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As always patterns are just the icing on the GSD cake!! Blue long coat with Panda type 1 pattern Another example of 2 patterns at once, this one has color and 2 patterns. Panda German Shepherd Information I had never heard the term Panda German Shepherd much less know of their existence until my best friend Dawn got one. Her name was Franka. It is a dominant gene which means it only takes one parent to reproduce the pattern. The pattern is secondary to the color and the original pattern of the Dog. Puddin was born here and lived with another breeder for a couple of years and is now back home. He is a big sweet always wants to be right with me Chocolate Teddy bear. He is a 7th generation GSD with the Panda pattern. Currently being bred to a few select girls. His photo is below sitting facing the camera. I have onwed several Panda Patterned GSD over the years and find that many like the white markings as it helps the breed to have a sweeter expression so to speak. Some people are afraid of GSD visually, however with the white pattern on them their appear less intimidating. Some that do therapy work prefer the softer look that the white pattern provides. Others cant have a GSD as per insurance reasons but can have mixes, by the GSD having the white pattern insurance companies can be told they are a 'mix'. Even though we know they are not. After all we know that a good GSD will deter and even prevent breaking and entering more times than being an actual Shame on insurance companies for preventing families that want to keep their things and family safe. The Panda gene does not change any internal workings of the GSD, it is merly a white pattern over the color that would normally be there if this gene were not present. Any health issues that crop up are or would be due to anything other than the Panda gene itself. Panda's can have one blue eye, partial China eyes, 2 blue eyes or traditional colored eyes that accompany the actual coat color of the GSD. UCDavis currently has a test on the market that is available to the public now to see if what you have had born in your litter is affected by the Panda gene or the white spotting gene. My recommendation is to test for the recessive white spotting gene and the Panda gene, so that you will know which gene caused the white spotting on your dog. So when you sell your puppy you advertise it for what it is and not as something it is not Panda. Remember all Panda's are related as they stem from one dog named Franka. The test a simple cheek swab. Scroll through the albums and if you do not find what you are looking for please send me a message. Keep in mind you do not have to have a facebook page to see this page. Panda German Shepherds are simply uniquely colored offspring in a Shepherd line. These shepherds show unique markings of symmetrical black and white coloring, mostly around the face, often resembling markings of a panda bear. This coloring amongst other animals is known as Piebald. Out of that discovery, it was shown that future GSD breeding prospects could be tested in order to tell if they had a chance of producing panda offspring. This means that they have the same health record as their lineage. The overall health is dependent on the breeder in which the Panda came from, as is with all purebred dogs. Panda German Shepherds health depends on their lineage. A responsible breeder who genuinely cares about the outcome and health of their dogs will not breed dogs that are predisposed to health issues. However, there are certain health issues that German Shepherds including Pandas can have due to their build. Such things as hip dysplasia can be bred out of a line but because it is so prominent, it can skip generations or even littermates. A common health issue among German Shepherds that cannot be bred out is bloat. This happens due to the size of the breed, and is found among other large and giant breed dogs with deep chests. As mentioned above, the only difference between the Panda and the German Shepherd is their coloring. Per dogbreedinfo. Strong rich colors are preferred. Pale, washed-out colors and blues or livers are serious fault. A white dog must be disqualified. Therefore, it is rare. And because of that rarity breeders who bank on the mutation often are not in it for the health of the dogs, unfortunately. Things to consider before getting a Panda German Shepard There are several things to consider if looking to adopt a Panda German Shepherd. The first, know what you are getting into! Have you ever had a German Shepherd before? While they are known to be loyal, confident, and make great guard dogs, they require a lot of exercise, training, and socialization. The owner of a Panda German Shepherd should not just be worried about the looks of the dog, although that is the main reason most people are attracted to the Panda. When looking for a reputable Panda German Shepherd breeder it is essential that you do your research. Find a breeder that is in it for the good of the breed. A good breeder will do health testing on all of their breed stock. A GSD breeder will focus on common health issues and temperament of their dogs. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals recommends German Shepherds be tested for both hip and elbow dysplasia. The German Shepherd Dog Club of America also states that conscientious breeders are to breed for temperament, confirmation, and trainability. In comparison to a black and tan German Shepherd, this is rather expensive. It is no doubt that this steep purchase price is due to supply and demand. Because the Panda is so rare, when born, they are often spoken for before their eyes even open. While the black and white markings of the Panda German Shepherd are undoubtedly beautiful, are they worth paying the extra price? German Shepherds are highly driven dogs that need specialized care and are not suitable for uneducated owners. The Panda should be reserved for those that have a love for the breed itself and want to own a beautiful dog that they know how to properly care for. Once an ethical breeder is found, the prospective owner should be sure the Panda is healthy, has a good temperament, and is trainable. It is only then that a Panda should be owned, trained, loved, and cared for, by a responsible owner. It does not differ much in its temperaments and qualities from its black-and-tan counterparts. The only distinctive difference is the unusual color of the coat with black-and-white symmetrical markings on the body and especially around its eyes. These markings remind people of panda coloring. A Panda GSD is a perfect match for experienced dog lovers, but it needs a lot of training. So, it may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. Because these dogs are quite rare, the Panda German Shepherd price is a bit higher than that of a common German Shepherd. Be sure that you buy your pet from a reputable breeder who can provide you with all the required documentation, including DNA testing for a puppy and its parents. It involves immunization, neutering or spaying , feeding, accessories, and training. We have compiled the main appearance and behavioral characteristics, exercising, feeding, health care needs, and training tips for this amazing dog. We hope that you will learn a lot of helpful things from this article. Beowulf was the father of about puppies. However, the first panda-colored German Shepherd was bred unintentionally in the United States in .Cindy Whitaker received it from a black-and-tan father and solid black mother who were AKC-registered. Though there were doubts about whether the panda dog was purebred, the DNA testing held by the AKC proved that it was. The breeders noticed that the coloring is similar to the piebald one in other breeds. In , UC Davis discovered the reason for this mutation. The gene can also influence the pigmentation cells called melanocytes. White spotting is caused by their lack in certain areas of the coat. Nevertheless, this mutation is dominant in GSDs. The white color is shown minimally on the tail, but forms a white ring on the muzzle, and is spread across the chest. It can also be a collar around the neck. The Panda gene can also produce lethality in its two copies that kill the embryo. Some Panda Shepherds can have black-and-tan, solid black, blue, or liver as base colors. You can also encounter such mutations in liver and tans, blue and tans, and silver and tans. Appearance and Characteristic Features Typical Panda German Shepherd dogs look the same as their other counterparts, with possible differences in body shape. They are characterized by a large head with a slight dome-shaped forehead, big upright ears, and a strong muscular body and thick legs. White fur is usually displayed on the muzzle, chest, belly, collar area, and the end of a tail on the basic black-and-tan coloring. The other characteristic features include strong bodies that are longer than their height, heads that are proportional to bodies, almond-shaped eyes, and strong nails on muscular and heavy feet. Males are usually inches cm tall, while females are a bit smaller — with a height of inches cm. Males weigh pounds kg and females weigh pounds kg. The life span of these Shepherds is years if they are properly fed and exercised. A Panda Shepherd female usually has puppies in a litter. Some of them can be fully white, and others may even be of a common GS color. Though, there may be long-haired Panda German Shepherd dogs. These pups are double-coated with the upper coat that is much thicker and the underneath layer which is very soft. Just brush it once in several days and more frequently during their heavy shedding periods in spring and autumn. You need to be very confident too while training them because they need a leading influence, or they will start displaying disobedience. Their characteristics are perfect for performing services in police, military, agility, tracking, guarding, herding, guiding, and Schutzhund. They can also become great family pets who are good to kids if socialized early and supervised properly. These are high-energy dogs that need a lot of about two hours daily exercising. They also need continuous training and ongoing mental stimulation. Initially, a Panda German Shepherd puppy can display aggression toward other dogs and smaller animals as well as toward strangers if not properly socialized. Panda Shepherds prefer to spend time with their owners and family. They suffer when left alone, so it may lead to some behavioral problems in the future. When trained, the recommendations are to perform tracking, herding, agility, and dock diving with them to keep the animals physically fit and mentally energized. Panda Shepherds are very smart and intelligent. They also have strong noses to sniff contraband, drugs, weapons, and dangerous intruders. They can bored quickly, so mental stimulation is a perfect method to avoid that. If not stimulated, they may become either timid or destructive. These pups are very loyal to their owners and will fiercely protect them from intruders. If they are properly trained, they can distinguish between threatening and non-threatening intrusions, so they will perform aggression only if their owner is in trouble. Panda dogs are pretty confident. They are always alert about their surroundings. Such a pup enjoys discovering new things and learning new experiences. The unique characteristic feature of these animals is that they can become very shy if their owner is not a confident leader. Such dogs are considered faulty according to canine standards. Their shyness can be a problem because, when frightened, they can display immense aggression toward other humans and animals. Exercising and Training The first question to ask yourself if you choose to acquire a Panda German Shepherd is whether you can deal with it. Remember that your potential pet is very energetic and curious. You will need to exercise and train it a lot, always challenging it with new tasks. When left on your own, this dog will get bored, frustrated, and even depressed. That can lead to heavy misbehavior or aggression in the future. These German Shepherds hate staying alone at home. They cannot be too active inside, so think about whether you have time to walk and play with your doggy. Or, if you are planning to leave it for a long time, get prepared to see your home topsy-turvy. Playing and exercising outside is a must for this Shepherd. You should run, jog, swim, and ride a bike with it for at least two hours per day. Or you can play fetch, frisbee, or joint games with other dogs. The only thing is that you need to monitor your dog and rule it properly when it is playing with other animals to ensure that it behaves properly. You need a backyard or a nearby park for walks. However, if you are a first-time dog owner , you may not be confident about how to exercise and train your dog. That is why, if you insist on this breed, try to find puppy training classes. They will teach your pup the basic commands and socialization with other animals and people in a safe environment. It can forget everything it was taught in the classes or not be able to transfer these skills to your home environment. Panda GSDs are pretty intelligent, and they will do their best to please their owner. Reinforce your pet positively while training and give it rewards in the form of praise and treats. Your doggy will learn quickly what is acceptable and what is unacceptable for you. So, you will receive a properly behaving Shepherd soon if you are persistent enough. Consistency is one more thing you need to practice in your relationships with your pet. Your reactions to its misbehavior should be the same all the time. For example, if your puppy is taught not to jump at people, tell your friends that they should not allow it to jump at them either, or your doggy can be confused with such different reactions. If