian diet then you should consult your veterinarian for a suitable diet plan. Protein, carbs, calcium, iodine, and other nutrients can be supplemented on a vegetarian diet. There are some essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins that cannot. Essential Vitamins B12, D3, iron, calcium, and Vitamin E have a small number of substitutes in veggies and are hard to find. Another thing that is seen is that people tend to use soybeans or other soy products. This is mainly done to fulfill the daily protein requirements of their dogs. In the long term, soy can affect their hormonal system since soy also contains many unnecessary hormones. The riskiest period is during pregnancy. Upsides of vegetarian diet A vegetarian food plan costs less than its non-veg counterpart. In some Labradors Retrievers, their skin tone has gotten better. According to observations, there was also a reduction in unexplainable skin allergies. What vegetables can be given to a Labrador? Kale: contains a high quantity of vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It also contains antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin that help to prevent cancer from developing. It contains iron, calcium, and magnesium which are good for bone health. Green beans: Green beans contain vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A and magnesium. This help in regulating metabolism, and also promotes and support external and internal healing Beet: Beet has a high fiber content which helps in regulating the digestive system. It also has flute, magnesium, and potassium that support the immune system and maintains healthy skin and coat Soy protein: Soy can be added to dog food in many different forms with two main ingredients being soybean meal and soybean oil. The soybean has a very high nutritional value containing a variety of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, copper, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. It is one of the best veg substitutes for meat protein and eggs. As per AKC here are the most common fruits and veggies that you can give your dog: bananas, apples, carrots, celery, blueberries, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cantaloupe, peas, pumpkin, spinach, and melon are edible. A mixture of soy and some other whole grains such as corn, brown rice, and oatmeal can create a perfect veg protein supplement for your dog. Some other foods that Labradors like the most are sweet potato, carrots, and butternut squash. Some veggies must not be given to your dog as they will do more harm than good to your dog. Top of the must-not-give list is grapes and raisins. They can do severe kidney damage to your dog. Other than grapes there are also onions, garlic, and chives that can reduce blood cells and rhubarbs that can cause renal failure in your dog. There is another thing that you should always remember while choosing to give your dog only a vegetarian diet. You should always avoid giving tomatoes. This is because tomatoes can cause kidney stones in Labradors, as well as, in some other dog breeds too. Our thoughts Our opinion is if you are considering giving only a vegetarian diet to your dog you should consult with your vet. In addition to this, the product to be used must be human-grade. We hope this article has solved all your veg diet for dogs related problems. If you are a vegan or vegetarian because of your personal beliefs or for health reasons, chances are that you would like to convert your family members too — and that includes your pets. Millions of vegans and vegetarians actually wonder if it is safe, healthy, and appropriate to convert their Labrador to a plant-based diet as well. Can Labradors be vegan or vegetarian? Yes, they can. The truth is out there! Many vegetarians and vegans know that finding balance in their diet is tricky in the beginning. This often leads them to wonder if a similar diet would be safe for their dog. If you are wondering the same thing then we have some answers for you. Most people believe that dogs are carnivores meat eaters , but they are actually omnivores plant and meat eaters. This leaves room for some tinkering in the diet. Much like when humans transition to a vegan or vegetarian diet; one simply needs to ensure that they receive the correct amount of protein, calcium, and of course, a variety of nutrients and vitamins that are required by the body for energy and good health. If you cannot provide sufficient protein from the intended vegan or vegetarian diet, then it is indeed not safe for your dog. Related: What about eating grass? Despite being plant-based, you should avoid letting your Labrador eat grass. To learn more about the reasons why some dogs love to eat grass, as well as the dangers related to that behavior, check out our article, Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? Whether you feed your Labrador store-bought meat products or plant-based foods, you will need to pay attention to the protein content. Labradors tend to do better on high protein and low carb diets. With this type of food, a fully grown dog will get around 2. Interferes with healthy breeding programs. Without careful planning, could lead to a lack of essential nutrients such as Vitamin D3 which affects the coat condition , B vitamins, iron, and calcium. Fresher, healthier food