what to look for when buying a boxer puppy

Plus 9 Tips on What to Look For! French bulldogs have become quite a craze with everybody wanting to bring this bundle of fun into their lives. The French bulldog is an expensive breed but their price is well worth it. They are an absolute charmer, smart, playful, and affectionate. Their cute face, adorable bat ears, wrinkly face, and short noses are hard to resist. French Bulldogs have every trait of a good pet dog. They are an extremely sociable breed and will be unhappy and depressed if left alone for long hours. So, now the question is where do I buy a French bulldog? A French bulldog can be purchased from an ethical, local breeder. Use local shelters, vets, or ask other French bulldog owners about recommended breeders. It is best to seek a breeder who has been in the market for several years, maintains pedigrees of the French bulldogs lineage and health, has medical history of vaccinations and health, and has professional references. Always take your time to perform due diligence on the breeder. This is not something that should be done hastily because you want to be sure you find a great breeder and the right French bulldog for YOU. Adoption is also a great choice but this may come with added responsibility and health issues that need to be tended to. My wife and I adopted our bulldog Daisy, but it was the right fit for our family. Owning a French bulldog can definitely change your life for the better. But owning one of these snuggle buddies requires work and patience. To help you know if a Frenchie is right for you here are 8 must know tips. So, if you want a Frenchie the first thing you should know is their potential genetic problems and behavior problems. You may end up paying thousands and thousands of dollars for a sick Frenchie. Due to the brachycephalic airway syndrome, these dogs are susceptible to a multitude of health problems. Most of these health issues are non-life threatening but can escalate the vet bills. Therefore, it is imperative to look for a healthy well-bred Frenchie, even if you have to pay more. Although small, French bulldogs may have a stubborn streak in them making them a little bit more difficult to train than other dogs. French bulldogs do not need a lot of exercises. Frenchies have fairly low energy levels. So, if you want to take your dog for long hikes on trails, then a Frenchie is not for you. They are loud breathers and snore a lot. This is due to the general makeup of their airways. French bulldogs suffer from digestive issues and can easily get constipated. They are extremely affectionate and want nothing but the love and attention of their owners. They are the happiest in the company of their owners sitting in their laps. Typically, French bulldogs do not bark excessively and can make wonderful apartment dogs. French bulldogs are excellent with children and also get along with other pets, as long as they are just playful. Before you buy be sure to do your homework. Here are several pointers that should help you in your search for the perfect fur buddy. A reputable and ethical breeder invests in genetic testing of their breeding stock and will be able to prove the same to you. An ethical breeder will not allow a dog who has been tested positive for genetic problems to be used for breeding. If a puppy is bred correctly and has an excellent health history then there is little chance of it developing any health problems. Your breeder should also be able to provide you the documentation of the vaccinations of the first 8 to 10 weeks of the pup. Good breeders will allow their breeding stock to have one or two litter every year so that they can protect the health of the female French bulldog. Even if there are multiple breeding females, a good breeder makes sure they do not have litters within the same period. So, ask the breeder about their breeding policy. Beware of the unethical breeders who exploit dogs and scam the potential owners. It is advisable to visit the facility and make sure that the dogs live in a positive and clean environment. A reputable breeder will not have several litters at once and also a variety of dog breeds for sale. An ethical breeder will also not try to let the puppy go before they are 8 to 10 weeks old. It can be dangerous for the puppy to be introduced into a new environment without prior vaccinations. Do not fall for what seems to be an abnormally low price. Ask the breeder about the health history of the parents as Frenchies have severe health issues in their bloodlines. Check for the eyes of the puppy as well as the parents for redness or any other issues. Always ask the breeder to show you the parents so that you know what your pup will grow into. It may not be always possible to see the father but this is a must with the mother. Ask the breeder if the puppies have been socialized. You can also ask the breeder for references who would have previously bought a French bulldog puppy from them. A refusal from the breeder should raise red flags! If a breeder is not telling you what you need to know, then just walk away. If you did not get a French bulldog that was AKC registered, you may find value in it, and the process in having your bulldog AKC registered is fairly simple. There are a lot of differences between male and female Frenchies in terms of personalities and temperaments. Male French bulldogs are more playful, mischievous, and assertive. On the other hand, females are often more docile, moody, dominating, and affectionate between the two. Female bulldogs are typically easier to house train than their male counterparts. Female dogs, although timid, get aggressive quickly if tempted and often more temperamental as puppies. They become calmer with age. Male French bulldogs also have the same problem but are less aggressive than females. These are some typical personality traits, however, the personality of a French bulldog is also dependent on the environment they live in, how they are raised, and trained. Spaying and neutering French bulldogs will also make a huge difference in their personalities, curtailing a lot of negative traits in both the sexes. Spaying and neutering French bulldogs reduces their health issues, makes them calmer, and easier to train. Another difference between a male and a female French bulldog is the difference in cost. Female French bulldogs are more expensive than the male French bulldogs because you can choose to breed her. Male Frenchies have big heads and a larger physical frame. They weigh more than females and are more susceptible to health problems than females. Male puppies are more energetic than females, who tend to be more relaxed. It ultimately boils down to the level of care and training you put into your dog. Why are French bulldogs so expensive? French bulldogs are expensive because of the expenses required for breeding and caring for them. The price of a French bulldog depends upon the number of puppies in the litter, color of fur, and the genes carried. French bulldogs come in an array of different colors. French bulldogs in rarer colors can cost a whopping price. The color of a French bulldog is dependent upon the genes of their parents. But some most common colors of French bulldogs are white, fawn, brindle, or pied white and brindle. Lilac, blue, and chocolate are rare colors and cost more than the other colors. Blue French bulldogs have a blue coat which is the result of a genetic disorder called color dilution Alopecia. French bulldogs are not easy dogs to breed and there are lots of reasons for this. If you are seriously thinking about bringing a French bulldog into your home you should know all the pros and cons of owning a Frenchie. Exorbitant Tests and Procedures A series of pricey tests and procedures are done during the breeding process. Progesterone tests These tests are required to know when exactly is the female ovulating. Blood tests are also needed to make sure the female is healthy and strong enough to carry puppies. Artificial insemination and c-section A natural way of mating is hardly accessible and therefore, female French bulldogs have to be artificially inseminated. This whole process is time-consuming and expensive. French bulldogs have relatively large heads and shoulders and so a female French bulldog cannot birth naturally as the birthing canal is very small and cannot handle the labor. Another reason is their narrow hips. The large heads and shoulders of puppies can also get stuck and can result in injury or their death. Therefore, all the French bulldog puppies are delivered through c-section, which is an expensive procedure. Then come the pregnancy tests, prenatal care, including check-ups, a good diet, supplements — all adding up the cost. High Protein Diet A French bulldog female also needs to be fed a high protein diet to induce lactation and to help her provide the puppies with plenty of vitamins. Constant Attention and Care French bulldog puppies can also not be left alone with their mommy for the first several days. A female French bulldog is a very good mom but can sometimes unknowingly roll over her babies and suffocate them. Newborn French bulldog puppies also need to be fed every three hours and require a great deal of care and attention. Health Issues Because they are brachycephalic dogs flat face they are prone to more health problems, especially breathing issues. Their skin folds look cute but can easily become infected. They are also susceptible to eye conditions like the cherry eye, and other problems such as hip dysplasia, joint disorders, and heart problems. A good breeder will conduct tests to ensure the pup does not have any of the preventable genetic health problems. Another reason for the high cost of the French bulldog is that their litter is relatively small with only one or two puppies. After understanding how much time, money, effort goes into the breeding of French bulldog puppies, you should have a new appreciation for the breeders. High-quality food, vet bills, toys, medicines, vaccinations, treats make breeding the French bulldogs an expensive affair. Despite the plethora of health issues associated with the extreme facial features of the French bulldog, there is a staggering demand for the French bulldog puppies which has given a fillip to unscrupulous and unethical breeding of this wonderful breed. From where you buy a French bulldog is your choice. However, always research carefully about where your French bulldog puppy comes from and buy them only from reputable breeders. It is important to do your homework on the breeder. The French bulldog is by no means a cheap breed but having pet insurance can surely mitigate those worries. Plus 4 Recommended Plans. But if you are looking for a furry companion who will have you amused and in splits all day, then look no further! Life is much better with a Frenchie. Post Views: .How to buy a French Bulldog puppy on a low budget French Bulldog puppies are one of the most expensive dog breeds to bring home. So how can you get your first French Bulldog puppy on a low budget? There is no such thing as a cheap Frenchie or a low budget French Bulldog due to their breeding per birth price tag. Nonetheless, there are several creative ways you can get a Frenchie puppy with little to no money down and we took the time to explore options and share this valuable info with you. A very fine show quality French Bulldog can cost that much. The high price tag reflects the expense per Frenchie puppy birth of artificial insemination, c-sections, constant care when they are born and multiple health and genetic exams. Why are French Bulldogs more expensive than any other dog breed? Most Frenchies can't have live babies the normal way. Many breeders would agree good breeding practices can greatly reduce the risks of genetic disorders that can lead to hearing loss, hip problems, and respiratory illness. Buying a well bred French Bulldog is never cheap and can help avoid a lifetime of vet bills and care. Creative ways you can get a Frenchie puppy or dog with little to no money down: Easypay Finance: Need help buying your Frenchie puppy? Easypay Finance can help. Good credit to no credit applicants accepted. Just as the name suggests Easypay is a streamline straight forward application that allows you to be approved instantly online without pay stubs or bank statements. If your loan is paid back within 90 days you can get a full interest rebate back. Requirements: Have a cell phone and email address. Have a checking account for at least 3 months. Puppy Spot Financing Puppy Spot Financing offers a convenient payment plan through Community Finance to help families buy their dream puppy. Breeders invest time, effort and resources into breeding and often this results in a hefty price for the Frenchie puppy. With a financing option, you don't have to compromise on a quality French Bulldog puppy. All you have to do is fill a form and a Puppy Concierge will contact you within one hour of receiving pre approval to help you reserve your dream Frenchie puppy. Requirements: Employed for the last 12 months at the same job. Pet Loans dot com can help finance your pet purchase price or veterinary care and even your pet supplies. Pet Loans dot com specializes in exotic pet purchases. French Bulldog Breeder financing: Certain Breeders accept financing through programs that are set up to protect them and help the buyer with a flexible payment plan. Ask your chosen breeder if they are able to accept breeder financing through one of the above programs. My Pet Funding allows breeders and pet stores offer the potential buyer the flexibility to spread their purchase cost over time. Rescue a French Bulldog. They are also big business today! Why do we mention this unpleasant fact up front? This is the only way to avoid falling prey to puppy mill scams that breed unhealthy Frenchie puppies. Researching Reputable French Bulldog Breeders The information included in this article can absolutely help you in your quest to identify a reputable, responsible, health-focused French Bulldog breeder that can sell you a healthy Frenchie puppy. Identifying Responsible French Bulldog Breeders A responsible French Bulldog breeder will demonstrate a consistent commitment to breeding healthy, happy puppies. What does this mean, exactly? Read on for specifics. Commitment to breed health and temperament Responsible breeders will voluntarily conduct pre-mating genetic health tests and participate in health oversight and research organizations like CHIC, the Canine Health Information Center database. Adherence to breed standards Responsible Frenchie breeders will voluntarily provide proof of purebred registry with the appropriate oversight organization. Proper care and socialization of puppies Responsible French Bulldog breeders will provide new puppy owners with a comprehensive packet including but not limited to puppy registration and pedigree certification, proof of microchip, veterinary clearance, remaining vaccination schedule, initial good health guarantee, take-back guarantee and food recommendations. As of time of publication, the Frenchie is now the number one most popular dog in the United States — a record previously held for over three decades by the Labrador Retriever! This means you need to know each of these red flags for unscrupulous breeders backward and forwards when searching for a French Bulldog puppy. Multiple litters from the same breeder available simultaneously Any dog breeder that advertises multiple litters of puppies for sale or back-to-back or year-round litters of puppies for sale may be operating as a French Bulldog puppy mill. Unwillingness to provide pedigree and health records Any dog breeder that sells Frenchie puppies without proof of registration, pedigree, proof of pre-mating health clearances and proof of puppy clean bill of health is a potential puppy mill. Questions To Ask A French Bulldog Breeder French Bulldog puppy mill breeders are literally counting on demand for Frenchie puppies to ensure they never have to answer any questions about how they breed and supply their puppies. In other words, unless you ask, they will never tell. So you must ask! Inquiries about breed-specific health concerns A health-focused, responsible French Bulldog breeder will care about the health of the breed itself, their personal breeding lineage and the puppy you are purchasing. This type of breeder is happy to answer questions about known genetic French Bulldog health concerns, especially the tendency towards serious lifelong health issues such as BOAS Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. These breeders may even volunteer this vital information before you ask! Expectations for potential French Bulldog owners French Bulldog breeders that care about their operation and its reputation will have their own pre-screening protocols for prospective puppy buyers. Pre-screening protocols may include an agreement to limitations on breeding rights, purchase of pet insurance, proof of initial veterinary exam requirements and more. However, if possible, try your best to check off each of these boxes before committing to purchase a Frenchie puppy. Observing Litter Dynamics Litter dynamics is a fancy way of saying you need to check to be sure the puppies get along with each other and the mother dog…not to mention new human guests like you! Interaction between puppies Appropriate puppy behavior is an indication that puppies have been permitted to remain with the mother dog and each other long enough to get some socialization pre-training under their belts. Puppy socialization and early development Puppies go through two fear periods as they grow up. The first period is from 8 to 11 weeks and the second period is from 6 to 14 months. Puppies that are properly fed, handled and socialized will demonstrate basic self-confidence and a playful nature when you bring them home. This will help them successfully weather the fear periods, especially the first one that begins about the time they come home with you. French Bulldog Puppy Temperament Assessment You should know going in how to assess the temperament in any Frenchie puppy you are considering. Personality traits to consider The official French