what to feed puppy german shepherd
However, both parents may still carry specific genes, such as those for hip and elbow dysplasia, putting your Alaskan Shepherd puppy at risk. Always seek out a reputable breeder and always ask to see the DNA reports and hip and elbow scores of the parents before purchasing a puppy. This way, you do not encourage irresponsible breeding practices. Some other genetic issues to look out for include cartilaginous exostosis, which involves bony enlargements on any part of the skeleton except the skull, and chondrodysplasia, which sometimes affects Malamutes. It is a type of dwarfism that creates abnormally shaped limbs. Malamutes should also be screened for idiopathic polyneuropathy, day blindness, hypothyroidism, and cataracts before they are bred. In terms of the German Shepherd parent , genetic disorders include degenerative myelopathy, resulting in complete paralysis of the hindlegs, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This problem can lead to digestive issues. German Shepherds are also prone to various cancers, such as renal cystadenocarcinoma and nodular dermatofibrosis. These cause skin nodules and kidney tumors. German Shepherd crosses have been known to inherit these genes. An Alaskan Shepherd is also at risk for Von Willebrand disease, a blood-clotting disorder. While some dogs may never show any symptoms of this disease, others might bleed profusely from orifices like the nose, and cuts and scrapes can turn quite serious. Finally, since this is an active breed with a hearty appetite, its diet should be monitored if it eats a little more than it burns off exercising, as Alaskan Shepherds have been known to struggle with obesity. What is the lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd? The German Shepherd is often not a long-lived dog, which can influence its offspring. However, the Alaskan Malamute is quite hardy, and so the Alaskan Shepherd can be expected to live between 7 and 14 years. The trainability of a Malamute German Shepherd mix: Temperament and Intelligence Generally, the Alaskan Shepherd inherits a high working drive from both parents, meaning it is at its happiest when it has a job to do. It also usually has the intelligence of the German Shepherd, making it moderately to highly trainable. One trait it will also likely gain from its GSD parent is its guardian instincts. However, this might be affected by the Malamute parent, as Malamutes are incredibly affectionate to all people and are usually not good guard dogs. Many Alaskan Shepherd owners report their dogs making the same hilarious sounds. However, like many ancient breeds, the Malamute is an independent and sometimes domineering dog with little patience for repetition in training and a strong mind of its own. It may well pass this willfulness down to the Alaskan Shepherd. Sociability with Other Pets It should also be noted that while the Malamute typically loves people, it also tends to have a high prey drive, making it a challenge to keep in homes with smaller animals. It has also been known to be dominant and sometimes aggressive with other dogs. So much so that it is recommended never to keep these dogs with others of the same gender. It is hoped that in the Alaskan Shepherd mix, although some of this may be less prevalent, that you socialize the dog from an early age and establish yourself as a pack leader. Preferably it should live in a cooler climate, better suited for its double coat, and should be given access to as much space as possible. Do German Shepherd Malamute mixes make good family dogs? The Alaskan Shepherd is the perfect dog for the right family. They tend to be protective and loving with children, although they should always be supervised because of their size. So long as their need for stimulation, challenges, and exercise are met, they are loyal guardians and devoted companions. Raising a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy As a large to possibly giant dog, the German Shepherd Malamute cross needs to have its exercise carefully monitored while young to avoid undue stress on its joints. This is no small task since a young Alaskan Shepherd is likely to be rambunctious and rowdy. This means it will need carefully structured exercise and early socialization and training to deal with any potential aggression problems. Training should be kept short and positive to avoid problems with its stubborn streak. It will also need specially formulated food to help it grow. For this, it is best to speak to your veterinarian and make sure he is on a balanced diet. Since it is a mixed breed, the exact price can be hard to pinpoint. While this may not be the breed for a passive home, it can make an excellent companion, hunter, and sledding dog for anybody willing to put in the time. With enough stimulation, exercise, and training, the Alaskan Shepherd is likely to make one of the best dogs a person could own. If you are interested in this breed or have any experience with them, be sure to let us know about it in the comments below. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. This mixed breed is a cross between a German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute that likely originated in the early s. Bred to carry packages and pull sleds, breeders wanted the best of two already popular, strong purebreds. Over the years, people combined various strains of this purebred to produce the modern-day GSD. Fun fact: The German Shepherd is quite popular in pop culture, too. From wolf to dog: the Alaskan Malamute Alaskan Malamutes , or simply Mals, are descendants of canines from the Paleolithic period. Meet the cheerful Alaskan Malamute Malamutes are directly domesticated from their wolf ancestors, explaining their fierce wolf-like appearance — rock deep chests with powerful shoulders and erect ears. It tells the tale of a scientific expedition in Antarctica. What does an Alaskan Shepherd look like? They have pointy, erect ears, and eyes that can be hazel, brown, or blue. Then their noses can either be black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute mixes have great strength, which is evident in their muscular body and sturdy disposition. How big does a German Shepherd Malamute mix get? Alaskan Shepherds have a height of 21 to 28 inches 53 to 71 cm and weigh 60 to pounds 27 to 59 kg , with females being a tad smaller than males. Medium- to giant-sized dogs are NOT suitable for apartment living. They need a house with a large indoor and outdoor space to be comfortable. Are German Shepherd Malamute mixes hypoallergenic? They have a straight, medium-length double coat made up of a soft, dense undercoat and a thick, rough topcoat. These fluffy beauties can have a red, brown, gold, black, and grey color coat. But other combinations and shades are possible too, like blue, silver, sable, white, cream, and liver. They can be tricolored, too. Temperament: Is a German Shepherd Malamute mix a good family dog? Alaskan Shepherds are affectionate, loyal crossbreeds that are excellent with children. Be cautious and supervise play because this pooch might not be aware of how strong and big they are. Their independence can make them stubborn and would need a pack leader. Early socialization and training are crucial to avoid potential aggressive behaviors, which comes from their GSD parent. Eventually, they can serve as therapy or service dogs. So go ahead and train your pup as early as two and a half weeks. Want to see how smart the German Shepherd-Alaskan Malamute cross is? Watch this video of Zoey instinctively herding goats! After bringing your Alaskan Shepherd home Be aware that these dogs require moderate to intense maintenance. They need some serious upkeep. Are you up for it? This will provide you full access to brush her coat, especially the parts where matting often occur, like the neck area. Get your bristle brush and run it in one direction. Some owners use a deshedding tool twice a week to lessen the amount of shedding. Baths should only be given when your doggo looks and smells dirty to avoid drying her coat and skin. And use a soothing shampoo that has aloe vera and oatmeal. For that weekly ear cleaning, use a cotton ball and a dog-specific ear solution. The frequency of nail trims will depend on activity level since dogs can naturally wear down their nails with exercise. They could get dry and scaly; if this happens, you can use Vaseline as treatment. Exercise: How active are Alaskan Shepherds? The Alaskan Malamute-German Shepherd cross has parents with a working background, so we can expect this pooch to be highly active. But at least an hour of exercise a day will be sufficient. Plan for a range of activities to keep your fur baby engaged. They also need mental stimulation. You can play fetch with her, or give her time to enjoy sniffing and running around. The best food for a German Shepherd Malamute mix The kind of diet and amount of food you should give your dog will depend on her age, weight, metabolism, and health. Choose a brand with high levels of protein and calcium, as well as easy-to-digest ingredients like rice, chicken, and barley. Hypoallergenic dog food may also be a great choice since the German Shepherd breed is prone to various allergies. Resist those puppy-dog eyes! Are these dogs healthy? Still, all dogs can inherit some of the health problems that their purebred parents are predisposed to. Where to buy Alaskan Shepherd puppies? There are many places where you can find a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy for sale. Do your research and ask questions before deciding who to buy from. Responsible breeders mostly require potential buyers to visit their kennel for a meet-and-greet, as well as to conduct interviews. In fact, we encourage you to get a dog that aligns with your lifestyle. Here are other designer dogs you may want to check out:. Alaskan Malamutes are speculated to have descended from wolves and may have accompanied hunters on their travels as far back as 4, years ago. Named after the Mahlemuts Indian tribe, they have long been bred for pulling sleds and assisting in big game hunts. As the official state dog of Alaska, this AKC-recognized breed has gained large fame across much of the northern and central United States. As you might expect, German Shepherds originally hail from Germany. Developed through intensive crossbreeding of native shepherding dogs in the early s, they were bred specifically to herd sheep. Renowned for their responsiveness and naturally well-behaved temperaments, they soon became a popular option for working dogs in every profession — even the German military. Their ancestors may have crossed the Bering Strait. As far back as 4, years ago, it is speculated that Paleo-Indian tribes migrated from Asia to North America via a land bridge that was only passable due to lower ocean levels. Larger dogs of this breed can nearly double the average weight. Uncommon amongst any dog breed, the Alaskan Shepherd has ancient genes that sometimes produce surprising results. Whereas most dogs of this breed weigh between 60 and 80 pounds, the largest examples can weigh in excess of pounds! Puppies of this breed can seem to have boundless energy and require substantial amounts of training to curb their constant enthusiasm and occasional recklessness. Are These Dogs Good for Families? While they would never intentionally harm a child — and often go to great lengths to protect them — their herding instincts can lead them to bully or boss children around without meaning to. As puppies, they may not be as inclined to spend time with other dogs and especially not cats or rabbits. Once they grow older and naturally mellow out, though, they can be very sociable and welcoming dogs. Things to Know When Owning an Alaskan Shepherd Adopting an Alaskan Shepherd will almost certainly be a large investment of your time, money, and attention. Possessed of great stores of energy and endurance, they love being taken outdoors for walks, runs, and hikes. A good baseline to shoot for is an hour per day of moderate activity, though they can easily handle more without complaint. If you like a dog that you can play games with, the Alaskan Shepherd is an excellent choice! This is especially true in the spring and fall when they will lose one coat to prepare for the season ahead. Weekly brushings will suffice for most of the year, but this should be increased to a daily frequency during their shedding seasons. However, they have inherited a tendency from their ancestors towards a few medical conditions, such as the following: Minor Conditions. Their eyes will be almond-shaped and usually brown, although they can have hazel or blue eyes depending on their parents. The colour of their coat can vary greatly between the two dogs with some appearing greyer like an Alaskan Malamute and having browns and reds like the German Shepherd. Regardless of the colouring, their coat will be very dense. Their fur is usually quite thick and straight, taking after their parent breeds, and will be medium to long in length. Alaskan Shepherd Grooming Much like both parent breeds, Alaskan Shepherds need regular grooming to keep their coats looking healthy and in good condition. They have a very dense double coat that sheds heavily, especially when they are blowing their coat which usually happens once or twice a year. As a result, Alaskan Shepherds will need a grooming session at least once a week to remove loose hairs and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Daily or twice-daily grooming will be necessary during coat-blowing season. We recommend prospective owners invest in a good deshedder tool, along with a slicker brush and a pin brush in order to be well equipped for grooming. Alaskan Shepherds only need bathing with shampoo occasionally, for example once a month, as their double coat is designed to stay naturally clean. In between baths, their undercoats should be checked for any debris that may have gathered whilst outside. Alaskan Shepherds are not a hypoallergenic breed and therefore, they are not suitable for owners with allergies. As with all dogs, their nails will need to be trimmed regularly and their teeth should be kept clean with dental chews or otherwise. They are very intelligent dogs and benefit from being trained to learn commands and tricks. Their intelligence does mean that they can become restless and bored if they are not given stimulation, which can sometimes lead to anxiety and destructive behaviours such as chewing. Much like the Alaskan Malamute, the Alaskan Shepherd is a stubborn breed and they enjoy their independence just as much as they enjoy company. They will happily walk all over their owners if they are allowed to and owners need to be as strong-willed as their dogs to prevent any destructive or dominant behaviours from developing. For that reason, we do not recommend the Alaskan Shepherd to first-time dog owners. Whilst Alaskan Shepherds are very friendly towards humans, they can be aggressive to other dogs and pets within the home. They should be socialised with other dogs at a young age to prevent aggression in later life. The breed is suitable to live with children, but they should always be supervised when around young children due to their large size and build. Alaskan Shepherd Health Note: If you have any health concerns about your dog, please speak to a registered vet. The expected lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd is 10 to 13 years. As with all dog breeds, the Alaskan Shepherd is prone to certain health problems in their lives. The main health concerns to look out for are: Obesity — Both the Alaskan Malamute and German Shepherd are prone to obesity caused by overeating. Chondrodysplasia — an abnormal growth of cartilage that results in disproportionate dwarfism, sometimes seen in the Alaskan malamute. Degenerative Myelopathy — a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs that can eventually result in the inability to move the hind legs, more commonly seen in the German Shepherd. These are all typical concerns of large dog breeds. As the owner of an Alaskan Shepherd, there are several health tests you can ask for at the vet to ensure their health is on the right track. Booking them in for these tests on regular occasions once yearly for example can help to identify any of the above-mentioned health problems early. The recommended health tests for an Alaskan Shepherd are: Elbow and hip evaluation DNA test for von Willebrand disease Ophthalmologist evaluation If you are adopting an Alaskan Shepherd puppy, make sure you have them vaccinated against preventable diseases and regularly worm and flea them. Alaskan Shepherd Exercise Needs Both the Alaskan Malamute and the German Shepherd were bred to be working dogs and as a result, require a lot of daily exercise to keep them occupied. It should be no surprise, therefore, that the Alaskan Shepherd is also a high-energy and high-endurance breed. The average Alaskan Shepherd will need around 60 minutes of activity a day but this will typically decrease with age. Alaskan Shepherds love the outdoors so having a large yard for them to run around is essential. They should also ideally live somewhere close by to parks or long walking trails to help fulfil their daily exercise needs. As previously mentioned, Alaskan Shepherds are highly intelligent breeds and they need plenty of ways to keep their mind stimulated throughout the day to prevent them from getting bored. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is very energetic and well mannered. He is very gentle with children and protective of the whole family. He is very loving and great with our kids as young as 2 years old. He is very calm and we couldn't ask for a better puppy. He is full of energy and very loving. An intelligent dog and very easy to train. He howls like a Malamute and barks like a Shepherd. He loves playing with other pups and dogs as soon as he is familiar with them and his surroundings. He is very well house trained already and has not shed a hair in our home. He is very dependent on us for companionship and does not like being alone at all. He is very big boned and strong. He gets a lot of exercise, loves to play and is friendly with people. Ben is very intelligent and is easily trained. His prey drive is very high but living with a cranky cat is curbing that. An amazing pup who's growing quickly into an excellent well mannered Alaskan Shepherd who tends to howl at night. She is a very intelligent, mostly well-behaved dog who can be stubborn at times when it comes to learning commands, but she is very well housetrained. Naomi adapts well to new environments, proving this when we moved from the country to an apartment nearly miles away. She loves car rides and going places. She is very people-oriented and is good with children and cats, but she likes to establish her rank with other dogs before accepting their presence. She can be a bully, but is not really dog-aggressive. This dog is not very playful with other dogs, but loves to play with people. She displays many Malamute behaviors and some Shepherd behavior. She rarely barks, but instead makes the "woooo" talking sound Malamutes make and she howls when sirens are heard. She has some protective behaviors will growl at suspicious people when being walked at night , but she probably wouldn't keep a burglar out of the house if I was away. Her appearance and size, however, deter many people from coming too close without asking. She can be mischievous, but she is generally laid-back as long as she's walked several times a day. She is very clean and grooms herself like a cat. She sheds A LOT all year long. She is a large dog, around 83 pounds. Naomi was diagnosed with hip dysplasia when she was a year old and it had already caused arthritis. The only bad point is he sheds a huge amount of fur, but that may be due to the heating inside our home. The height of these crossbreeds varies from 21 to 24 inches. Males and females have little height difference. You can expect this crossbreed to have a medium-length, double coat. The colors of their coat can be a combination of black, gray, red, gold, and brown. This type of coat helps them cope with the extremely cold environment. The Malamute German Shepherds are diligent working dogs. On top of that, they are alert and aware of their surroundings. They make excellent watchdogs. They bark appropriately without being annoying and disturbing. They have keen senses to discern suspicious acts and people. Another trait it possesses is its affectionate nature. The gentle and loving German Shepherd Malamutes can come off as intimidating at first sight. In reality, they are fluffy and lovable dogs that enjoy the company of people. You must apply good researching techniques to locate professional breeders when it comes to crossbreeds. Professional breeders allow you to access the documents of the puppy, including health records and DNA testing. They also provide a suitable environment for the upbringing of the dogs. They will help you become reassured that the dogs will grow to have minimal problems regarding their health. Visit the breeders in their location is highly recommended. Another way to verify a breeder is through this visitation. You might think that another good place to acquire this crossbreed is through purchasing in pet stores. I advise against this method. As a breeding ground, the puppy mill has thousands of stories supporting the terrible conditions for breeding. The puppy mill does not provide the most suitable environment for rearing puppies. In this place, the puppies are forced to mate with one another and give birth. This mixed breed is relatively rare. There are some breed-specific and non-profit rescue centers all over the country. You can check out these rescue shelters to obtain a new fluffy companion. Their shedding process usually involves a lot of mess and hair, especially during periods with warm weather and when placed in a blistering environment. Brushing the coat needs to be done for three to five times per week. If your dog has a collar, remove it when brushing the coat, and do not leave out the neck area unkempt. You should pay attention to spots where tangles occur often, like the base of the ears. You can prevent loose hair from the brushing process by dousing the coat with water. Another tip for maintaining the shine of the coat is using a slicker brush instead of a pin brush. You can also get rid of loose hair and some debris by using the brush. If you notice that your dog is uncomfortable each time you brush or comb its coat, you should consider starting a desensitization training. The process starts with using your hands to familiarize the dog with the brushing activity. After some time, you may alternate between using a real brush or comb and using your hands. You can finally change to a full-time brushing with a slicker brush after a few weeks. The little parts of the Malamute German Shepherd Mix, such as its eyes, nose, nails, ears, and paws, must be cared for as well. You should check for ear infection signs like the accumulation of earwax. A cotton ball and an ear solution formulated for dogs are must-haves for sanitary ears. For dried and scaly paws, you may utilize Vaseline as treatment. The popular opinion of daily bathing for dogs is not advisable to follow. The indication for bathing the dog is its appearance or smell. You may use formulations with ingredients that are soothing to its skin, like aloe vera. It is important to determine some early signs of skin lesions. If you are unable to do the necessary steps for grooming, you should opt to bring your pup to a professional groomer in your locale. There are many innate and environmental factors affecting the health status of the crossbreed. Some of these factors are genetic make-up, the environment where it grew up, nutrition, and level of activity. There are some health problems with a predilection to one of the parent breeds. As a reliable owner, you must be cognizant of the health risks of this crossbreed. Obesity: This mixed breed tends to eat more than its requirement. This should be controlled because it makes the dog vulnerable to many diseases, such as back pains, cancer, and joint problems. Chondrodysplasia: This condition may lead to hip dysplasia. Degenerative myelopathy: This is an untreatable and progressive disorder that results to the inability to move the hind legs. Von Willebrand disease: It is a blood disorder that causes a lot of blood loss. One of the things you can do is to acquire vaccines. The recommended vaccines for puppies are rabies, measles, and a combination vaccine called DHPP. I strongly advise seeking the help of a trustworthy veterinarian to become knowledgeable on the signs and symptoms to watch out for. Malamute Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements There is no fixed quantity of food for a dog, even among those with the same breeds. You need the most appropriate diet that will result in the optimal condition of your dog. The general amount of food suitable for an adult German Shepherd Malamute mix dog may vary from 2 cups to 3 cups of high-quality food items. Two to three meals per day are advised for these crossbreeds. Your dog requires healthy bones and joints for its activity. It needs a healthy amount of calcium for that. Calcium will also aid in giving the best status of immunity. Another vital mineral for the development of bones and joints is phosphorus. Below is an inventory of the recommended dry food for the Malamute crossed with German Shepherd dogs. It includes nine simple key ingredients. It has a meat component that ensures a tasty and adequate amount of animal protein. It does not have any unhealthy additives. This brand has a 4, 12, or pound bags available. Purina HA Hypoallergenic: This hypoallergenic formulation is perfect for some dogs which may be predisposed to developing food intolerance and allergies. The optimal effect of this product is achieved by giving this alone for eight to 12 weeks. You can combine this food with other kinds of high-quality kibbles after the said period. It does not have allergenic materials like soy, whey, and gluten. It does not have artificial flavors. It contains Omega-6 fatty acids that help in moisturizing the coat and adding the healthy glow for the skin. It has easy-to-digest and organic components such as rice, chicken, and barley. It has reported on nutritional breakthroughs. It possesses prime chicken and customized fiber system for easy digestion. The German Shepherd Malamute mix may be at risk for overfeeding and obesity. An easy way to determine this is by doing the hands-on test and eye test. These two tests will require you to examine the dog beside you and looking at its waist from above. You will feel the ribs of the dog when you press down if the dog is not overweight. A positive result of this test should alert you as a responsible owner. A veterinarian can help immensely in managing the diet and other health concerns of your dog. You should consider involving one while planning for acquiring a new family member. Whether you adopt a big or small doggo, feed them only with premium-quality food to keep them happy and healthy all the time. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food , and get only the best dry dog food for your furry companion. If your furry buddy is still but a munchkin, consult our list of the best puppy food brands for nutrition ideas. In case your pooch is well past their prime, make sure to serve them only the best senior dry dog food to keep those frail bones, well, not so frail! Do remember that your adorable mixed pup carries the genes of their vastly different parents. They may inherit the palate of either, so you can offer them both the best dry dog food for small dogs and best large breed dry dog food and stick with the one they choose as their favorite! The period of physical activity engagement should be at least one hour. An appropriate blend of physical and mental stimulus for this mixed breed is necessary to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors. Some examples of possible physical activities for the Malamute German Shepherd mix are hiking, fetching, and running. Another consideration for the exercise period is the venue for the activities. I recommend a big area in a well-ventilated place for this crossbreed. The Kong Ball is a widely known toy for mental motivation. The use of this toy will aid in the digestion and mental health of the dog. It comes in different sizes, so you can get a suitable one for your dog. The German Shepherd Malamutes have a notable strength in biting. It is an under-stuffed toy that has a squeaker. It is made of a tough material, perfect for hours of rough play. They could become hardheaded as well. Your contribution to the morale boost will help the process. Below are some guidelines on training this mixed breed: Limit the Duration of the Training Sessions: A way to prevent misbehaviors during the training sessions is keeping the sessions short. A great crate has a comfortable bed and optimum ventilation. The period for crate training varies from 30 minutes for younger puppies to eight hours for adult Malamute German Shepherds. This training will benefit the mental health of the dog as well. It will help in having a calm disposition, particularly during travels, and it will also ward of possible separation anxiety. Positive Rewards-based System: This training method avoids the classical penalty techniques when dogs misbehave. You can have a box of treats ready for the training sessions. You should also provide cuddles and words of encouragement and approval when the dog abides by the rules. Every dog has a unique way of following the commands. If you want to learn more about the proper techniques, you may opt to ask for some advice from professional trainers. It is essential to provide positive words and gestures to make the dog feel at home. One phase of the training a dog called early socialization is necessary for developing healthy coping mechanisms to a new environment and people. Early socialization will hone the puppy and help in becoming mature. This will contribute to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. The owners will hold the puppy each day until four weeks. The next phase continues until 16 weeks of age. This phase involves exposing the puppy to various kinds of animals, people, textures, fragrances, and sceneries. The above-mentioned tips on training may be applied during early socialization. The Malamute German Shepherd dogs are generally good with children. They will give affection and friendliness to the little ones. You still need to be careful with the child-dog interactions, especially when the dog is still young. You must also teach your children how to respect and play with the dog within respectable bounds. This is a sled dog at its core, having great endurance and strength, which was a dog trait needed by ancestral owners in order to pull and carry heavy objects. He is sweet and family loving, loyal, and a highly capable watchdog. Read on to find out more. The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a hybrid dog. That is, a cross between the German Shepherd and the Alaskan Malamute. The Alaskan Malamute breed is believed to be descended from the dogs of hunters in the Paleolithic period. Roughly years ago, they crossed into North America from the land bridges of the Bering Strait. The dogs belonging to these people were domesticated from the wolf. Traditionally speaking, the Alaskan Malamute is part of the oldest sled dog breeds of the arctic. The German Shepherd breed was originally created for the purpose of herding sheep. These people combined various dog strains from the central and northern parts of Germany. This was in order to produce what would be known as the ancestors of the modern-day German Shepherd dog. The German Shepherd Malamute Mix vs. Purebred Debate Fans of mixed breed dogs argue that diversity makes them healthier than purebreds, with resulting fewer health problems. Those who are in favor of purebred dogs argue that they are healthier than mixes. They claim this due to better control over breeding, and therefore on the selection of genetic traits. This is a debate that is surely not going to be resolved anytime soon. They played the roles of two of the sled dogs, Buck and Shadow. The German Shepherd is quite the popular dog! Both parents have such similar features so you may see the input of both! Dogs of this mix have muscular bodies, possessing great strength and a sturdy frame. These dogs are well-suited for carrying significant weight and pulling sleds. They are 21 to 28 inches high, with a large weight range of 64 to pounds on average, corresponding to a medium and large size dog, respectively. They have a straight and medium-length double-coat consisting of a soft and dense undercoat and a thick, rough outer coat. Their coat colors are a combination of red, brown, gold, black, and grey. Their eyes are brown, hazel, or blue, and their nose is black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute Mix Temperament This is an affectionate and loyal dog, known for being very attached to their families. They inherit this quality from both parents. These dogs are wonderful around children, however, adult supervision around smaller children is recommended because of the large size of this dog. They make good guard dogs due to their ability to keep a vigilant eye on strangers. German Shepherds in particular tend to be cautious of strangers and sound the alarm when unfamiliar people arrive. This is a strong-willed dog with an independent streak. German Shepherds and Alaskan Malamutes are both loyal and loving dogs towards their families, and naturally the mix has this tendency as well. The exceptional intelligence and courage of the German Shepherd is a characteristic that may be passed on to the mix. So it is important to keep this dog active and mentally stimulated. Training Your German Shepherd Malamute mix Early socialization is important to curb any aggressive tendencies this dog may have towards strangers or other animals. The natural tendency of this dog towards independent and even stubborn behavior requires consistent and firm training from the puppy stage. Positive training methods are best. Due to the large size and physical attributes of this dog, he needs regular exercise, such as walking, hiking, or jogging to satisfy its high energy and endurance levels. At least an hour of physical activity a day is ideal. German Shepherd Malamute mix Health Both parent breeds have health issues. While the German Shepherd is an above average healthy dog with few health concerns, it does have a few health issues to watch for, such as degenerative myelopathy and elbow and hip dysplasia. These are common to the mix as well. Additional common health problems which the German Shepherd Malamute mix has are:. They were bred as working dogs, and their original purpose was to herd sheep. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They were originally bred by the Mahlemut tribe of Alaska as sled dogs. While they are known today as one of the more popular designer breeds, these two breeds were not mixed until the early s, when people began to cross them for their working abilities. They are strong and athletic, with a muscular build. German Shepherds are inches tall at the shoulder. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the largest dog breeds, weighing in at pounds. Their typical height is inches at the shoulder. Malamutes are thickly built, with a broad chest and strong legs. They have a dense coat of fur that can be either short or long. The German Shepherd Malamute mix will usually take after its Alaskan Malamute parent in terms of size, but there is some variation. These dogs typically weigh between 50 and 85 pounds and stand inches tall at the shoulder. They may have the short coat and sleek build of the German Shepherd or the thick fur and broad chest of the Alaskan Malamute. Their coat colors are typically black, brown, or gray; however, they can also inherit the white markings of the German Shepherd. Like both of their parents, this mix has a strong and muscular build. They are a medium to large breed of dog that is very athletic. They will typically have almond-shaped eyes, and their ears may be pointed or floppy. Their tail is usually bushy and thick. These dogs are typically loyal, loving, and affectionate. They are also very protective of their family and may be suspicious of strangers. German Shepherds were originally bred as working dogs, so they are very intelligent and trainable. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their family. Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred as sled dogs, so they are very strong and athletic. However, they are also very affectionate with their family. This results in a mix that is very intelligent and trainable yet an independent thinker who can be stubborn at times. These dogs are also very affectionate with their family and make excellent protectors. However, they may be suspicious of strangers, so socialization is important from an early age. While this mix is an intelligent breed, poor breeding practices can result in your dog having behavioral issues as they age. They are also quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement. As with all dogs, early socialization is important for this mix. This will help them to be less suspicious of strangers and reduce the likelihood of aggressive or destructive behavior. This mix can be stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are important. They respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise. Puppy obedience training is a great way to socialize your puppy and start them on the path to good behavior. Exercise Needs This mix is a very active breed of dog that needs plenty of exercise. They are also very strong and have a lot of energy. These dogs need at least an hour of daily exercise and prefer to be outdoors. Daily walking or running is a great way to meet their exercise needs. German Shepherd Alaskan Malamute mixes also enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and hiking. They are also very intelligent and need mental stimulation, so interactive dog toys or puzzle games are a great way to keep them entertained. Overall, this mix is a great breed of dog for first-time owners or active people or families. They are a loving and affectionate breed, yet also make excellent protectors. They can be a great addition to any home with proper training and exercise. They also have an outer coat that is coarse and thick. A slicker brush or another shedding brush can help to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Bathing These dogs also benefit from a soothing shampoo that is designed for dogs with sensitive skin. Additional grooming may be necessary if your dog has any mats or tangles in their coat. Ears This mix has erect ears that should be checked regularly for dirt or wax build-up. Cleaning with a cotton ball and dog-safe ear cleaner can help to prevent infections. Nails The nails of the German Shepherd Malamute mix grow quickly and should be trimmed regularly. Dental chews or bones can also help to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Overall, this mix is a high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. However, regular brushing and occasional baths will help to keep their coat looking their best. However, like all breeds of dogs, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease of the spinal cord that can cause paralysis in the hind legs. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint and can also cause pain and lameness. All of these conditions can be debilitating and cause a decrease in quality of life. Fortunately, there are treatments available for all of the above-mentioned health problems. Overall, this mix is a generally healthy breed of dog. However, they are susceptible to certain health conditions that can be debilitating. Nutrition Requirements The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a high-energy breed of dog that requires a high-protein diet and is rich in fat. Dry dog food that is designed for large breeds is a great option for this breed. They should be fed between two to three times per day. A regular feeding schedule is important for this breed to help prevent bloat while maintaining suitable weight levels. Typical dog food brands to consider for this breed include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Taste of the Wild. Table scraps should be avoided as they can cause weight gain and digestive issues. Doggie treats, on the other hand, can be given in moderation. However, certain dogs may view this breed as a threat due to their size and energy level. This can be done by taking them to the dog park, doggie daycare, or dog walking. Due to their size, they are naturally more comfortable around larger dogs. With early training and socialization, however, this mix can integrate and socialize with most other dogs. However, their energy levels can be a bit much for smaller children. This breed is best suited for families with older children who can handle their high energy levels. Families with small children should consider another breed of dog that is more suitable for their lifestyle. Some examples of breeds that may be more suitable for families with small children include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Drooling Levels This breed of dog is known to drool moderately. While they are not considered to be a slobbering breed, they may drool more when they are excited or hungry. They also require some maintenance when it comes to cleaning up drool, but it is not excessive. A damp cloth or baby wipes are generally all that is required to help to keep the area around their mouth clean. Barking Levels This breed of dog is known to bark moderately. They may bark when they are excited or when someone is at the door. However, with proper training, this behavior can be controlled. Barking collars are also an option but should only be used as a last resort. Positive reinforcement training is the best way to help control moderate barking in this breed of dog. Adaptability to Weather The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a breed of dog that is very adaptable to different weather conditions. They are comfortable in both hot and cold weather. They can typically handle temperatures as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can typically handle temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Overall, this mix is a very versatile breed that can adapt to most weather conditions. This is a relatively long lifespan for a large breed dog. While this breed is growing in popularity, it has not yet been officially recognized by the AKC. The AKC does not currently recognize any mixed breeds. However, they are working on a new pilot program that may eventually lead to AKC recognition for some mixed breeds, including this mixed breed. This price can vary depending on the breeder, the location, and the overall demand for the breed. Avoid buying a puppy from a pet store, as these puppies often come from puppy mills and may have health problems. This fee goes towards supporting the rescue organization and helps to cover the costs of caring for the dog. They are loyal, protective, and loving dogs that thrive on being close to their family. This breed requires a lot of exercise and training, but they are very intelligent dogs that are eager to please.
If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Anyone on the search for reputable Bernedoodle breeders in NY knows how difficult and time-consuming this task can be. As fellow Doodle owners, we understand the struggle. For this reason, we decided to look into all the different Bernedoodle breeders in New York and single out the best ethical breeding programs in your state. Although not as popular as Goldendoodles or Labradoodles, the Bernedoodle has become one of the more popular Doodle breeds in recent years. The Bernedoodle combines the calm and gentle temperament of the Bernese, and the goofy personality and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle. Responsible breeders only use fully health tested parent dogs in their programs that are cleared of any serious hereditary conditions. Although an expensive extra step, this is the only way to guarantee that the puppies come from healthy and strong bloodlines. See Also: Click the image Moreover, ethical breeders also offer genetic health guarantees that cover serious and life threatening conditions that the parents have been tested for. Typically, these health warranties cover the first one or two years. Although not all reputable breeders are affiliated with certain organizations, it does give you some added sense of security that the breeder follows responsible breeding guidelines and standards. You might even be able to find discussions on your local Reddit communities. As a family breeder, Lakeside Doodles raises all of their puppies right inside their home. As an added bonus, their puppies get used to all sorts of regular busy household activities, sights, and sounds. All of their parent dogs have passed their health and genetic testing. In addition to that, they also test their parents for coat type and shedding levels. What Makes This Breeder Unique? They follow the Puppy Culture program to give the pups the best start in their care. In addition to that, they implement the Early Neurological Stimulation method ENS , and introduce the puppies to new people and places, regular grooming, and crate training. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. About Us We are a family breeder located on a 6 acre hobby farm in the beautiful hills of Western NY. After a mini goldendoodle became part of our lives, we knew we had to be a part of the doodle world. We have searched long and hard for the perfect dogs and are so excited to introduce you to our Bernedoodles. Our dogs are members of our family and we can't wait to help you find a new member for yours. We believe in bringing you the best dogs that are healthy, loving, loyal and family oriented. Specializing In: Currently we are specializing in traditional tri, phantom tri and parti tri colored F1 and F1b Standard and Mini Bernedoodles. Bernedoodles combine the athleticism and intelligence of the Standard Poodle with the calm, laid back and affectionate nature of the Bernese Mountain Dog. With good breeding, the resulting puppies are beautiful, playful, affectionate, loyal, sweet and sometime quite comical. They are low to no shedding and tend to be allergy friendly. Full grown, our Standard Bernedoodles will weigh between between 80 lbs. Our Miniature Pups will weigh between lbs. My Bernedoodles are usually black, brown and white in a vaiety of color patters. I am also looking at adding a blue Merle to my pups. I love all Bernedoodle colors and work hard to breed puppies that are beautiful and have great temperaments. Some can have the taller but more slight build of the poodle, others have the stockier build of the Bernese. Their coats come in a variety of styles as well. Most Bernedoodles have a wavy coat, which are low to no shedding. Some can also have a curlier coat more like the poodle. Generally, the curlier the coat the less likely it is to shed. With little to no shedding, Bernedoodle coats can get matted. They need to be brushed regularly and clipped every few months. The F1 cross is considered the healthiest, as the parents have the least likelihood of contributing genes for common inheritable diseases. F1b puppies are the most likely to be non-shedding and allergy-friendly. I currently do not breed F2 Bernedoodles. They are all about people and are happiest when they're spending time with their families: playing, cuddling, and making us laugh. The puppies are raised in our home, being snuggled daily by our children, and come with a 12 month genetic health guarantee. Here are some tips for finding reputable Bernedodole breeders in your area: 1. Reputable breeders will have their information easily visible online. Good breeders will have all their information available on websites or through social networking sites like Facebook, where reviews from past customers are also readily available for you to read before deciding on which breeder is best for your family! Avoid dealing with puppies from backyard breeders or those in puppy mills! And ask them everything you want to know about the breeder. This is the best and easy way to check the breeder is reputable or not. Visit The Breeders: Before you cut any deals with a breeder, ask them if you can visit their place. A trustworthy breeder always allows you to visit their place if they have nothing to hide. If you know any great Bernedoodle breeder who lives in New York, please let us know in the comments below. So we can add it to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in NY? It really helps others who are looking for a Bernedoodle Puppies in New York. If you are looking for the best Bernedoodle Breeder in New York, you can consider one of these breeders. Other Bernedoodle Breeders. Call Lulu's F1b puppies have arrived, and will be ready to go to their new homes November 5th. Our family has been breeding designer doodles for over 15 years. All of our dogs live in the house as part of our family "pack". Both of these hybrids are an excellent fit for families with kids and other pets. They are intelligent, loving, goofy and loyal -- the perfect fur bestie! As responsible NY breeders, we provide home-raised, well-socialized, healthy puppies one litter at a time. All of our puppies come with a health certificate from our local veterinarian, and are up to date with vaccines and deworming at the time they go to their forever family. They are covered by our genetic health guarantee. Our parent dogs are DNA-tested and certified disease free. When your fur baby comes home to you, it has begun litter pan and crate training, is bathed and knows how to get its nails trimmed. Best of all, your puppy will know how to be part of a family and will be accustomed to other pets. We spend lots of time with our puppies daily, so they leave here knowing how to be a confident and secure member of your family. Call or text Robin at for more information, or fill out the contact form below. I'll get back to you right away. Contact me Interested in becoming a Mini Bernedoodle parent? Drop me a line, I'll get back to you right away! First name.