ingredients. Some plant-based pet foods are cheaper than meat-based foods. As you can see, a vegan or vegetarian diet will only be good for your pet if you plan meals carefully and do not drop the ball. Make sure that your pet is getting everything it requires from its new diet. If it is not, you may put your pet at serious health risk and even shorten its lifespan. Why Can Labradors Be Vegetarian? What most people do not understand is that the canine body is designed to convert certain amino acids, which are derived from protein, into other types of amino acids. Lacto-Ovo vegetarian diets diets that include some dairy and eggs can actually be quite healthy for humans and for pets too. Most pet foods get all their protein value from eggs. This means that there is no real need for any other meat to be included in pet food. The value of a protein is dependent on whether or not it can deliver the amino acids required by the animal or human eating it. That being said, vegans might not want to even allow their pet to eat eggs for their required protein. No, it does not. In a vegan pet diet, the dog will acquire the protein and amino acids required from alternative high-protein based plant sources such as beans, whole grains, soy, and even corn. If you want to ensure that your Labrador is getting the best possible nutrition on a vegan or vegetarian diet, it is first and foremost best to plan a diet that provides all the nutrients required without supplementing. You do not want to be feeding your pet synthesized chemicals. Store-Bought vs. There is no hard and fast rule that dictates whether store-bought or homemade vegetarian or vegan pet food is better. You will find that some store-bought foods lack the required vitamins and nutrients, while others are perfectly balanced and healthy. Always check the label. Dried peas. They can benefit from this antioxidant-rich vegetable as it defends against illness and protects the immune system. Some dogs will love a small piece of artichoke, whereas others will immediately turn their nose up, so you will need to experiment to see where your Lab fits in. Only feed your dog a tiny portion and provide slowly to avoid choking. You can give artichoke raw or cooked, and dogs can eat the leaves, hearts, and stems. Asparagus Labradors can eat asparagus. It makes a healthy option for your dog as it contains vitamins K, A, B1, B2, C, and E, along with folate, iron, copper, zinc, fiber, and manganese. They also contain potassium and antioxidants that help flush out toxins from the bloodstream and promote good heart health. I try not to overcook my asparagus as it can lose many nutrients. You may, therefore, need to reconsider giving asparagus if your puppy is not yet fully house-trained! Beets Labradors can eat beets. They are full of iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, fiber, and vitamins. They are also suitable for digestion and maintaining a healthy coat and skin. As they are relatively high in oxalic acid, you should only give your Labrador a small amount as substantial quantities can lead to a calcium deficiency or kidney stones. Avoid giving canned beets due to their high salt content. They contain essential vitamins and minerals, and the red variety is the most nutritious as they have the highest amount of antioxidants such as beta carotene and vitamins. The seeds and stems are best removed as your Labrador will find these hard to digest. You can feed bell peppers raw. However, your dog will find the skin tough and chewy, so it would be better to steam or mash them. Broccoli Labradors can eat broccoli. It is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and low in fat. It can protect against heart disease and helps maintain healthy bones and skin. Broccoli florets contain a compound known as isothiocyanate that can cause gastric irritation and significant gas in some dogs, so only serve your Labrador a tiny amount, as it could be unpleasant for both of you! But broccoli also has cancer-fighting properties that have been shown to suppress tumor growth. This recent study whereby dogs were given broccoli supplements concluded that broccoli might help inhibit cancer formation. You can feed broccoli raw or cooked. Take care if you are feeding your dog the stalks, and make sure you cut them into small pieces to prevent choking or obstruction. Brussels Sprouts Labradors can eat Brussels sprouts. They are loaded with nutrients, including fiber and antioxidants, that are great for dogs. They also contain vitamin K, which helps the blood clot properly, builds bones, and protects the heart. If you decide to feed them to your Lab, they are better steamed or boiled steaming preserves the most significant amount of nutrients. Cabbage Labradors can eat cabbage including red, savoy, and bok choy and it is good for them. It is full of nutrients, especially vitamins C and K and fiber. Cabbage is also known to cause the same excess gas as Brussel sprouts and broccoli, so you may want to feed very sparingly and introduce it slowly! Carrot Labradors can eat carrots. Both raw and cooked carrots are healthy options, making an excellent low-calorie snack. They are highly nutritious and loaded with phytonutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. They contain vitamins A, K, and C, potassium, calcium, iron, and fiber. Carrots