Bulldog breed standard gives you insight into basic breed temperament traits to watch for. Playful, affectionate, even-tempered, alert and active are all hallmarks of the Frenchie breed. You can also make use of various standardized tests. Physical French Bulldog Puppy Evaluation While your canine veterinarian will be the ultimate authority when it comes to a physical evaluation, you can also do a basic evaluation at first meeting. Appearance and conformation Look for clear eyes and ears, healthy skin and coat and clean private areas. Also be aware that aggression or shyness can be signs of budding health issues. Checking for potential health concerns French Bulldog clubs in different geographic areas can be a great resource to find local temperament, conformation and health testing resources for your new prospective Frenchie puppy. But is the Frenchie the right dog breed for you? Activity Level and Exercise Requirements Frenchies adapt quite readily to life in smaller spaces. Their exercise needs are moderate and they are heat-intolerant so the indoor life suits them just fine. Time Commitment and Availability The Frenchie may not be a natural athlete, but a puppy of any breed are always going to have more energy and need more of your time and care than an adult version of the same. Your Frenchie puppy will need your help with potty training, mealtimes, initial and ongoing training and socialization, interactive playtime , bedtime routine, daily walks and more. It is a good idea to be sure you have sufficient time for all of this every single day before signing the breeder contract. Essential Supplies Reputable French Bulldog breeders should provide you with a specific list of supplies they recommend, including puppy food and transitional food for adults of the breed. The breeder may also send you home with a starter pack of food, toys , bedding and a l eash or harness. But child-proof latches and puppy gates will get you off to a good start. Here again, your local French Bulldog breed club and your canine veterinarian will be excellent resources for you to find convenient puppy training and socialization classes, play groups, dog parks and other essentials. Making the right decision on a French Bulldog Puppy can be a wonderful experience for your family Making the Final Decision Sooner or later, the big moment will come — decision-time. Are you ready? How can you know for sure? Additionally, be aware that French Bulldogs frequently come with added health challenges and associated expenses. Pet insurance may help with some of these potential costs. Selecting the Perfect French Bulldog Puppy Buying a puppy is a decades-long commitment — and investment. As such, you may have your exhaustive wish list of color, gender, size, pedigree and all that good stuff. But underneath it all, what matters most is good health. A healthy puppy of any size, gender and color is much more likely to be a happy and rewarding member of your family over the long term. This is even more crucial for French Bulldogs, since their short brachycephalic muzzle shape means they typically cannot be transported via commercial airline cargo. Conclusion Becoming a pawrent is a huge commitment and you want to get started on the right foot…. You can use all of the information provided in this article to do your due diligence before committing to your forever Frenchie puppy. Good luck and be sure to stop back by and let us know how it is going! Additionally, in her twin roles as freelance pet writer and animal communicator, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. Close share Copy link Some of our readers who are not owners of French Bulldogs yet and intends to buy one, have repeatedly asked us to put together an article like this one, so we can properly guide them in buying their first French Bulldog. Though, if you are already a Frenchie Mom or Dad, trust you may still find the information here quite useful. In this piece, we'll give you a checklist of questions and warning signs to look out for while buying a French Bulldog puppy in order to ensure that you have an amazing experience with your new pet. Flow with me. Some of us are owners of Frenchies, while some of us just love the cute little pet. No doubt, French Bulldogs are a bundle of joy, and if you have decided to go for one, you have made the right decision. Just like while getting any valuable thing in your life, you want to be properly guided. When you get to the breeder, you'll notice that this dog is unlike some breed of dogs get along with human beings very easily, especially during their puppy life. So, you may find one or more playing with you even without knowing who you are. That feeling is indescribable when they are all over you. You are just going to love it - to say the least. But that can be a trap. Don't give in to it. French Bulldogs can play on your emotions, and you'll fall in love with them right at the breeder's place and forget to do the proper due diligence before actually going home with one. So, after your warn reception, its fine if you already have developed a soft spot for one, but still go-ahead to do the right thing. There are some very unscrupulous breeders, who carelessly breed dogs with the ill-health condition. French Bulldogs have some common health conditions, you should also try to familiarize yourself with some of these. Other important tips you should note is that male Frenchie puppies are more energetic while the females are more relaxed. There are other subtle behavioral differences too. Also, ensure that you are buying from a reputable breeder, one who is knowledgeable about breeding and caring for French Bulldog puppies. If they assure you that it is a quality breed and yet give you an abnormally low price, it may be too good to be true - don't yield! Check the eyes of the puppy, if they look red, it may be a sign of a health problem. Let's jump right into the questions you should ask a breeder before buying a French Bulldog. Buy a puppy of a mother who has only had only one litter, more than that means over-breeding and can lead to serious health implications; Ask if the puppy has been checked by a Vet; Ask to see the Puppy's parents; Ask if the parents have had health checks. Look out for conditions such as hip problems, cataracts, cherry eye, deafness, and soft palate issues; Ask to see the parent's medical history; Ask how old the parents are. It is preferable to buy the puppy of a mother who is over 3 years old because by less than 3 years, some genetic defects, may not have manifested yet; Ask about where the puppies have been living. Their previous living condition will go a long to have an impact on their training while with you. If they have had minimal contacts with a human being, training them might be a little bit more difficult than puppies that have interacted with human beings. Ask to speak to a previous client. Failure to offer these references may mean that there may be something about their puppies that they are hiding. There you go, what to look out for when buying a French Bulldog Puppy. Are there other things you think one should look out for? You can share your experience when you bought your Frenchie below, let's learn. Thanks for reading Frenchie. Shop French Bulldog Article. I know I did when my wife persuaded us to go and see our own dog for the first time. Of the four of them, this one little fella scampered over to me and immediately started chewing on my knuckles. That when I fell in love with him. It was a really simple decision in which one we wanted to take home. As you know, we went on to name him Claude. But, given hindsight, there are some questions I would have asked the breeder before deciding to buy him. And there are also some things I should have looked for too. It was our first ever dog though, so hindsight is a wonderful thing. However, there are unscrupulous breeders and there are certain health and physical problems view all Frenchie health conditions and concerns you should check for before you get too excited. It also includes some questions to ask a breeder when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Choose a male puppy if you want a more energetic dog: or a female if you want a more relaxed dog. There are subtle behavioural differences in the two genders which you can read in this blog post where I discuss the differences between male and female Frenchies. Make sure your breeder is knowledgeable: on breeding and cares for the puppies. I would always do online research into the breeder before I would even visit them. Be wary of what seems to be an abnormally low price: this can be a sign of an unhealthy puppy. Red eye can be a signal of a health problem. Ask the breeder how many litters the mother has had: a French Bulldog should only really have 1 litter a year , preferably only one every couple of years. Any more than that is a warning sign that she is being over-bred, and health issues could be present. Ask if the puppy has been checked by a vet: and has had the relevant vaccinations. If not, walk away as this should be handled by the breeder before the puppies go on sale. It can give you some insight into what type of dog your Frenchie puppy is going to grow into. If the breeder refuses to let you see the mother, then walk away as this is a huge warning sign. Ask if the parents have had health checks: as this can give you insight into any potential health problems further down the line. Conditions to look out for include hip problems, cataracts, cherry eye , deafness, and soft palate issues. Ask how old the parents are: if the mother is less than 3 years old, any genetic health conditions might not yet have manifested themselves. Ask how often the puppies have been handled: the more the young pups have been handled by humans frequently it will be far easier to get him used to all the excitement in store when you get him home. Ask to speak to a previous client: the best breeders will be more than happy to let you talk with people who have previously bought a Frenchie puppy from them. Ask for a hearing test: whilst this might not always be possible, it is a concern. White Frenchies in particular can develop hearing loss at birth due to a congenital issue. You can read more about this my recent French Bulldog hearing loss blog post. Cheap and rude breeders are an absolute no-no. When buying your Frenchie, you need a caring breeder that gladly answers your questions and shows you the parents and tell you about their history and problems. If you are dealing with a breeder who is just looking to make a quick buck and not telling you what you should know then walk away. How to best buy a healthy French bulldog puppy There are several factors you should consider before buying a French Bulldog who is hopefully going to live a healthy life. Sadly Frenchies can have some severe health issues in their bloodlines which you should look out for when purchasing your puppy. Health issues can include:. This question is usually accompanied with wanting a list of questions to be asking the French Bulldog breeder. Based on this feedback I wanted to give you the ultimate list of questions to ask, plus all the warning signs that should make you walk away. Not just warning sings about the French Bulldog puppy, but also her mother and the breeder too. Things to know before buying a French Bulldog puppy The moment you see that adorable French Bulldog puppy for the first time will last with you forever, it certainly did with me when we first met our own dog. Just take a step back for a second as there will be some red flags to watch for. I wish we had, but luckily, our dog ended up being ok, but it could have been very different: French Bulldogs are a notorious breed for health problems and unscrupulous breeders. With their cute squashed faces and cuddly squat bodies, they will tug at your heart strings. You will be tempted to just take that French Bulldog puppy and go. But please, please, please… before you do that, here are some things you should check before you pay your money. Your French Bulldog will become a huge part of your life, but make sure you know what to look for before you buy a puppy. Read these before you spend the money. By doing this due diligence you should hopefully get a puppy that not only fits your family and lifestyle, but also lives a long and happy life. You want to choose one that has a track record, online reviews, and a good reputation in the French Bulldog world… not some first timer nobody has heard of. Be suspicious of low prices: If the French Bulldog puppies are advertised as a lower than average price, be wary. The old adage about if it looks too good to be true is almost always the case with puppies. Low prices can be a sign of an unhealthy litter. Find out how many litters the mother has had already: French Bulldog mothers should not have anything more than one litter each year. The best scenario would be a litter every couple of years. More pregnancies than this mean she has been over-bred and both her and the puppies could have health problems. Look out for serious conditions and hereditary issues including dwarfism, hip and spine issues, soft palate issues, eye problems, and hearing problems. I would recommend getting a puppy from a French Bulldog older than this just to be sure. Before 8 weeks of age, they should still be with her, and it can also help you understand what type of dog your puppy will grow up to be. If the breeder refuses access to the mother, walk away. Ask where the puppies have been living: If the French Bulldogs have been in a dark garage away from human interaction it will mean they will be harder to socialize and harder to train. Ask how often the French Bulldogs have been handled: When puppies are regularly handled by humans, they will be much easier when taken home. Ask whether a vet has checked the puppies: Puppies should have been checked by a vet and had their first set of vaccinations before going to their new home. Ask to speak to a previous buyer:A reputable breeder will let you talk to people who have bought a French Bulldog puppy from them before. If they are unable to supply references and contacts, they could be hiding something. I hope you find these questions to ask a French Bulldog breeder helpful. Please do print them off before you visit the litter and decide to buy. The personality of the French Bulldog breeder This is so often over-looked, but I wanted to add it on as something to look for when buying a French Bulldog puppy. Only buy a French Bulldog puppy from a breeder who is prepared to take the time to answer any questions and concerns you might have. Breeders that treat buyers with respect will most likely extend that kindness to the French Bulldog mother and her puppies. This gives you an indication of what health problems could in store. These can include: Allergies. Where to buy a french bulldog, you ask? As I illustrated in this post about sham puppy mill breeders , you have to be incredibly careful about who you buy or rescue your French Bulldog from. Naturally, we always recommend you rescue a French Bulldog or any dog, really before you buy a puppy from a breeder. There are millions of homeless doggies and it should be your first inclination to save a dog from otherwise unfavorable conditions than to support further capitalistic breeding of animals. That said, we realize that buying a French Bulldog is sometimes irresistible. Where to Buy a French Bulldog If it is your intention to buy a French Bulldog puppy from a breeder, you must remember to only ever agree to buy a puppy that is registered with the American Kennel Club AKC , any other registry should be considered fake and a scam, and you should report the person attempting to sell French Bulldogs through these registries to your local humane society or to the closest ASPCA branch. Breeders attempting to sell puppies through registries like the CKC are likely guilty of animal cruelty and potentially deadly living conditions. Please understand that you may have to drive several hundred miles in order to find a reputable, safe, and dependable breeder to purchase your French Bulldog. Further, you can just call the AKC and they can help put you in contact with local breeders in your state or regional area: contact the AKC. Calling the AKC and asking for help is the easiest way to find out where to buy a french bulldog. Click here to read more about what to look for in a reputable french bulldog breeder and what to expect when visiting breeders. This is an amateur mistake and you need to be very cautious of your own emotions. You must loosely follow these steps below to protect yourself and your new friend: 1. Ask to see their pedigrees any reputable breeder will have this filed neatly and easily accessible. Go over the pedigrees and other paperwork your breeder may provide to you, scanning for inconsistencies or other signs of fraud. The AKC requires breeders who will sell puppies to register and pay a small registration fee for each puppy in a litter. Ask to see the registration paperwork for the litter. Make smalltalk with your selected breeder. Seemingly unsanitary or unacceptable living conditions? Sires and dams forced to live in small kennels? This is a sign of a puppy mill. A real breeder will have a dedicated air-conditioned building on their property acting as a nursery with separate areas for small puppies, nursing mothers, and more. Birthing should take place in an inside room in the house, and the breeder should have a decently-sized piece of property to facilitate play for their sires and dams. Ask about the medical history of the other dogs in their kennel, if any. Ask about past issues with their French Bulldogs and how they responded. A good breeder will gladly provide this sort of reassurance. Are there reviews to help inform your opinion? Ask the breeder to provide a few client references. This is customary and a good breeder will gladly provide references. Follow these simple guidelines and avoid becoming impatient. Get yourself put on a few waiting lists for different breeders and then wait for them to contact you. Ask to come by their kennel and see their puppies. Always AKC. Check in next week. Beunos noches y a la prochaine!

Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. The adorable, cute, fuzzy little furball, puppy days are over and your GSD now carries a lot more weight around the house. Their hormones will be fluctuating and they may attempt to disobey or get a little aggressive as they try to assert their dominance. Overall Behavior: A 7 months old, they are still big puppies but things could start to get a little dicey. In fact, your cute, floppy eared pup could turn into quite the pain in the neck. He or she may even take part in some behaviors that you have never seen before. They may bark a lot more, become bossy, chew on things, disobey your commands, or start having more accidents around the house. These are all normal behavior for a dog with changing hormone levels. In Fact: This is a crucial time to buckle down and make it work with your dog. This Pet Finder study found that .Resource Guarding: At this stage in their development, teething should be over but a new problem may present itself. Your German Shepherd may start to get really possessive about his or her belongings including chew toys, blankets, food etc. They may even growl or snarl at other animals or friends who try and take it away from them. This type of behavior has to be nipped in the bud as soon as possible or it can lead to problems in the future. Your dog may end up lashing out at other dogs or people in public settings. We recommend keeping your GSD away from dog parks especially at this age. We will discuss how to put a stop resource guarding in the next section. The window for socialization usually closes at approximately 16 weeks. They should also know at least 5 basic obedience commands and 2 advanced commands. From this point on, you should aim for teaching him or her 2 new advanced commands per month. Some tips to help you train effectively: Avoid being aggressive if they choose to be stubborn and not obey your commands. Be consistent and train them for a minimum of minutes a day. Communicate and relate with them on their level. Show them that you are the leader but never use force to get them to listen or learn. Use positive reinforcement and reward them with praise or treats when obedient. If you have been following our previous monthly guides, continue with the following intermediate commands. Last month we went over crawl and fetch. Intermediate Commands: Heel — Start by walking around the yard. Call your GSDs name and then point to your left side. Repeat several times. Now get them to walk over without calling or pointing. Increase the difficulty level. Speak — Run around and get your dog excited. Get them to bark. Repeat several times only rewarding them when you command them to bark. Also, only reward them for single barks and never multiple barks. Check out this video for some tips and tricks with training: Physical Development: At month 7, growth slows a bit compared to the previous 6 months. However, they are still more than half of their future adult size and most likely gained around 5 pounds since last month. Males are now getting closer to the 2 foot mark, standing approximately 19 to 20 inches at the withers. Females are closer to the 50 pound range weighing anywhere from 49 to 53 pounds. At this point they are starting to look much more adult like. They should have their adult full double coat of fur completely filled in. Brush weekly with a good undercoat rake to help with shedding. Ears will most likely be fully standing at this point although in some cases it can take up to a full year. Sexual Maturity Continues: Sexual maturity most likely started last month and will continue to develop until they are around 2 years old. For males, hormones will be kicking in and they will begin to search for female mates anywhere they can. This is a god time to keep them separated from any stray dogs in the neighborhood or at the local park. During this time, they will mark their territory. For females, their estrogen will kick in and they will begin to go into heat. Nutrition: Nutrition is still extremely important for a German Shepherd at this age. They are still young and gaining weight so a healthy lean diet is vital for their development. You want to make sure you are giving them the proper number of calories and enough protein to sustain their growing bones. We recommend feeding your GSD an all-natural diet. This includes lean meats that are high in protein such as chicken, fish and turkey. You should combine that with healthy fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, blueberries, carrots, peas and pumpkin. Be careful, there are some fruits and veggies that can be toxic to your dog. Avoid too many treats if possible, aside from training. Make sure to use lean non-fatty treats. Excess fat in treats can lead to obesity. Over time obesity can lead to other health issues including elbow and hip dyplasia. It can also increase the risk of your GSD getting certain diseases like arthritis, diabetes, hypertension and worst-case cancer. Keep in mind, feeding your German Shepherd an all-natural diet can get expensive. Calculate the costs to determine the best route. Feed your GSD 2 to 3 cups total over the course of 2 meals throughout the day. Be consistent with your feeding times. Health: They should be healthy and thriving but it is a good idea to confirm that they are meeting the standard height and weight requirements for their age. You can write down their monthly measurements in a journal to make sure they are staying on track. At 7 months, they should have received their first three vaccines. While some veterinarians recommend getting your German Shepherd neutered or spayed around this time, most breeders will say to hold off until they are at least one year old. This may not be easy with a female that is going into heat but try to postpone the procedure when possible. GSDs that are fixed before 6 months of age are more likely to develop the joint condition hip dyplasia. However, we recommend getting ahead of the curve to try and prevent any possible future health issues. You can do some research into the background and history of the parents to look for any potential hereditary problems in the bloodline. You can take advantage of certain tools like a DNA test to potentially predict future conditions. Although it is too early to be on the lookout for any major diseases, you can still look for any symptoms of sickness your GSD may run into. Take your dog to the vet if you notice anything out of the ordinary. Signs and symptoms to watch for: Breathing is labored Coughing, gagging or sneezing a lot Drinking and urinating an excessive amount Dry and itchy skin Eyes and nose are runny Hard time urinating. Final Thoughts 7 months is the time when your cute fluffy cub turns into a naughty and disobedient teenager. Here, we have collected some tips and explanations that will help you deal with a lot of challenges the first month of adolescence imposes on a Shepherd and its owner. We hope our advice will be useful. Your puppy starts getting the right appearance of an adult German Shepherd dog. German Shepherds usually have 42 adult teeth at this age, and their coats complete the two necessary layers. The overall growth, however, slows down. The ears are fully standing in most cases at this age. Nevertheless, some dogs may have floppy ears until they are one year old. You may even think about taping. Anyway, you need to talk to your vet to ensure your pup really needs it. The sexual maturity of your doggy started not long ago, probably, in the last month. The animal will be developing its sexual behavior during the following two or three months. Make dogs, led by their hormones, start looking for a mate. This is a very responsible time because you need to keep your pup away from other dogs, especially stray ones. Even if you are walking with your pet along the street or in the park, keep an eye on other animals in the neighborhood. The time is pretty rewarding for training and learning. Activity and Behavior Physically, your German Shepherd of 7 months is not a puppy anymore. However, mentally it is, you can face many behavioral problems you have never seen before in your pet. Something can be even risky and inconvenient. Your doggy can start barking unexpectedly without any reason. It can try some bossy and disobedient things. It will chew everything it can reach and cause numerous accidents around your household. Nevertheless, it is a natural behavior for a pup with high hormone levels that are constantly changing. Therefore, it is a pretty responsible time for serious work with your furry pet. If you continue to pay much attention to its behavior, by its one year of age, you will receive the doggy of your dream. There is one more issue you may encounter with your pet. It will growl or snarl at you, your friends, family, or other animals who may try to approach, touch, or take away its belongings. You must do your best to stop this behavior as soon as possible, or your dog will show aggression toward other people or animals in public places. So, try to keep your pup away from dog parks at this age and continue socializing. You have to be very patient, anyway, because your 7 month old German Shepherd is a very energetic dog, so it always needs to stay busy. Your pup is extremely intelligent at this age, too. It can remember up to words, so teaching commands now is very easy. Your doggy needs at least 35 minutes of intensive exercise every day. One long walk or two short ones per day will do a lot of good to it. However, do not overload your puppy with physical activities. Its skeletal system is developing, so it is easy to damage its bones and joints at this age. You can also add the daily playtime activities and obedience training for at least minutes per day to keep your pup engaged. Try to be patient, rewarding, and understanding. Buy some safe and interesting toys for your pet to distract its attention from stressful factors. They need to be durable, too. Such things as kong toys, nylabones, and rope toys are quite effective. Kong toys are made of rubber and can be filled with food or treats. They also distract doggies from chewing household belongings. Nylabones are not chewable. They are made of plastic, and they are interesting to play with. Rope toys are a good source of stimulation, and they teach doggy interaction. So, your puppy will always be kept busy and entertained. Your dog will also need around hours of sleep at night at this age. However, there is no exact time your pup may want to nap. It can sleep about hours on average per day, which is considered a norm. Though there are some variations, you do not need to worry if your pet sleeps less or more. All three necessary vaccinations should have been received by this age. The next DHPP and rabies vaccines are usually administered when a doggy is one year old. Practice measuring your pup once a month to know for sure that your pet is growing properly. Some veterinarians recommend spaying or neutering the dog at this age. However, most specialists have already agreed that it is too early and you need to wait until the animal is one year old. It can be challenging for females because they can go into heat at this age. Though, try to postpone this medical procedure for as long as possible. Early neutering or spaying may lead to the development of hip dysplasia because the dog continues growing, and hormones play a great role in it. Proper nutrition and exercise are the main things that should be your focus at this time. Such diseases as arthritis, myelopathy, allergies, cataracts, diabetes, and others can display after 5 years of age. Nevertheless, it is good if you take advantage of a DNA test to learn more about possible future problems and health conditions. For example, degenerative myelopathy is a genetic issue that can be detected by this test. However, you need to be careful about such possible symptoms as heavy breathing, coughing, sneezing, itching, skin redness, a running nose and eyes, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of weight, hard or excessive urination, drinking too much water, swollen or red gums, irregular sleep, and behavioral or personality changes. These symptoms may not mean any serious disease. However, you need to show your pup to the vet immediately when you notice something like that. The other recommendations for taking care of your German Shepherd of 7 months are the following: regular deworming and getting rid of other parasites; regular hydration by providing a stable supply of fresh water; arranging a cozy place for sleeping, for example, a crate; fur brushing several times per week during the usual seasons and every day during high-shedding seasons in spring and autumn; nail trimming and teeth cleaning not more seldom than at least once a month; keeping your pet away from any dangerous neighborhood or stray dogs. You may get some other, more individual recommendations from your vet. They can refer to specific diet or care needs. Feeding Correct feeding patterns are very important for your German Shepherd 7 month old puppy. It continues gaining weight and growing, so a healthy diet plays a great role in its development. You need to ensure that you offer your pet a proper number of calories and enough protein to support the health of its growing bones, joints, and muscles. There are two ways to feed your young doggy — an all-natural diet and ready-made kibble of the highest quality. If applied properly, both methods have their advantages. The natural diet should have enough lean meats, like fish, turkey, or chicken, that are rich in protein. It can also include some vegetables and fruit, such as pumpkin, peas, carrots, bananas, apples, blueberries, and others. Some fruits and vegetables are not recommended because they can even be toxic to your puppy. You also have to avoid too many treats while training. The treats should also be lean and non-fatty. Too much fat and sugar can cause obesity. The latter leads to many health issues, such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and even cancer. The minus of the natural diet is that it can be rather expensive. Your doggy needs cups per day, with 2 meals — in the morning and in the evening. You have to be very accurate about the feeding times. You should feed your pet at set hours and remain consistent about it. It is also essential not to overfeed your German Shepherd. The consequences can be drastic — obesity, elbow-and-hip dysplasia, diabetes, heart issues, cancer, and many others. Training Obedience training is essential at this age. Reward your pup for its good behavior, and pat, and praise it whenever possible. You skip traits further on in the process of training and use only verbal stimuli as the main reinforcement. Train obedience in different environments. It will let your puppy make generalizations about the proper behavioral patterns in different situations. If you treat your pet positively while training, it will help establish closer bonds with your pup. However, remember that your German Shepherd has a short attention span at this age, so it can quickly become bored or inattentive. You must be patient and never use any sort of punishment if your doggy makes mistakes or cannot follow some commands. Use only positive reinforcement. However, you have to be strict and consistent enough. Stop the unwanted behavioral patterns at once. Training has to be fun for your pet, so regular lessons in the form of games will do a lot of good. Your doggy knows that biting is bad, has gone through potty and crate training, and was properly socialized. It should have been socialized by this time, or you may face a lot of challenges now. Your pet should know at least 5 basic obedience commands and 2 more complicated commands by this time. You can consider teaching it at least two more advanced commands every month since the present moment. Your German Shepherd may want to show up, be bossy, display aggression, or ignore what you order it to do because of hormonal changes. So, you need to be very consistent. The results can be pretty undesirable. The weight parameters may differ in various dogs at this age. Though, the average weight is pounds kg for males and about 50 pounds 23 kg for females. How much does a 7 month old German Shepherd sleep? A German Shepherd dog needs at least hours of sleep per night. Though, it can also sleep in the daytime. Therefore, the average sleeping time per day can be about hours. There may also be some variations, which are also considered normal. How much exercise should a 7 month old German Shepherd get? The best method to count how much time your GSD needs for exercise per day is to add 5 minutes to every next month. If you multiply 5 by 7, you get 35 minutes per day. The exercise has to include walking, running, playing, and obedience training. If the pup is exhausted, think about reducing the time, or you may get some health issues in your pet soon. Final Thoughts Your 7 month old German Shepherd can bring a lot of fun and joy to your life. However, you need to be sure that you can offer it a lot of care, exercise, and activities because such puppies are strong, energetic, and lively. They need to be busy all day long, or they can become bored or aggressive. This age in your dog can be rather stressful for you. It needs a lot of obedience training, too. Appropriate socialization is key to overcoming difficulties and bad habits caused by hormonal changes and disbalances at this age. You need to be very patient and consistent in teaching your doggy how to behave properly among other pets and people. Mental training is also necessary for your pet. Choose suitable toys for it to distract them from boredom and destructive chewing. Ask your vet if you see any undesirable features or symptoms in your doggy. Most of them are caused by hormones, and the behavior or physical condition will improve up to one year of age. Others may be signals of some health issues. So never ignore them if you want to spend a lot of enjoyable time with your healthy, clever, and obedient furry friend. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. It combines in itself all the positive qualities of a working dog, possesses great intelligence and a perfect ability to be trained. Puppies of this breed like to learn since the young age and catch on new information very quickly. Thanks to all its qualities, a German shepherd is a multifunctional dog. It can be a guard, a protector, a seeker or a hunter. However, this is a pretty difficult breed that will need all your efforts to be trained well. Behaviour This kind of dogs has a great potential that shows itself through its behaviour and abilities. Here are the main of them: An ability to guard a family or a certain territory. It should be mentioned that the dog usually makes decisions whether to attack a stranger or not by itself. It can attack somebody only if it thinks that this action is necessary. This is the dog of nice scent. A lot of security services use this ability in their work. The function of protection. A German shepherd is a selfless fighter that will protect the owner to the last. If an owner gives a command, it will also fight without any hesitation. A puppy tries to assert itself in the world and shows a high level of independence at that time and till the reaching the age of puberty. Since this age, your pet begins to show disobedience and does not obey the commands it usually obeyed before. Do not allow it to behave in that way, otherwise it will become its habit. This difficult period finishes usually with coming of the age of puberty. For female dogs it is often at the age of seven or eight months, when the first heat starts. Male dogs begin to spray at this time and it comes a bit later. During this period the behaviour of your dog would be unstable. Maybe the pet would show you some of its puppy habits, but it will end a bit later. The ability of guarding and protecting is also shown in this period. So, pay attention to the proper training of your favourite pet. Recommendation: be very strict during this period in order to show your pet that you are the leader. Do not allow your dog to win and disobey you. Fear and a Puppy Your German shepherd can feel fear for several weeks during the period of adolescence. It usually happens about the age of seven weeks. The dog gets scared of well-known and unknown people, different things terrify it. Be patient and calm during these uneasy days and try to share your calmness with your animal. This period would not last long, but it needs a lot of efforts from the owner. Size, Weight, Height and Ears Physical development of your dog is as important as mental one. We suggest you to look at the main features at the age of seven weeks that you can measure and analyse how your dog grow. If there are some departures from the norm, go to a specialist and show your pet to get an advice. So: The height of the dog should be about fifty-three or sixty-three centimetres. The weight of a German shepherd must be from twenty to thirty kilograms. The norm of the chest size is about sixty-nine or seventy-five centimetres. The special attention should be given to the ears of your dog. At the age of seven months they should firmly be up. Look at your dog carefully! If its ears are not up, it can be the sign of the lack of mineral elements or weak immune system. A German Shepherd at Your House So, if you are going to bring a dog at your house and have not decided yet what breed to choose, you can take a German shepherd without any concerns. It will make your life better, anyway. Male dogs will stand 19 to 20 inches tall at the withers, while a female German Shepherd will be close to 17 to 19 inches tall. Regarding weight, males should fall between 57 and 62 pounds, while females usually hover around the pound mark. In addition to physical changes, your puppy will start to look much more like an adult dog. They should have all 42 adult teeth, and their coat will be fully developed. The best way to achieve this is by feeding them an all-natural diet with plenty of chicken, fish, and turkey. It would be best to supplement this with fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, blueberries, carrots, peas, and pumpkins. Be aware that some fruits and vegetables can be toxic to dogs, so avoid feeding them too many treats. Lean, non-fatty treats are the best option for dog training purposes. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which puts your GSD at risk for health problems like elbow and hip dysplasia, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. Following these nutritional guidelines can help your German Shepherd live a long and healthy life. Physical and Behavioral Changes Pet parents should understand that dogs around this age may become more barky, bossy, and destructive as their hormone levels change. The best way to deal with it is to remain patient and consistent with your training. Keep in mind that your dog may also start to exhibit signs of resource guarding during this time. Your dog may become possessive of toys, food, or other belongings. Again, the best thing to do is to remain calm and consistent in your commands. This sort of conduct must be nipped in the bud as soon as possible, or it might lead to more significant issues in the future. Sexual Maturity at 7 Months Most German Shepherds will reach sexual maturity by the time they are months old. For males, this means that hormones will begin to kick in, and they will start to search for female mates. As for females, their estrogen levels will increase and start to go into heat. It is vital to keep your dog separated from other dogs in the neighborhood or at the local park, as they may try to mate with them. Additionally, males and females will begin to mark their territory during this time. Training Your 7-Month-Old German Shepherd At the seven-month mark, your German Shepherd should have a solid foundation that includes bite inhibition, crate or potty training , and plenty of socialization. The window for socialization is usually until about 16 weeks only. They should also know at least five basic obedience commands and two advanced commands. From this point on, you should aim to teach them two new advanced commands per month. Increase Positive Reward-Based Obedience Training Start by rewarding your dog for good behavior with treats, petting, or verbal praise. As a good trainer, you should make sure to obedience train in a variety of different environments so that your dog can generalize his excellent behavior to any situation. Positive training will go a long way in building a bond with your young dog. Tips for Effective Training Short and sweet is key to getting the most out of your good training sessions. Dogs have a short attention span and will quickly become bored or frustrated if you try to train them for too long. Remember, dogs are never too old to learn; it just takes patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Puppies are full of energy and seem never to stop moving. They also like to put everything in their mouths. For a German shepherd puppy, finding safe and durable toys is essential. Kong toys — Kong toys are a type of rubber toy that you can fill with treats or food. It makes them an excellent option for keeping your puppy occupied and distracted from chewing on furniture or other belongings. They are trendy among German Shepherd puppies because of their durability and the fact that they can be filled with tasty treats. Nylabones — A generic term for a challenging, generally non-edible plastic toy, Nylabone refers to a company that produces dog chew toys and other pet goods. Rope toys — Rope toys are a great option for German Shepherd puppies because they are durable and can withstand a lot of chewing. They are also a good source of stimulation for dogs, as they are interactive toys that require interaction from the dog. It can help keep your pup occupied and entertained. It will help identify any health issues your pup may have. By the 7th month, your puppy must have the necessary vaccines for its early development. German Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but they are more susceptible to some health conditions than others. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a genetic illness that affects the hip joint. In dogs with hip dysplasia, the thigh bone does not fit snugly into the hip joint, which can cause pain and lead to arthritis. Elbow dysplasia is a similar condition that affects the elbow joint, caused by malformation of the bones. It can also lead to pain and arthritis. Both hip and elbow dysplasia are common in German Shepherd dogs and can lead to many health problems if not treated. Allergies German Shepherds are also prone to allergies. Allergies can cause various symptoms, including itching, excessive licking, and hot spots. If your German Shepherd shows any of these symptoms, it is vital to take them to the vet to rule out other possible causes and get them started on the appropriate treatment. It is caused by a deficiency of Von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps the blood clot. This disease can lead to excessive bleeding and can be fatal if not treated. Diabetes Just like humans, dogs can develop diabetes. Symptoms of diabetes in dogs include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy. If left untreated, the condition can lead to serious health problems. What To Expect From A 7-Month-Old German Shepherd 7-month old white german shepherd The German Shepherd should start seeing a slow growth process in the 7th month when compared to the previous 6 months of its life. The growth still is present as they should now be at half of their total adult German Shepherd size and would have added a few pounds since the 6 months mark, however, the puppy growth should be very little. Mental maturity should also see a little decline in growth as not much difference can separate the 6-month-old German Shepherd puppy from the 7-month-old German Shepherd puppy. But when compared to the 5-month-old German Shepherd, the 7-month German shepherd puppy should be a lot less curious and a lot more familiar with the world it lives in. Energy levels for the 7-month-old German Shepherd puppy should be at all-time highs and this is mostly classified as sexual energy as it is mostly the strong desire to mate or for a mate that should be guiding the German Shepherd puppy by this age. You would mostly find the male German Shepherds, humping different items around the house if not properly trained. Speaking of training, you definitely would have a lot of work to do with the 7-month-old German Shepherd puppy as again they would be overtaken by adolescent hormones causing them to be a lot more uncontrollable than ever. But with the right combination of a good or proper training program with the right patience level, it should be managed properly. There are other attributes you might start to expect from the 7-month-old German Shepherd puppy and one of these attributes would be the possessive attribute. At this stage, your puppy might start gathering personal belongings around the house and might become a bit defensive if you try to interact with any of these belongings it acquires. At this stage, a lot of training and patience would be required to deal with these attributes or character traits. The stage of teething should be done by the 7th month as your puppy should now be in possession of all its complete adult dentition. Dental hygiene should be taken seriously from now on to keep your puppy healthy. They should have received all their vaccinations by the 5th month and should be awaiting new vaccination shots and deworming by the 12th month or 1-year mark. Regular checks with the vet are still mandatory. Grooming should also be something to be done regularly at the 7th-month mark as their rich double coat should be easy to shed, thereby leaving a lot of fur or dandy around the home. Use the appropriate steel comb to go through the coat of the German Shepherd to avoid things like the matting of the German Shepherd puppy. Make use of high-quality shampoo to keep them clean. There should be signs of dominance assertion present with your male German Shepherd at 7 months of age. You might often find them urinating around corners of the home or yard to help assert dominance over that particular territory. It is part of the possessive trait that comes with the raging teenage hormones of the dog. For this, a lot of training would be required to properly handle your German Shepherd puppy. With patience and consistent effort, you can try to ascertain dominance over the dog and its belongings using a firm but gentle form of training. Regular exercises are also needed as the puppy can handle a lot more exposure to intense workouts at this stage. Socialization is also quite crucial to keep the puppies satisfied, but do ensure that they are not left unsupervised especially with dogs of the opposite sex as they can try to mate with them and that could lead to complications and unexpected results. Always keep your puppy on a leash when in public and sometimes in their crate when at home. The 7-month-old German Shepherd should only be adding a few pounds extra than a month ago. The male German Shepherd puppy at 7 months old is a large dog breed and should be expected to fall between the 55 lbs to 65 lbs range. The height should be between 19 inches to 20 inches. The female German Shepherd puppy that is at 7 months old, should also be regarded as a large dog and should have a weight that falls between 45 lbs to 55 lbs. The height range for the female German Shepherd should be between 17 inches and 19 inches. As you should already know by now, the entire size of the German Shepherd can be influenced by different factors, one of these factors would be the diet of the German Shepherd. The breeding standards can also affect the overall size of the German Shepherd as working dogs are slightly smaller than show dogs. Other notable changes that could be evident in the 7-month-old German Shepherd are the coat and ears of the German Shepherd puppy. They should be larger and more pronounced than earlier and the 7 month German Shepherd should have fully grown out of its adult coat by this time. Their bodies are still pretty young and as such require a lot of food to stay strong and healthy. Their appetite should also be quite large considering the fact that the German Shepherd is a large dog breed. Because the German Shepherd at 7 months old is prone to obesity, you would want to stick to a healthy lean diet that is highly nutritious. It should contain the right proteins and calories sufficient for the German Shepherd puppy. Make the meal an all-natural meal that contains mainly rich lean proteins ranging from fish to chicken to turkey. It should also be rich in vegetables and fruits like carrots, bananas, peas, pumpkins, apples, and berries. But it is worth noting that some fruits and vegetables can be harmful or toxic to dogs, so speak to your vet and come up with a healthy plan. To further reduce the chances of your puppy becoming obese, you have to come up with a puppy feeding schedule and stick properly to the plan. Your German Shepherd puppy should be getting a minimum of 3 cups of high-quality kibble each serving for 3 servings each day. This can be spread evenly across the day, for example, feeding should be in the morning, noon, and evening. It is important that you allow enough time between feedings for the food to be properly digested. Good drinking water is highly important for the German Shepherd puppy and ensures that they eat early at least a few hours before they go to sleep. The sleeping requirement for the German Shepherd at 7 months of age should still remain the same. As we already know their bodies are quite young and still have a lot of development to go through, so they need enough sleep or rest to be fully active. With that being said, it is important that you provide the 7-month-old German Shepherd with a minimum requirement of 15 to 18 hours of sleep time each day for them to be fully active. Night sleep is crucial, but they should also get short time periods within the day to sleep. Try to force the puppy into sleeping early by engaging them in exercises and training to keep them tired and in need of some rest. And late night feeding can greatly affect the sleep pattern of the German Shepherd puppy so do ensure that you avoid it. They require at least an hour of exercise each day to stay strong, fit, and happy. Asides from that, German Shepherds are very energetic dogs and if left without enough exercise activities they can easily become restless and then turn destructive around the home. This is why you need to be committed to exercising your German Shepherd puppy each day. Make an hour of your time and come up with a plan for exercising your puppy. Try a minute walk around the neighborhood at least 3 times each day. Mental exercises are also quite important for keeping your German Shepherd sharp and easily trainable. Consider rewarding puppy puzzles for your German Shepherd to partake in. At this stage, they can develop a lot of negative habits which need to be corrected as quickly as possible. One of these is possession acquisition and Guarding, where the German Shepherd starts to gather items around the house and closely protect them. If left without correcting your German Shepherd might become violent when trying to protect these items. Leash training is also highly recommended at this stage, especially when going on walks to different locations. Because of their raging sexual hormones, the German Shepherd might attempt to mate with any canine of the opposite sex that it finds. You can correct all these with the use of the positive reinforcement training method and proper leash training. Patience is also quite key in properly training your German Shepherd puppy. At the 7-month mark, your German Shepherd puppy should have received a total of 3 vaccination shots as well as dewormings, the next vaccinations should be scheduled for 1 year or 6 months. If you are meeting the proper requirement for size and weight, your puppy should be healthy. They do, however, need to visit the vet regularly for checks to make sure they are healthy, and it is also essential that you look out for the following symptoms in your puppy. Reduced appetite.