your little Shepherd misbehaves, your best reaction should be to ignore it. Socialization training is important for a Panda German Shepherd puppy from a very early age. It should be socialized with different people, other animals, little kids, strange objects, and changing locations. You may also take obedience classes with your puppy. They will teach it to be confident and structured in its behavior. Feeding Feed your panda-colored German Shepherd with high-quality dog food. It should include a lot of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins for better growth and more energy. Be very attentive when you choose the food. It can differ as specialized food for puppies, juniors, adults, and seniors. If you feel that your budget is rather restricted, it is better not to get a German Shepherd because, if you choose low-quality food, your pet will suffer from numerous diseases soon, and you will have to spend a lot on veterinarian bills. How much should you feed your doggy? Adults Panda German Shepherds consume from 3. It is better to feed your dog twice per day, with continuous access to fresh water. Though, you should weigh your pet to check it in accordance with the weight chart. You may see that it is either overweight or underweight. In this case, talk to your vet. Remember that how much your GSD eats depends on its age, size, and activity level. Health Concerns Like all other more traditional German Shepherds, this variety of dogs can suffer from certain diseases, including hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, keratitis, and sometimes, epilepsy. Degenerative myelopathy is a genetic disease that affects the spinal cord. It can lead to weakness in the hind legs and even paralysis. The first signs of this disease can display when the dog is 4 years old. However, when it is well-cared, you can observe them much later, at the age of years old, or they will not show up at all. Hip dysplasia results from poor growth of the ball and socket joints in the hips. Joints become loose, and the dog gets osteoarthritis which leads to lameness. This disease is, unfortunately, common in most large breeds with a weight of more than kg. Apart from German Shepherds, it can also affect Golden Retrievers. It is also an inherited condition, however, you can minimize it with proper nutrition and exercise. Bloat is a life-threatening condition characteristic of most big dog breeds with a wide chest. The stomach twists and the blood cannot get to all the organs. The condition can be lethal, so it is strongly recommended to feed your pet in smaller portions twice a day to slow down the pace of eating and improve digestion. Keratitis is an inflammation of the eye cornea. You will need special drops and ointments to treat it. If properly treated, it goes away in a week. Though, if ignored, keratitis can influence deeper layers of the eye and lead to blindness. Epilepsy is a heavy brain disorder that results in severe seizures. It is not so common in Panda Shepherds. In general, it can affect only 0. The disease is also genetic, or there may be some other stressful causes that provoke it. This condition whose roots are unknown is called idiopathic epilepsy. It is the most common disease in German Shepherds. You will need anti-epileptic drugs, such as potassium bromide or phenobarbital to treat the symptoms of this disease. These dogs are purebred. The unusual color is a result of the gene mutation but not of mixing breeds. Moreover, it cannot be considered a designer breed, either. These dogs have exactly the same characteristics as their counterparts of another, more traditional, color. They are also prone to the same health issues. However, you should be cautious while buying a Panda German Shepherd puppy and demand specific documentation about the little one and its parents from a reputable breeder. Are Panda German Shepherds rare? It seems that such panda-colored German Shepherds are rather rare. This is the rarest color of the coat in Shepherds. In fact, the fur is tricolor, but the large area of it is white. It is striking and looks very beautiful. The color is connected to the piebald gene, common in other dog breeds. How big do Panda German Shepherds get? German Shepherds, including panda-colored ones, belong to big dog breeds. Males grow as tall as inches cm and females are inches cm tall. The weight of males ranges between 75 and 95 pounds kg , and females weigh pounds kg. It is intelligent, loyal, and confident. It can become a stunning companion and reliable family member. That is why these dogs are often used in the military and by police, or as caring guides for the blind. However, getting such a doggy is not recommended to first-time owners and people who are not confident in their dog training skills. These pets need a lot of your time and energy, and you cannot leave them alone for a lengthy time. Your pet will need at least two hours of exercise every day, so be sure that you will have enough time for it. If properly trained and cared for, a Panda GSD makes a great choice for every dog lover. 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. Most do just fine on high-quality commercial food. Of course, some dogs may have specific health conditions that need to be managed through diet. If your dog has a chronic condition, ask your vet if they should be consuming a specific food. These are large dogs, so it is crucial to choose a puppy food specifically designed for larger breeds. Puppies growing into larger dogs often need less of certain nutrients to ensure that they grow correctly. For instance, large dogs need less calcium than smaller puppies. If they consume too much, they may be at greater risk for hip dysplasia and similar conditions. Besides their nutritional needs as puppies, German Shepherds do not need any specific nutrition. Often, this is simply a marketing ploy. Most breed-specific recipes have very few differences from regular dog food. They have high exercise needs and are only recommended for active families. Panda German Shepherds have the exact needs as any other German Shepherd, as their genetic mutation only affects their coloration. You should plan on exercising your German Shepherd for at least two hours a day. This exercise can involve walks, playtime, active training, and a variety of other activities. Often, we recommend combining mental stimulation with physical exercise. Consider things like agility training or even just training while you walk. You should spread the exercise out throughout the day. A lack of exercise can cause all sorts of problems. Destructive behavior is often the result of too little exercise. Your canine may become bored and decide your couch leg looks very tasty. In many cases, these dogs were specifically bred to train efficiently and quickly. Unlike some other breeds, they will often respond to commands in real-life situations with ease. Their need to please often overrides everything else. However, these dogs do need training. If they are not trained, it is easy for them to get bored. This boredom can cause destructive behavior. Due to their high intelligence, they must be mentally stimulated throughout the day. Training is the easiest way to do this, though you can also make use of puzzle toys. Furthermore, these dogs are highly protective of their owners. They can become aggressive if they are not socialized as puppies. Puppy classes are highly recommended, as they can provide socialization alongside the training your puppy needs. As with many dogs, proper training is key to having a well-behaved German Shepherd. They also shed quite a bit, so their grooming needs can be pretty high. However, you will need to stay on top of their coat care. Otherwise, you may need to pay a professional to help you catch up. You should brush your German Shepherd a few times a week. This is necessary for their overall well-being. Otherwise, dead hair, dirt, and debris can quickly build up in their coat. Bathing can also cause skin sensitivities and itchiness. Dogs were not meant to be bathed very often. Most German Shepherds do not mat. However, some with long hair might develop a few tangles. This predisposition makes brushing them even more critical. Some lines are healthier than others. Dogs bred as working animals tend to be the healthiest, as they were made with a practical purpose in mind. Luckily, many health tests can be performed on German Shepherds before they are bred. These health tests ensure that only the healthiest dogs are bred together. Be sure to ask the breeder you are purchasing from for this health testing information. German Shepherds are prone to quite a few health conditions. Hip dysplasia is prevalent, especially amongst dogs with sloped backs. Hip and elbow dysplasia can cause arthritis-like symptoms when the dog is relatively young. Degenerative myelopathy is quite common in these dogs as well. It occurs with a high enough frequency that this breed is likely predispositioned to it. A test is available, so a breeder that does appropriate health testing will likely be able to prevent it from popping up in their puppies. You can also purchase the test for your puppy yourself and request that it be done before you finalize the adoption. This step is often unnecessary if the breeder provides health testing for both of the parents, though. German Shepherds also have a higher-than-average occurrence of Von Willebrand diseases. This condition is an inherited bleeding disorder. Treatment is possible, but there is no cure. Most of the time, the dog will be on life-long medications and supplements. Minor Conditions. It is well proportioned and very strong. The piebald coloring has occurred in a single GSD bloodline. The Panda Shepherd has a sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body with a light, solid bone structure. The head should be in proportion to its body, and the forehead a little rounded. The nose is most often black, however blue or liver still do sometimes occur, but are considered a fault and cannot be shown. The teeth meet in a strong scissors bite. The dark eyes are almond shaped and never protruding. The ears are wide at the base, pointed, upright and turned forward. The ears of puppies under six months may drop slightly. The bushy tail reaches almost to its hocks and hangs down when the dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and the thighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles. Temperament Often used as working dogs, Panda Shepherds are courageous, keen, alert and fearless. Cheerful, obedient eager to learn, tranquil, confident, serious and clever, Panda Shepherds are extremely faithful and brave. They will not think twice about giving their lives for their human pack. They have a high learning ability. Panda Shepherds love to be close to their families, but can be wary of strangers. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when they feel it is necessary. Often used as police dogs, the Panda Shepherd has a very strong protective instinct, and is extremely loyal to its handler. Socialize this breed well starting at puppyhood. Aggression and attacks on people are due to poor handling and training. This breed needs owners who are naturally authoritative over the dog in a calm, but firm, confident and consistent way. A stable, well-adjusted and trained dog is, for the most part, generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family. They must be firmly trained in obedience from an early age. Panda Shepherds who have passive owners and or whose instincts are not being met can become timid, skittish, may be prone to fear biting and develop a guarding issue. They should be trained and socialized from an early age. Panda Shepherds will not listen if they sense that they are stronger minded than their owner, however they will also not respond well to harsh discipline. Owners need to have an air of natural authority to their demeanor. Do not treat this dog as if he were human. Learn canine instincts and treat the dog accordingly. Panda Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds. With this highly skilled working dog comes a drive to have a job and a task in life and a consistent pack leader to show them guidance. They need somewhere to channel their mental and physical energy. This is not a breed that will be happy simply lying around your living room or locked out in the backyard. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service and in the military. The Panda Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including Schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, Flyball and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders , and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. The Panda Shepherd is also a popular show and family companion. Height, Weight Height: Males 24 - 26 inches 60 - 65 cm Females 22 - 24 inches 55 - 60 cm Weight: 77 - 85 pounds 35 - 40 kg Health Problems Indiscriminate breeding has led to hereditary diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia be sure both parents have had their hips certified at least OFA good , blood disorders, digestive problems probably due to nerves , epilepsy, chronic eczema, keratitis inflammation of the cornea , dwarfism and flea allergies. Living Conditions The Panda Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. These dogs are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least a large yard. Exercise Panda Shepherd Dogs love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, for these dogs are very intelligent and crave a good challenge. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk , jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. Most shepherds love to play ball or Frisbee. Ten to fifteen minutes of fetching along with daily pack walks will tire your dog out quite nicely as well as give him a sense of purpose. Does best with a job to do. Life Expectancy.