are also a good source of beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A, which is good for healthy bones, eyes, skin, and the immune system. They are also great for the heart. Frozen or raw carrots are ideal for giving to teething puppies. My dog loves to crunch on raw carrot pieces, and they also help clean her teeth. I think carrots are one of the best vegetables to feed your dog. Cauliflower Labradors can eat cauliflower. It is quite safe for dogs to eat and has known nutritional qualities such as vitamins K and C, calcium, potassium, folate, and soluble fiber. It may also reduce inflammation and help to fight cancer. However, cauliflower contains a chemical that will give your dog the dreaded gas! If you let your Labrador try it, just feed a tablespoonful, and preferably cooked. There are far better choices! Celery Labradors can eat celery, and it is good for them. It contains vitamins A, B, C, and K, folate, phosphorus, potassium, and manganese, and is an excellent source of fiber. These excellent nutrients are needed to promote a healthy heart and even fight cancer. Make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces and introduce them slowly. Corn Although corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants for your Labrador, it is a starchy vegetable and not something that they need. However, if your dog is with you on a long hike and needs a quick energy boost, corn is an ideal alternative treat to take with you. You must not give your Lab the cob to chew on as some dogs have been known to try and eat the whole thing and swallow the entire cob! This can cause choking or a serious digestive obstruction. Instead, remove the kernels and give as a tasty treat. As corn is high in carbohydrates, only feed small amounts to avoid weight gain. Cucumbers are strictly a fruit, but as most people think of them as a vegetable because of how they are used in the culinary world, we will discuss them here. Although cucumbers are mostly comprised of water, they are low in calories and high in nutrients such as vitamin K which is good for bone health and blood clotting. They also contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce chronic disease. Cucumbers make a great crunchy snack for your Labrador. They are best fed with the peel removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces. As they are a great source of hydration they are especially good to feed in the summer months. Eggplant Eggplant also known as aubergine in Europe is a source of fiber, which is important for digestion. It also contains vitamins B6, K, folate, potassium, niacin, and phytonutrients that help protect your Labrador from chronic diseases. Some dogs may not like the taste of eggplant, so if this vegetable is a fan of yours, you may want to experiment first by giving your dog a small taste to see how he handles it. Eggplant should be cooked before giving it to your dog as he may have difficulty digesting it raw. It can be grilled, baked, or boiled. Green Beans Green beans are great vegetables for Labradors as they are highly nutritious, and most dogs seem to like them. They are full of important vitamins and minerals, and fiber and are low in calories. My dog loves green beans chopped up and added to her bowl and they are gone in no time! Kale Kale is considered one of the cruciferous vegetables, along with Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. Pros: Kale has many health benefits being a good source of fiber, vitamins K, C, and E, iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. So, can dogs eat kale and other cruciferous veggies? However, due to its high water content, the nutritional value of lettuce is negligible, but it does contain beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A. Other nutrients include vitamin C, calcium, iron, and fiber. I have only tried my dog once with iceberg lettuce. Mushrooms store-bought Store-bought mushrooms are generally safe for dogs, whereas wild mushrooms are toxic and can be highly dangerous, proving fatal in some cases, depending on the species ingested. They are low in calories and full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The benefits of eating mushrooms include preventing heart disease, boosting the immune system, supporting liver and kidney function, and fighting cancer. Like most other veggies for dogs, they are better served cooked. Parsnips Labradors can eat parsnips. They are quite safe to feed your dog and they contain plenty of vitamins C and B6, folic acid, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants to help fight cancer. As parsnips are quite starchy along with other root vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and beets only feed in moderation. They can be fed raw as long as they are chopped up into small digestible pieces, or they can be cooked which is recommended. Peas Peas are safe for dogs and have an abundance of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, K, and many B vitamins. They also contain fiber, iron, zinc, potassium, and magnesium. Peas also contain lutein, an antioxidant good for skin, heart, and eye health. Peas are starchy carbohydrates and are great for boosting energy levels. You can feed your Lab fresh or frozen peas but avoid the canned variety as they usually contain a lot of sodium and