A rolled eyelid entropion is an eyelid malposition in dogs Teat Tumors Tumours of the mammary gland, also known as mammary tumours, are among the most common cancers in dogs. The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix is a large, muscular dog with a short, low-maintenance coat. They come in a variety of colors, but most have a brindle or black base color with white markings. What is the personality of an American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix? The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix is a loyal, protective and loving dog. They do well with children and love to be part of the family. They can be stubborn and willful, but respond well to consistent training. How much exercise does an American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix need? The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix needs moderate exercise. A daily walk or playtime in the yard will suffice. They don't need a lot of room to run, but they do enjoy a good game of catch. How do I care for an American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix? The American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mix has a short, low-maintenance coat. Weekly brushing is sufficient. They shed an average amount of hair. Are American Bulldog and Bullmastiff mixes good with other pets? They have a very strong temperament. If they are well trained, they get along great with cats as well as with a second dog. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. However, these dogs are so adorable as puppies that many people often adopt them without giving it the proper amount of thought. The food costs are exorbitant, though, and you should expect a whopper of a vet bill every now and then. They can also be prone to behavioral issues if not properly trained and socialized. Just keep in mind that your home will get smaller after you bring one into it. You better know how to swim, because these dogs drool. When you combine two breeds that are already known for having overactive salivary glands, you get a mix that can flood your entire house. It may sound adorable and it often is. They have no idea how big they are. However, they generally weigh well over pounds. Also, they have no idea where their feet are at any time, and they will definitely step on you. They love being the center of attention. They constantly crave affection — and at their size, they have no problems getting it. They make up for it by being incredibly sweet, though. Masti-Bulls are fun-loving and affectionate, but they can quickly get serious if they perceive a threat. They will not hesitate to protect their families, making them great guard dogs and equally good babysitters. Despite their agreeable nature, they have sad-looking faces, especially their solemn eyes. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, that protectiveness can sometimes be an issue, especially if your kids have friends over who like to roughhouse. Also, these dogs have no idea how big they are. If they get rambunctious, they can easily step on or bowl over a small child. You need to teach them to be aware of their surroundings; you also need to teach your kid how to act around the dog. They have formidable barks that broadcast just how big they are; there are few criminals brave enough to risk entering a house with one of these monsters inside. However, both parent breeds were originally bred as fighting animals, and there may be residual violence left in their DNA. Also, be careful about resource guarding with these dogs. They may get along great with other animals — until somebody gets too close to the food bowl, a favorite toy, or even you. Avoid anything with animal by-products. Portion control is important with larger breeds, as many of them will eat until they run out of food. A brisk walk, lasting minutes, is often all they need. They love to play, and they can spend hours pulling you around the house with a rope toy. Be careful not to overdo any exercise regimen you put them on. That means avoiding activities like agility training or anything that involves running and jumping especially on hard surfaces. Swimming is great for them, though. Introduce them to new people and places, and build up their confidence. You need to pay special attention to their ears too. Other than that, their grooming needs are fairly basic. Brush their teeth every day , bathe them every few months, and trim their nails as needed. Unfortunately, the breed is prone to a variety of health issues, both large and small. Minor Conditions. Lambert December 12, Bullmastiff American bulldog mix is a designer dog breed. They are obtained by crossbreeding two eminent dog breeds, i. The other name of this hybrid breed is American Bandogge. They are friendly dogs having great affection for kids. So, the owner can leave these beloved dogs with their kids without any problem. These hybrid dogs were created in the year in the United States. They are large and affectionate dogs. Sometimes they may become aggressive at their guard duty. They drool a lot, and a little grooming is required for their coat. Contents Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Temperament Like all hybrid dog breeds, the temperament of parent breeds can easily describe their mixed breed temperament. These dogs are strong and powerful guard dogs. They are protectors of their families. They like to play with kids all the time. If you are an experienced dog owner, these dogs are a perfect fit for you. These beautiful dogs are alpha with a strong personality. They should be socialized properly for a better experience. They are affectionate not only with kids but also with other dog breeds. These dogs like to be independent and can always find a separate place for themselves. Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Size Bullmastiff American bulldog mix are docile dogs. They are large in size. The size of the female Bullmastiff American Bulldogs is a bit smaller than the size of a male Bullmastiff American bulldog. Their average height falls between 25 inches to 29 inches from the shoulder. Talking about their weight, they weigh in the range of pounds to pounds. These dogs cannot be carried in hand because of their large size and weight. They can be taken out for a walk, on a picnic, or on a trip. These happy dogs are a very good company to keep. They require attention and exercise. They are perfect for those who are experienced in keeping pets. They are also easily available at rescue and shelter homes, but you have to make some effort to find them. They are guard dogs with a protective nature. They protect others as well as play with them. Adopting these dogs is a sensible decision if you are a family person. They are highly adaptable to apartment life. Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Lifespan Lifespan is a variable factor that may vary within the breed. The average lifespan of a Bullmastiff American bulldog mix is up to 10 years. Large-sized dogs usually have a shorter lifespan as compared to small-sized dogs. They are overall healthy dogs because designer dogs skip most of the inherited diseases and health problems. These problems can affect the lifespan of these dogs. So, always ask the breeder to show their health profile. If the tests are properly done, then you may go for a purchase. Bullmastiff American bulldog mix Price The price of a Bullmastiff American bulldog mix is dependent on different factors. Their average price is in the range of dollars to dollars. Their parent breeds are expensive, especially American bulldogs. They cost around dollars if purchased from a reputable breeder. Talking about Bullmastiff, they cost around dollars. When these eminent breeds are crossbred, it leads to the production of an improved and healthy designer breed, i. These dogs require minimal grooming, but they may drool a lot. So, you can spend on the purchase of these dogs. Coat colors include fawn, fawn and white, brindle and white, white. The ability of this task is necessary to the old days of the true "Band dog. This breed will be completely submissive with proper training and a handler who has a natural authority over the dog. Proper human to canine communication is necessary. Height, Weight Height: Males 24 - 28 inches 61 - 71 cm Females 23 — 27 inches 58 — 68 cm Weight: Males 90 — pounds 41 — 45 kg Females 80 - 90 pounds kg. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. Exercise A brisk walk twice a day will suffice to keep your ABM in good physical and mental condition. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Nails will need trimming once a month. Teeth may require a cleaning periodically and should be done by the veterinarian. Flea and tick preventative is recommended as well as heartworm preventative. We recommend that you consult with a qualified veterinarian before cleaning or treating your dog with any products. Origin A cross between an Alaunt type German Mastiff, 'Sassin, who shows ribs while free standing at lbs. Various Bull and Mastiff breeds were imported into North America from various countries. The first major imports were brought by Spain. Such dogs have always been used in guarding farms and controlling livestock. Various breed types developed in various locations. The American Bull Mastiff represents one of these variations. Typically stand 24 to 26 inches Typically range from 75 pounds to pounds. Bull Mastiff American Bulldog 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 have obviously make for a very powerful and strong breed that might be best for an experienced dog owner. They might be an alpha with a strong personality and needs a strong owner with experience who can set themselves as pack leader. 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 mixed with the Bulldog might be prone to cardiac and respiratory disease, hip dysplasia, cherry eye, and other concerns. Highly prone to heat problems. Note that these are just common problems in both breeds. This will be a moderately shedding dog. But will depend a lot on which one of these dogs it takes after. 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? This is a moderate energy dog that will need that from an owner. Plan on exercising them daily to keep their energy level down. A tired dog is a good dog. What are the training requirements? 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. Frightened or startled When they are not socialized If you think that your American Masti-Bull is displaying aggression, it is important to seek professional help from a certified trainer or behaviorist. A twice-weekly brushing with a natural bristle brush will help remove dead hairs and prevent matting. They typically shed moderately, so regular brushing will help keep the shedding under control. An occasional bath with a mild dog shampoo will help keep the coat clean and healthy. Beyond regular brushing and bathing, the American Masti-Bull requires minimal grooming. Their short, smooth coat is easy to care for, and they are not prone to excessive shedding or matting. As a result, they are an ideal breed for busy families or individuals who do not have the time or inclination to groom a high-maintenance breed. Nails should be trimmed regularly using a canine-specific nail trimmer. Overgrown nails can cause pain and difficulty walking. Ear cleaning is also important, as American Masti-Bulls are prone to ear infections. Clean the ears weekly with a cotton ball soaked in a gentle, dog-safe cleanser. Never insert anything into the ear canal itself. Teeth should be brushed regularly using a canine-specific toothpaste. American Masti-Bulls are prone to dental problems, so regular brushing will help keep the teeth and gums healthy. Regular grooming will help your American Masti-Bull stay healthy and comfortable. American Masti-Bull — Drooling Levels The American Bulldog Mastiff is known for its heavy drooling, which can be quite irritating to their face and neck. For this reason, it is important to wipe down their face and neck daily with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any build-up of saliva and prevent irritation. The American Masti-Bull is a loyal and protective breed that makes a great family pet. They are known for their gentle and loving nature, and they thrive on human interaction. They are patient with children and other pets, and they will quickly become a cherished member of the family. While they are not typically aggressive, they can be defensive of their family if they feel threatened. For this reason, it is important to socialize them early on and to provide them with plenty of positive reinforcement. If you are considering adopting an American Masti-Bull, it is important to research the breed thoroughly and to find a reputable breeder. This will help ensure that you end up with a healthy, well-adjusted pet that will be a cherished member of your family for many years to come. The American Masti-Bull is an excellent guard dog breed. They are loyal and protective of their family, and they will quickly become attached to their human companions. They are also quick to sound the alarm if they sense something amiss, which makes them an excellent watchdog. While they are not the largest of dogs, their courage and tenacity more than make up for their size. They will stand up to much larger opponents if they feel that their family is in danger. If you are looking for a guard dog that will become a loyal and loving family member, the American Masti-Bull is an excellent choice! However, like all breeds, the American Masti-Bull is susceptible to certain health conditions. Some of the most common health issues seen in American Masti-Bulls include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cherry eye. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joints and can cause pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the elbow joints. Both conditions are believed to be genetic in nature and can be exacerbated by improper care or nutrition. Cherry eye is a condition that causes the third eyelid to become swollen and protrude from the eye. While cherry eye is not typically painful, it can cause long-term damage to the eye if left untreated. Proper care and nutrition are essential for all dogs, but they are especially important for American Masti-Bulls. This breed is prone to dental problems, so regular brushing and dental checkups are a must. However, they do have some specific nutritional requirements that need to be met in order for them to stay healthy and active. Puppies: Puppies of this breed need food that is high in protein and fat in order to support their rapid growth. The focus should also be on food that is easy to digest, since their digestive systems are still developing. This is to maintain their muscular bodies and active lifestyles. However, they also need easily digestible food since they tend to have sensitive stomachs. Senior Dogs: As senior dogs, American Masti-Bulls need food that is easy to digest and high in antioxidants to help keep their immune systems strong. They also need food that is low in calories to help them maintain a healthy weight. In addition to high-quality food, American Masti-Bulls may also benefit from a food supplement. This is especially true if they are not getting all of the nutrients they need from their food. Some good food supplements for American Masti-Bulls are omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin. Table scraps should not be given to American Masti-Bulls as they can easily become obese. This is a health hazard for them since they are already prone to joint problems. Overall, American Masti-Bulls need a food that is high in protein and fat, easy to digest, and rich in antioxidants. A food supplement may also be necessary to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need. Treats should be given in moderation to avoid weight gain. American Masti-Bull — Are they friendly with other dogs? When it comes to other dogs, the American Bulldog Mastiff can be both friendly and aloof. They may get along well with some dogs but be standoffish with others. Due to their size, they may be best suited to being the only dog in the household. However, with proper socialization from an early age, they can learn to get along with other dogs. American Masti-Bulls are usually not aggressive towards other dogs, but they may become territorial if they feel threatened or if their family is threatened. Small dogs may view American Masti-Bulls as a threat, so it is important to introduce them slowly and under supervision. If you have another dog in the house, make sure to monitor their interactions carefully. This cross breed may also try to dominate other dogs, so it is important to be consistent with training and discipline. Overall, American Masti-Bulls can be friendly with most other dogs if they are properly socialized from an early age. These dogs are great with children of all ages and make wonderful family pets. If you are looking for a breed of dog that is good with kids, the American Masti-Bull is an excellent choice. Very young children or the elderly might find a large American Masti-Bull to be overwhelming. If you have small children or the elderly living in your home, it is important to supervise their interactions with this breed of dog. Otherwise, the American Masti-Bull makes an excellent companion for kids and families. Excessive barking can be a sign of underlying behavioral issues that need to be addressed. This makes them an ideal choice for many families, as they can be comfortable in both hot and cold climates. In hot weather, their coat will thin out, helping to keep them cool. In relation to hot weather, the American Masti-Bull is more tolerant to heat than most other breeds of dog. They can handle being in hot weather for longer periods of time and are less likely to overheat. Overall, the American Masti-Bull is a breed that is known for its tolerance to both hot and cold weather. This makes them an ideal choice for many families, irrespective of the climate that they live in. American Masti-Bull — Life Expectancy The American Masti-Bull is a loyal and loving companion, but like all dog breeds, they are susceptible to certain health problems. On average, they have a life expectancy of 10 years, but this can be shortened by health problems such as hip dysplasia and heart disease. By catching these problems early, you can get treatment for your Masti-Bull that can help extend their life. While this mixed breed is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC , it is growing in popularity as a family pet and working dog. The American Bulldog Mastiff is a popular crossbreed in the United States, and their pup prices reflect this popularity. This price range can differ depending on the specific breeder, bloodline, and coat coloration of the pup. For example, pups with rarer coat colors or those from show-quality bloodlines may cost more than pups with more common coat colors or from working lines. In general, though, most Masti-Bull pups will fall within the mentioned price range. If you are interested in purchasing a Masti-Bull puppy, be sure to do your research on reputable breeders in your area. With any luck, you will be able to find a healthy, happy pup that fits both your lifestyle and budget!
Breeds The link has been copied! Are you ready for some puppy talk? If you're a fan of the French Bulldogs, you're in for a treat! These adorable little pups are known for their charming personalities and irresistible squishy faces, but just how many of them can one Frenchie mama have? In this article, we'll explore the fascinating world of French Bulldog litters and answer the burning question on every dog lover's mind: how many puppies can a French Bulldog have? Get ready to unleash your curiosity and let's dive in! On average, a French Bulldog can have a litter size of between 2 to 4 puppies. However, it's not uncommon for some Frenchies to have larger litters of up to 5 or 6 puppies, while others may only have a single pup. French Bulldogs are known for being small, compact dogs with a big personality, and when it comes to their litters, they tend to have a smaller number of puppies compared to other breeds. There are several factors that can influence the size of a French Bulldog's litter, including genetics, age, and overall health. For instance, younger Frenchies and those in peak physical condition tend to have larger litters than older or less healthy dogs. It's worth noting that while having a larger litter may seem exciting, it can also come with some challenges. French Bulldogs, like many small breeds, can experience difficulties during labor and delivery, so it's important for breeders and pet owners to work closely with a veterinarian to ensure a safe and healthy birth for both the mother and her puppies. On average, a French Bulldog can have up to 4 litters in their lifetime, with each litter having between 2 to 4 puppies. This means that a Frenchie can have anywhere from 8 to 16 puppies over the course of their breeding years. However, it's important to note that breeding a dog should be done with careful consideration and only under the guidance of a responsible breeder or veterinarian. Overbreeding can be harmful to a French Bulldog's health, and can also contribute to the problem of overpopulation in the dog breeding industry. It's also important to consider the ethical implications of breeding dogs, including the responsibility of finding suitable homes for each puppy and ensuring that they receive proper care throughout their lifetime. Factors That Affect the Litter Size There are several factors that can affect the litter size of a French Bulldog, including: Age: As a general rule, younger female dogs tend to have larger litters than older dogs. This is because their reproductive systems are more efficient when they are in their prime. Health: A French Bulldog's overall health can play a significant role in the size of their litters. Dogs that are in good physical condition are more likely to have larger litters than those who are not. Genetics: The genetics of the dog can also impact litter size. Some dogs may have a genetic predisposition to smaller litters, while others may be more likely to have larger litters. Nutrition: A well-balanced diet is essential for a French Bulldog's health and can also impact litter size. A dog that is malnourished or underweight may have smaller litters or may experience complications during pregnancy. Breeding frequency: French Bulldogs that are bred too frequently may experience smaller litters due to a decline in fertility. It's important to give the female dog enough time to recover and regain their health between breeding cycles. Breeding method: The method used for breeding can also affect the litter size. Artificial insemination may result in smaller litter sizes than natural breeding. Hormone Imbalance Hormone imbalances can also be a factor that affects the litter size of French Bulldogs. Hormones play a critical role in the reproductive system of dogs, and any imbalances can lead to reduced fertility and smaller litter sizes. One hormone that is particularly important in female dogs is progesterone. Progesterone levels rise during the second half of a dog's reproductive cycle, and they play a key role in preparing the uterus for pregnancy. If progesterone levels are too low, the uterus may not be ready to support a litter, resulting in smaller litters or even infertility. Another hormone that can affect litter size is luteinizing hormone LH. LH is responsible for triggering ovulation, and if levels are too low, ovulation may not occur, leading to smaller litters or infertility. In addition to these hormones, imbalances in other hormones such as estrogen, follicle-stimulating hormone FSH , and thyroid hormones can also affect a French Bulldog's reproductive system and ultimately impact litter size. If a hormonal imbalance is suspected, a veterinarian can perform tests to determine the levels of various hormones and recommend appropriate treatments or management strategies to support the dog's reproductive health. Age Female dogs are most fertile between the ages of 2 and 5 years old, and during this time, they are more likely to have larger litters. As dogs age, their fertility decreases, and they may experience smaller litter sizes or infertility. It's important to note that breeding French Bulldogs before they are fully mature can also have negative consequences. Breeding dogs that are too young can result in smaller litter sizes, and