Working with top genetics, we focus on both Structure, and Temperament once we isolate the best Black Frenchie Puppy Genes there is. Working with top dogs is only part of what we do. Black Frenchy puppies for sale A classic and beautiful dog, the black frenchie puppy for sale, or Black French bulldog puppy for sale is stunning. Overlooked from time to time with new and exciting colors on the rise, we still covet the original beauty offered by the Black French Bulldog. Black Frenchies for sale No matter the color, all of our French bulldogs for sale , come with our full health guarantee. All of our Frenchies for sale breed stock is genetic health tested 4 panel clear! No matter which French bulldog puppies for sale you purchase, all come with the same guarantee. Check out all of our website information pertaining to black Frenchies for sale. .We sometimes will have pure black french bulldog puppies but most often we have black and tan French bulldog puppies. Both solid and tan pointed colors are beautiful but there is just something about the tan points! In comparison, a black and tan frenchie has more detail then a plan black french bulldog. If you are considering finding a black frenchie consider the black and tan frenchie puppy as well. Shopping for a fluffy black and tan french bulldog is also an option. Black French bulldog puppies Reserve an Elon pup today and experience one of his amazing offspring! Elon can make Blues, blues and tans, Isabella, Isabella and tan, New Shade isabella, Lilac, Lilac and tan, fluffies, creams, basically everything under the rainbow with AMAZING compact structure, big heads, with both intelligence and temperament to boot! We breed for shorter bodies and legs, not long legged giraffes. We are proud that all of our Frenchie puppies for sale are raised in our home with our children, under foot. Every single French Bulldog puppy are well socialized and you can expect a playful, smart, inquisitive and loving professional Snuggle Bug. Available Puppies Notification List. Me What is a Black French Bulldog? While the breed standard for French Bulldogs allows for several different coat colors and patterns, black is a popular color for this breed. Black Frenchies are quite easy to recognize as they possess no traces of other colors. What we mean by that is that they have a solid black coat color with no brindle pattern; sometimes they have a white patch on their chest giving them a unique look. Black French Bulldogs are a highly sought-after breed and they are relatively rare. In general, French Bulldogs come in a range of colors, including brindle, fawn, cream, and white. However, the solid black coat color is a recessive trait and can only be passed down if both parents carry the gene for it. As a result, Black French Bulldogs are not as common as other colors, which adds to their appeal and value. Because Black French Bulldogs are rare, they can be more expensive than other colors. A Black French Bulldog can make a wonderful and loyal companion for years to come, and their unique appearance and personality make them a valuable addition to any household. You should have your own Black Frenchie. Here is why! Black French Bulldogs are a popular breed of dog that has become increasingly popular over the years, and for good reason. They are a wonderful addition to any household, offering a range of benefits that make them the perfect pet for anyone who loves dogs. Here are some reasons why you should get a Black French Bulldog: Black French Bulldogs have a solid black coat color that makes them stand out from other dog breeds. Friendly and affectionate French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, and Black Frenchies are no exception. They are great with children and other animals, making them the perfect family pet. Low maintenance French Bulldogs have short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, which makes them a low-maintenance breed. Playful and energetic Despite their small size, French Bulldogs are known for their energy and playful personalities. Adaptable Black French Bulldogs can adapt to a variety of living situations, from apartments to larger homes, as long as they receive enough attention, exercise, and mental stimulation. This makes them a great option for those who are looking for a companion that can keep up with their lifestyle. Overall, a Black French Bulldog is a wonderful addition to any household. With their unique appearance, friendly personality, and low-maintenance needs, they are sure to bring joy and love into your life for years to come. It's important to purchase from a reputable breeder who can provide you with a health guarantee and ensure that the dog has been bred and raised in a responsible manner. Do Black French Bulldogs Shed? Black French Bulldogs, like any other Frenchie tend to shed throughout the year, more so in the spring and fall. During this period, they change their coat almost completely, replacing it with shinier, brighter and nicer fur. It's important to brush your puppy's hair at least two or three times a week using a Furminator. That will remove the undercoat that has fallen out but is still in the hair. We provide Health Guarantee TomKings Frenchies are bred from an award-winning bloodline to ensure the healthiest and most authentic gene pool. Before the breeding program was established, all parent dogs underwent a rigorous selection and examination process. We feed our adult dogs and puppies only the highest quality food and supplements to maintain their immaculate health, and they are checked by our veterinarian on a weekly basis. Our purebred French bulldogs come with a TomKings Health Guarantee that covers all genetic illnesses. Kennel-free living Our Frenchies are not raised in kennels but instead live in a loving family home with a large green garden. We believe that proper development, including strong musculature, a healthy immune system, and good manners, cannot be achieved in crowded spaces. As family members, our Frenchies are free to roam in our spacious garden and rest in our home. We ensure that our Frenchie puppies have ample opportunity to play and we teach them good manners around other dogs and people, including children. We provide love and professional care At TomKings, our puppies receive 12 weeks of both maternal love and professional care. This extended period of time spent with their mother and siblings fosters the development of a healthy dog personality and a well-balanced nature. Prior to joining their new families in the USA and beyond, our Frenchies receive all necessary puppy vaccinations, as well as deworming and parasite treatment. We also begin their potty training at an early age, making it easier for new owners to house-train their little angels. Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article.

One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. In fact, golden retrievers have snagged the third spot for most popular dogs in the United States for the last several years! These pooches are on the larger side females range between 55 and 70 pounds, while males weigh in between 65 and 75 pounds and require lots of exercise, which may make some families shy away. But don't let their size—or high energy—deter you. Golden retrievers are highly intelligent, easy to train compared to other breeds of dogs , and incredibly friendly. Whether you're already a golden puppy parent or considering adding one to the family, read on to learn some fun facts and see some seriously cute photos! One even surmises that goldens are descendants of Russian circus dogs! These alternate theories were debunked, however, when the personal records of Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness, Scotland were made public. Lord Tweedmouth was an avid waterfowl hunter who wanted to breed a dog with some serious bird retrieving skills. So, in , he bred a yellow retriever named Nous with a liver-colored Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The result? A pack of puppies with the exact hunting skills he was looking for, which he dubbed golden retrievers. Golden retrievers were later brought to North America—sometime during the s—where they became hugely popular for their beautiful looks and sweet personalities. Then, in , they were officially recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club. Continue to 2 of 9 below. They can range from a very light, snowy white, to a yellow-gold, to a dark, coppery red. No matter the color of their coat, however, it's important to never cut your golden retriever's hair—doing so can put her at risk of skin cancer, among other health issues. Their coats are made up of two layers—the long, silky, waterproof outercoat and soft, warming undercoat—and act as insulators against all types of weather. So, if you think to trim your golden's coat in the summer to keep it cool, think again! It'll be much cooler and its skin will be protected from the sun with its coat intact. Continue to 3 of 9 below. Bred to fetch waterfowl, golden retrievers love a good swim session but would be just as happy with long walks, games of fetch, or even agility games. Aim for about one hour of exercise each day, but keep your dog's age and activity levels in mind—you may have to adjust accordingly. Continue to 4 of 9 below. If taken to a rescue site, for example, they can quickly learn how to perform search and rescues to help those in need. In addition to their smarts, golden retrievers' downright sweet demeanors make them the perfect pick for therapy dogs. They can bring a lot of comforts—and joy—to people who have experienced traumatic events, are living in hospitals, or are stressed out during college exams. Continue to 5 of 9 below. Their love of food can cause health problems like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease , so it's important to feed your golden the right amount of food for her weight, age, and activity level. Not sure how much is right for your dog? Talk to your vet about a healthy diet. And take it easy on the treats! It's true that goldens love to eat, but they like to carry non-food items in their mouths, too. Their mouthy nature makes everyday stuff such as sticks, shoes, or even the remote control a highly prized possession. Because golden retrievers have very gentle mouths, challenges such as the golden retriever egg challenge—in which a golden is tasked with holding an uncooked egg in its mouth without breaking it—have popped up all over the web. Continue to 6 of 9 below. Tons of major movies, such as the "Air Bud" series, "Homeward Bound," "A Dog's Purpose," and even thrillers such as "Poltergeist" and "Friday the 13th" have goldens in the credit roll. What's more? There are a few golden retrievers in presidential history, too. Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford had goldens during their presidencies. Golden retrievers are often considered the all-American dogs, so it makes sense, right? Continue to 7 of 9 below. Todd, the sweet golden pictured here, is one of those puppy heroes. During their hike, Paula nearly stepped on a rattlesnake—and when the snake lunged at her, Todd jumped in front of her to protect her. Although Todd was bitten on the nose and had severe swelling in his face, he's expected to make a full recovery. Because of his heroic deed, the internet has hailed Todd as a very, very good boy. And believe it or not, Todd has found a way to be an even better boy: He has a GoFundMe page to help other heroic doggies who have suffered from the same injuries. Continue to 8 of 9 below. Even in their senior years, it's not uncommon for older goldens to keep up with their puppy counterparts. Continue to 9 of 9 below. And for good reason! Not only are they adorable, but they prove goldens are some of the sweetest puppers around, too.