additives. Potato cooked Potatoes are starchy vegetables and are okay to feed to your dog. However, they need to be cooked first and the skin removed. Do not give your Labrador raw potato or if the potato is green as they contain a compound called solanine which is toxic in high amounts. However, cooking potatoes reduces the levels of solanine, making them quite safe. Potatoes contain vitamins C and B6, iron, magnesium, potassium, and many other nutrients that are great for dogs. As they are high in carbohydrates, feed sparingly, especially if your dog already has difficulty controlling his weight. French fries or potato chips are definitely off the menu as these are not healthy, either for you, me, or your Lab! Sweet potatoes are a better option as they are much more nutritious. The abundance of fiber absorbs water like a sponge and helps to alleviate diarrhea. Not only that, but pumpkin can help if your dog is constipated too! This is because it contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. They also work as an effective deworming agent as they have cucurbitin. Both raw and cooked pumpkin is just fine for your Labrador. However, cooked is better for easier consumption. Rhubarb Stalks So, does rhubarb belong in the veggie section? Despite rhubarb often being used in jams and fruit pies, it is technically a vegetable. Dogs can eat it, but only the stalks! Rhubarb leaves are poisonous to both humans and dogs. I remember as a kid eating peeled sticks of rhubarb dipped in mounds of sugar to take away the sourness. You can feed raw, without sugar, or it can be stewed or baked. Rutabaga is a cross between a cabbage and a turnip. Rutabaga and turnip are good sources of calcium, folate, potassium, vitamins A, C, and antioxidants. They are very nutritious, low in calories, and are a good overall disease-fighting vegetable. They can be eaten raw or cooked. If you are going to feed these veggies raw to your Labrador, make sure you thoroughly wash them first to get rid of any traces of bacteria or pesticides. Spinach Spinach is high in iron and provides fiber, vitamins A, B, C, and K, beta-carotene, and antioxidants. It is known as a cancer fighter and has lots of nutritional properties that can benefit your dog. It is, however, somewhat controversial as to whether you should feed your dog spinach due to the high amount of oxalic acid it contains. Serve steamed as this is the healthiest way of cooking to preserves all the goodness. Sweet Potato Labradors can eat sweet potatoes. They are full of vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as calcium, iron, folate, potassium, copper, thiamine, and iron. These vegetables are also rich in beta-carotene which is converted into high amounts of vitamin A for healthy skin, good eye health, and vision. They support the immune system and are good for the overall health of your Labrador. Sweet potatoes should be cooked and the skin removed before feeding to your dog. They hold their nutritional value better when steamed or boiled, as opposed to baked. As sweet potatoes are mainly starchy carbohydrates, if your dog is overweight, less active, or diabetic, they are best avoided unless you give a very small amount. Squash All varieties of squash are safe for your dog. Pumpkin is also part of the squash family. If your Lab enjoys the taste of pumpkin, then he will no doubt like the naturally sweet taste of squash too! Squash is highly nutritious and has several health benefits for dogs. It contains vitamins A, C, and K as well as being loaded with beta carotene, fiber, magnesium, and potassium. If your Lab is suffering from diarrhea , a small amount of cooked squash mixed into their usual food can help. Please do not feed the peel, as your dog will struggle to digest it. This veggie is nutrient-dense and includes fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. It is low in fat and cholesterol and makes a good choice for overweight dogs. A thin slice of frozen zucchini in the summer is great for your Labrador. Can Labradors Eat Vegetables? Now you know all the vegetables that your dog can safely eat, you might also be wondering, can Labradors actually eat vegetables? Labradors can eat vegetables as dogs have adapted to an omnivorous diet over thousands of years of domestication. Dogs also have teeth molars with flat broad surfaces that are positioned toward the back of the jaw. These are designed for grinding up food, including plant material, such as fruit and vegetables. In conclusion, Labradors can eat both animal and plant foodstuffs and remain healthy. Should Labradors Eat Vegetables? Almost everything we eat plays a part in keeping us functioning like a well-oiled machine. But what about our pets? Should Labradors eat vegetables? Labradors should eat vegetables as they provide an additional source of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Vegetables can be a big health boost for your dog and can help reduce the risk of developing many chronic diseases, including cancer. As vegetables are low in calories and fat, they make an excellent choice if your dog is struggling with obesity and needs to lose a few pounds. They are also cholesterol-free and contain less sugar than fruits. Vegetables should only be fed in moderation. As a general guideline, a few small pieces a day will be just fine for your