it can also put the mother and puppies at greater risk for complications during pregnancy and delivery. On the other hand, breeding dogs that are too old can also increase the risk of complications and smaller litter sizes. Female dogs that are past their prime reproductive years may have a reduced number of eggs, and their uterus may not be as capable of supporting a large litter. In general, the ideal age for breeding French Bulldogs is between 2 and 5 years old, when the dog is in optimal reproductive health. However, it's important to work closely with a veterinarian or responsible breeder to ensure that the dog is physically and emotionally ready for breeding, regardless of their age. Genetics The number of puppies that a Frenchie has in a litter can be influenced by the genetics of both the female and male dogs involved in breeding. In general, large dog breeds tend to have larger litters than smaller breeds, and this can be reflected in the litter size of mixed-breed puppies. However, French Bulldogs are a relatively small breed, and their litter sizes are typically smaller than those of larger breeds. The genetics of the female dog can also play a significant role in litter size. Some French Bulldogs may be more predisposed to having smaller litters due to their genetics. In contrast, other dogs may be more likely to have larger litters. Genetic testing can help breeders to identify dogs with optimal reproductive health and litter size. Health A Frenchie that is in good physical condition is more likely to have larger, healthier litters than a dog that is not. Dogs that are malnourished, underweight, or have an underlying health condition may have reduced fertility, which can lead to smaller litters or infertility. Proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary care can help to ensure that a French Bulldog is in good health and ready for breeding. It's also important to note that French Bulldogs, like all breeds of dogs, can experience reproductive health issues that can impact their litter size. Conditions such as infections, tumors, or abnormalities in the reproductive system can reduce fertility and result in smaller litters. Regular veterinary checkups and reproductive health screenings can help to identify and address these issues early on, improving the chances of a successful breeding. In addition to physical health, a Frenchie's mental and emotional wellbeing can also play a role in their reproductive health. Dogs that are stressed, anxious, or in poor mental health may experience reduced fertility, and this can impact their litter size. It's important to ensure that the dog's environment is safe, comfortable, and conducive to their overall health and wellbeing. The process of breeding for these colors can be complex, and it often involves breeding dogs that carry specific color genes. For instance, a blue merle French Bulldog may carry two copies of the dilute gene, while a lilac Frenchie may carry one copy of the dilute gene and one copy of the chocolate gene. Breeding for exotic colors or even fluffy coats can also involve the use of artificial insemination or the use of stud dogs that are carriers of the desired color genes. However, it's important to note that breeding for these colors can come with some risks. French Bulldogs that are bred specifically for their color may be more prone to health issues, including skin problems and eye disorders. In addition, the popularity of exotic colors like the platinum coloring has led to an increase in the demand for these dogs, which has resulted in some breeders engaging in unethical breeding practices, such as inbreeding or breeding for extreme physical characteristics. These practices can be harmful to the health and welfare of the dogs and can result in a range of health issues. It's important to work with a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and wellbeing of the dogs above all else. Breeding for extremely small size can increase the risk of a number of health problems in French Bulldogs, including respiratory issues, hip dysplasia, and spinal problems. Additionally, breeding micro French Bulldogs with a focus on appearance rather than health and temperament can lead to a range of serious health problems that can negatively impact both the mother and the puppies. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and well-being of the breed and carefully select breeding pairs based on factors such as health, temperament, and genetic diversity. Breeding French Bulldogs for extremely small size or for specific coat colors can compromise their health and result in a host of problems that can be detrimental to their overall well-being. Female French Bulldogs typically reach sexual maturity between 6 and 12 months of age. However, it's important to note that while a female dog may be physically capable of breeding at this age, it's generally recommended to wait until the dog is at least 2 years old before breeding. Breeding a Frenchie too early can have negative consequences, including a higher risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. Additionally, dogs that are bred too young may not be emotionally or mentally mature enough to handle the demands of pregnancy and motherhood. French Bulldogs, like many brachycephalic short-nosed breeds, are at increased risk for complications during natural birth due to the shape of their skulls and bodies. The breed's unique anatomy can make natural birth dangerous and potentially life-threatening for both the mother and her puppies. French Bulldogs have a relatively large head and narrow pelvis, which can make it difficult for puppies to pass through the birth canal. This can result in prolonged labor and increased risk of fetal distress, stillbirth, or death of the mother. In addition to the breed's physical anatomy, French Bulldogs can also be prone to certain health issues that can increase the risk of complications during natural birth. For instance, obesity, poor nutrition, and other health issues can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. For these reasons, many veterinarians and responsible breeders recommend that French Bulldogs give birth via cesarean section C-section. A C-section is a surgical procedure that involves delivering the puppies via incision in the mother's abdomen, and it can greatly reduce the risks associated with natural birth. The First Month of French Bulldog Pregnancy During the first month of French Bulldog pregnancy, the fertilized eggs travel down the Fallopian tubes and implant in the lining of the uterus. At this point, it can be difficult to detect pregnancy as there are no external signs. However, some dogs may exhibit subtle changes in behavior or appetite. It's important to ensure that the dog is getting proper nutrition and exercise during this time, as this will support the health of both the mother and the developing fetuses. It's also a good time to schedule a veterinary checkup to confirm the pregnancy and monitor the dog's health. The Second Month of French Bulldog Pregnancy By the second month of French Bulldog pregnancy, the fetuses have developed significantly and are about the size of walnuts. The dog's abdomen may begin to swell, and she may exhibit signs of morning sickness or fatigue. During this time, it's important to continue to provide the dog with proper nutrition and exercise, and to monitor her health closely. The veterinarian may recommend additional testing, such as an ultrasound, to monitor the health and development of the fetuses. The Third Month of French Bulldog Pregnancy During the third month of French Bulldog pregnancy, the fetuses continue to develop rapidly, and their organs and body systems begin to mature. The dog's abdomen will be noticeably swollen, and she may begin to experience nesting behavior as she prepares for the birth of her puppies. It's crucial to continue to monitor the dog's health and provide her with proper nutrition and exercise during this time. The veterinarian may recommend additional testing or monitoring to ensure the health and wellbeing of the mother and her puppies. Please Breed Your French Bulldog Responsibly Breeding French Bulldogs is a complex and challenging process that requires careful consideration and responsible practices. The health and welfare of the dogs should always be the top priority, and breeders and pet owners should work closely with a veterinarian or experienced breeder to ensure that the breeding process is done safely and ethically. Breeding French Bulldogs can be a rewarding experience, but it's crucial to approach it with caution and responsibility. Overbreeding, breeding for profit or for the sole purpose of producing exotic colors, and engaging in unethical breeding practices can all have negative consequences for the health and wellbeing of the dogs involved. It's important to prioritize the health and wellbeing of the dogs above all else and to ensure that they receive proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care throughout their lives. By working with responsible breeders and veterinarians and by following ethical breeding practices, we can help to ensure a healthy and happy future for French Bulldogs and other breeds of dogs. Final Thoughts French Bulldogs are a popular breed of dog that many people are interested in owning. This is due to their popularity and the high demand for these dogs. If you're on a budget, you may want to consider adopting a Frenchton, which is a crossbreed between a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier. These dogs can be just as cute and playful as purebred Frenchies, but may be more affordable. It's also important to note that French Bulldogs often require c-sections to give birth, as their puppies have large heads and broad shoulders that make natural delivery difficult. This can add to the cost of owning a French Bulldog, as c-sections can be expensive and require careful monitoring and recovery. If you're considering getting a French Bulldog or any other dog breed, it's important to do your research and be prepared for the responsibilities of dog ownership. This includes providing proper care and training for your dog, as well as ensuring that you can afford any medical expenses that may arise. Keep in mind that there are many other dog breeds to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and needs. Consider researching other breeds that may be a better fit for your lifestyle and budget before making a decision. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent- it is a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Indeed, they have inspired an entire fashion industry of French Bulldog clothing, accessories, and even jewelry. That popularity has made an already expensive breed even more valuable. But why do Frenchies cost so much in the first place? The answer lies in their limited ability to reproduce. The average French Bulldog litter consists of 3 puppies. Although some have successfully carried and birthed up to 7 pups, that happens very rarely. In comparison, the average Golden Retriever produces 8 puppies in a litter. Beagles, for example, typically give birth to 6 puppies at a time while pugs produce 5 pups in an average litter. Frenchies typically carry up to 4 litters in their lifetime. Although their average life expectancy is around 12 years old, they can only breed safely between 2 and 8 years old. That limitation affects the number of Frenchie puppies born each year, which directly impacts the value of the breed. Canadian Moto French Bulldogs wearing Frenchie harnesses. French Bulldogs have difficulty reproducing in large numbers because of their physical conformation. Although organizations like the American Kennel Club and the French Bull Dog Club of America see to it that breed standards are upheld, even the healthiest Frenchies will have trouble breeding naturally and copiously. One of the biggest reproductive concerns in French Bulldogs is their narrow hips. French Bulldogs also have trouble birthing naturally. The large heads that are so often perfectly adorned with Frenchie jewelry make a caesarean section necessary. Additionally, the French Bulldog is among the brachycephalic breeds that have breathing issues simply because of their short muzzles and flat faces. Because of this and the way their bodies are built, pregnancy and birthing can be too stressful on their bodies and could become fatal. The limited number of puppies a Frenchie can produce in her lifetime is one of the biggest reasons why this breed is so expensive. And because fewer puppies mean an even smaller probability of producing rare-colored French Bulldogs, the value of specific pedigrees are even higher. For most of us, that cost means settling for getting our Frenchie fix on social media where canine celebrities provide endless joy as they show off the latest in French Bulldog fashion. Shopping French bulldogs are a popular breed loved by many. However, certain factors such as the age and health of the mother can impact litter size. How many French bulldog puppies are born in a litter? The average litter size of French bulldogs is small compared to other breeds, with usually only puppies born in a litter. These puppies are typically born between eight and ten weeks old and weigh around two to three pounds at birth. Within the first few hours, French bulldog puppies can stand and walk, and they will nurse for around twelve to fourteen hours. It is recommended that French bulldog puppies are spayed or neutered at six to eight months old. Keeping these facts in mind will help owners prepare for the arrival of these adorable pups. Typically, French bulldog puppies are born in February or March and weigh around pounds at birth. Taking them for short walks, playing fetch, or allowing them to run around in a safe area can help keep them healthy and happy. By following these steps, you can ensure that your French bulldog puppies grow up to be healthy and happy dogs. Health concerns for French bulldogs puppies French bulldogs are prone to various health concerns, including hip dysplasia, bloat, seizures, skin allergies, eye problems, and ear infections. Unfortunately, French bulldog puppies are born with a high mortality rate. Providing your pup with proper nutrition and regular exercise can also help prevent health issues from arising. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian in case you suspect any health issues. They will be able to provide the necessary medications and guide you through the process of caring for French bulldogs puppies. Taking good care of your puppy from an early age can go a long way in ensuring they grow up healthy and happy. What are the risks associated with French bulldog breeding? French bulldogs generally give birth to puppies per litter, making them a popular breed for those looking to start breeding. However, French bulldog breeding comes with its own set of risks, including health problems and even death in the puppies. Raising French bulldog puppies can also be challenging due to their temperament and specific needs. They require extensive training and socialization before they are ready to be placed with a new family. Additionally, French bulldogs need a lot of daily exercise which can be difficult if you live in an urban area. It is important to take all these factors into consideration before deciding to breed a French bulldog or adopt one as a pet. Published Apr 26th, Get 12 months of mentorship and learning to grow your business confidence and profits Our mission is to help you unlock your potential through brilliant content and training. Join our list to stay up to date on our latest features and courses, and any special offers and free classes. By employing an image background remover tool, you can effortlessly remove the background from an image, leaving only the main subject in focus. Due to this popularity, you may want to breed your French Bulldog to save some bucks since they are expensive. However, the question in your mind will be, "How many puppies can French bulldogs have? Female French Bulldogs can have a maximum of four litters in their lifetime, translating to 12 puppies. Therefore, a female French Bulldog will have 12 puppies before they are considered old to carry more. In the rest of this article, I'll discuss litters as they relate to French Bulldog breeding and the number of puppies. I will also cover the factors that limit a French Bulldog's ability to reproduce. Keep reading to learn more. A French Bulldog will typically have three puppies on average in a litter. This is a low number compared to other dog breeds like Golden Retrievers, which usually have more than eight puppies in a litter. It's worth mentioning that although rare, French Bulldogs can have up to eight puppies in a litter. However, this is considered unsafe owing to the French Bulldog's body size and shape. This means that a French Bulldog carrying more than four puppies at a time is in danger of dying from pregnancy-related complications. As a Frenchie parent, you're interested in knowing how many puppies your Frenchie can have over their lifetime. The number of puppies a Frenchie can have in a lifetime depends on the number of litters. A French Bulldog can have a maximum of four litters in its lifetime. Each of these litters will have an average of three puppies, translating to .Thus, you can expect your Frenchie to give you approximately 12 puppies in her lifetime. It's essential to consider the reproductive age when figuring out the number of pups your Frenchie can have in a lifetime. Most dog breeds, Frenchies included, reach reproductive maturity at six to nine months. Although French Bulldog females usually have their first heat as early as four months old, it's not advisable to breed the dog this early. Breeding a French Bulldog on her first heat exposes her to: Stunted growth Premature aging Complications during pregnancy and birth Even when a French Bulldog has had multiple litters, you should only breed her after two years. For safe delivery and recovery, veterinarians advise that the breeding period should not exceed eight years. However, some breeders inseminate their dogs after eight years to get more puppies. For this reason, knowing the factors that affect litter size will help you decide when to breed your Frenchie. The following are the main factors that affect litter size in French Bulldogs: Hormone Imbalance Frenchie females with a hormone imbalance will often undergo false pregnancies. In most cases, the dog will behave like she is pregnant even though there isn't any puppy inside her. Hypothyroidism is a hormonal imbalance problem in dogs that causes weight gain, lethargy, and depression. In extreme cases, it can cause abortion or decreased litter size in females. Age The older your French Bulldog gets, the smaller the litter size. Dogs bred between two and five years have larger litters because they are still young with more active reproductive hormones. By the time the dog is six years old, the litter size decreases significantly as the reproductive hormones become less active. Genetics Genetics play a role in determining your dog's ability to have puppies at any point in its lifetime. If both parents have a small litter size, you'll most likely have fewer puppies from your Frenchie mom. A mother with a bigger and broader family tree will have bigger litters. Therefore, you're more likely to get larger Frenchie pups if the mom comes from a family of bigger French Bulldogs. Health Healthy dogs can carry healthier and larger puppy litters. For example, your Frenchie can have a healthier and bigger litter if she has good nutrition. That's why it's essential to feed the dog with high-quality pet food throughout pregnancy. You may have questions like: When is the right time to breed my Frenchie? What are the steps to take in preparing for this process? What should I expect when giving birth? To make the experience smooth, here are the two crucial steps to follow: Artificial Insemination Apart from the hassles of looking for an appropriate and healthy stud dog, the narrow hips of French Bulldogs make natural mating hard. As a result, most Frenchie parents rely on artificial insemination. You must get a canine veterinarian to draw sperm from the stud dog and insert it into the female's reproductive tract. This process is usually done two to three times for positive results. The veterinarian will also be in charge of monitoring the pregnancy's progress. Therefore, you must keep in touch with your veterinarian to monitor the dog's progress and prepare for labor. French Bulldogs have a gestation period of approximately 63 days. The day your Frenchie goes into labor will be significantly different for each dog. Besides being responsible for the C-section procedure, your vet will guide you on what to expect during this period. Furthermore, they will take you through how to deal with any complications that may arise after delivery. It's worth mentioning that taking your Frenchie mom through natural birthing can expose them to dystocia. Unfortunately, 1. Factors That Limit a French Bulldog's Reproductive Ability Two to four puppies in a litter is a low number compared to other dog breeds. Why do French Bulldogs have such a small litter size? Read on to find out the limiting factors. Physical Conformation The physical nature of French Bulldogs makes it challenging for them to reproduce in large numbers. French Bulldogs have narrow hips. Although these hips make the dog beautiful, they hinder natural mating. This explains why these dogs are bred through artificial insemination. It's also hard for French Bulldogs to birth naturally due to their large heads. Consequently, most French Bulldogs undergo cesarean section C-section procedures. Due to their large heads, whelping your Frenchie mom naturally is a risky affair that can lead to: The pups getting stuck in the birth canal The mother suffering from complications such as hemorrhage or uterine rupture Injuring the pups Therefore, although costly and risky, C-section is the most humane option for helping your Frenchie canine give birth. Brachycephalic Breed Frenchies are among the brachycephalic dog breeds. Brachycephalic dog breeds have short nostrils and flattened muzzles with longer bottom jaws than the top ones. Due to their squished face, these dogs have difficulty breathing and cooling. This makes them prone to overheating. Moreover, the squished face exposes most of these dogs to Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. This syndrome makes breathing a struggle, leading to challenges in carrying pregnancies and giving birth. Prenatal Care for a French Bulldog Your Frenchie's prenatal care should start as soon as she is pregnant. Here are some key areas to focus on: Diet Your dog needs a high-quality diet to support her pregnancy. A healthy, natural diet will strengthen the dog's body, allowing it to accommodate the mom and pups. Pregnant dogs need the following nutrients : Calcium: 1 to 1. Boxer 6 — 8 This table shows that breeds like Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds tend to have larger litters compared to Frenchies. Variations Based on Specific Factors Just like people, every Frenchie is unique and various factors can influence the total number of puppies in each litter. Here are some key factors: Health: As mentioned earlier, a healthy mother will usually have a larger litter compared to one with health problems. Age: The age of the mother can also impact the size of her litter. Older dogs 5 years and exceeding may have fewer puppies than younger ones. Genetics: Some dogs naturally produce more offspring due to their genetic makeup. But just how many puppies do French bulldogs have? The range of puppies in a French bulldog litter can vary widely. You might be wondering why that is. Frenchie Litter Sizes: The Basics Typically, a female french bulldog will give birth to three or four puppies in a single litter. Some litters may have as few as two puppies while others could boast up to five or six. So what causes these variations? Several factors come into play: Genetics: Just like human families where some have twins or triplets more commonly than others, some dog breeds are predisposed to having large litters. Age: Younger female dogs 17 months or younger tend to have smaller litters compared to their older counterparts. Health: A healthy mother equals healthy pups! Dogs with good overall health and nutrition may produce larger litters. But wait! Are there instances when the number of French