This sweet creature, unfortunately, gets a bad rap because of its past and because of owners who raise Pit Bulls improperly and for inappropriate reasons. Despite being originally bred for fighting, playful Pitties excel in being companions, working dogs, and service dogs. As long as you properly train and socialize your APBT, it will get along well with kids and other pets. The American Pit Bull Terrier With a height that ranges from 17 to 21 inches 43 to 53 cm and a weight that can reach up to 60 pounds 27 kgs , the Pit Bull has a muscular and proportionate body with floppy ears and a long tail. Pitties are also famous for their irresistible smile, which gives this dog a happy, expressive face. The Boxer Bred as an ancient war dog, the Boxer is another muscular and powerful dog that is said to be great with families. As a natural jumper, the playful and energetic dog needs an owner with a lot of patience who can provide him the exercise, training, and socialization he needs. A Boxer puppy It has a short muzzle and full, round eyes, and looks confused or curious in an irresistible way. With a short, sleek coat, this dog has a height between .Boxers, without a doubt, are loving dogs. Does this hybrid look more like Pit Bull or the Boxer? Their appearance is unpredictable, but one thing you can be sure of is that Pitoxers could have more attributes from one parent compared to the other. How big will a Pitbull Boxer mix get? Male and female Pitoxers can grow to 17 to 20 inches 43 to 51 cm and 16 to 19 inches 41 to 48 cm in height, respectively. Males have an average weight range of 60 to 80 pounds 27 to 36 kg while females can weigh between 50 to 70 pounds 23 to 32 kg. The beautiful Pitbull Boxer Mix This medium-to-large dog has a broad head and chest, short muzzle, long legs, and a short, smooth coat. Its coat comes in all sorts of colors, but the most common ones are black, brown, yellow, and tan. With their short hair and lack of double coat, they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. During summer, stay away from intense heat by taking your Boxer Pit mix out early in the morning or at night. They also have a fun-loving, even-tempered nature, so they usually fit in well with most families. Boxer Pitbull mixes generally have a more stable temperament and are less aggressive. They like staying close to their pack, so many of them are affectionate and loyal companions. The key is to reduce the likelihood of aggression in the Boxer Pit mix is proper training. You can keep your Pitoxer from turning into an overprotective guard dog by introducing him to as many animals and people as you can. If they are socialized at a young age and are treated with love and respect by the people around them, these crossbreeds can be such a joy to have around. A good dog is a reflection of its owner, and how your Pitbull-Boxer cross turns out depends on how you raise it. Does this pup look like a scary fellow to you? How does the Boxer Pitbull Mix behave around other pets like cats? If a Pitoxer puppy gets proper socialization, it will grow up without having trouble getting along with the other pets that you have in the house. Yes, even with cats. Taking in a full-grown Pitbull Boxer Mix is a different matter. Prepare for a potentially problematic situation between him and the other pets, especially cats and smaller dogs. Be gentle yet consistent in teaching your dog commands. Use rewards and lots of praise to encourage him to be obedient. Punishing your pet is likely lead to result in aggression. Do these hybrids shed fur? Brushing his coat once a week is enough. You can use a bristle brush or a grooming mitt for ease. Unfortunately, the coat of the Pitbull Boxer mix is not hypoallergenic due to its moderate shedding. You can bring them to the vet or a reputable groomer once a month for ear check-ups, too. Big breeds like the Boxer Pit need 2 cups of dry dog food a day, split into two or three meals. If your dog has an average level of activity, they would need around 1, to 1, calories a day. Aside from food, make sure your Boxer Pit mix has clean drinking water at all times. Providing the exercise these crossbreeds need Coming from strong, muscular purebred parents, the Pitbull Boxer mix requires a lot of physical activity. Help your Boxer Pit mix release his pent-up energy through 2 hours of physical activities per day. Once you notice that your dog is starting to slow down and pant, give him a 5-minute break and give him some water to hydrate and cool-off. Make sure to give your dog the exercise it needs. Insufficient physical activity can lead to frustration which means barking, digging, and destruction. These are tips for a full-grown Pitoxer, though. Health problems that the Pitbull Boxer Mix may get You might think that giving your dog enough exercise and keeping an eye on his diet should keep him healthy enough throughout his lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Though these hybrids are generally healthy, they can still be susceptible to the health conditions that affect their parent breeds, such as:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Bullboxer Pit Highlights The Bullboxer Pit is a mixed breed dog. Bullboxer Pits may tend to overeat. Owners must be diligent about monitoring diet. Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. The most regularly seen coat colors are brown, tan, yellow, and black. Although their coats are easy to maintain, Bullboxer Pits do shed all year long. Brushing can help. Due to their exercise requirements, physical strength, and need for training, this breed might not be best for novice dog owners. Boxers came on the scene in Germany back in the s; the dogs were often used to transport supplies and ferry messages to troops during the first two World Wars. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first employed in blood sports and used in baiting bears and bulls. The first ever Bullboxer Pits can be traced back to a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, which is now extinct. Due to the care and attention Bullboxer Pits require from an owner, many of them can end up in shelters. Bullboxer Pit Size The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 20 inches. Female Bullboxer Pits can often be a little smaller than their male counterparts. Bullboxer Pit Personality Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. These dogs can be especially devoted to their families, and often become very protective of any children in the household. Very upbeat walks—or even jogs—are required, so the owner must also be able to maintain a healthy and regular exercise routine. Around two hours of exercise per day is required—adding agility training or even swimming to the daily sessions can help vary things up. Apartment dwellers may find that many buildings do not permit Bullboxer Pits to live with them. Some of the more common health problems Bullboxer Pits suffer from include: Obesity due to overeating. Brindle 2. She needs plenty of exercise and lots of play! Given that both the Boxer and the Pitbull were bred for use as working dogs, these breeds are very energetic, so your Boxer Pitbull Mix requires a lot of exercise. This is what a well-exercised Boxer Pitbull Mix should look like: The Boxer Pitbull Mix is very playful and will need lots of toys at home. Careful, though! With her strong jaw and love of chewing, this dogs can destroy a chew toy within minutes. When you take her out, take a ball or a Frisbee to play fetch. She will love it! You should take her out for a brisk one-hour walktwice a day. If you are running, twenty minutes to half an hour should be enough. If your dog tires you will notice her slowing or beginning to pant excessively you should stop for a five-minute break and hydrate her. I recommend taking out a collapsible doggie bowl in which you can give her water. A note on exercising your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy This advice on exercise applies to the adult dog only, as when large-breed puppies do too much running and ball-chasing this can cause long-term injuries. With your Pitbull Boxer Mix puppy, it is best to do lots of short walks and indoor play until she matures, at about 1 year — 16 months. Watch this 11 week old Pitbull Boxer Mix. She is curious, playful, active, and absolutely, jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Whatever the weather — not with this dog! In rainy weather, she will need a doggie coat to keep her warm. During summer months, it is best to take her out in the early morning or the evening when the sun is less intense. She may still need sunscreen, but make sure you purchase one without zinc oxide, as it is toxic for dogs. The Pitbull is also a very affectionate dog when well-socialized, who will lick you all over if you give her an inch. She was in fact bred for both work and companionship , and due to her gentle nature, is beginning to be used more and more as a therapy dog. Both Boxer and Pitbull are also great with children , which makes them excellent family dogs. The Boxer is very patient and protective, while the Pitbull is solid, a people-pleaser and highly trainable. So mix them together and what have you got? A companionable, affectionate dog who fits in perfectly with a family, wants a lot of attention and gives in return. It is, of course, worth noting that as puppies they are going to be more hyper, and so their contact with children must be supervised. Also, your dog must be well-exercised to be around children, as if not she will be incredibly excitable and could knock over a small child. Her guard dog instinct is strong, which can be useful if there is an intruder or attacker. These are courageous dogs who used to risk their lives baiting bulls, so have no doubt that she will defend you and yours if necessary. If this instinct gets out of hand, however, it can become a problem. You must make sure that you socialize your Boxer Pitbull Mix from a young age with as many people as you can. Invite friends and neighbors to your home and provide her with a positive association by having the person give her a treat when they arrive. As long as you train her well and stay consistent, this dog will be the friendliest dog around. She might be too hands-on for older pets Providing they are both socialized properly, both breeds can get on well with other animals, particularly Boxers. As for play style, Pitbulls can be rough and Boxers like to use their front paws when playing much like a boxer… oh, that makes sense! People are also beginning to look past the negative stigma around Pitbulls and realize their high intelligence and trainability, too. Director of Operations at Universal K9 claims that out of the hundreds of dogs he has trained for police work, the Pitbull, Kiah, is one of the top three he has ever placed. These dogs can be stubborn, though, meaning that you need to be firm and consistent with them. As long as you are in charge, your Boxer Pitbull Mix should pick up basic commands quickly. Make sure you do enough repetition and provide rewards and lots of praise. As puppies, they are boisterous and energetic little characters. You will need to be assertive in order to get their focus. She is a moderate shedder Though these dogs have a short coat, they are moderate shedders and will require a good grooming session once a week. They will probably lose more fur in the Spring, from April through May, so it may be a good idea to brush her twice a week during these periods. She will also need her ears checked monthly, either at the vet or with a reputable groomer. She is usually healthy but has some potential health concerns The Pitbull Boxer Mix is generally a healthy breed, as both pure breeds are as long as she gets sufficient exercise, of course and as I mentioned in the intro it can live for up to 13 years. Having said that, it is always worth being informed on any potential health issues this breed can develop, so here are the main ones your dog could be prone to: Cancer While the majority of Boxers are healthy , they are at risk of an aggressive form of cancer called hemangiosarcoma , which occurs in the blood vessel cells. It can be difficult to detect, but signs can include weakness, a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing and weight loss. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible, as this cancer can spread rapidly. Hip dysplasia This condition consists of a malformation of the hip joint, where it is unstable or loose in the socket. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that this condition occurs in both breeds , although Pitbulls are more susceptible. Severe cases can lead to arthritic joints and lameness. Signs can include walking or running with an altered gait and reluctance to fully extend their rear legs or jump. Weight control helps enormously with this condition; keep her slim, as any excess weight will put stress on her joints. Heart disease The Boxer is prone to a heart problem called aortic stenosis , which in most cases of the disease the dog is born with. This disease causes narrowing of the aortic valve, which puts pressure on the heart. Symptoms can include rapid breathing or difficulty breathing, sudden loss of consciousness, and congestive heart failure. If your vet picks up a heart murmur, the diagnosis can be confirmed with an X-ray and a cardiac ultrasound. Allergies Pitbulls can have various allergies , so your Pitbull Boxer Mix may be susceptible. They can be treated with antihistamines, and in the case of skin irritation, you should use shampoos specifically designed for sensitive skin. Conclusion Are you a family with children without any older pets? Are you ready to dedicate your days to plenty of exercise and play with your new lively companion? Can you give her the consistent training she needs? If the answer is yes to all of the above, you are more than ready to own a Pitbull Boxer Mix, and she will be more than happy to have you. Have you got a Pitbull Boxer Mix and a story to share? Comment below! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. Had her posted on the local shelter site but no takers. We have a year-old Chihuahua and 8-year-old Yorkie so keeping the new dog inside is not possible. For a temporary measure we put a cardboard box with lots of pillows and blankets warmed in the dryer on the porch swing. It has since warmed up into the range. She appears to be happy running around outside and sleeping on the porch swing near the now chewed up box. We have ordered a dog house for her and are having her spayed tomorrow. We are a late middle-aged couple but I hope to be able to walk with her at least once a day. I hope you can wish us well for rescuing her. These large dogs are a loyal and energetic companion for any family and their intelligence makes them playful and fun to be around. They may look like their Pitbull parent or they make look like their Boxer parent. One thing we can be sure of though is that, with the right socialization, these dogs are an excellent family member. Breed Origin It can be difficult to know where the Pitbull Boxer Mix originated from, so we can take a look at the parent breeds in more detail to understand the origins of this dog. The Pitbull parent in the Pitbull Boxer mix can actually be any of four types of Pitbull. The Pitbull was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull and bear baiting. They were thought of as aggressive fighting dogs but it was also known that they were very gentle with humans and made excellent family dogs. The Boxer was also originally a fighting dog and was used by the Germans to chase and hold down bear, bison and wild boar. However, as time went on, they began to diminish in size and therefore became much better suited to family life, thus becoming a family pet. Characteristics Of The Pitbull Boxer Mix As we have mentioned above, it can be difficult to know the exact characteristics of the Pitbull Boxer Mix because they may take after one parent more than the other. However, we can make assumptions based on past litters. You must make sure you are buying from a reputable breeder. Appearance Taking a look at the parent breeds will give a good indication as to what your Pitbull Boxer Mix may look like when fully grown. The size of the Pitbull Boxer Mix depends on which type of Pitbull was used to breed. The American Pitbull Terrier is the largest breed of Pitbull and will produce the largest dogs. Coat The Pitbull Boxer Mix has a smooth, short coat as this is the type of coat both their parent breeds have. Luckily, they do not require much grooming, but we will go into more detail about that later on. However, they can come in a wide range of colors, including black, red, white, grey, blue, brown and tan. Temperament The Boxer Pitbull Mix is a loyal and lovable dog that loves to be around people. Super playful, these pups just want to be outside with you, playing games and accompanying you on hikes. If you need to leave them for more than 3 hours at a time, then it is a good idea to employ a dog walker or sitter to look after your friendly pup! These dogs are very intelligent, which is one of the reasons they love to play. Also because of their intelligence, they can get bored very easily. They must be kept entertained otherwise they can get frustrated and begin to exhibit signs of unwanted behaviors. It is a common misconception that because both parent breeds were originally fighting dogs, that the Pitbull Boxer Mix is an aggressive breed. This is not true. You will need to train and socialize your Pitbull Boxer Mix, but they are certainly not violent and really just want to be loved by you! Often, these dogs can feel it is their duty to protect their owners and can make good watchdogs and guard dogs. They will bark when they feel something is out of place or if there is a threat, so this is something to watch out for! Lifespan The Bullboxer has an average life expectancy of between 10 to 14 years. Known Health Issues Unfortunately, as with any breed of dog, the Pit Boxer Mix is at risk of inheriting the same health problems that their parent breeds are predisposed to. Below we have laid out the main health concerns that this breed face. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Aortic stenosis — this is a heart defect that is often found in large dog breeds. It can be treated with medication. Cardiomyopathy — this is an enlarged heart with poor function. It can be helped with medication. Degenerative myelopathy — this is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. There is no cure but there is treatment. It can be helped with intensive physical rehabilitation. Allergies — the Pitbull Boxer can be prone to allergies from a range of causes such as food and pollen. It can lead to scratching and other skin infections. Thyroid issues — this is common in Boxers, who can have either an overactive or underactive thyroid. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the traits and characteristics of the Bullboxer, it is time to take a look at what daily life with one of these dogs is really like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. This means that the amount of food you will be feeding them will vary. You should always check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding them of a particular food based on their weight. On average, a dog of this size with the same activity level will need roughly calories a day, which is about 2 cups worth. This should be split into at least two meals a day. This food you feed your Pitbull Boxer Mix should be a high-quality kibble. It should contain a good source of protein so that they can stay active. Take a look at the dog food we recommend below. The recipe features real meat, garden veggies, and fruit plus whole grains and LifeSource Bits rich in antioxidants. It also features ingredients that support healthy growth and development for a growing pup. Natural sources of chondroitin and glucosamine are the building blocks of healthy joints and cartilages ideal for mobility. It is packed in vitamins and minerals with antioxidant benefits for lifelong health and happiness. This kibble made for large breed adult dogs also features Iams DHA Gold to promote mental sharpness and alertness and also to encourage healthy cognitive ability. It is crafted with prebiotics for healthy digestion and strong defenses. Puppies and adult pooches have diametrically different nutritional needs, and senior canines require kibble that is gentle on their aged teeth and stomachs. We suggest you pick one of our recommendations for the best puppy food brands and the best senior dry dog food and see how your pup responds. Who knows? Given that your Pitbull Boxer is neither big nor small, they may like the taste of the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food alike, so you might want to offer them both kinds! Pitbull Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements The general advice for most dogs would be to train them while they are young. But in the case of your Pitbull Boxer cross, you have to very cautious. Puppies of large-breed origin that exerts too much energy from running or playing can cause injuries that may last his lifetime. For puppies, activities may be limited to regular short walks or play until it has reached a certain maturity, around one year up to 16 months. As it gets old, the daily exercise requirement will also change. For an adult Pitbull boxer, minutes of exercise should be adequate to maintain good health. It is a very energetic hybrid so they will thrive in a lively environment. An ideal home would mean lots of space to move around, inside or in the backyard. Some states enforce restrictions with regards to Pitbull mixes like your pitbull boxer, so you have to keep it on a leash while out exercising. Using a leash will also prevent them from running into or jumping into everyone they encounter. They are most happy walking around in the city or the Dog Park or even trudging in the mountains. Another essential thing to consider is the weather. During the rainy season, your dog will need a raincoat to protect her from the rain and also to keep her warm. Sunscreen can be used but avoid products with zinc oxide, as it is a poisonous substance. The jacket provides full chest coverage, and the solid print is stylishly chic. The elastic leg straps and adjustable fastener guarantees a snug band comfortable fit. It also features reflectorized stitching so you can see your dog even at night. It is guaranteed durable — it features a galvanized cable and coated with crack-resistant vinyl. It should be able to withstand up to 7x the weight of your dog. My Dog Nose It! Pitbull Boxer Cross Training The combination of Pitbull and Boxer is explosively stubborn, so it is a suitable pet for someone with a firm and unyielding grip in training and socialization. And as always, your dog will react and respond best with positive reinforcement, rewards, and incentives. Punishment will never work, and more often than not, will only create or aggravate behavioral problems. It is essential to reward your pet to encourage positive behavior. Early socialization and training from puppyhood will form the foundation of a well-adjusted dog. Training your Pitbull Boxer should be a piece of cake because of their ability to pick up commands. To get their focus though, you would need to be tough and establish yourself as the master and make him obey you. We listed some training activities you can try out with your petpal: Behavior Training — How do you train him to stop barking mad? Constant practice will help you achieve the desired effect but never shout at him even if he continues to bark. Also, allow him to learn commands other than barking. Keep in mind that the goal is to reward your pup for being silent. Chores Training — Teach him to fetch your newspaper for you. Playing fetch with a toy or a ball should prep your dog for this activity. All you have to do is replace the toy with the newspaper and tech your Pitbull boxer how to get it, pick it up or bring it back to you. Fun Training — Rollover is one activity designed with your big Boxer Pitbull in mind. Start with getting your dog to lie down, and eventually how to roll over. Make sure you reward each action accordingly, and of course, practice makes perfect. Pitbull Boxer Combination And Families The Pitbull Boxer will become accustomed to any family dynamic most especially when trained well and socialized correctly. Their energetic and sometimes rowdy nature can knock off small bodies, so be extra careful if you have kids. There are specific training designed to help you manage this kind of behavior. Check with your local authorities with regards to the legal status of Pitbull mixes in your area. Find out if your Boxer pitbull mix is banned or restricted. Not only will they thrive in large spaces to allow lots of movement, but they will also want owners who will dedicate their time to train and socialize and to love and care for them.

Things to do with your English Bulldog Nebraska is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Nebraska that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Nebraska that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Nebraska, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Nebraska, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Nebraska, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog Park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Nebraska, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Dog-Friendly Businesses Nebraska has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Nebraska. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Nebraska is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Nebraska? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. You will be getting his AKC full registration paperwork, along with vet records. Puppy will be microchipped. Ready to go to your home now! The price on the puppy is negotiable to some extent, no low balers. These dogs are expensive, and expensive to keep. Please do your homework. Puppy is guaranteed through contract for 12mo. Dewormed, shots, and well socialized. Male is full suited lilac, female 1 is lilac and female 2 is black tri. Potty training well. Transport available at buyers expense. View Detail English bulldog puppies I have 3 English bulldog puppies that are 10 months old. Prices are I also offer a payment contract lay-way if needed. For more information please contact me. I'm located in Bellevue nebraska xxx xxx xxx3 View Detail English Bulldog puppies Euphoric English Bulldog puppies ready for their new and forever lovely home. Good with kids and other pets been wormed and deflected vet checked 3 females 1 male very chunky ready to go. In excellent condition, good family pets. All injections given, also chipped. These puppies have great markings no breathing problems or health issues fantastic bone structure many champions in bloodlines EMAIL.And of course Guru s.View Detail Gorgeous Kc Bulldog Puppies Show quality meets colours in this fantastic breed Lola is our 3 year old beloved pet she live in our house along side with our 2 French Bulldogs and Bengal and my 2 older boys and my 11 month old baby that never leaves her alon.Prydainteirw are pleased to announce we have an outstanding litter available of 1 boy and 7 girls. These pups are ready to go to there new forever the boy and 5 girls have already been sold. These pups hav.View Detail Reduced!!!! They all has pretty baby doll faces with large eyes and short noses. They has very compact body and short legs! Contact for details.Interested person should email for more details. He has a very beautiful mask and is absolutely stunning. He has one blue eye and one brown eye. Current on de-wormings and vaccines. Coming due for his first rabies vaccine. You are welcome to come see him. We are also willing to meet with you within reason. Recent on all shots and loves the company of kids , toys and other home pets.