Lab. How to Feed Vegetables to Dogs Here are some guidelines on how to feed vegetables to your dog: Introduce vegetables slowly to avoid any tummy troubles! Wash the vegetables first to get rid of any dirt, bacteria, or remaining pesticides. Cook veggies to aid digestion. I like to use a steamer. Feed them in small bite-sized pieces to prevent choking or digestive issues. You can feed frozen veggies for convenience. Be wary of canned vegetables as many are high in salt and other additives. What Vegetables are Toxic to Dogs? Garlic is 5 times more potent than onion and leeks. If your Lab ingests a toxic dose, he may display symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and stomach pain. Serious cases can result in weakness, breathing problems, and collapse. Cooked potato with the skin removed is fine as the cooking reduces the amount of solanine. Green tomatoes also fall into this category. Rhubarb Leaves Although the stalks of the rhubarb plant are safe for your Labrador, the leaves contain soluble oxalic acid, which is toxic if ingested in large enough quantities. Signs of poisoning include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, tremors, and in severe cases, renal failure can occur. If you grow rhubarb at home, keep it fenced off and ensure your dog is never left unsupervised in the garden area. Mushrooms There are thousands of wild mushroom species and many are toxic to dogs. Mushroom poisoning in dogs can have serious consequences, including liver and kidney failure, disorientation, seizures, and in serious cases death can occur. A small amount of store-bought mushrooms such as white button will generally be safe as long as they are plain and without butter, garlic, and seasoning. Final Thoughts We all love to reward our dogs with treats and experiment with new ones, and vegetables make a great option. Here are a few takeaways from the article: There are many vegetables you can safely feed your dog. Some make better choices than others. Experiment by feeding sparingly and slowly. Dogs are omnivores and can digest veggies. Most vegetables are better served cooked to aid digestion. Be aware of the vegetables that are toxic to dogs. Consult your vet before feeding, especially if your dog has a health condition. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Tweet on Twitter What vegetables are good for Labradors? Dogs are omnivorous, so they are able to eat a wide variety of foods, including many vegetables. We take a look at what vegetables are good for Labradors, vegetables safe for dogs, and the benefits they can offer. Why You Might Want to Offer Your Lab Vegetables If you feed your dog with a commercial food that he loves, you might not care about offering them additional snacks like vegetables. But, many people are choosing to prepare homemade dog food for their Labradors. As omnivorous animals, safe vegetables are also a popular option for training treats. So, always check before offering. What Vegetables are Good for Labradors? No matter which vegetable you offer, make sure to wash it thoroughly to remove any pesticides or harmful chemicals. Asparagus Asparagus spears are safe for Labradors to eat. The leaves of the asparagus fern are NOT safe for dogs to eat. Generally, store bought asparagus spears do not have these leaves. Raw asparagus is tough to chew and digest. It can cause digestive issues in Labs, such as diarrhea and vomiting. It can also be a choking hazard. Some of the nutrients asparagus can offer include: folate, vitamins K, C, and E, beta-carotene, and more. Grilling or cooking asparagus will soften it, and make it easier for your Lab to digest. But, whether you are offering it raw or cooked, make sure to chop it small to reduce the risk of choking. Raw beetroot is quite firm, and can be hard for dogs to chew and digest. This means it is also a potential choking hazard. Cooking beetroot will soften it, and make it easier for your dog to digest without issues. Beets contain vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron, among other nutrients. Plain cooked beetroot is safe for Labs to eat, and contributes some great nutrients to their diet. Broccoli Broccoli florets are safe for Labs to eat in small amounts. This veggie also contains isothiocyanates. If your dog eats too much broccoli, the isothiocyanates can cause mild to severe gastrointestinal distress. They can even be fatal if your dog consumes a large amount of this veggie. So, you may want to speak to your vet before offering this vegetable. If you do offer it, only give very small amounts. Cooking broccoli will help to soften it and reduce the risk of choking. It will also make it easier to digest. Brussel Sprouts What vegetables are good for Labradors? Brussel sprouts can be good for Labs in small amounts! But, this is another vegetable that contains the substance isothiocyanate. Too many sprouts can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset for dogs. So, only ever offer your dog a small amount of this vegetable. And be aware that it can cause pretty smelly gas! Cooking brussel sprouts will help to make them more digestible. Cut them up to reduce the risk of choking. Carrots Carrots are a safe and popular vegetable choice for Labs and other dogs. Carrots contain antioxidants, vitamin K and vitamin B6. Raw carrots can be a choking