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 two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The 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.

Christina Donnelly is a small animal expert focusing on dogs and writer with over 12 years of experience in animal welfare. In fact, golden retrievers have snagged the third spot for most popular dogs in the United States for the last several years! These pooches are on the larger side females range between 55 and 70 pounds, while males weigh in between 65 and 75 pounds and require lots of exercise, which may make some families shy away. But don't let their size—or high energy—deter you. Golden retrievers are highly intelligent, easy to train compared to other breeds of dogs , and incredibly friendly. Whether you're already a golden puppy parent or considering adding one to the family, read on to learn some fun facts and see some seriously cute photos! One even surmises that goldens are descendants of Russian circus dogs! These alternate theories were debunked, however, when the personal records of Lord Tweedmouth of Inverness, Scotland were made public. Lord Tweedmouth was an avid waterfowl hunter who wanted to breed a dog with some serious bird retrieving skills. So, in , he bred a yellow retriever named Nous with a liver-colored Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The result? A pack of puppies with the exact hunting skills he was looking for, which he dubbed golden retrievers. Golden retrievers were later brought to North America—sometime during the s—where they became hugely popular for their beautiful looks and sweet personalities. Then, in , they were officially recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club. Continue to 2 of 9 below. They can range from a very light, snowy white, to a yellow-gold, to a dark, coppery red. No matter the color of their coat, however, it's important to never cut your golden retriever's hair—doing so can put her at risk of skin cancer, among other health issues. Their coats are made up of two layers—the long, silky, waterproof outercoat and soft, warming undercoat—and act as insulators against all types of weather. So, if you think to trim your golden's coat in the summer to keep it cool, think again! It'll be much cooler and its skin will be protected from the sun with its coat intact. Continue to 3 of 9 below. Bred to fetch waterfowl, golden retrievers love a good swim session but would be just as happy with long walks, games of fetch, or even agility games. Aim for about one hour of exercise each day, but keep your dog's age and activity levels in mind—you may have to adjust accordingly. Continue to 4 of 9 below. If taken to a rescue site, for example, they can quickly learn how to perform search and rescues to help those in need. In addition to their smarts, golden retrievers' downright sweet demeanors make them the perfect pick for therapy dogs. They can bring a lot of comforts—and joy—to people who have experienced traumatic events, are living in hospitals, or are stressed out during college exams. Continue to 5 of 9 below. Their love of food can cause health problems like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease , so it's important to feed your golden the right amount of food for her weight, age, and activity level. Not sure how much is right for your dog? Talk to your vet about a healthy diet. And take it easy on the treats! It's true that goldens love to eat, but they like to carry non-food items in their mouths, too. Their mouthy nature makes everyday stuff such as sticks, shoes, or even the remote control a highly prized possession. Because golden retrievers have very gentle mouths, challenges such as the golden retriever egg challenge—in which a golden is tasked with holding an uncooked egg in its mouth without breaking it—have popped up all over the web. Continue to 6 of 9 below. Tons of major movies, such as the "Air Bud" series, "Homeward Bound," "A Dog's Purpose," and even thrillers such as "Poltergeist" and "Friday the 13th" have goldens in the credit roll. What's more? There are a few golden retrievers in presidential history, too. Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford had goldens during their presidencies. Golden retrievers are often considered the all-American dogs, so it makes sense, right? Continue to 7 of 9 below. Todd, the sweet golden pictured here, is one of those puppy heroes. During their hike, Paula nearly stepped on a rattlesnake—and when the snake lunged at her, Todd jumped in front of her to protect her. Although Todd was bitten on the nose and had severe swelling in his face, he's expected to make a full recovery. Because of his heroic deed, the internet has hailed Todd as a very, very good boy. And believe it or not, Todd has found a way to be an even better boy: He has a GoFundMe page to help other heroic doggies who have suffered from the same injuries. Continue to 8 of 9 below. Even in their senior years, it's not uncommon for older goldens to keep up with their puppy counterparts. Continue to 9 of 9 below. And for good reason! Not only are they adorable, but they prove goldens are some of the sweetest puppers around, too. One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. They're one of the most popular dog breeds in America, and there's no surprise why. Besides being smart, active dogs, they're also gorgeous and oh so photogenic. It's no wonder goldens are some of the biggest pet influencers filling our feeds! Gus He's a runner, he's a track star! No seriously, Gus crushes the competition in agility courses. He especially loves dock diving and has even earned his Dock Elite title. What a good boy. Hinckley Parks It seriously can't get any cuter than this. Hinckley Parks' baby brother Teddy loves to snuggle in all his soft golden fur, and we can't blame him. It's no wonder golden retrievers are one of the best family pets in America: they're great with kids! But this one with Jaxson and Sawyer actually turned out adorable! The only thing that seems to be missing from the party are some birthday treats.Margo Who doesn't love splashing around in the water on a hot summer day? Swimming is one of the best ways for dogs to get exercise, and golden retrievers are natural at it. Plus, Margo's coat is absolutely glowing in the sunshine—how photogenic! Maggie Maggie's glasses make her look to be one smart cookie—because she probably is! Golden retrievers are one of the smartest dog breeds. She's serving sophistication, and we're here for it. Arrowood Family What's better than a golden? Five goldens! Sage, Waverly, Tori, Jimmie, and baby Presley are the definition of family goals. I mean, how often can you get five pups to look at the camera? Thor As long as the camera's off, the boss won't suspect a thing, right? After watching us all struggle through WFH life for a year, our dogs are sure going to miss us when we return to the office. Or maybe they'll be like Thor the golden retriever and replace us altogether. Louie Talk about lifegoals! Nothing feels better than a car ride with the windows down and the wind blowing through your hair fur. Krembo Uh, hello, tongue! Krembo's letting it all hang out and we can't blame him. If only we could reach through the screen and boop that nose. And also have us craving some snacks. We could all use a little frolic through a flower field some days, but we'll have to live vicariously through Lola for now. Henry Golden retrievers make wonderful service animals , and Henry proves that they can look good while doing so. He deserves all the pets in the world—but only once he's off the clock. Drake Cue the "awwwws" because this is one of the cutest dogs we've ever seen. His smile tells us all we need to know: he's definitely one of the happiest golden retrievers in the world. Was this page helpful? One look and an instant calm will probably wash over you. Stress simply melts away. Because Golden Retrievers are notoriously loyal and obedient. They can look silly with their big goofy grins. Or they can look stoic and wise beyond their years with their striking, deep brown eyes. CutenessOverload Everything they do is adorable Just watching your pup go from an adorable average of 10 pounds right when you get them at 8 weeks old to a sizable 70 pounds at the year mark is cuter than anything you can imagine. Or falling asleep in your lap. Or busting your pup discreetly chewing on your brand new pair of sneakers in their new closet lair is the cutest. There are too many cute things! Everything will be adorable and glee-inducing if done by a Golden Retriever pup — even the behaviors that, by all logic, should annoy you to no end. This is a good thing because a puppy this adorable is definitely going to be a popular one. Golden Retriever puppies make friends with kids , adults, and other animals while keeping their trademark smiles on their faces. They are so friendly, in fact, that they may not be the best bet when looking for guard dogs. A Golden will usually greet any stranger, including during a break-in, with a welcoming smile on their face. But they will love you best Again, the loyalty of a Golden Retriever pup cannot be stressed enough; it is strong. At the end of the day, your athletic, big-pawed, adventurous, silly, and loving Golden pup will only have eyes for you. Fluffy Golden pup on bench Chunky Golden pup running through yard Golden puppy with big ears looking directly at camera Fluffy pup in a basket on grass Scrawny Golden pup in yard Golden puppy in lavender field Remember, you can find just about any breed of dog you are looking for at a shelter or rescue. I've photographed many families along with their beloved dog, often a Golden. I've had numerous Golden Retrievers in my training classes over the years, whether they be reds, English Cremes or the beautiful blonde that we so typically think of when we think of a Golden Retriever. Goldens hail from Scotland originally and are known as a hard-working breed, often employed as service animals and therapy dogs. They're also known for their voracious appetites, young-at-heart personalities and their penchant for carrying things in their mouths particularly when excited. Goldens are intelligent, athletic dogs, and are exceptional competitors in dog sports like obedience, agility, dock diving and more. Golden Retrievers gorgeous coats and perennially smiling face make them a dream to photograph, especially during their little butterball puppy stage. When Moana's that's "mow-ah-nah" dog mom contacted me for cute little puppy pics, of course I said "Yes" right after I squealed with delight and we quickly secured a session on the calendar before she got any bigger! The sun was shining, the flowers were in bloom and Moana romped and played and we caught it all. At the viewing and ordering appointment, Brenda had a hard time narrowing down her favorites because Moana's just that cute, but we eventually got there. She decided on ordering two plush blankets one for her and one for Moana's bed along with a digital negative package which is presented in a handmade reclaimed barn wood box with a metal print on the cover and a 5x7 print of each image inside along with a USB drive with all the high resolution digital image files. Doggy Daddy: Tucker I was recently contacted by the Creed family to take their family portraits and they requested that I take a few pet portraits of their very special family member, Tucker. It was only later when Moana's mom shared her Christmas mini session photo of Moana with them see below , that the Creeds asked if those were taken by Penny Whistle Photography. Brenda contacted me afterward to say "You just photographed Moana's daddy". Small world indeed and now I know where Moana gets her good looks! Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography is a Certified Professional Photographer with the organization Professional Photographers of America; a designation held by fewer than 2, photographers nationwide and a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry and professionalism. Tracy offers special services to local Dallas - Fort Worth dog and cat breeders, creating unique images for their websites, social media and marketing purposes. Contact her to find out more about this offering. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. This was the first time we had a chance to chart puppies from birth until 8 weeks old. We tried to take as many pictures as possible so we could have a journal of our Golden Retriever puppy growth week by week. When raising guide and service dog puppies we usually bring home our puppies at around weeks old. On occasion we are allowed to see puppies before 8 weeks of age, but they need to stay with their mother and siblings during those important early weeks to get milk and antibodies from mama and learn how to interact properly with siblings, learning important behaviors like bite inhibition. During our days as a foster we raised two litters of puppies , but both were already weeks old by the time we got them home. We actually own the Puppy Culture DVD and Workbook which includes charts, lists, worksheets and other great information for raising your litter. Keep your eyes and ears open and absorb it all like a sponge! Birth To 1 Week Old Guess what? This was the first litter we ever whelped!? We got a lot of advise, but we were largely on our own. Large Puppy Dish — great for feeding the puppies when they moved to solid food. Whelping Mats — we ordered 2 of these mats and washed them several times a day. Whelping Box — We have a homemade whelping box built by my father-in-law, but if we continue raising litters I plan on purchasing an EZWhelp Whelping Box. Our homemade box lasted three litters. We ended up purchasing the Magnabox which was hellu expensive but if you plan on raising multiple litters we highly recommend it. We recently put together a whelping checklist with all the supplies we gathered together to help out with our second litter of Golden Retriever puppies. Check out our whelping supplies checklist here. However, none were overly huge and none were extra small. No runts and no beasts. It was my understanding that when the cord was chewed down to the base of the belly it was sometimes difficult to get it to stop bleeding. I took the hemostat and pinched the umbilical cord about 2 inches from the base of the pups belly then cut the cord rather than let Raven chew it off. I kept the hemostat on the cord for about 2 minutes to let it clout. The umbilical cord dries up quickly and then within a day or 2 it falls off. Raven was a good mama and took care of her poops. Puppy eyes and ears are closed at this stage and puppies army crawl around the whelping box looking for a teat to suckle. We did everything we could to make sure our pups stayed warm by adding a watt heat lamp to the whelping box and portable heating unit in the puppy room. As I mentioned Raven stayed in the whelping box most of week 1 and of course… the puppy piles! One thing I learned is if I had a puppy on my lap then do not let Raven lick those areas or be prepared for a little accident on your lap. While caring for Raven and her litter Raven was really blowing out her coat that first week, but as time went on it slowed down. I heard from other friends this is common and that Raven blew out her coat much less than other mama dogs. We got Probiotics for Raven before her first litter, but forgot to order them for her second litter. After an upset stomach for the first week or so we realized our mistake, got Probiotics, and no more upset tummy. Week 2 — Pups eyes are opening starting to waddle. Week 3 — First bark! Week 7 — The great puppy escape artists! Week 8 — Our golden puppies head to their new homes. Have you ever had a litter of Golden Retriever puppies? Tell us about your experiences with puppies in the comment section below. Are you about to raise a litter of puppies? Not raising a litter, but getting ready to bring home your first Golden Retriever puppy? Puppies for Dummies will give you the basics on how to raise and train your new puppy. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

We are located in New Durham, New Hampshire. We have been in business for 11 years. Because of our love for American Bulldogs, we want to breed great companions and provide them a forever home. However, most are a hybrid mix between the two bloodlines. We do this in order to bring out the best in both. We also enjoy the many different shapes, sizes and colors this breed comes in. We have established a fourth generation Morrison's American Bulldog bloodline, with no future plans to retire. This is a family business and our children regularly express their desire to help grow us in their future. So we hope you enjoy watching us continue to grow and place our efforts towards producing a more happier, healthier lovable dog! Our dogs are raised around other animals and are well-socialized. They are protectors of our family while also trustworthy around our small children. We actually did not consider ourselves "dog people" until after we met her. After we brought Madison home we quickly fell in love with her sweet, smart and loving personality. She was always gentle around our young children and protected them. After we had her for a few years we knew that her bloodline had to be continued to share her love and joy to other families. When we decided to breed her we loved every moment of her pregnancy and delivery. After we announced her litter we met the amazing American Bulldog community and never looked back. Sharing the joy that Madison brought to our family is something we desire to share with other families. We used to not be "dog people" but now we could not picture our lives without them. Being able to breed, meet new people, see the puppies grow and bring joy to families is what keeps us going. Welcome to Morrison's American Bulldogs. We invite you to take a peek at our handsome, friendly, large breed American Bulldogs. We are a a team of private American Bulldog Breeders and our dogs and pups are never kenneled or crated. They are our family pets and roam our house and land. We breed loving American Bulldog Puppies for you and your family to cheerish. Learn More After breeding these amazing creatures for 22 years. We have perfected the best breeding standards that have award us the 1 American Bulldog breeder in America. At We Love American Bulldogs we take a lot of care and pride in helping educate families about the breed that are interested in bringing one of these beautiful creatures into their homes. As any breed the most important thing you can do, is educate yourself about the breed that you are about to bring into to your life. We hope by offering these documents and our YouTube videos, about the breed and about the puppy you are about to consider to be a part of your family, that you will do it with complete awareness of your responsibility to the breed and your puppy. Get a Puppy Our team at "We Love American Bulldogs" feel blessed to care for these wonderful creatures we brought into the world. We worked very hard to make sure the foundation of your puppy is stable, loving and strong. Now we hope with all the information my over 22 years experience with this breed bring me, that we will share with you, that you will stay the course and make sure these pups are the best and true American Bulldog they can be. A Day In The Life.They are dedicated to preserving the Johnson bloodline in its original state. They make sure that the dogs they breed are physically and mentally stable, possess high drives, and are highly athletic, so the litters will also exhibit these traits. The pups are thoroughly socialized and registered by ARF from the moment they are born. They guarantee all of their produced pups against genetic defects, with a replacement pup from any of their succeeding planned breeding. The guarantee stands for two years but will be void if the dog produces offspring before they reach two years of age. They are a small farm operation located in the middle of the Ozarks. Their dogs are not caged and are allowed to run around and play in their fenced yard. The pregnant American Bullies relocate into a climate-controlled maternity room two weeks before their due date. The newborns remain in a whelping box with their mother until they open their eyes and begin to move around. The front panel comes off the whelping box after 10 to 14 days, and the pups are allowed free range of the maternity room. When the newborns reach four weeks old, they transfer the pups to the front maternity room, where they have free access to the outdoors via a doggie door. By the time the pups reach six weeks, the payment should be fully-paid. When the puppies reach eight weeks old, they are allowed to go to their new homes. Before being released, their shots and deworming are up-to-date. The American Bulldog puppies also come with a written health certificate provided by their licensed veterinarian. They have been breeding American Bulldogs for over 16 years. With a dog barn standing on a ten-acre land, the American Bulldog puppies of this breeder have plenty of room to run around and play. Their dog barn is equipped with indoor and outdoor living spaces and play spaces. The kennel also has a heating and cooling system as well as a fly spray system. The puppies are well-socialized with their children, family, friends, and guests who visit the kennel. Top Dog specializes in the blue XL American Bulldog but has all the other colors like the rare lilac purple-blue tri Bullies. They produce pups with a calm temperament, blocky heads, and thick, broad, and big-boned bodies. Their American Bulldog puppies for sale come with a written health card, up-to-date shots, and wormers. They are also microchipped and UKC-registered. They also provide a puppy datasheet, starter food, and puppy pack. Top Dog believes that the pups and dogs deserve to be spoiled with comfort and love.