bulldog puppies goes beyond the typical range? Surgical insemination is exactly as it sounds. They go in and place the semen right on the eggs. This is an invasive surgery and requires 2 week recovery time like a spay would. Selective Breeding: Breeders sometimes selectively breed dogs with a history of large litters in hopes of replicating the result. Large litters can pose risks for both mother and pups such as difficult labor, higher risk for congenital defects, less attention per puppy. I whelped a litter for a friend. The dog had previously had a litter of 3 perfect puppies in her first litter. The second litter, conceived by surgical insemination, was 10 puppies, with a cocktail of problems, heart murmurs and other defects that caused failure to thrive. I think 6 of the 10 puppies made it. The parent paring was exactly the same, but insemination method was different. Make sure your females are getting adequate nutrition from the moment she completes her first breeding through the first 30 days. These dogs are known for their brachycephalic short-nosed features, which can lead to health concerns during pregnancy and birth. A responsible breeder understands that these adorable pups are prone to complications such as dystocia, or difficult labor, often requiring veterinary intervention like C-sections. Great General Health is Imperative Other factors such as vaginitis and bladder infections are common but if left untreated can cause problems for pups as well if bacteria travels up into the uterus. Before Portia was bred in she had some vaginitis. After c section, I was told the placentas on 2 of the 3 pups were dark green and just gross. General Daily Health is Extremely Important French bulldogs are more susceptible than other breeds to things like pancreatitis and yes pancreatitis can cause a dogs pregnancy to fail, along with other serious health issues such as stroke, organ failures, and death. When breeding you need to make sure your dog is in tip top shape not only to carry her pups but to also produce healthy pups. Why would you want it any other way anyway?! They may need a totally different protein, different fat content, different feeding schedule. Make sure your dogs are getting the proper amount of exercise as well. An underweight dog can be just as sick as an over weight dog as well with nutrient deficiencies, low bone density, and more. These things pass on to puppies, why take that chance. Why put that on a pup and new owner knowingly? In alone I have seen 3 dogs get diagnosed with pancreatitis, one of which is severely overweight. Only 1 of the 3 dogs had a successful pregnancy. Litter size plays a significant role in the well-being of both mother and pups. On the flip side, too small a litter might indicate underlying health issues. Breeders need to strike that balance — not too big, not too small — just right! In contrast, irresponsible breeders might overlook these risks for quick profit — leaving unsuspecting new owners grappling with hefty vet bills down the line. As mentioned above health is the most important factor. Their large heads and narrow hips make natural birth a challenge. Infections, blood loss, and anesthesia complications are some risks associated with cesarean sections. Newborn Frenchies may face difficulties such as low body temperature or breathing problems post-surgery. Believe it or not, anesthesia actually affects the pups as well. You need to find an experienced reproductive veterinarian who works with french bulldogs regularly. Knowing the proper dosage of anesthesia is extremely important for both mom and puppies. Too much can hurt both and cause puppies to be slow to wake or not wake at all. Pregnancy itself is taxing on their bodies due to potential complications like eclampsia or dystocia. Here are some health issues that can arise from cesarean sections: Infection: Surgical sites may become infected if not properly cared for. Hemorrhage: Blood loss during surgery is common but can lead to severe problems if excessive. Anesthesia complications: Adverse reactions to anesthesia can occur during or after surgery. Anesthesia Reaction- muscle contractions, she was fine but it did freak me out. A call to my vet confirmed it was only from anesthesia, and not to worry This Photo is minor compared to some of the incision problems I have seen on facebook. Sutures need to be on the inside with sutures or vet bond on the outside. Also, not just 1 long single string of sutures. The weight of the body is too much for one string. Sometimes the pups have so much spit it disrupts the glue seal. This one was a quick easy fix, but if you notice anything wrong with the incision site, call your vet immediately. Breathing problems: Puppies might have difficulty breathing post-surgery due to fluid in their lungs. During the last c section we had 1 pup that was slow to wake due to the cold. Once he was brought to proper temp, everything was fine and he is thriving! Below is a photo of him now! Reproductive Limitations of a French Bulldog Physical Constraints and Fertility French Bulldogs, adored for their compact size and expressive faces, face significant reproductive health challenges due to their unique physical attributes. The narrow hips characteristic of the breed often lead to problems during the birthing processes. This reduced fertility is primarily why artificial insemination and cesarean sections are commonly practiced. As such, many breeders resort to artificial insemination. Frequency of Litters The frequency at which a female French Bulldog can safely have litters is another factor that impacts their reproductive system. Rest Periods: Some people claim having a rest period between litters is necessary. With my vets permission, I have not done this. Portia, one of our smaller females, has more time in between heats. This past heat took 10 months to come back around. The average litter size? Usually around pups. But it can range from 1 to even 8 in some cases! On extreme rarity I have seen .Risks like birthing complications are common due to their unique physique, often necessitating C-sections for safer deliveries. They have their reproductive limitations which should be respected for their health and welfare. So there you have it! On average, a French Bulldog will have puppies per litter. Q2: How often can a French Bulldog safely have litters? Q3: Why do many French Bulldogs require C-sections for delivery? French Bulldogs often require C-sections due to their narrow hips which can complicate natural birth. X ray will give you the best chances of predicting and knowing litter size. Q5: Are there risks involved in breeding French Bulldogs? Yes, there are risks such as birthing complications which may require veterinary intervention like C-sections. Unlike people though, an expectant dog mum-to-be has her work cut out for her, as she rarely, if ever, gives birth to a single puppy. The number of puppies that a bitch has is dependent on several factors, namely size the bigger the breed of dog, the more puppies they tend to have in a single litter and the physical characteristics of a breed. There are, however, no absolutes in nature, which means that the number of puppies that a French Bulldog has per litter can vary. The breed has a higher than average possibility of developing a condition called dystocia, which is similar to a breech birth in humans, but far more dangerous. French Bulldogs are up to twenty percent more likely to suffer from dystocia during pregnancy, which is one of the main reasons why your veterinarian will suggest that you opt for a C-section for your Frenchie. Giving birth is just as hard for a dog as it is for a human, and during and after the birth, your Frenchie will need to breathe harder and faster in order to ensure that her body has the oxygen it needs to make it through and recover from the trauma of having a litter of pups. For a brachycephalic dog like the Frenchie, this is much harder than it is for a normal dog and puts the mother at a much greater risk of cardiac arrest, which again is why most veterinarians will suggest that the safest option for any Frenchie mother is always a C-Section. The procedure also carries a risk to the puppies and can put their lives in danger as well, so the fewer C-sections that your dog has to endure, the more likely she, and her puppies, are to emerge from one unscathed. Which most Frenchies are. Always insist on seeing the paperwork, and the mother dog before you agree to buy a puppy. Before we begin, a word of caution. Most Frenchies tend to reach maturity between eighteen months and two years of age, which is why most breeders tend to let their dogs mate between the ages of two and seven. The typical gestation period the length of a pregnancy for a French Bulldog is between sixty and sixty-three days, and the dog can enter labor at any point during that time. In the first month of her pregnancy, you might notice that your Frenchie starts to become even more affectionate than she already is and that her appetite has increased. Her appetite might start to wane toward the end of the second month, as her body starts to prepare to give birth. Post navigation. Dogs of this nature tend to be smaller, and also have smaller amounts of puppies. And with French bulldog dams the females they have very narrow hips and small body. If a female Frenchie does have a large litter of over 3, there can be health implications for the puppies. They will probably be underweight, with the weaker ones in the litter struggling to get the milk they need during the first few weeks of being born. How many times a year can a French bulldog have puppies? How many litters can a French bulldog have in a year? They should not have any more than 1 litter a year, and most preferably every other year. Because they are delivered via C-section, the female needs time to recover and recuperate, so anything intensive is just cruel and designed to make money. For more information on Frenchie C-sections, click here. How many litters can a French bulldog have? Most female Frenchies have around 4 litters in total, although I have heard of irresponsible breeders who try to get more from them. This litter size of 4 puppies is quite normal, with the average amount of puppies being 3. If you are thinking about buying a French bulldog puppy, talk to the breeder and find out how many litters she has had. How long is a French bulldog pregnancy? Frenchies very rarely give birth naturally, with most puppies being delivered by C-section. A French bulldog pregnancy the gestation period i. She will typically deliver by Caesarean section and will have on average around 3 puppies in her litter. Frenchie breeders will often use artificial insemination to get their females pregnant, as this breed find it very hard to mate naturally due to their narrow hips. You can read more about how long a Frenchie is pregnant for elsewhere on the website. When people say a dog is in heat, what they actually mean is that they are in their oestrus cycle. It is very similar to when a human female gets a period. When a Frenchie dam is on her oestrus cycle it means she has gone into heat and will accept a mate and could end up getting pregnant. French bulldogs go into heat from the point they reach sexual maturity. The regularity of their oestrus cycles tends to be every 6 months on average but will vary from dog to dog. It can take up to 2 years for a French bulldog to develop regular heat patterns. Female French bulldogs can gain sexual maturity as young as 5 months old. At that point, if they have started to have regular oestrus cycles, they are at risk of getting pregnant. Do French bulldogs always need C-sections? If your French bulldog does have puppies naturally, it can be very dangerous for both the female and the litter. Handy Hint: French Bulldogs mating naturally is a very rare occurrence. It can lead to health risks too. Find out more about why Frenchies should not breed naturally in this new blog post. The last word French bulldogs make for great companions and pets. If you browse other guides on the website, you will see plenty of photos and videos of Claude, our own Frenchie. However, in recent years their popularity has exploded, and this has led to an increase in unscrupulous breeders who use irresponsible methods of breeding. This can result in poor health — read the various health problems that Frenchies are prone to. If you are thinking about buying a Frenchie, please do your research into the breeder before you even consider buying from them.
Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article. Our dogs are special to us, and we breed selectively and sparingly. Nestled in the sprawling countryside of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, we provide our beloved dogs with the space they need to thrive and grow. We believe in the responsibility of raising healthy, socialized puppies. We believe in finding our puppies their perfect homes and families. We believe in supporting our buyers with quality resources and information. Our dogs are AKC registered with champion lines, and we consistently strive for excellence in breeding—both for the sake of our customers and our precious puppies. All our puppies are thoroughly evaluated by our veterinarian and come with a two-year genetic health guarantee. In , Dahlia retired and was adopted by a wonderful family. First off, please review the Step Process below, so you can become familiar with what our process and timeline look like. Then, call us when you are ready to be put on the call list for a particular litter. The balance should be paid in cash at pickup. Are you ready to seriously commit to a dog for life? Even before considering a puppy, be sure you are ready to invest the time and energy into puppy raising, an regular exercise program, love, discipline, the extra financial responsibility, etc. Ready for a Golden Retriever Puppy? When you welcome one of our Golden Retriever puppies into your home, they become a part of your family — and you become a part of ours. This sometimes means our process is a little different. But it always means our dogs are happier, and our puppies are healthier. Learn more about our process and give us a call if you have any questions! Sign Up for Email Announcements Our top priority is the health of our dogs and puppies. As a small-scale farm, we breed selectively and sparingly. As you prepare to bring home your precious puppy, get to know our fur family, review our contract and terms of agreement , and learn more about how you can prepare to welcome your sweet puppy home. Read through our FAQ's here on the website. Give Us a Call Once you receive a new litter email announcement, or read about the exciting news on our blog, contact us by phone at to start the process. Advanced wait lists cannot be made prior to the announcement of a new litter. Phone messages will be returned after pm on weekdays, and as available on Saturdays. Say Yes! Once our puppies are two 2 weeks old, we will contact you based on the order in which you were placed on our call list. Your deposit must be made to hold your place of interest. Take time to get to know the personality of your pup and begin forming a special bond. You can also choose to meet your puppy by video, or we can share photos. Growing Goldens Between weeks, our Goldens are evaluated by our vet, fully vaccinated, dewormed, and microchipped for safety. All of our puppies are supported with a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Bringing Puppy Home Between 8 and 9 weeks old, you can bring your precious pup home with you! On the day of pick-up, bring your final balance in cash — only cash payments can be processed on our small, family farm. This can be done by registering with the American Kennel Club. Registration provides support to help fund vital programs everywhere, such as canine health research, lost dog recovery, kennel inspections and pet disaster relief. This can be done at the time of registration. Stay in Touch As you and your puppy form a lifelong bond, stay in touch! We love hearing about all the fun our pups have in their furever homes!
Best healthy treats for training a German Shepherd dog Best healthy treats for training a German Shepherd dog: In this guide we will cover healthy human foods for treats when training German Shepherd dogs, some homemade recipes to make your own healthy treats and finally the best healthy food treats on the market. Best healthy human treats for training a German Shepherd dog: For a quick grab natural treat these dog friendly human foods are packed with nutritional health benefits: Apples: unseeded apple slices make a great natural treat for your German Shepherd. Win win. Salmon: The best part of salmon for dogs is the fatty skin. This is because it is full of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 is great for your German Shepherds all-round health. Omega 3 will also help to make your dogs coat glossy, give them healthier skin which in turn can reduce skin allergies. So slice up some crispy salmon skins for an extra special treat. Eggs: slice some cooked eggs to reward your German Shepherd dog. Enriched with essential vitamins and minerals eggs make a great healthy treat from training your German Shepherd. Eggs are also a great source of easy to digest protein for your dog. Peanut butter: A spoonful of unsalted peanut butter make a great protein rich snack and watching your German Shepherd lick it up from the roof of their mouth is adorable. Pumpkin flesh and cooked pumpkin seeds: Falls seasonal superfood for your German Shepherd pumpkin is full of fibre and loaded with vitamins which promotes shiny coats. Pumpkin also works as a great natural remedy to settle upset stomachs in dogs. Pumpkin flesh can be served both raw and cooked. Seeds are better if you roast them and remove the skins, however in moderation dogs can have raw pumpkin seeds. Do not feed you dog pumpkin skin or a portion of the stem. Although they are not considered toxic, they are really hard for your dog to digest and can cause discomfort or blockages. Veggies: Fresh veg including Carrots, broccoli and green beans are a nutritious low calorie treat for your German Shepherd. Broccoli should only be given in small amounts to prevent upset stomach. Green beans are full of iron and vitamins typically they are considered safe to eat raw but some people recommend cooking first. Popcorn: Plain air popped corn helps to promote digestion and eye health. Popcorn makes a great low calorie treat for your German Shepherd dog but make sure to not give them any un-popped kernels. Chicken: Unseasoned cooked chicken is a great source of protein and fatty omega 6 acids. Omega 6 helps dogs to sustain super shiny coats and healthy skin. Make sure there is no bones before giving to your German Shepherd Dog. To make the two ingredients treats simply choose a flavour of pureed baby food, mix with organic whole wheat flour to form a stiff dough, roll out and either use a pizza cutter to cut it into cubes or if you want to be fancy use a cookie cutter. Place on a parchment lined baking tray and bake for around 15 mins. Frozen yoghurt and peanut butter treats: Another simple 2 ingredient recipe these yoghurt and peanut butter treats are great for a hot day. Simply get some plain, natural yoghurt from the fridge, stir in some peanut butter, pop into ice cube moulds and freeze. With ice cube mould only place a thin layer about 5cms deep to prevent a choke hazard. Alternatively, you can place in the bottom of cupcake papers or paper or plastic cups to create a flat disk-shaped treat. Instead of peanut butter you can also use mashed apple mixed with a little water. Simply mix organic flour, eggs and peanut butter together then add enough water to turn your mixture into a dough, roll it out and use either a cookie cutter or pizza cutter to make it into small bites and bake for 20 minutes. Sweet potato fries: The next time your making some sweet potato fries we recommend using this dog friendly recipe both you and your German shepherd can enjoy. Wash and peel your sweet potato, cut into strips, coat with coconut oil, cinnamon and turmeric, spread out evenly on a baking try and bake until crispy. All you need is oatmeal, a banana and peanut butter. Use a food processor or blender to grind the oats into a powder, mash the banana and peanut butter together and stir in the blended oats to create a dough. Roll out and use a cookie cutter. Place on a parchment lined shallow cooking tin and bake for around 15 minutes. Easy fall cookies: To make these pumpkin cookies your German Shepherd dog will love you need to place pumpkin, peanut butter and eggs into a food processor and blend together. Then gradually stir in whole wheat flour until the dough is no longer sticky. Knead the dough until smooth, roll out and cut into shapes and bake until slightly golden. Chicken and rice muffins: High in protein these chicken and rice muffins your German Shepherd is sure to love. Simply boil brown or wild rice. Once cooked mash the rice to make stodgy. Add diced or shredded chicken, a little flour, chopped parsley and an egg. Mix together until combined. Then spoon into a muffin tin and bake for about 25mins. Until slightly golden on top. Sweet potato and salmon bites: bake a sweet potato. Oil in a pan we use coconut oil stir together flour, eggs and salmon either cooked or tinned, remove any bones once the sweet potato has cooled enough to handle remove the skin and add the skinned potato to the mixture. Spread evenly in the oiled tray and place in the fridge. Once cooled slice into bite sized chunks. Frozen pupsicle pop: For a healthy ice pop for your German Shepherd simply blend bananas, Greek yoghurt, blueberries and beets. Add you your mould and use a carrot as the stick. Perfect for those warm days. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Instead, choose the best treat for your German Shepherd to keep them healthy. But if you try to buy the cheapest treats for your puppy, it will show in their attitude and behavior. Or worse… Cause them serious medical problems. This is especially true for growing German Shepherd puppies. No one wants their GSD to get sick from what they feed them! When choosing the best training treats for German Shepherd dogs and puppies: Read the label to make sure your puppy is the right age and size for any treat Ask your vet when in doubt! These healthy options listed below are not only good treats for German Shepherd puppies but are also full of nutrition. While they come in other flavors, my German Shepherd loves peanut butter, so these little treats rank high in her training! They smell so good, you might be tempted to treat yourself! These nugget-shaped peanut butter treats are a great reward for training young German Shepherd puppies. Find great prices! And you already know that your breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. So, why not offer your dog a treat that has the best natural ingredients for healthy joints? A tougher texture is a good chew treat for an adult German Shepherd, but puppies might have trouble With a drier texture, you might find them difficult to tear into smaller pieces for training. Drool from your dog—lots of drool! Every snack should contribute to their overall health and fitness. This is true for adult dogs, not just puppies. Stay away from:. E-mail Share by e-mail Every dog likes the occasional treat! Dog treats come in all shapes, sizes, and ingredients, and can be store-bought or homemade. Your dog will rarely say no to a treat, and if they do it may be a sign that they are unwell. German Shepherds are known to be predisposed to joint issues such as hip dysplasia, so keeping your German Shepherd at a healthy weight is important. Why are we using treats? Entertainment and motivation during a trening session are the most common reasons for giving a treat. Treats can be very motivating during training sessions, particularly because German Shepherds are so smart, they notice if there is no treat and can decide to stop listening. If using treats for training, you want to choose small, low-calorie treats that your dog enjoys eating. Treats can also have health benefits, such as dental chews. Dental treats that are VOHC certified are beneficial in reducing the rate of dental tartar buildup and can be used as part of a healthy diet to maintain good oral hygiene. Entertainment is another common reason for giving a treat, for example, if you need to go out and your dog will be left alone for a few hours, having a chew can keep your dog busy until you return. We strongly suggest against chews such as raw hides or pig ears as whilst cheap, can cause problems such as blockages in the intestines and tummy upsets. A chew toy smothered in peanut butter xylitol free or a thin layer of cream cheese would be a perfect alternative if looking for a homemade chew toy. Homemade vs store bought When making dog treats at home, you can control portion size and use flavors that your dog loves. Buying from the store offers a lot of conveniences, but homemade treats are easy to make and have the added benefit of no artificial preservatives or flavorings. You can control portion size and use flavors that your dog loves. There are many recipes that are easy to follow and free online with a little searching. After freezing your dog will enjoy a snack that lasts for a few hours whilst you are busy doing other things. Lickimats smeared with a layer of frozen yogurt and berries or other ingredients are another great treat your dog can enjoy at home to keep them entertained whilst you are working or out of the home. Store-bought treats If your puppy is still very young, be careful about the size of the treat since they tend to gulp down treats. Food allergies can make your dog quite unwell, so are best avoided if possible. Store-bought treats come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and calories. Try and look for lower calorie treats if you give lots of treats to your dog during the day. If your puppy is still very young, be careful about the size of the treat. Young puppies tend to gulp down treats and if the treat is large, it can be a choking hazard. Some of our favorite treats are: Greenies Dental chews. Peanut Butter Smart Sticks are a safe alternative to rawhide chews. They will keep your dog chewing busily for some time and are a tasty flavor. These snacks have around 50 calories per treat so only give occasionally. Stewart Pro Treat Beef liver Freeze dried dog treats. Particularly good if your puppy is already on a raw food diet. Its small bite size and low calorie per treat make this a good option for daily training activities. Dogswell hip and joint Jerky. With beef and chicken as flavor options, this treat is more than just a snack. Summary There are many treat options available for your German Shepherd Puppy. Choosing low-calorie, yet flavorsome treats will encourage your puppy to respond well to training commands. German Shepherds bond highly to their main handler or trainer so treats are often central to creating this strong bond. There will be the perfect dog treat out there for them that they will love! The best treats are low calorie, small in size, and tasty to your puppy- look for meat-based flavors to really get their enthusiasm up. Can German Shepherd puppies have treats? Yes, German Shepherd puppies can have treats as part of a balanced diet to help with training, and socialization and to keep them entertained around the home. Remember to reduce their main meal to account for the treat calories. What are good training treats for German Shepherds? Royal Canin Educ treats are low calorie, vitamin-packed and tasty and will help with training your German Shepherd. What treats do German Shepherds eat? A German Shepherd is not particularly fussy and will eat most treats offered, both store-bought and homemade. The trick is to find the treat your dog is crazy about which can take a little time to work out. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. To help, we created this handy list. Before you choose a treat, there are a few things to consider. How many treats will you be feeding? What is treat value? Treat value can be thought of as a paycheck. What will the treat be used for? You should use different treats for different reasons. For instance, you may want to carry a simple treat with you to reward your dog as you train throughout the day. The value of this treat will be determined by how hard the dog is working and how much treat it takes to get the job done. How many calories are in the treats? While this may not be as important for all dogs, it can be. How old and how healthy is the dog eating the treats? Picking age appropriate treats is important. Young, healthy dogs can get away with eating a large variety of treats. Meanwhile, puppies may have a more sensitive digestive system. Older dogs may need lower calories and lower fat treats. Dogs with allergies, sensitivities, and health problems will also need special treats. How to use training treats Training treats are used to reward dogs for good behavior. They can be used to lure dogs, mark desired behavior, and praise for a job well done. Plus, it makes them happy. You can carry treats with you to reward your dog throughout the day as well as use them in training. They can be used in obedience as well as when teaching tricks. They can be used to convince your dog to do a certain behavior lure when you ask them to. Whatever treats you choose, use single small bites for each reward. Praise or mark the behavior, then feed the treat. The Best Training Treats Here are our best suggestions for training treats. Puppy Treats Training puppies usually requires lots of treats so one of the best treats for puppies is their kibble. Simply carry a portion of their food with you and use it as a treat as you train them throughout the day. Other ideas for puppy training treats include: 1. Diamond Naturals Puppy Biscuits 3. Wellness Soft Puppy Bites 4. Blue Buffalo Baby Training Treats beef, chicken, salmon, turkey, lamb 5. Zukes Mini Naturals Treats liver, rabbit or chicken 2. Natural Balance Roll cut into small bites 4. Merrick Power Bites wide variety of protein options 5. Fruitables Skinny Mini Apple Bacon 2. Natural Balance Mini Rewards 3. Annamaet Lean, Reduced Fat Treats 4. Here are some options aside from home cooking: 1. Purina Pro Plan Gentle Snackers 2. RX Canned Food 3. Matties Kidney Disease Dog Treats 4. Royal Canin RX treats for different health problems 5. Hills Rx treats for different health problems Dog Food That Works Great As Treats: Using high value dog food as treats can save you a lot of money because it comes in larger packages. Here are some of our favorites: 1. Stella and Chewy Wild Weenies broken into bites 3. Honest Kitchen Whole Food Clusters 4. Primal Freeze Dried Nuggets 5. Try these: 1. Boiled chicken. These high-protein treats are slowly dried in the oven, which retains their nutritional value and allows them to taste super tasty. They can be fed whole, or you can break them into smaller pieces. Top Features: No artificial flavors, preservatives, or animal by-products. Contain glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy bones and joints. Slowly oven-dried for extra nutritional value. No corn, wheat, soy, or other fillers. Best Dental Treats for German Shepherds We all need to look after our teeth, and that includes our dogs! Occasionally I like to give my GSD a dental treat which helps to keep her teeth and gums healthy. Look at her in the above photo waiting patiently and licking her lips! Dentastix is one of the best dental treats for German Shepherds as they are specially designed to clean teeth as your dog chews due to their unique X shape. Buy on Amazon Vets recommend Dentastix, and there are thousands of top reviews on Amazon. You can give these dental treats daily. However, I give my girl one around every two to three days as I like to vary her range of treats. They are not suitable for puppies under four months old. Low in fat and no added sugar. No artificial colors or flavors. Various flavors from original, beef, bacon, and minty fresh. They have a chewy texture and are made with nutritional and easily digestible ingredients. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. These dental chews are vet-approved and score very high on Amazon, where you can find thousands of positive reviews from happy dog owners. They are not suitable for puppies under 6 months old. Top Features: The unique texture cleans down to the gum line to fight plaque and tartar. Freshens bad dog breath. Made with natural ingredients plus vitamins and minerals. Grain-free option and weight management option. Flavors include original, blueberry, and fresh. They love to explore the world with their mouths, and it helps keep their teeth clean and jaws strong. Most German Shepherd owners tend to give their pets a toy to chew rather than an edible treat, but I like to vary it and do both! Here are my preferred chew treats for German Shepherds. They are both highly rated on Amazon, with tons of satisfied customers: Best Bully Sticks Downtown Pet Supply Bully Sticks are a long-lasting chew that makes an excellent alternative to chemically processed rawhide. If the smell gets too much for you, there is an odor-free range! If your German Shepherd is a power chewer, he will really enjoy these as they will keep him entertained for a good while and satisfy his desire to chew. Long-lasting healthy chews. Promotes dental health through chewing. Odor-free variety. Thin, regular, and jumbo widths are available. Choose either the 6-inch or inch length. They are made with just one ingredient — dehydrated codfish skins that have a thin and crispy texture. Buy on Amazon These healthy, chewy treats also help to clean teeth and gums and make a great snack anytime. If your German Shepherd is a gulper, you can easily cut the fish treats using scissors. The Honest Kitchen offers a range of human-grade products that contain quality ingredients. Top Features: Healthy chews with moderate chew time. Natural source of Omega 3 fatty acids. Supports healthy teeth and gums. Made in the USA. Best Calming Treats for German Shepherds German Shepherds are a very affectionate breed and are prone to suffering from separation anxiety, and like other dogs, they may also suffer from other forms of stress. Examples of these could be being exposed to loud noises such as thunder or fireworks, car journeys, or even trips to the vet. In situations like these, you may wish to try calming treats as an alternative to prescribed medication. They contain natural ingredients such as herbs, vitamins, melatonin, tryptophan, or hemp oil. They contain all-natural and organic ingredients to help your German Shepherd feel calm in stressful situations. As humans, we snack in between meals. Treats are the snacks your dog will eat between meals. Making sure your dog has healthy and delicious treats to eat for snacks is important for their overall health. This article will narrow down the best treats for German Shepherds. Things to consider when buying dog treats? How healthy are they? We all want our dogs to be healthy and happy right? Of course, so make sure you are selecting a healthy dog treat for your GSD. Healthy dog treats for German Shepherds are typically made of natural ingredients and contain a good amount of protein. Just like you want to avoid dog food with a bunch of ingredients that are artificial, the same goes for dog treats. Purpose for treating Are these treats for training or just for an occasional snack around the house between meals? Think about the when and why you give treats to your dog, and then buy treats to fit that purpose. Consider what type of foods your dog loves when selecting their treat. For example, my girl really loves peanut butter, so I know any treat with peanut butter will be a hit! These treats are soft and small in size which is exactly what you want for training your new puppy, or even an older dog. Zukes treats are healthy and natural with real meat being the first and main ingredient. There are no artificial flavors and these treats are made in the USA. As an added bonus there are six different flavors to choose from: Chicken, duck, peanut butter, pork, rabbit and salmon. What I Love:. Puppy Treat Type You may opt to get more than one type of treat for your puppy—in fact, you may have two or three types around your house. For example, while soft and meaty reward bites work well for training, you may also have a box of dog biscuits for daily treats or a dog chew for keeping your puppy occupied. Crunchy Treats These come in the form of biscuits, in a variety of shapes and sizes. When buying a dog biscuit, check the ingredients list to make sure there are no low-quality ingredients, such as meat by-products, artificial ingredients, or sugar. Puppies usually find them delicious, so they can be used instantly to reinforce good behavior. That said, these chews are not a substitute for tooth brushing—rather, they complement a good oral hygiene routine. Long-lasting Chews Long-lasting chews are great for keeping your puppy occupied for a short time. Long-lasting dog chews can help alleviate anxiety and stress too. Some chews are specially formulated for teething puppies. These tasty meaty treats will help you train your clever German Shepherd, while supplementing their diet with DHA and omega.Whether you opt for soft and tasty meat bites, dog biscuits, chews, or all three—we hope that our reviews help you find the perfect treat for your puppy! With a background in gardening and photography, and interests including hiking and amateur astronomy, her busy schedule means she enjoys the finer aspects of life, such as drinking coffee and snuggling with her cat on a crisp morning while blazing a trail across the keyboard.
Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Made with real meat and no artificial colors or flavors how much should a lab eat? Allergies Labs can also have allergies. Some dogs may be allergic to wheat, macadamia nuts, etc. It can manifest as a runny nose, high volumes of shedding, rashes on the skin, and so on. Different dietary needs are crucial, especially if they display allergy symptoms. Avoid all types of human foods. You can give your lab puppy supplements You can get great quality adult dog food and puppy kibble from companies like Royal Canin Labrador Retriever, Blue Buffalo, Canidae Grain-Free, etc. Only adult food must be given to labrador retrievers who have crossed 1. Your puppy needs 4 small meals consisting of half a cup of food per meal till he is 2 months old. From 2 to 6 months, he needs 3 meals daily consisting of 1 cup of food per meal. From 6 months onwards , you can give your puppy 2 meals daily of 2 cups of dog food per meal. Is This A Problem? Yes, this is a major problem! Fat dogs are adorable but also extremely unhealthy. An adult labrador retriever should weigh at most pounds. Labs that are fatter than this stand at the risk of obesity, arthritis , and other lifelong diseases. Refrain from feeding your labrador too many dog treats. Onions and garlic: surprisingly, anything in the onion and garlic family is incredibly toxic to dogs. Meat with bones: if not chewed properly, sharp edges can rupture the throat, stomach lining, intestines, and other parts of the digestive tract. Other human foods and beverages to avoid giving your dog are alcohol, sugar, citric fruits, and anything with caffeine. Your labrador retriever should weigh between 55 to 70 pounds at full adulthood. Male labs are heavier than female labs, so they can fall on either side of the optimal weight spectrum. Some healthy treats for your labrador retriever are cut fruits and vegetables. Carrots, celery, cucumber, beetroot, apples, bananas, and berries strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, etc. Dogs also love peanut butter! Veggies dipped in peanut butter also make a great snack for your dog. This is entirely up to you as dog owners. If you have the time and patience to cook meals for your dog, go for it. Store-bought food is easier and is filled with the right nutritional requirements for your lab puppy. On the other hand, with the right recipe, home-cooked food works, too. What Should I Do? A dog growling at you when you go near his food bowl is most commonly a trauma response or a way to protect his food. We often see this with rescues. House training your lab puppy is equally important to avoid food aggression. Labrador Retrievers get piddly after their meals. Dog owners must take out their lab puppy as frequently as they eat sometimes even more often to let their energy out and adult labradors less frequently. A lab puppy needs a ton of exercise. The amount of kibble you should feed your Labrador puppy will vary depending on their age, weight, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to start with cups of kibble daily and adjust as needed. Best Dog Food For Lab Puppies: The best dog foods for lab puppies include those that are high in protein and low in fillers. The food you should feed a black lab puppy is the same as for any other Labrador puppy. A chocolate lab puppy should be fed the same food as for any other Labrador puppy. A 2-year-old chocolate lab should eat about cups of kibble daily. You should stop feeding puppy food to your Labrador at around months of age. At this point, their growth plates will have closed, and they will no longer need the extra nutrients found in puppy food. Labradors live for years. They start to slow down around 7 and may develop some health problems in their senior years. You should also increase their exercise level. Lab breeders feed their dogs high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. A lab puppy should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. This amount may increase as they get older and more active. A labrador needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be a combination of walking, running, and playing. Golden labs live for years. Chocolate labs live for years same like labs of any color. Labradors lose their baby teeth between 3 and 6 months of age. You can start to transition your puppy to eating twice a day at around 6 months of age. By the time they are 1 year old, they should eat only once daily. You should stop feeding your large breed puppy food at around 18 months of age. Why Are Labs So Hungry? Labradors are a very active breed of dog, and they need a lot of calories to fuel their energy levels. They are also prone to gaining weight, so keep a close eye on their food intake About The Author Shradha Kabra Shradha is a seasoned writer at Labradorandyou. Her experience as a pet owner and dog enthusiast drives her to create meticulously researched and fact-checked content, offering valuable insights on Labrador training, grooming, and health. Each article reflects Shradha's passion and dedication, enriched by personal experiences with her beloved Labradors, Tom, and Kurt. Whether exploring breed-specific training techniques or providing product reviews, Shradha ensures Labrador owners receive the most accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy information, aimed at enhancing their companions' health and happiness. Naturally, Labrador puppies would require more feeding times. Hence, you should only set a few hours interval between meals. As for adult Labs, optimal feeding times would be one in the morning, afternoon, and night. Almost identical to human eating hours. Along with implementing a time frame for mealtime, owners must be open to modifying combinations of puppy food throughout the first two years of the pup. Abrupt growth spurts may bring changes in their eating habits. Once your dog reaches one year old, its dog food is enough to sustain its energy for longer. Always ensure to follow the correct feeding schedule when feeding kibble or other types of dog food to ensure nutritional requirements are met. Regardless if you have chocolate , red fox , or Dudley Labrador , make it a priority to visit a pet nutritionist to obtain an accurate feeding time and quantity specifically designed for your pooch. They help in hunting, farming, and even therapy. As such, they require an energy-loaded diet and dog foods that are rich in protein and carbohydrates to keep up with their activities. Since they belong to the large breed classification, they are also prone to common health risks such as arthritis and other joint diseases. To prevent this, scour the local pet store with dog food that contains omega fatty acids, B vitamins, beta-carotene , and amino acids. These nutrients are essential to obtain, whether from a raw food diet, home-prepared meals, or commercial dog food. Here are some of the best dog foods we recommend for your Labrador Retriever: Wet Food: Like kibble, commercially available wet dog food is common and already a complete and balanced diet for your Labrador puppy or adult dog. Its smooth texture is well-loved by purebreds and mixed breeds alike. Eating wet food that contains Docosahexaenoic acid DHA , glucosamine, and Eicosapentaenoic acid EPA helps support the condition of their joints and heart. Dry Food: When on the hunt for the most suitable dry dog food, always look for grain-free and made from whole food sources so it can easily be digested. Also, check the food labels and ensure that it has a perfect balance of carbohydrates and fats. Highly fortified and breed-specific kibble is also recommended. Homemade Food: Considering how much your adult dog or Lab puppy eats, a healthy diet made from scratch can be a great alternative to avoid obesity. Just mix everything together with a little water to incorporate them better. Furthermore, this diet opts for low sodium content. Owners should include fish and flaxseed oil, carrots, eggs, liver, and beans into the raw puppy food diet. Since Labrador Retrievers are energetic and active dogs, it is best to give them a moderate to high-fat diet. As long as they are able to exercise daily, they can easily work it off and avoid being overweight. However, if they are more on the lax side, adjust their food intake from low to moderate calories. If they cannot burn off the calories, enroll them in a low-fat or low-protein diet instead. Excessive carbs can increase their blood sugar and may put your dogs at risk for diabetes. It may take extra time and effort, but the investment will definitely pay off. Once you learn the appropriate feeding pattern, then having a healthy dog with strong joints and a better digestive and immune system is easily attainable. That includes sharing our belongings, space, and most especially, our food. However, the American Kennel Club reminds owners to be aware of what human food is safe for dogs. In this section, you will learn which foods are okay for consumption and which food can harm our Labrador Retrievers. Physically, it can block their esophagus if not chewed properly. Moreover, some may also contain salt that can be fatal to their heart. Chocolate: Chocolate in any other form should not be given to dogs. Chocolate has toxic substances called methylxanthines that put a stop to their metabolic process. It can still be toxic even in the smallest amount as it may cause diarrhea or vomiting. Garlic and Allium Plants: Alliums such as garlic, chives, leeks, and onions are not good for dog consumption. Although regularly seen across social media, feeding your pooch ice cream is not recommended. It contains loads of sugar, and some dogs may be lactose intolerant as well. As an alternative, owners can always freeze berries and apples as a regular icy treat. On the contrary, here are some of the most friendly human foods for all dogs, including Labrador Retrievers: Milk: Milk is a great supplement of other nutrients for dogs. Just be mindful that your dog is not lactose intolerant. It should only be given in small quantities as a treat. Popcorn: On a movie night, dogs can also munch on popcorn. However, ensure that it is unsalted, unflavored, and air-popped. In moderation, it is a good source of thiamine and riboflavin for eyesight. Remove any unpopped kernels to avoid choking. Seafood: In addition, seafood such as salmon and shrimp contain good fats and are high in antioxidants. Seafood boosts their immune system and brain health. Be sure to thoroughly cook salmon, fish, and shrimp all the way through to avoid parasites. Eggs: Eggs are also safe for dogs so long as they are also cooked well. Cheese: Cheese can also be given to dogs in moderate quantities. Go for low-fat cheese as a treat. Mozzarella and cottage cheese are some that can be fully enjoyed by dogs without the fat guilt. A small amount of prohibited food is not worth an emergency trip to a vet. Throughout their life stages, a dog will not just undergo one food switch. Age, health, and other factors can fuel a change in their diet. As stated earlier, an abrupt change in their food will only cause an upset stomach and indigestion. There are a couple of reasons to switch food. Add the new food into each meal gradually and reduce the portion of their current food. This method can also be followed when changing from dry kibble to raw feeding and vice versa. Some reasons for change can be prompted by age. Different life stages will require different nutritional requirements for your dog. Other reasons may be caused by allergies, brand availability, and weight management. It is still best to consult your trusted vet about changing their overall food regimen. They just enjoy feeding their pooch with tons of food and love seeing them get fat. However, that is not considered proper care for them. Experienced dog breeders know precisely what an overweight dog looks like and how to feed them properly. Labradors are known for their love of food. They are incapable of switching off their hunger signals even after eating. As a result, Labs have a higher number of overweight dogs in the United States. Like with other dogs, overfeeding a dog can lead to obesity. Thankfully, there are ways to address this and protect the health of our pooch in the long run. An eye-opening first step is to have a handy Labrador food guide. Having this will help you gauge the correct amount of food your dog needs depending on its age and other factors as well. Log what they eat and how much they eat during each meal. Calculating their calorie intake is also helpful for medical purposes and when switching food. Furthermore, avoid feeding overweight dogs table scraps. Many owners are guilty of this habit. Much like table scraps, it is also best to limit dog treats. Entice dogs with treats only on special occasions and during training. These are just some of the simple things you can do to control an overweight pooch. When it comes to other methods, it is always advisable to speak with your vet. Dogs lose their appetite due to some reasons. Do Labrador Retrievers Eat a lot? Yes, Labrador Retrievers are a food-motivated breed. This is why owners need to control their food intake. Can Labrador Retrievers Eat Bones? Bones are a good source of minerals, so they can be good for Labrador Retrievers. However, it may come with serious physical trade-offs. Give only large, raw bones and supervise them from time to time. Dispose of the bone after 3 to 4 days. Can Labrador Retrievers Be Vegetarians? Yes, Labrador Retrievers can thrive with a proper vegetable diet in place. In fact, soy and other whole grains are perfect substitutes for meat for protein. However, a vegetarian diet is something that needs professional input from vets. Final Thoughts Labs are the most popular dog breed in the United States. Thus, there are a lot of available materials on how to take care of and feed this easy-going pooch properly. For starters, it is highly recommended to have a Labrador feeding schedule to guide you with the amount and frequency of feeding. Although Labrador food is accessible for purchase anywhere, you can also introduce them in a raw diet or homemade meals. Regardless of what type of food you choose to give, you need to ensure to feed your dog a complete diet that supports their growth and overall health. As an owner, it is a big responsibility to provide them with only the best, so these high-spirited companions can have a happy and longer life. Will you follow this Labrador food guide? What are your feeding methods with your pooch? Share and comment your thoughts below! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Keep an eye out for the nursing habits of the mother to ensure that everyone gets a fair share. Some puppies could be overfed while others are underfed, which may lead to differences in growth later on. If you notice some puppies getting thinner than the other litter members, consider consulting your vet for a puppy formula appropriate for them. Your puppies will develop most of their motor skills during their 3rd week, leaving them to slowly explore on their own but still watched over by their mother and you, as their owner. Lab pups might also want to nurse from their mom often due to their energy needs. Developing milk teeth also happens in the third week for Labrador puppies so it will be a challenge if you start weaning during this time. Start with a mix of puppy food and water in a ratio of — adding liquid will help them digest the solids easier. Instead, just wait for them to sniff the food and try to eat it out of curiosity. Remember to be patient when feeding. When your puppy reaches 5 weeks of age, they are likely to eat a bit more solid food than they did last week. By this time, you can try to gradually increase the amount of solid food in their bowl. You may also start to notice the mother doing her job of slowly letting go of her little ones when it comes to the nursing job. This does not generally mean that your puppies will no longer get nursed by their mother — the instances of nursing will only lessen during this transition period. Physical activity is common when your Labrador retriever puppy reaches 6 weeks old. Your pups might also run around even more and become slightly independent compared to when they were younger, which means less time with their mother to get milk. By 7 weeks of age, your puppies will have far less time being nursed by their mother. This translates to being almost done with the weaning process. Continue feeding them food and liquid mixture until only the solid food is left served in their food bowl. Aside from that, you may also want to add a bit of age-appropriate kibble suited for Labrador puppies that they can chew properly. Protein is an important part of their diet, which includes meat sources chicken, beef, and fish , which will help in their energy, strength, and overall health. Consider foods that are rich in protein rather than brands that only contain mostly fillers like corn and wheat. The ideal amount of food per day is 2 cups, which should be divided into 3 or 4 meals per day. When it comes to weight management, keep in mind that different Labrador breeds do exist. This means that not all puppies should have the same amount of food. Take time to observe your puppy visually if you are feeling their ribs. After all, sudden changes in their diet can result in stomach upsets! Food changes are also important to talk about. If, for some reason, the new Labrador pup owner has no access or little budget for the brand you used, consider close alternatives and make sure they introduce the new food properly, gradually, and slowly. Later on, during their 9th week, you can also give them home-cooked meals such as meat bought from the wet market. To avoid food contamination, especially if you live in coastal areas where bacteria could thrive easily, consider removing the food within 15 minutes of not being touched by your pup. This will also help the puppy get disciplined into only eating when they are truly hungry and not out of boredom. Once your Labrador puppy turns 11 weeks old, you could be surprised at their sudden growth. You may find yourself constantly buying stocks of puppy food since this is their peak developmental stage. Either way, as long as you stick as close to the schedule as possible, everything will be fine. Stick to feeding your Labrador retriever puppy about three to four meals per day. If your pup is extra active throughout the day, they might need up to 3 cups of food per day, equally divided into the meals we mentioned. By having three different meals, you are ensuring that your pup gets the right weight and a good amount of nutrition. After all, lab pups tend to eat a lot if not supervised! During their 13th week, lab puppies are likely to roam around and look for items that they might mistake as food. Your job, as their owner, is to keep an eye out for these objects and hide them before little Fido chews them! At times, a Labrador pup might look hungry due to excessive begging, but in reality, it could just be a behavior, so make sure the feeding schedule is strictly followed. It will also be a great bonding time with their owner! Recommended Food for Labrador Puppies On average, your Labrador pup should have around calories if they weigh around 22 pounds. Of course, this number will vary depending on their age, weight, genetics, and daily activities. With that said, what should you feed your lab puppy? Here are some great ideas on what to feed your pup, which can be found in both store food and raw diet plans. Meaty protein As with all dogs and most active breeds, a Labrador retriever needs a generous amount of protein in its diet. This includes chicken, beef, and fish, as well as other wild sources. Always look into the ingredients and make sure that a specific meat source is the first ingredient. If you are feeding raw meat instead of kibble, make sure it is handled properly to avoid bacterial infection. Another option is to incorporate canned wet puppy food with kibble, but make sure it is filler-free. Omega fatty acids Omega fatty acids are commonly found in fish and other seafood. Fish such as mackerel are good for lab puppies to boost their heart health. Aside from that, some omega fatty acids can improve their skin and coat appearance, which will help in handling irritations in the future. We all know the pain of grooming a shedding dog! Vegetables and fruits Greens are important for puppies as well because they will help with their overall digestion and their immune system. Organ meat You may also want to add organ meat to your puppy food, especially if you are feeding raw. Kidneys and liver are common organ meat to look for in a Labrador puppy diet. Organs can be found in store-bought wet or canned food but you can also prepare it at home from the market. Be sure to handle it properly to avoid food contamination. Foods with glucosamine As mentioned above, joint problems are often experienced by labs when they grow up. To prevent the onset of hip or elbow dysplasia, consider foods that are rich in glucosamine, such as shellfish, chicken feet, and beef bones. Bone soup or broth is also a good source of glucosamine. Foods to Avoid While we have some recommended foods for a lab puppy, there are also certain ingredients that you should avoid, such as the following: Fillers such as corn and wheat These fillers are often included in most commercial dog foods. Look for foods with fewer fillers and more protein. An obese puppy may grow into an unhealthy and unhappy dog later on in life. They can catch all sorts of health problems if their weight is not managed properly. For instance, hip dysplasia is more likely to happen if your puppy is too heavy. Moreover, sugary foods will cause diabetes if not supervised. Human foods toxic to dogs These include chocolate, garlic, avocado, grapes, lime, coffee caffeine , lemons, tea, onions, sugary foods, macadamia nuts, and most certainly alcohol. Here are some frequently asked concerns about their meals, diet, and more. If you notice a big change in their appetite, it can be a cause for concern. Changes in their regular food are a normal reason for a puppy to suddenly stop eating because it is new to them. Have you tried gradually changing the food in portions? First, put a little bit of the new food and more of the old food, and then gradually increase the portion of the new food after a few meals. Should I give my Labrador puppy supplements? Generally, lab puppies will already get the nutrients they need from the food you buy or prepare for them. Puppy food is usually manufactured and made to have more nutrients as compared to adult dog food, which is why it should already be sufficient for your Labrador puppy. When can I switch my Labrador puppy to adult food? The best time to make the switch is after their first birthday. Usually, by this time, your pup has reached adulthood and is no longer growing in height and weight. Keep in mind that transitioning from puppy to adult food still requires the ratio method. Put a little bit of the adult food at first into the puppy food mix. Raw feeding a Labrador puppy Many raw diet advocates stress the benefits of feeding this way, such as becoming free from fillers and artificial additives. Get your veterinarian or breeder involved if you want to start feeding a raw diet to your Labrador puppy because when done wrong, it could make your pup sick! Conclusion Labrador puppies, when fed properly, carefully, and smartly, will reward you with TLC and a warm companion for the years to come. Be sure to always stick to the schedule or else it could lead to obesity and joint problems later on! Always make time to prepare the best food for your Labrador pup so that they grow healthy and strong — enjoying life as they go! How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
Select Options How to make your Bulldog's activities joyful and interesting? Get a dog toy for your beloved pet! Dog toys help Bulldog to perceive the world around, to develop mental and biting skills, to save your things from being spoiled. Your Bulldog will always be engaged in fun dog games any time and at any place you take the dog toy! What is the best dog toy for Bulldog? We offer rubber dog balls, dog balls on rope, soft dog balls, dog toys with bell inside, dog training toys, dog chew toys for Bulldog's oral care, Starmark Academy dog toys, dog fetch balls of dura foam, dog feeding balls and even small soccer balls for Bulldog games! Wide choice of dog toys for any taste and purchase is available in our online shop! All our dog toys are absolutely safe for Bulldog's health as they are made of non-toxic materials and contain no harmful impurities! We guarantee quality of our dog toys so you can be sure that our dog toy will serve your Bully for a long time! How to choose a dog toy? It depends on the dog's age, taste and the purpose of use. Bulldog toys are also divided for inside and outside usage. Squeaky dog toys, dog treat dispensers, soft dog toys, dog chew toys are for indoor use. Frisbee disks, fetch dog toys, dog training toys are for outdoor use. What toy is best for my dog? Dog toys for chasing - various dog balls, which are made of rubber. These toys may be solid or hollow inside. Dog toy squeakers - emit sound when squeezed. Dog treat toys - used for Bulldog training and interactive games. These toys are of various sizes and shapes with hole holes for treats. Dog chew toys - perfect for Bulldogs, which like chewing and for puppies during second dentition. Tug of war dog toys - develop full mouth grip, but they are allowed only for Bulldogs with fully formed bite no earlier Bulldog's age of .Newer allow your Bulldog to play with such toys alone. It can tear them and swallow parts. Dog training toys - bite tugs, dumbbells, training balls etc. Soft dog toys - choose only specialized toys for Bulldogs. Soft toys for children aren't suitable as they have small plastic details, which can be swallowed by your dog. Don't leave Bulldog unsupervised with soft dog toy as the dog can tear it and eat stuffing or parts of fabric. Dog toys that fly - dog frisbee disks or toys. They are suitable for active Bulldogs. Dog dental care toys - intended for dental hygiene, oral care and teeth cleaning during chewing. How to buy dog toys? Remember, when you buy Bulldog toys, they should be convenient for the dog to hold in mouth. Don't scold or punish Bulldog if it broke the toy. The dog should have several various toys to feel happy, but don't give them all to your Bulldog at once. One per day will be enough. Bulldog toys not only bring joy into your dog's life, but also develop it mentally and physically! You might think you can do it quickly by browsing online, but how can you be sure you pick something that will not only be loved by your bully, but will also be durable and safe for him or her to play with? When choosing a good toy for your English bulldog, there are four things you should consider: durability, size, functionality, and aesthetics. Keeping these four factors in mind will not only result in you choosing a toy your bulldog will love, but one that will last even after hours of chewing. Nylabone Puppy Starter Chew Toy: The Nylabone is a great option for your bulldog when he or she is a young little puppy. It comes in different sizes and is quite durable and can handle those sharp, little puppy teeth. It serves many purposes: it can be a stick that your dog can fetch, a toy your bully can chew on, and a treat dispenser. It comes in three different colors and sizes, and most importantly, it is BPA-free, so it is safe for your doggie to chew on. Bullibone Spinning Dog Chew Toy: This is a great toy for older bullies, and will have them chewing on them with joy! They are quite durable and will last through hours of chewing, keeping your dog entertained and happy the whole time. And with flavors like bacon, it will be hard for your dog to resist this toy! Allstar Innovations Wobble Wag Giggle Ball: This is probably the most entertaining toy we have on our list, as you can probably get from the name! As the name suggests, the ball makes giggle-like sounds every time it moves, which keeps your dog entertained every time he or she touches it. The ball has six small clutches or holes, which makes it a bit easier for dogs to grip on to with their teeth. The toy also has a hollow center, so you can fill it up with treats and watch your bully play with it for hours on end. Busy Buddy Bristle Bone Dog Toy: This toy is another great option and combines a toy, with a treat holder, and a teeth cleaner. And to entice your dog, the toy comes with six rawhide treats and you can buy more , which you can insert on the toy and give your pup more reason to chew on it. It comes in three different colors and sizes. He is way too lazy for that! There are a few factors that you have to keep in mind while choosing the best toy for your English bulldog. There are also great options that act as treat dispensers, that will keep your dog buys for hours. And, who wants a dull-looking toy anyway? What types of toys should English bulldogs owners avoid? There are a few types of toys which you should avoid as an English bulldog owner. It is always better to provide your English bulldog with at least three to four toys. Where are good places to buy dog toys online and in-person in the U. Online stores to buy dog toys: Amazon: Amazon has one of the largest collections on offer, as you can probably imagine. They haev quite a wide variety of toys, from plush toys, chew toys, interactive toys, and fetch toys. Petco: Petco has over a 1, different types of toys to choose from and you can select by category of toy your desire. Brick-and-mortar stores: Petsmart: With over 1, stores in the country, you should be able to find a Petsmart store in any of the states in the U. A great option when you want to check out a toy in person before you get it for your pooch. Petco: Petco not only has a great online collection, but they also have over a hundred stores in the U. So, you get the convenience of browsing online, but also get a chance to check out items in person before you buy. We hope this guide is helpful to you as you browse for the best toys to keep your bully satisfied! But also, they have a tendency to be destructive. Namely — to their toys. Like shoes, purses, baseball caps, remote controls, end tables… In addition, bulldogs can also show a softer side to their favorite toys. Have you ever heard of English Bulldogs suckling their toys? And believe me, it is CUTE. Below I roundup and review toys that are recommended specifically for bulldogs. I go over durability, safety, enjoyment, and overall quality. They deserve the best of the best, and top quality toys. And in case you have no idea what that means, think about how a baby sucks on a pacifier. Or a young toddler who sucks their thumb. Bulldogs do this type of thing as well. But they do it with their stuffed toys, or their blankets or beds. Not sure why there would be a difference, but that was the case. I believe it makes them feel safe and comforted. Because whenever my bulldogs start to suckle, they go into almost a trance-like state, and basically fall asleep while doing it. Oh, and one other thing — it is sooo adorable to watch!! We have gone through so many Snoopy plush toys over the years. The hands and feet have squeakers in them, but no one tends to play with those parts of the monkey. For some reason, this specific monkey is a sought after suckle toy for my dogs. How many people actually recall who Lamb Chop is? Anyone born prior to millennial age will probably have a good recollection. Lamb Chop was created by entertainer and puppeteer Shari Lewis, who spent over 30 years performing for children on educational TV shows. But for some reason, my big guy loves to suckle on this one. Best English Bulldog Chew Toys For English Bulldogs who love to chew, you need to find a durable, quality product to stand up to their powerful jaws. But I do really like the quality of Nylabone brand chew toys. There are four different areas to hold onto, for them to get the best gnawing grip. Plus there is an English Bulldog on the actual packaging! The blue rubber part in the middle makes a crinkling or crackly sound as it bends. There are different versions, but the one we have contains animal sounds. We have the largest one, which is really about the size of a baseball. My smaller dog cannot fit it into her mouth, but my big guy can. Just be careful if you have a chewer, since the plastic is pretty solid. Wekin Anti-Burst Exercise Ball This is a really fun one, especially if you have a bullie who likes to herd. Have you heard about a competitive sport for dogs called Treibball? If you are in an actual competition, your dog will push 8 balls into a goal. But this inflatable exercise ball has provided hours of outdoor activity for my dogs. Ropiez and snake tug toys Toys For Exercise Both the English and French breeds of bulldogs can struggle when it comes to exercise. On the other hand, without adequate exercise, they run a very high risk of health complications as they are prone to becoming overweight. This is particularly true for the English style. English bulldogs naturally carry more weight around their face and middle. They commonly struggle with back and hip problems. Due to this Catch, providing your bulldog with just the right amount of exercise can be a challenge. Taking walks can be tricky. Best Toys for Bulldogs Who Play Fetch Instead, a game of fetch with a classic dog toy such as a frisbee or a tennis ball is a great option. This way the game can be easily stopped and started as needed. For the perfect fetch toy, consider dog toy tennis balls with engaging squeakers that come in different sizes compared to the standard used at Wimbledon. Especially for French bulldogs, a smaller size will be easier for them to carry and less likely to further obstruct their breathing. Making sure that your bulldog is happy and healthy should be monitored on an individual level. Consistency over time is the best way to seek the results that you desire, but make sure to keep the games and toys fresh to add some variety and stay out of exercise ruts. When the good old tennis ball and frisbee lose their appeal, mix things up with a novelty such as a Squawker Rubber Chicken. Made from natural rubber and too cute to resist, these fancy chickens are sure to liven up your game of fetch. Made from natural latex rubber and lead-free paint these hilarious dog toys are perfect for playing fetch and other games with your dog! The irresistible squawking squeaker will keep them engaged and mentally stimulated as they chomp and play. Your pup will love fetching this squeaky tennis ball whether playing indoors or enjoying the great outdoors. When this happens, they can easily become destructive or even depressed. To combat this, choosing an interactive dog toy can make a game out of alone time. Choose interactive puzzle toys with increasing levels of difficulty to sharpen their mental state and entertain their brain. Starting with level one is recommended. This lays out foundational skills that they will build upon and utilize as they progress to more challenging puzzles up to level four. With their natural intelligence, bulldogs are sure to enjoy these mentally stimulating toys and master them in due time. If you also have concerns that the boredom might be compounded by separation anxiety, then a great toy to try is a kong or a similarly hollow chew toy. Fill this with the all-powerful, chewy, and alluring magic spread: peanut butter. Just make sure that your product is dishwasher safe to make for easy cleanup and sanitation. Brightly colored and shaped for an unpredictable bounce to make each playtime and snack experience a blast! The durable natural….