hazard, but some dogs will also enjoy their hardness to chew on. Raw carrots can also help to combat the buildup of plaque, and improve dental health. Cooking carrots will soften them, making them easier to chew and digest. You can offer carrots with the skin on or off, but either way, make sure they are washed. Cauliflower What vegetables are good for Labradors? Cauliflower florets make the list! Cauliflower contains vitamins K and C, fiber, calcium, potassium, and more. Uncooked, this vegetable can be hard to digest, chew, and can cause a choking risk. But cooking them will soften them and reduce this risk. Feeding too much cauliflower can cause gastrointestinal issues like gas and stomach upsets. So, only offer small amounts of this vegetable. Celery Celery contains fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as various antioxidants. Like other vegetables, it should be chopped up into small pieces before offering to reduce the risk of choking. On top of this, too much fiber can cause digestive problems. But, in general, this food is a safe occasional treat for Labs. Corn Although corn is a staple cereal crop, many people consider corn on the cob to be a vegetable. So is this a good vegetable for Labradors? The corn kernels are safe for your dog to eat. But the cob itself is not. The cob can cause intestinal blockages that are very dangerous. So, if you really want to feed your dog this vegetable, remove it from the cob before offering it. Corn is quite a starchy food. It can be hard for dogs to digest, and can even pass through their digestive system intact. So, whilst corn is safe, generally other vegetables will offer more nutrition and be better for your dog. Green Beans What vegetables are good for Labradors? Green beans are another safe and tasty treat. They contain iron, magnesium, potassium, and a number of good vitamins. However, they have a lot of fiber, so can cause issues if your dog eats too many green beans. Beans and other legumes are also common culprits for canine flatulence! Dogs can eat green beans either raw or cooked. But, they will be softer and easier to digest when they are cooked. Make sure to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces so they are less likely to present a choking hazard. Okra Okra is another vegetable that is safe for Labs to eat as an occasional treat. Even the seeds of this vegetable are safe for dogs. Okra has high levels of vitamin C, folate, calcium, and potassium. Uncooked okra can be hard to chew and digest. Cooking it will soften it and make this easier. You should not give your dog fried or pickled okra. Peas What vegetables are good for Labradors? Peas are a popular choice! This vegetable has many variations that are safe for dogs: sugar snap peas, garden peas, snow peas. Generally, if the pods are safe for humans, they are safe for dogs. But, all pea pods have the potential to cause choking in dogs. Peas contain vitamins A, K, and B vitamins. They also contain various minerals. As an occasional snack, peas are a great option for most dogs. Potatoes Cooked, peeled potatoes are safe for dogs to eat. But, raw potatoes, potato skins, and potato sprouts contain a substance called solanine, which is dangerous to dogs. Potatoes are a high-carb vegetable that can be a great energy source. But, too many can lead to weight gain in your Lab. In small amounts this vegetable can be good for Labs. But, never give them too much potato, as Labs are known to gain weight easily. And, never offer raw potatoes, or potato skins and sprouts. Spinach In small amounts, spinach is safe for dogs to eat. It contains vitamins A, B, C, and K, as well as various minerals and antioxidants. It is easier for dogs to chew and digest than hard root vegetables. But, there is a downside. Spinach is high in oxalic acid. In extreme cases, this can cause kidney failure. So, although small amounts of spinach are safe, other vegetables are a better option. Raw sweet potatoes can still be hard to chew and digest though. Too much sweet potato can lead to weight gain. But, sweet potatoes can be a good treat for dogs. Zucchini A zucchini or courgette is another vegetable that is safe for Labradors in small amounts. Zucchini contains fiber, and tons of vitamins and minerals. So, it can be a pretty healthy option for your dog. So, they can be a better treat choice for overweight dogs. But, this vegetable should still only be an occasional treat for your pet. Raw zucchini can be hard for dogs to chew and digest. But, it can be cooked to soften it. Also, chopping it into smaller pieces will help to reduce the risk of choking. For the majority of veggies, cooking will improve their digestibility, and make them less of a choking hazard. But, some cooking methods can also be bad for dogs. Frying vegetables is a less healthy way of cooking them, and the extra calories may cause your Lab to gain weight. Steaming or boiling vegetables is often the best way to cook them. But, you may also want to grill them. The most important preparation tip is to always wash your veggies first. Remove skins if they are bad for dogs. Although it tastes great to us, it can be harmful to our dogs. They will be just as happy, and safer, to have plain veggies as an occasional treat. Everything your dog needs should already be present in their food. So, usually, vegetables