Welcome to Glory Dawn Goldens! Hello, we are Steven and Kaitlyn Miller. We also have a one year old daughter Nevaeh Sue. We are located near Orrville Ohio. We have been breeding golden retrievers since and launched Blue Chip Companion in with the idea of expanding our reach outside our local community and friends. We are however excited to be switching gears and partnering with Jeremy and Glory Dawn Goldens to promote this amazing breed further than we ever could on our own. I, have always been in love with golden retrievers and when the opportunity came to partner with Jeremy, I knew that this was exactly what I want to do for the rest of my life. Why Choose Us? We Are Family Our Dogs truly are family and we care for them as God's creation with love and respect. We invite you to come visit our home and get to know us. Our dogs are no exception. They are fed top quality dog feed and 5 supplements and immune boosters. Selective Breeding We have a high standard of breeding qualities that our dogs meet before they enter our breeding program. Travel Experience As much as we love meeting our puppies' new family we are happy to say we've had great success with with our puppies traveling all over north America. Clean Bill Of Health It is rare to find Goldens with a complete clear sheet on all genetic disorders. We have been blessed that many of our dogs cleared all genetic testing. They've been willing to share testimonials. Thank you! Transportation We will provide transportation for your puppy if needed and have had great success with our puppies traveling all over the USA. We handle all travel arrangements and details. Pet Nanny flights may be more expensive depending on location. Contact Us. He is beautiful, loving, funny, and smart, and comes from a strong and healthy lineage. Marcellus was wonderful and supportive throughout the whole process. We love Buckeye Golden Retrievers so much! Marcellus is very responsive and professional! The facility is very clean and cozy. I would recommend Buckeye a million times over! Our Charlie girl is smart, cute, and such a joy in our lives! He is a spirited, loving, and playful boy who has brought so much joy to us all. I knew we were going to get a great puppy from the first time I spoke with them. Thank you so much! The 1 year health guarantee covers any major genetic defects such as a heart murmur. It does not cover treatable health issues. The remaining balance is due at pickup. We find great satisfaction in raising healthy, happy Goldens and placing them in your loving home! One of the most popular breeds in the United States, Golden Retrievers are eager to please and are great with children and other dogs. Additionally, Goldens are intelligent and skilled in whatever they do, whether serving as a therapy dog, aiding search-and-rescue, or being a devoted companion. Max Max is our handsome boy, an imported Jr Champion from Ukraine. Top of the line genetics and champion bloodlines make him an incredible addition to our breeding program. Max is intelligent and friendly, complementing his incredible physique and beautiful white coat! Max is available for stud service to qualified females. Skye comes from a long line of champions and is genetic tested clear. Skye has a happy go lucky personality and is a wonderful mother to her beautiful little snow white babies! She is truly a stunning European Golden Retriever! This mama is really great with children and other dogs and has been a wonderful asset to our breeding program. We kept two of her girls Maple and Bella to continue her incredible bloodline. Zoey loves nothing more than exercising and getting belly scratches! Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved. We are a family-owned breeder located out in the country in Loudonville, Ohio where we have 30 acres of beautiful farmland for the puppies to run. It is our goal to make sure all of our Golden Retriever Puppies are ready for their new family, so being a family of 11, the puppies are well socialized. We pride ourselves on making the adoption process easy, convenient, and comfortable. If you are looking to adopt a Mini Golden Retriever and do not live nearby, we offer specialized delivery right to your door. Thank you for visiting - we look forward to meeting you! Our Mini Golden Retrievers are magical! They also can be mixed with only Golden Retriever and Poodle. We strive to duplicate the Standard Golden Retriever but with added benefits. These benefits include fewer health problems, more manageable size and weight, and less shedding. Available Puppies Nationwide Puppy Delivery We offer specialized and custom delivery to any destination in the lower .We want your new puppy to arrive home safe and happy, which is why we have a designated puppy delivery team to hand deliver your special new family member! We can deliver by car or by plane and are flexible to meet your needs. More About Delivery Options Recommended Food For Your New Puppy We know that it's important for us to consume a healthy diet to maintain our health and keep us away from the doctor, and your puppy is no different. Proper nutrition plays a vital in supporting growth, muscle development, a strong immune system, and overall health so your puppy can live as long as possible. It is important not to cut corners and give your puppy food that is filled with non-nutritional fillers. PawTree is an AMAZING company that offers incredible products, and we have never found another company that is so focused on the health and growth its customers' puppies. Their recipes are clean and don't have any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or poultry by-products. They offer interesting seasonings to change up your puppy's food flavors, a variety of treats, toys, shampoos, potty training products, and more. Use the link below to begin shopping for the best dog food you can get! Order pawTree Products Recommended Supplements For Your New Puppy Weaning your new puppy can be quite a change in your puppy's life and your puppy won't have the antioxidants it used to have while nursing. So let's take look at your future puppy a bit closer. If your puppy is recently weaned, it may not be receiving all of the strong nutrients and antioxidants like they used to during weaning. This, along with the added stress of rehoming, can be a bit concerning for your puppy's health. With all that your new puppy is experiencing during this period of time, it is important for us to watch them closely and get their immune system up so they can naturally fight off certain ailments such as environmental and food toxins like backyard pesticides, hormones, and germs from public places. You may be thinking, "WOW, sounds pretty worrisome! These supplements come in a wafer or powder form. The wafer form can even be offered as a treat since puppies enjoy the taste so much. With these supplement boosts you can rest easier knowing you are improving your new puppy's overall health. NuVet Plus has natural ingredients and they go to great lengths to create this product in a safe yet effective form. We have not found any alternative that we recommend more! We suggest taking advantage of this product and ordering NuVet Plus even before your puppy is either delivered or picked up. When ordering, use code for our special discount.

The GRE has been built on the life-long love and dedication we've felt, and continue to feel, for the countless Golden Retrievers that have graced our lives, each and every one our beloved pet. It is this goldie love that we want to share with the world, especially those who aren't fortunate enough to own a dog themselves, by inviting people to join our incredible pack for some much-needed doggy cuddles. Founded by the UK's own Dog Whisperer, Nicolas Grant-St James, our dogs are impeccably trained and endlessly affectionate, and we are positive that you will walk away having had one of the best experiences of your life - and wishing you were taking your favourite dog home with you. NB: We accommodate to those with Autism and any other social, behavioural or learning disabilities. We can also help blind and deaf clients, elderly patients, and patients recovering from brain injury ABI. Just ask us how our miraculous healing Goldies can help you. In , they decided to have their first litter of puppies with Bella. Through this, they sold their pedigree Golden Retriever puppies up until , but probably ended up keeping more puppies than they sold! Having learnt so much about Golden Retrievers and Dog Behaviour through the process of raising their goldies, they also decided to form The Dog Whisperer UK to teach dog owners how to use dog psychology to understand their dogs and how to train them. As their lives became more and more dog-related, their pack grew with them and they ended up with a Golden Retriever's paradise in Exmoor National Park. Following countless suggestions that they should open their "Disneyland for Dogs" to the public, The GRE was finally formed, enabling dog-lovers to share in their 'puppy love'. Find us on Tripadvisor. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data. Experience the Joys of Owning a Dog Experience the Joys of Owning a Dog Experience the Joys of Owning a Dog If you've been considering dog ownership, why not find out what it's really like with us before making that big commitment. That's why we entrust them to resolve your fear of dogs within our specially controlled environment. Or know someone who has? Many people who are bereaving find it very therapeutic coming to The GRE because they are reminded of the joys of having had their pet and receive the healing love and attention they've been missing. We're based in the quiet countryside of Exmoor National Park, surrounded by rolling hills with a 10 minute walk to the beach. Makes a perfect Wedding Gift and we do Gift Certificates. You can book out our grounds dogs included of course for up to 6 hours of dog-filled fun. Enquire below. Additional Expertise and Accessibility Learning, Social and Behavioural Difficulties Additional Expertise and Accessibility We have experience working with the blind, elderly patients and children and adults with Down syndrome. The GRE is fully wheelchair accessible and we have ample parking for minibuses and coaches. We'd love to see all of you at The GRE but we don't accept walk-ins because we have a limited capacity, all bookings must be made in advance via the 'book now' button on our website. If you want to book, please press the 'book now' button on the bottom of your screen. Otherwise, fill out this form and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Please note that we are not offering 3-hour sessions for Summer but please get in touch if you still have a 3-hour gift certificate to use. Are you the owner of the business? Especially the come and buy campaigns are awesome! You can get detailed answers about all kinds of pet products from relevant and knowledgeable people. The only address we have been shopping for years without any doubt, I recommend it to everyone. There are aquarium fish. It's definitely run by people who know their business. If you go and shop at the store, you will benefit from low prices. There is a wide product spectrum in terms of pet needs. I advise. Lilian Staneva: Good store. They don't have everything that is listed online, though. Aden Aden: The gentleman who owns it is very interested. Its products are of good quality. I always go and shop with peace of mind. Golden Maystro: The prices of the products sold in the shop should not be different from the prices of the products bought on the internet. The price tag of the products are very high too. Owners who claim their businesses can update their profile details, add photos, respond to reviews, and more. Request your free profile now 4. Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved. Located just 7 miles north of Covington, LA. For over 40 years, we have been providing the people of Louisiana with some of the finest Golden Retrievers. Fifteen years ago, we integrated Golden Doodles into our breeding program. If you are looking to add a member to your family, contact Hunnington Farms today. We have puppies for sale that are looking for that perfect home. Hunnington Farms is a breeding facility that believes in breeding the finest animals. We are a family-owned farm that started breeding dogs purely out of love for the animals. The way our dogs have always enriched our lives and assisted in running our farm made us want to breed the same dogs. We firmly believe the best possible dog breed for a single owner or a family with children are Golden Doodles and Golden Retrievers. No matter what trait you are looking for in your next pet, Hunnington Farms breeds the perfect dog for you. If a loyal, fun loving, ultra obedient and a true lifelong friend is what you want, we have the finest Golden Retriever puppies in Louisiana. If you? Thank you for visiting our website. Here you will find valuable information on the breeds we provide and the puppies we have for sale. We are a full service farm that has transformed a small portion into our breeding haven. We follow all AKC breeding requirements and go the extra mile to provide every home with the highest quality pet. All of our breeding dogs are OFA certified for hips, patellas, elbows, dental, and heart. We look forward to hearing from you. Learn About The Breeds.

We post photos on facebook so visit and like our page. Welcome to Puppy Patch Doodles Inc. We are a proud breeder of the Multigeneration Australian Labradoodles. We fell in love with the Labradoodle in .I spent the first few years researching the breed, to ensure that we started with the best possible breeding dogs, I have never looked back! Our Doodles are cherished members of our family, thus they are raised in our home. They are not kept in kennels. They have the run of our homes and yards. They sleep indoors; in our beds. Puppy Patch Labradoodles are extensively health tested and our puppies come with a 2 year health guarantee. Our dogs and puppies receive meticulous care and live in immaculate facilities. We strive to conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity. We strive to improve this breed by producing the highest quality dogs possible. We select only the best dogs to use in our breeding program.If you are looking for a top quality Multi-generation Australian Labradoodle you have come to the right place. We select only the best dogs to use in our breeding program. By doing this it ensures we are only breeding the best doodle puppies. You can be assured that your puppy comes from well-tested parents. When you adopt from Puppy Patch Labradoodles I am confident you are going to get the best family companion available. Family raised authentic Multi-gen Australian Labradoodles. First and foremost bred for temperament and of course beauty. Well socialized from the very beginning of life until they leave us at 8 weeks. I am confident in providing non-shedding hypoallergenic pups. Our Doodles make the best family pets, therapy and service dogs. We do extensive health testing. We belong to the best and follow the highest standards. Puppy Patch Labradoodles Email: click to email About our Puppies Our Australian Labradoodles are allergy and asthma friendly with low to non-shedding coats. A cross between a labrador and a poodle and multi-generational, our puppies are thoroughly socialized. Please browse our site to see the latest puppy litters and our breeder policies. Recent News. Showing 1 - 31 of 31 resultsPage 1 - 31 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. The puppies will be pounds full grown. Mom Callie- is cream.Vet check, first vaccines, and several rounds of deworming complete! Both Mom and stud have completed genetic testing. Males and.Our Babies are.What a beautiful litter! Visit us on our website.We have a variety of beautiful colors to choose from, with three males males are the.One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.Victoria This fabulous tri phantom F2b Labradoodle needs a guardian home. He is 8 weeks old as of September 4th. His expected weight is around 30 pounds. Also featured in the photos are his parents. He will.I am Vet checked, first shots and dewormed. They call me Chunky Monkey for now, because I was the.Please Contact Gorgeous F1b medium labradoodle puppies Mission Waitlist opportunity for gorgeous F1b labradoodle puppies. Date of birth November and available to rehome early January perfect Christmas presents! Mom is a 50lb F1 labradoodle. She is very.There are more pups than we took reservations for, so we have some extra spots on the list. Fill in an application on our website. Mom Oakklie 45 pounds is a parchment multi gen labradoodle and father Buddy 38 pounds is a multi gen double.There are 2 girls and 5 boys! We are accepting reservations for these stunning.Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Please Contact Waitlist! Join our waitlist for future litters Ready October by completing a puppy application! Previous litters have.ONLY 5 Left. They are vet checked and shots done. As of today, Sept. I have been waiting for many many years for this litter. I imagined up for myself the perfect retriever dog. My perfect companion dog, family.She wants to play with my old dog but the difference in size makes my old dog scared and refuses