The Chabrador is no exception, even though all of them have friendly eyes, a dark blue tongue, and furry ears. One is a loyal, but proud and independent spirit frequently called the cat dog , while the other is friendly with everyone and loves to play and hang around her owners all the time. The results from mixing these unique temperaments vary from one puppy to another. In all situations, though, your dog will be your loyal companion, affectionate towards her family and with excellent watchdog abilities. Professional training might be needed Labradors are generally easy to train, but they can become stubborn as they grow up. Potty training is not hard, but you need to teach your Chow Lab Mix more than just how to ask herself out. If this is your first dog, or you have limited experience with training, I would recommend that you get professional help. Training an adult is much harder — but not impossible. Just take a look at the progress this two-year-old Chow Lab Mix has made in just a few weeks: A Chow Lab Mix will keep you busy This dog can be very demanding when it comes to exercise and grooming, so be ready to dedicate at least two hours a day to her. A Chabrador, just like a Labrador, likes to play. Start with short walks several times a day, and gradually introduce running and more intense activities. Luckily, these dogs love swimming, which is a lower-impact alternative to traditional exercise. As an adult, your dog needs daily walks, at least one short play session, and mental stimulation. Conclusion A Chow Lab Mix has the potential of being a great dog, for both singles and families. From my point of view, any responsible owner can control these traits through consistent training. What do you think? Do you like this mix between the Chow Chow and Labrador Retriever? Would you get one or do you have one already? Tell us your opinion of this beautiful dog in the comments 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. She was a rescue who came to live us at age 5 and was the most delightful and loyal companion imaginable. She was playful and enthusiastic almost to the end. She got along perfectly with other dogs, cats, horses and guinea pigs. She liked humans, too. People loved her sweet spirit and playful nature. I would have another of that parentage any time. Godspeed, DeeDee. See you on the Other Side. 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 Chabrador Highlights The Chabrador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Chow Chow or Labrador Retriever parents. The coats are usually solid, although spotting is sometimes present. Chabradors posses dense, double-layered, waterproof coats that are short to medium in length. This breed is a shedder. The Chabrador can be a snappy canine when undertaking guard dog duties. They are also often wary when strangers approach them for the first time. A well-trained Chabrador can be a great addition to a family and will form strong and loyal bonds with your kids. Their guardianship instincts will also kick in if strangers are around. In general, Chabradors need moderate amounts of exercise. As long as you can commit to regular walking sessions, these dogs can usually adapt to living in smaller home situations. These dogs were often employed to guard sacred temples, and their scenting abilities were used in hunts. Over on the Labrador Retriever side, this breed originated in Canada and was originally known as the St. Skilled hunting and working dogs, the Labrador Retriever is often cited as the most popular dog in the USA today. The Chabrador has become known as a designer dog breed, but many of them unfortunately end up in shelters. Chabrador Size The Chabrador is usually described as a medium-sized dog. Although, as is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 45 to 80 pounds and range in height from 18 to 24 inches. Female Chabradors are usually marginally smaller than their male counterparts. Due to their parental breeds historically being used in hunting and guarding activities, the Chabrador can be a snappy canine when undertaking guard dog duties. The Chabrador is a smart breed that learns very quickly. Adding interactive toys to regular play sessions can really benefit the development of this breed. As long as you can commit to regular walking sessions, these dogs can usually adapt to living in smaller home situations that might not have unfettered outdoor access. Chabrador Health Chabradors are generally considered to be healthy dogs—although the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Chow Chow and Labrador Retriever face. Some of the more common health problems Chabradors suffer from include: Cerebellar Abiotrophy. Lab-Chow Puppy Video Temperament and Behavior Because both the parents of this breed have completely different kinds of behavioral characteristics, it is tough to predict how the temperament of the lab chow will be. It mostly depends upon which of its parents your puppy will take after. On a general note, this new breed is affectionate and loving, that makes a good companion. They are calm and sweet-tempered, and are loyal to their owners and family. They are good with the kids and other pets of the household. However, if they mostly go by the genes of their chow chow parents, they are often wary about strangers and might not be too tolerant of other animals. In that case, they also have a highly territorial instinct. Some lab-chows might display independent behavior, and might lead a life very aloof. They are large size dogs and need space to live in. Especially, if they are apartment dogs, they need frequent outings. But they love to play, and often expect that their owners would accompany them in their games. They also have a tendency to show some guarding behavior, when it comes to guarding their territory, or their family. Thus, lab-chows usually make a good guard dog as well. Because of their size, they need to burn down their daily calories, for which, they need to be taken out. Let them accompany you for a long walk or a strenuous jogging session, without which they might end up being destructive and display independent behavior. It is also good for them if you would allow them to play openly in an open space, or if you have a yard. Open their leash and see them run around in joy. Participate in different games like retrieving and fetching. Their potent instinct inherited from their lab retriever parent would surprise you. Grooming Grooming them is also dependent upon their coat, as to which of its parents side your puppy has taken. If your dog is much up to the lab side, it needs comparatively lesser grooming than if it has taken the side of its chow parent. If it has taken mostly the side of chow, its thick hair needs regular brushing to prevent its thick hair from getting matted. Like both its parents, they are mostly seasonal shedders. However, they have some regular shedding as well, and weekly grooming would brush off the dead hairs. You can bathe them once every one or two months, depending upon how dirty your dog has been. Health Problems This breed is a cross, and has no known health problems that is specific to this breed, or is life-threatening. Training Training this dog is very important. Considering its genetics, you should take the training issue very seriously. As it is, those lab-chows that have taken after their chow parent might end being disruptive and independent-natured, and lack of proper training might enhance this behavior further more. Begin socialization, obedience and housebreaking trainings when your dog is still a puppy, soon after you adopt it from the breeders, because once your dog gets older, it will become very difficult to break its old habits. This would ease your job. However, you can as well seek help from professional trainers. They must be taught how to behave properly, and how to show proper mannerisms to other pets and dogs. The quantity should also be the same, and this depends upon the amount of energy your big doggie possesses. Pick up foods that are recommended for dogs of such a size and levels of energy. Interesting Facts These dogs are also said to be available in a rare silver-gray color referred to by the AKC as a shade of chocolate. Lab-chows love swimming. Things to Know When Owning a Chabrador Here are a few more specific things that you should know about owning a Chabrador. You can expect yours to eat anywhere from 2 to 3 cups of food each day, depending on their activity level. Puzzle toys and short games of hide-and-seek should keep this crossbreed happy while spending time indoors. But at the end of the day, you may notice that your Chabrador has spent most of their time just lounging around in the yard or on the couch. Still, they have the capacity to learn any obedience command and trick that you want to teach them. Once they get basic obedience training down, they can embark on guard or agility training to keep their minds sharp. They tend to shed as the summer season plays out, so expect extra brushing and house cleaning at this time. Regular bathing is appreciated because this breed loves baths and their hair tends to pick up dirt easily as they walk and play outside. Their nails may need trimming once a month if they spend more time inside than outdoors. Their ears should be checked and cleaned as necessary to prevent wax buildup as they age. But there are a few health conditions that they could develop due to genetics. Minor Conditions. Unsociable Angry If you can impress them at an early age with your ability to be the pack leader, they will have no trouble following you. The Chabrador may wait until the perfect time to strike and become the alpha, which is why it is essential for you to constantly train them. They should not get their food, treats, or play with their toys until they work for the right to eat, play, or go outside. Your training of the Chabrador will take place throughout puppyhood, and if your dog is a stubborn dog breed then you might need to train throughout their lifetime. The intelligent Chabrador has a very strong mind and will need a steady drip of activity to feed an active brain. Labradors are famous for their ability to become obese quickly so control those treats. Labrador Chow Mix. Notice the bluish-purple tongue! A properly trained Chow Chow Lab Mix fits in perfectly with the family lifestyle. That includes little children, however, I would supervise the first months of interactions with the baby and dog. Socialization Needs of the Chabrador I often say that socialization, training, and exercise are the key to having a well-behaved dog. They are like the foundation for a well-built house. Socialization is vital for any dog, whether they are a chihuahua or a giant dog breed , socialization is the key to having a well-behaved and well adjusted dog. This is so that the puppy can start to become adjusted to sights, sounds, smells, humans, and other animals. Avoid Dog Parks With Puppies There is only one no-go place to take a puppy, and that is the dog park. There are several different reasons why not to allow your puppy into the dog park. The dog park can become rough, and some dogs can be mean, which means that your puppy could be scarred for a long time. Your dog has not had his or her shots and is susceptible to diseases and carrying them. Exercise of the Chabrador mix Exercising your dog cannot be a quick up and down to get the mail or a stroll down the sidewalk. Better to include a brisk strenuous walk or even a jog for a minimum hour of exercise for the most well-balanced dog. Both parents of this breed are active dog breeds bred to hunt and or retrieve throughout the day. Animals are happier and healthier when fit and lean, but they will keep eating if you keep feeding! Eye Problems — Cataracts are very common once they reach a certain age Glaucoma — Glaucoma is an elevation of the intraocular pressure IOP with associated optic nerve and retinal damage. Glaucoma in dogs is always due to a decreased drainage of aqueous humor AH —increased production does not occur. Cold tail — Cold tail normally happens to sport dogs. It is where the tail gives out due to overuse this can be very painful to a dog. Patellar Luxation — This is when the knee cap moves about and is very painful to the dog. My grandmother had a King Charles Cavalier, as a baby, he had a loose knee cap and he had to have surgery to fix it. The health list on this dog breed is very long, and quite a few of them are serious health concerns. Some of it can be smoothed over by buying from a reputable breeder who has ALL the paperwork and health info on both parents. The better health of the parents, the better chances of not getting a dog with all the health problems. Conclusion on the Chow Chow Lab Mixed Breed The Chabrador must have an experienced dog owner who knows what they are doing in training and socialization. The health record is very long compared to some other mixed dog breeds, other than those facts if you are an experienced dog owner who is looking for another dog breed then the Labrador Chow mix may be for you! We have several articles that may fit what you are looking for:. It is possible that these rescue animal shelters have a Labrador Chow Chow mix who is looking for a lovely home. Here