Some Final Words After you decide on a toy poodle and the gender, you still have to decide on the type of food you will feed him or her. Plus, you have to learn how much to feed your little puppy. Once you make all the decisions, the rest should be easy. To learn how to feed your toy poodle and what food you should use, just continue to read our article. It has the information you want to know about so that your little fell or gal will be healthy for years to come. Take a few minutes to see how important this information is. You do not want to feed too much to your little pet. It is easy for a dog to gain weight and become too fat. Then you have the difficult task of getting them to slim down. That may be harder than it is for you to stick to a diet. You can feed them a little less if you want to but not too much less. Their growing bodies need the nourishment of nutritious dog food. Many dogs may whine if they are only fed once a day and the reason for that is that they are probably hungry. However, you do not want to serve them large meals each time you feed them. Split the amount up over the number of times they eat so that they get the same amount of food. Also, you may give more food if your dog is a little more active than average. While you do not want to over-feed your pet, you also do not want to underfeed them either. For the most part, this will be up to you. Many people like to feed their dogs only once a day. But if their day is active, your pet may be hungry again in the evening or at night. It is not cruel to feed a dog once a day but if your pet is hungry, you should make allowances in the schedule to make sure they are getting their full nourishment share each day. To add a little variety to their diet, you can mix in some human food. The type of human food you give your toy poodle should be healthy and full of vitamins and minerals. For specific foods to share with him or her, talk to your vet. A lot of times, poodles and other dogs will decide which human food they like. While some people recommend up to three times a day, there is a risk of over-feeding your pet and giving them too much food. Of course, if your pet is very active, then you may give them some extra meals or snacks but not too much. The risk of over-feeding your poodle is great and your treasured friend may develop different diseases if you overdo the feeding portion of their day. There are some foods that your pet should not or cannot eat. Some of those food items are chocolate, xylitol, grapes, macadamia nuts, raisins, or drink alcohol. While these items may make your dog beg for some, resist their puppy dog eyes, and say no. Every dog owner and vet have their own personal favorites. You can choose any one of the top brands on the market today be wary of the cheap off-brand varieties. Those cheaper foods may fit your budget, but they are not as healthy as the top brands are. They do not have the very best or healthiest ingredients in them. Some Final Words Feeding your pet is a bit of trial and error. With every dog being different, you have to find the right amount of food and the right number of feeding times for your dog. Make food adjustments as you monitor their weight and their growth. Taking care of your pet means making sure they are getting the proper diet and exercise as well as the right amount of food. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some final words There is a little bit of leeway in their feeding schedule as all standard poodles are not the same. Each individual dog will require different amounts of food at different times of the day. The following information is a guideline as there is no set rule on when or how much to feed your pet each day. Before they are 6 months of age, you can feed your little pet up to 4 to 5 times. After they reach the age of 6 months, you can lower that total to 3 times every day. Just because you serve them multiple times throughout the day, it does not mean their serving size is huge. You are looking at feeding your puppy about 2 cups of dog food each day. This serving size can be equally measured out so that your little feller or gal gets enough food at each meal. It will take a little research to find the perfect food for your pet. If you are in doubt, you can always ask your vet what is the best type of dog food to use. The key to feeding your dog its food is that you cannot change it from week to week or day to day. You must pick one and stick with that brand. Changing the food often and without mixing it with their old dog food will upset their stomachs and cause accidents to happen. If you are worried about the number of calories your puppy is eating, those are listed on the side of the package under the heading kcal. Just look at the number next to that box to get the actual number of calories your dog is receiving. Also, the amount of food you feed your pet depends on how active they are. If they are not very active you can cut their portions down a little bit. This will help avoid your pet from becoming overweight. If he or she is very active, then you should feed them a little bit more food than the recommended amount. Puppy Food Tips There are some guidelines to help you find the right pet food for your puppy. Here are a few of those guidelines to direct your search: 1. Try to Avoid Fillers and Additives- Look for those options that contain more meat and vegetables 2. Grains are Good- Unless your vet recommends against it. Grains help your pet have more energy. Be Heavy on Glucosamine and Chondroitin- These ingredients will help your pet if it has a family history of dysplasia or joint problems. Make Sure the First Ingredient is Meat- The first ingredient tells you that it is the dominant ingredient and the more meat the better for your puppy. Look for Vegetables as Well- These ingredients provide needed nutrients your puppy needs to grow healthy. Provide a Mix- A little wet food on the dry dog food will help your picky eater build their teeth and get needed nutrients. Wet food alone will not do this but it does help with dry dog food consumption. What Foods Not to Feed Your Poodle There are some ingredients you should avoid so that your puppy gets the healthiest meal possible. MSG- It is not good for humans, and it is not good for pets. In fact, not only can it give you a UTI, it can do the same for your dog. Artificial Colors and Preservatives- These are hard to avoid but try if you can. Foods with Animal By-Products- The reason to avoid this ingredient is that you do not know where those by-products came from. Some final words Be careful when you feed your pet. There is always the danger of over-feeding them. If they act like they are always hungry, give them something else to do. They could have just arrived in your home, have a toothache, upset stomach , or they do not like the taste of the food. When you give your pet a bone, there is always a chance that bacteria may be on it. So be careful when raw feeding your pet any food item. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Raw or cooked homemade meals When you bring home a new puppy, you might want to switch her food to a brand you prefer. Wait until your dog has been with you for at least a few weeks. This is a time of big changes for your puppy, and you should minimize the trauma coming all at once. Plan to make the dog food switch over the course of a week or so, and watch for signs of digestive upset. Poodle Puppy Diets Many diets today are age- or stage of life-specific, even breed-specific. But does this really matter, or is it marketing? The truth is, it actually does. Brands that make dog foods pay attention to research to formulate the best nutrition for different stages of life and for different sizes of dog. A good puppy formula will include extra nutrients, such as calcium, and extra calories per pound of body weight. It will also have the right number of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, carbohydrates, and fats for the right amount of growth. The right amount actually includes the restriction of certain nutrients. Having too much of a good thing can actually be bad for dogs. In large breeds like the Standard Poodle, the ingestion of excessive amounts of energy and calcium as puppies can lead to a higher likelihood of developmental orthopedic diseases such as hip dysplasia. Poodles are genetically prone to joint problems like this, so diet here is very important. For kibble, you can even dish up the daily meals at the start of the day. Personally, I always make one extra bowl to use as training treats. Allowing me to reward my pup for good behavior throughout the day without messing with my ratios. Over the first couple of months, I feed four meals so I make up five bowls first thing in the day. Spread the formal meals evenly throughout the day time, making sure the last one is at least two hours before you want to go to bed. This will save you getting back up again to let your puppy out to open their bowels! An adult dog food should have less protein, calcium, fat, and omega-3 acids than the puppy version. Once your Poodle gets to about 80 percent of his expected adult size, feel free to switch to the adult brand. Every dog is different in terms of metabolism and body type. In that case, it might be time to switch to the adult corollary. Look for meat-based protein sources in the first few ingredients listed on the package. Be sure to start off with apuppy formula if your dog is under 12 months old. Feeding a Poodle Puppy Wet Food Many canned dog food options are digestible and full of balanced nutrition. Not all wet foods offer a balanced diet, so make sure to read labels. If your dog needs better hydration or has problems with her teeth, wet food might be a good option. Canned food often has 75 percent moisture content compared with percent for dry. Canned food has more fat and protein and fewer carbs, along with more animal products. Also, do your research! Learn about safe handling and storage of meats. This works because some foods provide more nutrition and taste better! Others are better raw. So this diet can be more flexible and easier to deal with than the raw diet. And you can avoid some of the pitfalls of uncooked meat, too. However, some of the same nutritional issues must be addressed. Weigh your puppy frequently and use a Poodle growth chart, then adjust food amounts as needed. If you can see them without having to feel for them, your dog may need more food. Look for other symptoms of problematic weight, such as exhaustion and difficulty turning around, or bowel and gas issues. Poodles are prone to obesity, and obesity comes with plenty of health issues you do not want to deal with, such as metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, heart disease, and joint problems. Instead, find ways of helping your pup eat slower, or feel full faster. A slow-feeder bowl can help reduce the rate at which your dog scarfs down his meal, for example. A puzzle feeder or other toys may also help. Play with her to distract her, or take her out! If you really think you need to adjust food amounts, talk to your veterinarian and get professional advice. Poodles tend to be a slower-maturing breed. The different sizes of Poodle mature at different rates. Smaller dogs mature more quickly. Miniature poodles will be fully grown between months but may take a bit longer to fill out. Standard poodles may take up to 2 years to mature. You can start feeding Miniature and Toy Poodles adult foods at around months. Category : Puppies When you take your puppy home usually around weeks of age they will need to eat 3 or 4 times a day. At 8 weeks old we feed small meals 4 times a day at 7 am, 11 am, 2 pm and then at 5 pm. We allow them free access to water until 7 pm in the evening. An alternative is to feed 3 times a day at 7 am, 12 noon and at 5 pm. If your puppy is hungry split the meals to 4 times a day. By the time they are 10 weeks old they can go to 3 meals a day. If your puppy feels thin you can feel all the ribs and backbone easily increase the amount of food. If your puppy feels fat you should be able to feel some of the ribs reduce the amount of food. Some puppies are very active and burn up every calorie they eat, some are prone to being a little rounder and their food intake needs to be carefully monitored. Research has shown that dogs that are not overfeed have a much lower risk of developing hip dysplasia. Keep your puppy thin and healthy. We do not recommend free feeding of puppies as this makes it more difficult to housebreak your poodle and regulate their diet. Better to move to free feeding after housebreaking if you choose to. It is harder to monitor how much food they eat when free feeding and a glutunous puppy may quickly become fat. Remember a thin puppy is less likely to develop hip dysplasia. We strongly encourage you to keep your puppy on the same food we provide for the first month. Both coccidia and giardia may live in the gut of a healthy poodle and they never have an outbreak. When their bodies are stressed they are more likely to develop an unhealthy balance and the result may be a sick puppy. Moving to a new home, leaving their Mother and siblings and diet changes are all stressful. We encourage you to make as few changes as possible to your puppies diet the first month. Changing to a different dog food — go slowly. It may take a month or longer to switch foods. If at any point your puppy develops an upset stomach go back to the level of food mix that they were doing well on. Should your puppy develop bloody diarrhea take them to the veterinarian, they have most likely developed gastroenteritis and may need some medication or possibly fluids. Go slowly, new protein sources require time for the stomach to adjust. This is true not only in puppies but also adults. We continue to feed our puppies 3 meals a day until they are 6 months old. Our belief is that in keeping food moving through the puppy it allows for better consistent growth and health. At 6 months of age we start to feed 2 times a day with snacks throughout the day. We continue to feed our dogs 2 times a day throughout their life. We feed snacks several times a day to both puppies and adults which may be carrots, green beans, eggs or chicken or pieces of their kibble. We feed our poodles both kibble and home cooked food. Bully sticks are given occasionally for chewing. No Comments.
what to feed puppy german shepherd - We have answers. Give me some fun facts about Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Murfreesboro! Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dogs in the United States. They are very intelligent, loyal, and friendly dogs. Fun facts about them include that they are natural swimmers and have dense water-repellent fur, they have a wide range of vocalizations and can be taught hundreds of different commands, they are highly trainable and can participate in many activities such as agility, they have an average life span of years, and they can have a double coat in two solid colors which can range from light cream to dark gold. With Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Murfreesboro, what is their coat like? The Golden Retriever is usually characterized by a dense, glossy, mediumto long-length double coat that starts with a golden-yellow color. According to the American Kennel Club, their coat should have straight and glossy top coat, and a water-resistant undercoat. Additionally, the breed should have featherings on the tail, legs, and shoulders. How do I know what not to feed Murfreesboro Golden Retriever puppies for sale? It is important to be aware of what to not feed Golden Retrievers in your care. Generally speaking, avoid feeding them table scraps, uncooked bones, onion, garlic, chocolate, and grapes raisins as these can be dangerous and potentially toxic to their health. You should also be mindful of the type and volume of treats you give them as these can contribute to unhealthy weight. This information should be easily accessible as pet food labels will typically provide information about what nutrients the food has or what it is missing. How do I prepare to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Murfreesboro? Before you bring your new Golden Retriever home, it is important to take some steps to ensure you are prepared. First, make sure you have all the necessary items for caring for the dog, such as food, treats, toys, a leash, a bed, etc. Additionally, consider researching or consulting your vet about the basics of health and nutrition for the breed, as well as any possible medical issues that they may be prone to. You should also socialize your pup and decide if proper training is something you're willing to commit to. How big do Golden Retrievers for sale in Murfreesboro get? Golden Retrievers generally reach heights of up to 24 inches and can weigh between 55 and 75 pounds when they are fully grown. These active and friendly animals often live to be around 10 to 12 years old. Males usually grow bigger than females and although size does vary, a typical Golden Retriever is a medium to large-sized dog with a strong and sturdy frame and a dense, water-repellant double-coat in shades of gold or cream. While they do not require a particularly large amount of exercise, they are still energetic and do require daily activity. Do Golden Retriever puppies near Murfreesboro like to swim? Yes, Golden Retrievers typically love to swim! Commonly referred to as water-loving dogs, Golden Retrievers often enjoy activities such as diving, fetching objects from water, and even surfing in some cases. Their webbed paws, long, powerful hind legs, and double coat make them prime swimmers, allowing them to swim effortlessly and for extended periods of time. This is why you'll often find them "doggy-paddling" across rivers and lakes with enthusiasm. Plus, with the right training, even long distance swimming is not out of the question. Are Golden Retrievers in Murfreesboro good family dogs? Golden Retrievers are often regarded as the perfect family dog. Not only are they incredibly friendly and loving, they also have a lot of patience and enjoy being around children. They're also highly-intelligent and can easily be house-trained. As they're very active, they need plenty of exercise, which can be a great bonding experience for everyone. Golden Retrievers have a great sense of loyalty, and they make fantastic four-legged companions for people of all ages. It's no wonder that they're one of the most popular breeds of dog available! How many minutes per day do I need to train Murfreesboro Golden Retrievers for sale? Training Golden Retrievers requires dedication and commitment to the process. Depending on the unique learning needs of your dog, there is no hard and fast rule in terms of the exact number of minutes you should spend training each day. The key is to make sure the training sessions are consistent and that you pay close attention to the responses of your pet throughout the process. Ultimately, a good rule of thumb is to divide the training into multiple shorter sessions throughout the day, with each session lasting around 10 — 20 minutes. A healthy male Golden Retriever weighs between 65 to 75 pounds while growing up to 23 to 24 inches tall. A female weighs between 55 to 65pounds and can grow up to .How long does it take a Golden Retriever to reach its full size? For Golden Retrievers, full physical maturity takes one to two years. Once this is attained, its bones become fully grown and can perform the same amount of physical exercise as an adult dog. Do Golden Retrievers smell? Golden Retrievers often smell bad because of its thick water-resistant coat. You can, however, maintain its cleanliness to control its bad odor. How can you keep a Golden Retriever healthy? There are several ways to keep this dog healthy few of which are high-quality food, providing it with plenty of clean and freshwater, developing a good feeding schedule, etc. How many times a day should a Golden Retriever be fed? The required food for a Golden Retriever is dependent on its age, activity level, size and built. Vets recommend about 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food per day for two meals. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? This dog is a sporting breed and therefore requires a whole lot of exercise when fully grown, high-intensity exercise is very beneficial to it. Is it alright to get a Golden Retriever in a hot climate? The Golden Retriever can thrive well in hot climates; all it requires is a shaded and aerated area with lots of water. However, it should not be allowed to exercise too much in the heat. What age can a Golden Retriever Puppy be brought home? A puppy Retriever should not be taken from its mother earlier than when it is 8 weeks old. This is because up until that age, it gets important socialization and learns important skills from its mother and siblings. Should a Golden Retriever be left indoors or outdoors? A Golden Retriever naturally wants to be with its family, if its family is indoor, you will find it right there with them. Does a Golden Retriever bark a lot? The Golden Retriever is not one to bark a lot except in cases of boredom or mental stimulation. Are you interested in purchasing a Golden Retriever? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Similar services:
what to feed puppy german shepherd - So Many Easy Ways to Give! Amazon doesn't have an app. Use their website on your phone. It's just as easily or use the app to fill your cart, but don't check out. Check out using the SmileAmazon website. Your items are still there. It's easy! Every purchase helps our Labs. You shop, Amazon gives! We were there but now we need your help. Will you skip Starbucks for a week or dinner out? Valley Glen, CA Thank you for giving these dogs a voice. IndiLab was there for Tillman. Will you be too? We didn't let that happen. Multiple surgeries, time to heal between, foster willing to take a petrified medical case, stress impeding healing, and special needs adopters to take him home. See our breakdown below his photos.They don't need it, the dogs do. Petal was used to breed puppies for profit. When she prolapsed she wasn't wanted anymore. IndiLab was there for Petal. Petal spend her entire life in a cage on dirt surrounded by plywood. She never had love, played on grass, went in a house, slept in a dog bed, or was pet She was isolated and depressed. When she prolapsed her owner took her to be killed. By the grace of God, Petal found compassion in the very person hired to euthanize her. We were contacted and we rushed to take her in. Petal has been spayed and her first surgery to fix her prolapse completed. But this is what rescue is all about for our breed. We will do whatever is necesarry to give this beautiful, darling, and sweet love a chance she never had. As sad as it is, the day we found her was her luckiest day because her new life began. Petal will be seeing a new specialist as we continue to attempt to shrink her prolapse in preparation for yet another surgery. Meanwhile she is being lovingly cared for by the most special foster mom who is keeping her immaculate and keeping her prolapse sterile, covered, and moisened with a special veterinary application. This poor female Lab was dumped at in Inland shelter to die covered in mange and filth. They would not even do a skin scrape or treat her at all. She was slated for euthanasia instead of doing anything to ease her suffering. IndiLab was there for Sunday. Sunday is a beautiful girl with the sweetest disposition. She requires bloodwork, a skin scrape, a skin analysis, a thyroid test, a urinalysis, antibiotics, skin treatments, hollistic treatment and finally she will need her spay, vaccines, and microchip once she is well enought. We will boast her immune system in tandem with her medical treatment. She will be given regular medicated baths along with her other treatments to ease her red and swollen skin and itchyness. They would not even make her a rescue only dog!!!! Anything helps. Skip a coffee or movie or dinner. Or give more and be her sponsor. Our adoption donations only cover so much of the cost of medical for our dogs. Only donations can do that. Will you help? Ribbons had her entropion surgery at Agoura Animal Hospital with Dr. She is pain free for the first time since she has been born. Ribbons: 9-year-old senior Labrador with Entropion eyes Ribbons needs our urgent help! After 9 years, this sweet confused senior Labrador was dumped at a high kill Socal shelter to die when Indi Lab Rescue discovered her laying on a cold concrete floor of her kennel. Her family didn't want her anymore. Not only was she no longer wanted, Ribbons has suffered her entire life since birth with an entropion eye causing severe infection and pain and no one caring enough to ease her suffering. At 9 years of age, this Labrador angel deserves a chance to be pain free and treasured. Won't you help us to help Ribbons? Indi Lab Rescue is seeking donations to assist us in correction of her entropion eye. Your gift will mean the world to this sweet girl. Ribbons is fostered in Santa Barbara and will be available for adoption to a loving home once she has healed. When you donate to help our orphaned retrievers, you help save lives! Adoption fees never cover the cost of rescuing a dog. We can only do our good work with help from you. We supply the the foster homes, the driving, the housebreaking, the nuturning, and all the work. You can help too by contributing to help us with medical expenses, pull fees and other costs! Any little bit helps! Your donation is tax deductible and means so much! We rescue abandoned, homeless and neglected Labradors from all over central California and beyond. We wish to end suffering and promote the welfare of labs and lab mixes through direct action and education. We provide each dog with a stable environment, love, companionship, food and veterinary care until a qualified, loving forever home is found. Labrador Retriever Rescue of Fresno believes that all companion animals should be treated with dignity, compassion and kindness. LRRF is supported entirely by our dog loving community. We fix broken bones and provide all needed medical care for the dogs who come into our rescue. We take in senior and special needs Labs. As a direct result of the number of dogs coming into rescue, our resources are severely strained. Through the generous hearts and hands of people like you, we can ensure that the animals who come into our care will never again be alone, hungry, sick, afraid or in pain. Please consider a one time or monthly donation to help us with caring for these dogs. Your donation is tax deductible and greatly appreciated. Donations can be made via our Paypal button below. Box , Clovis, CA .We're proud to have recently found new homes for the these lovable labs. Loading labs.Labs4rescue is proud to be associated with the following organizations Combined Federal Campaign CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, raising millions of dollars each year. To support Labs4rescue, click here and enter our Charity .Animal Charities of America Animal Charities of America ACA is a federation of America's finest national organizations working to protect and enhance the lives of all animals whether farm, domesticated or wild. America's Best Charities Each charity on their site has been carefully screened to ensure every charity listed is a qualified non-profit, provides ongoing program services, and is financially accountable. Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals Committed to seeing the day when no New York City dog or cat of reasonable health and temperament is killed merely because he or she does not have a home. About Us Labs4Rescue is a volunteer, c 3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing a new life for rescued or displaced Labrador Retrievers and Labrador Mixes. Our goal is to promote and advance responsible pet ownership. Useful Links.