Our organization was founded in by volunteers that are paid only through the unconditional love from the dogs that we save! We do not have a central shelter or location; all of our dogs are housed with the dedicated foster homes Sunshine Boxer Rescue West Melbourne FL 0 mile away Sunshine Boxer Rescue is a non-profit, volunteer dog rescue organization serving Brevard and Volusia Counties in Florida. We strive to rescue, medically rehabilitate, and re-home unwanted and abandoned Boxers, as well as providing education to pet owners. We place dogs in loving, responsible, committed permanent homes, following a comprehensive adoption process which includes taking considerable c Purrs And Whiskers Shelter, Inc. PAWS is a non-profit c 3, all-volunteer organization. We are dedicated to helping cats and kittens through rescue and fostering from our personal homes at considerable costs to our foster people. Our only source of funding is from donations, we are not government-funded. PAWS was established in , and has placed over cats and kittens. We are one of the centers operated by the Brevard County Sheriff's Office. We are committed to building lifelong bonds between people and animals through education, community outreach programs and the prevention of cruelty. We are part of a statewide network that tries to help place this magnificent breed in loving new homes. Many of our Shelties are recovering from neglect, abuse or have been abandoned by people they loved. Palm Bay FL 5. We are an all volunteer, Foster home based, No-Kill Rescue group focused on finding homes for orphaned and abandoned dogs. Most of the animals in our care come to us neglected, with broken bones and broken spirits, some have been starved, some beaten, while others have just been dumped at a kill-shelter. A place to meet these needs of placing, rehabilitating, and providing a home for unwanted exotic birds to flourish in a healthy tropical setting. Too many animals are euthanized in the shelters in Brevard County. Brevard should strive to become a no-kill County, doing all it can to find homes for the animals in need. Our cats are free to roam inside our facility. We always strive to provide individual attention to all of our animals until they can be placed in caring, loving, lifetime homes. Melbourne FL 9. Specifically, we take in animals from the euthanasia lines and foster them in private homes indefinitely until they are adopted. SVPR advocates the spaying and neutering of all domestic dogs and cats as well as feral cats - in accordance with federal law. The Last Chance Sanctuary is no-kill, non-profit c 3 organization. Our Brevard County based group consists solely of volunteers who share the passion for supporting Trap-Neuter-Release TNR efforts for community eg, feral cats as well as helping homeless animals to find loving homes. Our group consists solely of volunteers who share the passion for helping homeless animals to find loving homes. Cocoa FL .Our mission is to help with the re-homing of displaced Great Danes and providing ongoing education regarding responsible Dane ownership and care. Great Danes in foster care live in foster homes, not a shelter. Email address will not be published : Display Name:. We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Poodle puppies for sale near West Melbourne? Poodles are an incredibly fascinating and unique breed of dog that have been around for centuries. They boast a unique combination of athleticism, intelligence, and beauty that many other breeds of dogs simply cannot match. Poodles come in a variety of sizes and coat types, including their iconic 'poodle cut. With Poodle puppies for sale in West Melbourne, what is their coat like? Poodles have a variety of coat types and colors. They typically have a curly, dense outer coat with a soft, downy undercoat that's designed to insulate them from the cold. The thickness and length of the coat can vary depending on the type of Poodle; a toy or miniature Poodle usually has shorter fur, while a standard Poodle generally has a longer, thicker coat. Technically, all coats are "hypoallergenic" because the hair does not shed. What do West Melbourne Poodle puppies for sale eat? Poodles require a well-balanced diet rich in quality proteins and healthy fats. Avoid giving your Poodle an excessive amount of treats as this can lead to obesity and long-term health risks. Additionally, most Poodles enjoy playing with puzzle toys or slow-feeders filled with nutritious treats. How do I prepare to adopt Poodle puppies in West Melbourne? Preparing for your new Poodle starts before they even arrive! Make sure you have essential basics such as a crate, bed, food, treats, toys, brush and leash. Additionally, you should get a collar with tags that include their name, your name, address, and phone number. It is recommended to have your Poodle spayed or neutered to control pet overpopulation and reduce bad behavior. Finally, brush up on the basics of how to train and care for your pet. Get acquainted with how to feed them, groom them, establish house rules, and develop a schedule. Are Poodles for sale in West Melbourne considered small dogs? Poodles are generally recognised as small-sized dogs, especially Toy and Miniature Poodles. According to the American Kennel Club breed standard for the Poodle breed, Toy Poodles must weigh no more than 6 pounds and have a maximum height of up to 10 inches, and Miniature Poodles must weigh between pounds and have a maximum height of 15 inches. How much exercise do Poodle puppies near West Melbourne need? Poodles require a decent amount of exercise and physical activity on a daily basis. They are energetic dogs that need proper stimulation or else they could display signs of restlessness or boredom. A general rule of thumb is to offer at least one hour of quality exercise daily. This may include engaging activities such as walking, running, swimming, playing fetch, hide-and-seek, and agility training. It's important to remember that different sizes of Poodles need different amounts of exercise. For example, smaller Poodles e. Do Poodles in West Melbourne get along with other pets? Poodles are generally quite sociable, and tend to get along well with other pets such as cats and dogs. They may need space for their own unique playtime and quiet moments, but will usually establish an amicable relationship with other animals. Some owners may find that their poodles show a bit of jealousy if their attention is focused too much on another pet, so simply being aware of this tendency and ensuring that each pet gets plenty of individual attention is the best way of helping them live together happily. How do I train my West Melbourne Poodles for sale? Training a Poodle involves a lot of patience and consistency. It is important to understand how a Poodle learns and what motivates it to learn. Be sure to introduce new commands gradually and remember to offer rewards for positive behavior. Socialization is key when training a Poodle. It should be exposed to a variety of people, animals, activities, and environments in order to be confident and well-behaved. Make sure to have multiple short training sessions for best results. Aim to focus on only one command at a time and be sure to give plenty of praise when they do something right.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. What to Feed German Shepherd Puppies: A Healthy Feeding Guide One of the first things you need to know about what to feed German Shepherd puppies is, right from the start, to choose a high-quality puppy-specific food for large breed puppies. What to feed German Shepherd puppies—feed German Shepherd puppies a diet that is: Specifically created for large-breed puppies. What do German Shepherd puppies eat? New owners are given a host of choices when bringing home their new pups. You can choose to offer one or the other, or even opt for mixed feeding. Dry Kibble Kibble is the most popular and economical choice for German Shepherd puppies. Plus, the major manufacturers offer a complete and balanced diet in many different flavors, with or without grains, and even limited ingredient diets. Kibble can be moistened either with water or broth. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of kibble when it comes to feeding German Shepherd puppies: Advantages Easy to purchase at most stores and online. Keeps for longer than other food options. Quick and simple to serve with little clean up. Disadvantages Can be difficult for some puppies to chew, causing them to not eat enough. Wet Food Here are some advantages and disadvantages of feeding German Shepherd puppies wet food : Advantages Softer and potentially more palatable for picky eaters. Contains more water content than dry food, which can help keep your puppy hydrated. Can leave dogs feeling fuller for longer due to the water content. Can be more expensive than kibble in the long run. Requires more preparation time. Mixing Dry Kibble and Wet Foods Feeding our German Shepherd puppies is no easy task, and deciding between wet and dry puppy food can leave us scratching our heads. But what if we told you there was a middle ground? Mixing wet and dry puppy foods can be an option worth considering, but it comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Wet food contributes to increased water intake, ensuring your furry friend stays well-hydrated. Allows you to provide a diverse array of nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet for your growing German Shepherd. Disadvantages Might make it trickier to regulate portion sizes accurately, potentially leading to overfeeding and weight issues. These diets exclude foods that have been cooked or processed in any way. There are also some advantages and disadvantages to feeding a German Shepherd puppy a raw food diet: Advantages Raw diets consist of uncooked, fresh ingredients that retain their natural nutrients, potentially promoting better health for your puppy. Some puppies with food sensitivities might find relief on a raw diet as it eliminates common allergens found in processed foods. Disadvantages Preparing a balanced raw diet requires careful planning to ensure your pup gets all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions. Raw diets carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination, potentially affecting both your pup and you. Sourcing high-quality ingredients and properly storing them can be costly and time-consuming. Homemade Diets For large breed puppies, like German Shepherds, homemade diets must be carefully formulated, just like commercial foods. To create a homemade diet recipe specifically for your dog, it is preferable to consult a veterinarian who holds a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Unfortunately, research has shown that many well-intentioned dog owners still overfeed or give their dogs an unbalanced diet, which can be harmful. By cooking at home, you can skip additives and preservatives often found in commercial dog food. Disadvantages Without proper knowledge and planning, homemade meals may lack essential nutrients, leading to nutritional imbalances. Preparing homemade food demands time and effort, which might be challenging for busy pet parents. Mishandling raw ingredients can lead to contamination, causing health issues for your puppy. Remember, these charts help provide a guideline, but each dog is an individual. For example, if your dog has had a busy day of training and playing, they may need a few extra calories for dinner. This helps ensure they are growing as expected, and if not, you may need to alter the recommended feeding amount. As a rule of thumb, most German Shepherd puppies will eat as follows in this chart: Age. How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppy diet: newborn For a German Shepherd puppy to develop and grow properly, it is imperative that they first nurse on their mother's milk. The first milk they receive is a protein and antibody-rich type of milk known as colostrum. This gives the puppy's immune and central nervous systems a boost. They then progress on to regular breast milk. Puppies will nurse for at least 6 to 8 weeks, gradually being weaned on to solid food at about 4 weeks. If, for any reason, the puppy cannot suckle its mother, don't give them cow or goat milk. These milks are very poor quality in comparison to a puppy's mother's milk. If your German shepherd puppy has to be prematurely weaned, a veterinarian will be able to prescribe specific infant formula and establish the appropriate dosage for your puppy. For example, a Chihuahua and a German Shepherd should not be fed the same food. This is because hese breeds have different nutritional needs. Take a look here to find out more about the diet for a prematurely weaned puppy. German Shepherd puppy diet: 1 month old From 3 to 4 weeks old, when it comes to feeding a German Shepherd puppy, we should start by letting them taste new foods and flavors. At this stage, the German Shepherd puppy's diet plan requires them to eat a special wet food for puppies. At around 6 to 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy should be given a little dry dog food with water, or unseasoned chicken stock between nursing sessions. From their eighth week onward, a German Shepherd should be weaned and start feeding on solid food with a special puppy feed. The best dog food for a German Shepherd puppy is breed specific, but this may not be available everywhere. In these cases, your veterinarian can create a proper food plan for your German Shepherd puppy. At this stage, milk must be removed from the puppy's diet as it could cause diarrhea. If by any chance your dog or puppy is suffering from a bad stomach, we recommend taking a look at our article on what to do if yourt dog has diarrhea. In addition, it is vital that puppies have constant access to clean fresh water. German Shepherd puppy diet: 2 months old At two months of age, you can start to slowly decrease the moistening of your German Shepherd's dry food. Eventually, the puppy will be used to eating the food completely dry. Following the German Shepherd puppy food chart, from 2 until 4 months old, a puppy will eat 4 or 5 times a day. This has to be carried out with one very important addition: discipline. A puppy needs to learn that it will not be fed constantly throughout the day, but at specific times. We start of by placing a bowl of food down for 10 minutes, this should give the puppy enough time to finish its meal. After 10 minutes, we suggest taking the bowl of food away, even if your puppy hasn't finished eating. A puppy's food bowl must only be available to the dog for 10 minutes. This 10 minutes should be enough time for the puppy to eat all of its provided food. As already mentioned, after 10 minutes, you should take the food bowl away, even if the puppy hasn't finished eating. This pattern will introduce the puppy's food schedule and allow it an opportunity to become accustomed to particular feeding times. Accepting and adapting to a diet plan is very important for a puppy's intellectual development. It also facilitates more complex and demanding training sessions. Food for German shepherd puppies should be higher in calories, fats, proteins and calcium than adult German Shepherd dog food. This is because puppies are still growing and developing and therefore need better nutrition. German Shepherd puppy diet: food plan after 4 months Between 4 and 6 months of age, the number of meals which we have detailed in our German Shepherd puppy food chart should be reduced to 3 a day. The food quantity should be increased and an extra margin of 2 minutes to eat should be provided. The packaging of quality commercial dog food will detail the appropriate suggested amount of food for the puppy, depending on its age and weight. If you have any doubts, consult your veterinarian. You should eventually start mixing fresh food, such as meat, fish or vegetables, with the commercial dry feed. Beware of forbidden foods for dogs. Some people ask about a raw diet for a German shepherd puppy, but we recommend these such foods should always be cooked and never given to a dog raw. Meanwhile, treats for dogs should only be used as positive reinforcement during their training and learning period, never as a food supplement. Under no circumstances should you give your German Shepherd, or any dog, human food leftovers. Human food contains salt, sugar and seasoning contents which are very harmful to a dog's health. In addition, if you do offer your dog your food, it will pester you during meals [1]. For more, take a look at some of the harmful effects of treating a dog like a human. German Shepherd puppy diet: after 6 months When your German Shepherd puppy reaches 6 months of age, its daily food intake should be reduced to twice a day. When we do this we can increase the food portions and eating time accordingly. Our German Shepherd diet chart below should be taken into account depending on the age, lifestyle and size of your German Shepherd puppy. After 6 months, you should give your German Shepherd puppy shatterproof bones, such as beef, to gnaw on. For more, take a look here for more about; Bones For Puppies. German shepherd puppy: Dog food and water bowl hygiene Your puppy's food and drink containers should always be clean. Hygiene is very important in order to prevent the appearance of insects. If you notice that your puppy has not eaten for three consecutive meals, consult your veterinarian immediately. This lack of appetite in a puppy could be caused by bowel obstruction and stomach pain; due to the ingestion of toxic food etc. Don't forget that puppies are very sensitive and fragile and if you ignoring any symptoms of disease, it can result in severe issues or even puppy fatality. German Shepherd care German Shepherd puppies should be socialized and trained to live with you from day one. These dogs are incredibly capable and have the ability, if trained properly, to learn tricks and perform activities [2]. In addition to the diet of a German Shepherd, don't forget the importance of preventative medicines, following the appropriate vaccination schedules and general German Shepherd dog care. For more information about your German shepherd, take a look at.Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.