are some reliable rescue groups to contact. Try www. Its hair needs higher maintenance than most crossbreed dogs. However, it is nothing a normal person could not handle. The Chow Chow Labrador Mix hair could either be smooth or have a hard coating, depending on the favored parent. Needless to say, both hair types have a lavish double coat that will require steady and frequent grooming. It is recommended that there be consistent brushing at least twice a week to pull the hair to stiffness. The regular brushing must be consistent to help maintain the coat and keep the shedding of hair and loose ones from sticking to the carpet, floor, sofas, and other house furniture. A monthly bath is also highly encouraged. After each bath, it is recommended that he be brushed gently and blown dry with a neat blow dryer on a low-setting cool heat. The ears of a Labrador require constant cleaning, and the same goes for the Chow Chow mixed with Labrador. This is to keep wax and moisture under control. The nails also need constant trimming to avoid those nasty splits and cracks. Note, however, that grinding their nails need extra care and precision so as not to cause bleeding and prevent infection. Labrador crossed with Chow chow Health Problems It must be noted that all crossbreeds can be prone to an array of issues from either of its purebred parents. As such, before addressing the issues own the Chow Chow crossed with Labrador, we must first focus on those which its parent purebreds face, to give an overview before the specifics. In those 13 years, the common problems it has are hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, stomach cancer, gastric torsion, cataracts, and autoimmune thyroiditis. They are known to suffer from elbow or hip dysplasia. Similarly, they also develop eye problems such as cataracts or PRA blindness. With that information in mind, the life expectancy of your Chow Chow Mixed with Labrador could be anywhere from years, depending on its favored parent. The Labrador crossed with Chow Chow have usually been shown to be vulnerable to ailments that affect their parent: Hip Dysplasia: A lot of Chow Chow Labrador mix suffers from this. This is why it is vital to lessen the exercise of the dog at a young age. Over-exercising could lead to Hip Dysplasia in the long run. Eye Problems: Cataracts and other problems are also common for this crossbreed. Making sure to provide them with the best and healthiest food is key to their general good health. The amount of dog food needed is different for each breed, much more for crossbreeds. For a Chow Chow crossed with a Labrador, close monitoring is necessary. In the whole day, they can easily consume up to 3. However, since its parent Labrador tends to overheat, this daily intake must be monitored carefully. Administering of treats and scheduled feedings must be intermixed with free-feeding of at least once to twice per week. This is to ensure that your dog does not become obese. The focus on a healthy feeding pattern is to help avoid hip dysplasia. It is recommended that the dry food be included with one that is high in Omega-3 fatty acids to help ease the diet and avoid the susceptibility to this disease. The proper mix of vitamins and minerals for your dog must be consulted with the veterinarian. The doctor will be able to assess the nutritional needs of your dog relative to their age, weight, and size. Should you notice that the Labrador crossed with Chow Chow is feeling overheated or getting a tad bit too stocky, ask the veterinarian for exercise and diet tips. Monitor the weight of your dog following what is normal for their size and age. What must be the focus of the proper diet is a blend that would be good for joint and bone health. Such is done with the consultation with the veterinarian. Owners should be able to focus on purchasing dog foods that have glucosamine or chronodotin, or both. These nutrients help in lowering the risk for hip dysplasia. Ask your local pet store or dog food provider for products with these specific characteristics. Here are some examples of high-quality dog food available in the market: BlueLife Food: This company has a specialty in making all-organic and all-natural dog food. DHA is incorporated into their ingredients for more significant help in mobility and brain growth. In addition, this dog food is made with free-range chicken without added growth hormones and steroid to provide your dog with the necessary amino acids which help define muscle tone and fiber. It has fiber from real fruits and vegetables, which support digestion and intestinal health. The multiple protein sources from this dry dog food provide a healthy balance of amino acids, supporting muscle development and maintenance. Plus, it would be a flavorful change of palette for your dog with the natural flavors it possesses. Lastly, it has high levels of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for diet control along with a hint of Vitamin E to help maintain a shiny and healthy skin and coat. It is crafted as an ideal choice for average to large dogs for stocking them up with muscle fibers. This complements the joint health because without strong muscles the bone would remain to be susceptible to problems. Its main ingredients, among other things, are salmon meat high in glucosamine , real beef, and chicken, perfect for a Labrador and Chow chow mix to enjoy. SmartBlend One: One of the essential benefits from this Purina One product is its ability to provide a rich and delicious diet for your pup. Wellness Complete Health Senior Debone Chicken and Barley Recipe Dry dog food: What this fresh-tasting meal consists of is primarily deboned chicken, blueberries, apples, carrots, and spinach. This is ideal for your Chow chow Labrador mix because of its versatility in terms of what nutrients it can thusly provide for your dog. Not only does this provide an answer for those joints, but it also packs the fibers from berries and vegetable for their natural bowel movement. If you have a little munchkin at home, check out our list of the best puppy food brands. If the opposite is true, and you have an elderly furry companion, make sure to give them only the best senior dry dog food to keep those brittle bones intact! For every gorgeous mixed doggo out there, we recommend trying the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food and seeing which one sticks! It is required to be taken to a quick walk daily. This will require for the owner, a focused attention and mental stimulation. In these daily outings, one could expect not just a simple walk but sometimes also a playful jog and run. The Labrador Chow Chow Mix. Mix those two together, and you have the training attitude of a Chow Chow mixed with Labrador. That is if you teach it at the earliest instance that you can. Its obedience training must start at an early age. Before a Chow Chow mixed with Labrador turns to around months old, it must be at least expected to know how to sit and stay on your command. In addition, they must be, by that age able to sit closely with you. This is since it is especially difficult to train an adult Chow Chow mixed with Labrador. After such, they would be adaptive and straightforward to training, provided that you exercise patient and positive training methods. If your Chow Chow Labrador Mix takes more from its Labrador parent, it would be able to pick up commands efficiently and effectively than if it takes after the Chow Chow parent. It would tend to be territorial and aggressive against those people it is not familiar with. This is especially difficult for families with kids, because one moment they would be playing with the dog, the next second it would get territorial and aggravated. Because of this, it is a dog not ideal for families with a bunch of little kids. It must be explained to the children how the dog might get a bit too tempered at times. The only remedy to this is training your Chow Chow crossed with Labrador to be trained to be social and active. Labra-Chow Description The Chabrador is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Chow Chow and the Labrador Retriever. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Another reason for keeping her trimmed is she also competes in agility competition. It was an activity that helped burn off some of her excess energy in her younger years and she continues to love the competition. I've had dogs throughout my whole life and at the age of 54 I must say that Gracie is that once in a lifetime dog for me. She gives me love, companionship and a whole new exciting purpose to my life. As a puppy Gracie's eyes were a startling blue. Time is going way too fast, for my baby Gorilla puppy is already 7 years old. He is such a baby and loves toys. He is 7 months old in this picture. Her owner calls her a miniature Newfi ;- because she looks just like one. She is quite intelligent and very easily trained. Here she is posing for the camera from her new bed. This is Thunder Dogg. He likes to "Sik Balls" hee hee. See more examples of the Chabrador. Labrador origins The Labrador Retriever breed was originally developed in Britain over the course of the 19th century, using dogs imported from Canada. Their original purpose was to retrieve fallen game, including ducks shot over water, and return it to their handler. Later on, their genial temperament combined with winning intelligence made them successful service dogs too. And as owning a pet dog became accessible to more and more people, they quickly soared in popularity as companions as well. So much so, that they have been the most popular dog breed in America for nearly three decades now. In fact, they are one of the 14 basal breeds from which most modern breeds today were originally refined. Over the course of their history they have served as companions to Chinese aristocracy, and also been employed as guard dogs. They were introduced to America in the late 19th century, and first recognized by the AKC in .Crossing Labs and Chows Producing litters of black Labrador x Chow Chow puppies is part of a wider trend for breeding designer dogs — puppies with parents from two different pedigrees. Interest in mixed breed dogs moved into the mainstream in the s and 90s following the enormous success of the Labradoodle. First generation hybrids of black Labs and Chows are affectionately known as Chabradors. What to expect from a Black Lab Chow Mix Chabradors are popular with people who like both Labs and Chows separately, and who hope that a mix of the two will capture the best qualities of each breed. And since Labs and Chows are so different to begin with, that means there are lots of ways a Chabrador can fail to meet expectations. Chow Chows are a fraction shorter and lighter, weighing in at 45 to 70 pounds. So a black Labrador Chow Chow mix can grow to anywhere between 45 and 80 pounds. But in general females will be smaller than males, and puppies from small parents will also grow up to be at the lower end of the scale. Black Labs and black Chows both owe their coat color to a dominant gene for black pigment. Lots of genes also control coat length and texture. So a Labrador Chow mix dog could have a very bouffant coat like a Chow, with a distinct mane around their shoulders and chest. Or they could have a sleek coat, more resemblant of a Lab. Or, something in between. The classic Labrador and Chow Chow personalities are very different, and mixed breed dogs can inherit aspects from both. Friendliness Labradors are famously, indiscriminately friendly. They tend to greet everyone as a long lost pal, and love to be approached and petted by new people. Chow Chows on the other hand are notoriously reserved. They tend to form a close emotional attachment to just one or two people, and remain aloof from everyone else. They may even attempt to guard their favorite person, by barking at other people who come close to them. Intelligence Labradors are widely regarded as being one of the easiest breeds to train. Their history as working dogs means they have a strong natural inclination to engage and cooperate with humans. They are easily motivated to take part in training games, and pick up new cues quickly. Chow Chows on the other hand are often described as being difficult to train. But this completely misunderstands how and why dogs are motivated to learn. Energy Labradors have bags of physical energy, and lively minds to match. Chow Chows on the other hand tend to be more placid, and from a younger age. Despite their size, many owners say they make good city dogs, because they are quite tranquil souls, who need relatively little stimulation before they take their next nap. Aggression Although their breed standard specifically says that Chow Chows should not be aggressive, they have a reputation for aggression. This may be the result of individuals being inadequately socialized as puppies. Since they are substantial and powerful dogs, a dog who reacts with fearful aggression to an unwanted social interaction can do a lot of harm. Even Labradors, who are very open to forming positive opinions of things, need lots of socialisation opportunities to foster that while they are under 12 weeks old. But socialization is even more important for breeds like the Chow