are just offered as a treat to your dog. Feeding a New Vegetable We know what vegetables are good for Labradors. But, every time you offer a new veggie to your dog, you should watch them carefully. Only offer a very small amount for the first time. And watch for any gastrointestinal upset. Some dogs could be allergic to certain vegetables or food families. If your dog shows any signs of feeling unwell after eating a new food, speak to your vet. Onions and leeks are toxic to dogs. They should never be offered as a treat, and never included in any of the other foods you give your dog. Store bought mushrooms are generally okay for dogs to eat, but wild mushrooms can be very dangerous. Similarly, very small amounts of kale are okay for dogs. But, many vets recommend against feeding this vegetable. It contains harmful compounds such as calcium oxalate and isothiocyanates. These compounds can lead to kidney problems and gastric irritation. Additionally, any mouldy food should be avoided. Make sure any vegetables you are offering your dog are fresh and washed. Have you ever tried giving your Lab some of the vegetables on this list? There are quite a few dog friendly vegetables. But, not all dogs will love them! References and Resources. Brush a dog biscuit baking tray with coconut oil. Mash the ripe banana in a bowl until smooth. Ensure there are no large chunks left. In a medium-sized bowl, blend the gluten-free flour and oats. Add coconut oil, water, mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and fresh blueberries. Mix until well combined. Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir until you get an even consistency. Drizzle in the CBD oil and give it another stir to ensure even distribution. Use a tablespoon measure to scoop out portions of the mixture. Press each scoop firmly into the dog treat baking mold. Place the tray in the oven and bake the treats for 30 to 40 minutes. They should be firm to the touch and slightly golden when ready. Once the treats have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container for storage. This easy-to-make recipe ensures your Labrador Retriever gets a nourishing and delightful meal. This batch yields approximately four servings, which can be stored in your refrigerator. Ingredients 1 lb. Cut the chicken into half-inch pieces. In a frying pan with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, cook the chicken on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken pieces and set aside the pan drippings. Rice preparation. Once done, set aside. Gravy creation. Over medium to low heat, warm the chicken drippings in the pan. Gently stir until it becomes a smooth mixture. Continue cooking until it evolves into a thick gravy consistency. Combining ingredients. Add the cooked chicken, rice, peas, and carrots to the gravy. Simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes or until the veggies are tender. This enhanced dog food recipe combines the richness of turkey with the nourishment of vegetables and quinoa — a superfood known for its protein and fiber content. Ingredients 1 pound of ground turkey 1 cup of quinoa 1 cup of carrots, finely chopped 1 cup of green beans, finely chopped 1 cup of spinach, finely chopped 1 tablespoon of fish oil A sprinkle of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits, optional Directions Cooking the turkey. Over medium heat, cook the ground turkey in a non-stick skillet until fully done. Preparing the feast. Combine the quinoa, cooked turkey, and water in a large pot. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa becomes soft and translucent. Adding vegetables. Introduce the carrots, green beans, and spinach to the pot. Allow the mixture to cook for another 10 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender but not overly soft. Finishing touches. Let the meal cool to room temperature before serving. Extra portions can be refrigerated and consumed within five days. Adding eggs and beneficial herbs ensures your Labrador Retriever gets essential vitamins and nutrients. Begin by boiling the eggs until they are hard-boiled. Once done, peel and finely chop them. Beef cooking. Once done, drain off any excess fat. In a large mixing bowl or container, combine the cooked brown rice, browned sirloin, chopped eggs, diced or shredded carrots, peas or green beans, minced parsley, and the optional sprinkle of turmeric. Drizzle with olive or safflower oil. Stir together. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well combined. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want more homemade dog food recipes and cooking options for your Labrador Retriever, cookbooks can be useful for various recipes. Maintaining a healthy weight is easier when your Labrador Retriever is fed the right dog food. However, identifying a healthy gut is not an easy task. Skin or coat issues, excessive tiredness, allergies, weight loss, malnutrition, and obesity can be caused by unbalanced and insufficient meal plans. If you detect any of these symptoms while feeding your dog meals, stop doing it immediately and seek expert advice. Below is a list of the most common toxic ingredients dogs need to avoid. Small Pets Indian Homemade Food that can be given to Labradors and Golden Retriever Dog Breeds Pet dogs are so very aligned as first of the kin in most dog loving Indian homes that it is impossible not to share the human food tid bits with them. The pleading gaze of big brown eyes are hard to avoid and it seems almost cruel at that time to not share our food. But there is always an apprehension regarding the suitability of the human food for our dogs and puppies. Premium commercial dog food brands like Royal Canin , Hills Science plan and Solid Gold Dog Food offer complete and balanced nutrition to assure fulfillment of all basic needs of the pet. In respect to the safety and health of the dogs , you would be glad to know that there are plenty of human foods which the dog can eat to acquire protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. So one does need to walk consciously, but anddo understand that most things which are healthy for you may not be as healthy or even fatal for our four-legged companion. Boiled or scrambled egg, chicken, fish, mutton, beef, pork are all commonly eaten at home and are good sources of protein and fats. Chicken is being a popular dish in most non-vegetarian Indian kitchens is often shared with the home grown and stray dogs, pl ensure to avoid any dinner table offering that entails onion, garlic, excess oil and spices. Even cooked chicken bones are not recommended as it is brittle and may cause oral injuries and in some cases even fatal obstructions in the intestines of dogs that will be required to remove surgically. Grains and Pulses Whole grains like brown rice, wheat, oats, barley, millet and quinoa and pulses supply various important nutrients to the dog. A blend of brown rice and mashed boiled vegetables constitutes an easy and good healthy meal for your furry friend. Some of the dogs can be allergic to wheat; for rest of the doggie population it can be safely eaten in the form of chapatti Indian wheat bread and whole wheat pasta without salt, sugar and acidic sauces. Soybeans also go well with dogs, provided your dog is not sensitive to it. Whole wheat or brown breads can be fed in small quantities. Do not feed these 10 foods to your dog. Storehouse of important vitamins, minerals and fibres, fruits and vegetables are naturally low in calories. They not only make one healthy and energized but also cut the risks of several diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers. Though low in calories, any fruit or vegetable carry the risk of upsetting the stomach in case of excessive intake. Fruits Fruits are a great power snack to quench in-between meal time hunger. Banana, oranges without rinds , watermelon, muskmelon, berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries , mango are great fruits for dogs. Serving a blend of fruits to the dog, cut into chewable pieces, mixing various flavours, will make fruits more interesting for the dogs. While feeding an apple, just take a very good care to remove all the seeds as they are poisonous for the dog. Certain seeds, like apple seeds contain cyanide which may not be harmful for us because of the small dose of toxins. But the same dose can prove poisonous to our dogs. Grapes and raisins are a complete No-No for the dogs; they can cause irreversible kidney damage — just keep the dogs away from them. Vegetables Boiled, cooked, peeled, raw or as scraps — vegetables are good for your dog. The fresh and crunchy vegetables like carrots, broccoli, cucumbers and spinach are good for health and do a lot of good to the teeth of the dog as well. Sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, bottle guard, peas, tomatoes compulsorily ripe and potatoes boiled or mashed are also much loved veggies. Onions are not be ingested by the dogs in any form raw, cooked, dried, powered as it can damage the red blood cells of the canine. Garlic is also capable of harming the red blood cells of the dog; some people argue that garlic in small quantities act as natural antibiotic. Raw veggies can be eaten by dog but when it comes to relatively greater quantity, the vegetables should be boiled and then mashed or cut into chewable pieces. Treats In small amounts, our canine partners can enjoy cottage cheese, peanut butter, popcorns sans salt and butter , sunflower seeds shelled and plain white yogurt. More natural and plain a treat is — minimum sugar, salts, preservatives — more will they suit the health of your dog. BUT do remember that chocolate, coffee, macadamia nuts, raisins are toxic for your pet. Be very careful with them. Certain dogs, just like humans, can be lactose intolerant; apart from them, milk, in moderate quantities, can be safely digested by all dogs. Cottage cheese is loved by most dogs. Curd and buttermilk are also good sources of prebiotics and calcium. It is recommended that before you offer a new food item to your pet you should consult your vet. Allergies and reactions to particular food stuffs would vary from dog to dog, so it is a good habit to observe your dog each time you feed it a new eatable. Care should be taken to avoid artificial sugar and have minimal salts pinch of salt a day would suffice. About Shikha Sharma Shikha Sharma believes that Mother Earth is our mutual abode, where all creatures have an equal right to live with dignity. This belief is clearly reflected in her wonderful writing pieces that revolve around animals and their well-being. She is the blog editor of Pets World. More like this.