Chow, which is more naturally inclined to be wary of unfamiliar experiences. Early exposure to other people, places and animals is vital to give them the confidence to handle the same things again in adulthood. So the black Lab Chow mix will usually fall somewhere in between Labradors usually need around two hours of exercise per day, including some time off leash playing running games like fetch. In addition, they need engaging in further training and play time at home, to meet their need for mental stimulation. How much training and exercise they need depends partly upon whether they come from working or show lines. Working Labs need more activity than show Labs. Chow Chows meanwhile can be satisfied with an hour of exercise at a walking pace, and some games at home. Before you commit to a black Lab Chow mix puppy, ask the breeder whether the Labrador parent comes from working or show lines, ask yourself if you can still meet the needs of a dog who needs several hours of exercising and engagement every single day. Training Training a black Chabrador puppy starts from the moment you bring them home. Our complete potty training guide can help too. This training guide can help you here. Crate training is also useful for dogs of all types. As they get older, teaching a Chabrador good manners such as recall , how to walk on a leash without pulling, and when to go to bed on cue will make them especially pleasant to live with. All breeds of dogs can be taught these skills using positive reinforcement training. Puppies with a very Lab-like temperament might learn them a little quicker, but the same principles will work for Chow-like dogs, with a little patience and commitment. Chabrador dogs with a very Lab-like personality might also enjoy advanced training activities when they get older, such as agility and fieldwork. Black Lab Chow Mix Health And Care One advantage of mixed breed dogs is that they may be less likely to inherit genetic diseases specific to either of their parent breeds. But, breeding from healthy parents is the most important step towards achieving healthy puppies. Potential health problems of black Labrador Chow Chow mix dogs are: Problems with their hip, elbow, knee, and shoulder joints The neurological condition degenerative myelopathy Exercise induced collapse. Finding a healthy Chabrador puppy. They also benefit from living in homes where someone is around for most of the day, and where plenty of training, socialization and exercise are provided. Origin of the Chow Chow Lab Mix Since the Labrador Chow mix is considered a first-generation crossbreed, there is very little known about his origin. But the results of this cross has made this mix more popular over time. By digging into the histories of the Chow Chow and the Labrador Retriever, we can learn a little more about their offspring, the Chabrador Mix. Chow Chow The Chow Chow has been around for quite some time. In fact, it is believed that this is actually one of the oldest dog breeds in the world! The Chow Chow is believed to have held a variety of trades during his long history, from being a loyal companion dog to the nobility in China, to hunting, guarding, and hauling. But mostly, this is a dog with a royal record. In fact, an emperor during the Tang Dynasty owned over 5, Chow Chows in his lifetime! Today the Lab is the most popular, number one dog in the US! These days, the Labrador Retriever is primarily known as a loving pet. They are renowned for their sweet disposition while at the same time being recognized as a phenomenal service dog and emotional support dog. This means features like coat color, weight, and height are left up to chance depending on which parent the Chabrador takes after most. An adult Chow Chow is a compact dog, around 17—20 inches tall. A male Chow Chow weighs around 55—70 pounds while a female will weigh around 45—60 pounds. Labrador Retrievers are muscular and range from 21 to 24 inches in height. They can weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. So a Chow Chow and Lab mix will likely fall somewhere within those numbers. He can come in both rough and smooth coats of different color markings, including: Red Ranging from gold to reddish brown Cinnamon Ranging from light tan to brown Black Blue The Labrador Retriever comes in three main colors — black, yellow or chocolate. As mentioned above, both the Chow Chow and the Labrador will have very thick coats, so a potential Chow Chow and Lab mix owner can prepare for a crossbreed that is similar. For instance, a black Lab Chow mix, especially if the Chow parent has black fur, will likely be black. And of course a yellow Lab Chow mix with a cream colored Chow parent will likely be lighter in color. Grooming and Shedding Labradors are known for their thick coats and seasonal shedding. And Chow Chows have a similar reputation! Since both the Chow Chow and the Labrador are shedders, a prospective Chabrador owner can certainly prepare for a bit of maintenance when it comes to grooming. And this is true whether you have a yellow Lab Chow mix, a black Lab Chow mix, or any other coat color! Chow Chow mixes will likely need a monthly bath as well, and it is recommended that after bathing he is brushed carefully and then blown dry with a blow dryer on cool heat. The Lab is less maintenance, with a shorter coat that sheds only seasonally. Still, a Lab mix should be brushed regularly to maintain a healthy coat and to help keep all that loose hair off your furniture and clothes! Nevertheless, both the Chow Chow and the Labrador share a few similarities, including energy level, loyalty, and friendliness. But what unique temperamental traits could the Chabrador inherit from each of his purebred parents? Chow Chow Temperament The Chow Chow is a serious dog with a dignified nature who can be standoffish with strangers, but very loving and affectionate with his family members. In fact, a properly trained Chow Chow makes a fantastic family dog and does very well with children. The Chow Chow is easily trained, considering his intelligent nature. He can be very adaptable to apartment living as long as he is exercised properly and given an adequate amount of attention. The nature of the Chow makes them protective over their family, with some guarding or watchdog instincts. So socialization is extremely important for this mix. Labrador Temperament We all know the Labrador Retriever for his intelligence. He is also one of the top choices when it comes to families with kids, due to his affable nature. The breed tends to be very friendly. In fact, they are sometimes almost too keen to spend time with their family and even random strangers they meet at the dog park. Labs are typically thought of as happy-go-lucky, but they are easily trained and make excellent service dogs. As always, we recommend early socialization and proper training to ensure the health and happiness of your Chow Chow and Lab mix. Introduce him, little by little, to new sights, smells, sounds, people, children, animals, and environments. This is important for any breed, even a notoriously overly-friendly breed like Labs. Proper socialization promotes a well-balanced, well-behaved, happy dog who acts appropriately in different situations without becoming overly nervous. And especially considering that Chows may be rather reserved and suspicious of strangers, your Chabrador mix definitely needs good socialization. This can be true of the Chabrador as well. Still, with patience and positive training methods, training your Chabrador should be simple. Remember, training can also serve as a wonderful bonding experience between you and your Chabrador. If the Chabrador takes after his Labrador parent, you can expect him to pick up commands easily and efficiently. However, and as we previously mentioned, the Lab is a very high energy dog, especially as a puppy. Keep in mind the Chabrador could inherit this trait. For more tips on how to train a puppy, check out some of the guides towards the end of this article. This means their Chabrador offspring will need to be walked daily, and he will need attention and mental stimulation. The Lab especially enjoys running outdoors, so a prospective Chabrador owner should expect lots of play and daily outings. Chow Chow and Lab Health The purebred Lab is known to suffer from hip or elbow dysplasia, where the joints are not properly formed. They can also have eye problems including PRA blindness or cataracts. They should be health tested for these three issues, at a minimum. You will also need to be aware of the potential for conditions such as cranial cruciate ligament disease. Labs are also more prone than average to suffer from the gastrointestinal syndrome, bloat. They can also suffer from acquired issues as they grow older, such as obesity, skin allergies, and ear issues. Chows are relatively healthy dogs. However, they do have some inheritable health issues to be aware of, including hip and elbow dysplasia, luxating patella, eye problems, and even cancer. Chow Chows have a slightly longer lifespan, averaging years. Keeping the above in mind, your Lab Chow mix life expectancy could be anywhere from 10—13 years. As crossbreeds like the Chow Lab mix grow in popularity, there are more breeders looking to capitalize on that popularity. As always, we recommend doing plenty of research before you decide where you get your Chabrador. If you are still unsure about where to go to find your Chabrador puppy, you can always attend local dog shows. Networking at events like dog shows can help point you in the right direction. Labrador Chow Mix Breeders One of the benefits of going to a breeder is the ability to ask questions and dig into the history of your potential Lab Chow puppies. So make sure to take advantage of this and use your voice. You should ask about previous litters and any concerns that have arisen in the past. Also, be sure to ask about health screening. A reputable breeder will answer questions, provide health test results, and be open to visits to meet the parent dogs. What About Shelter Dogs? Patience and care is required when bringing an adult dog home.

Reviewed by Monica Tarantino Dr. Monica Tarantino, DVM, is a small animal veterinarian and writer with five years of general practice, emergency medicine, and geriatric pet health experience. She is certified as a Fear Free doctor. Emily has been a proofreader and editor at a variety of online media outlets over the past decade and has reviewed more than articles for The Spruce Pets for factual accuracy. These pups make a great addition to every home, as they are excellent with kids, love to cuddle, and will do anything to make their owners happy. They are medium-to-large sturdy dogs with excellent balance, obedience through the roof , and an adorable face. Keep scrolling to see the cutest photos yet and discover mind-boggling Labrador retriever trivia. Despite their name, Labrador retrievers originally came from Newfoundland, not Labrador. Continue to 2 of 16 below. Continue to 3 of 16 below. Continue to 4 of 16 below. Continue to 5 of 16 below. Continue to 6 of 16 below. A little training will go a long way. Continue to 7 of 16 below. It may require some training, but their instincts will know how to handle soft items. Labrador retrievers go crazy for plush toys and are often found napping with their favorite ones. Continue to 8 of 16 below. Pinterest Email Dogs have more coat color variations than you can count on both hands and both feet. Brown alone goes by numerous names, depending on the breed of dog. First formally developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a distinct subset of the Lab family, today chocolate Lab puppies and their ilk are consistently named among the most popular dogs in America. These chocolate Lab puppy pictures will not trick your eyes, but treat them to the wonders and the joys of infancy! Just as coat colors have any number of names, many tied to specific dog breeds, chocolate Labs have countless ways to learn, have fun, and engage with the world. Of course, interactive play is beneficial to both our next chocolate Lab puppy and to his owner. They are highly trainable, patient, and obedient dogs. Enough play! Time for lounging! Time for a nice, leisurely sit in the grass; maybe you could get her something to eat? Chocolate Lab puppies are at home wherever they are cared for. You get the coolest trinkets and baubles to entertain them, and, after a wary sniff, they pick up something else entirely? Chocolate Lab puppies were once bred solely for the hunt, but the times keep changing, and these are adaptable dogs. We already know that the vigor of youth is difficult to contain; chocolate Lab puppies thrive by moving with the times. The puppy above perused the newspaper, but not all chocolate Lab puppies are such old-media traditionalists. This baby puppy is checking Twitter on a tablet. Chocolate Lab puppies in their element Let there be no doubt; while chocolate Lab puppies are content to stay inside for a while, they yearn to be outside. The more room a chocolate Lab puppy has to run and frolic, the better! What would a survey of such photogenic dogs be without landscapes of proper scale in which to appreciate their majesty? To beautiful and pastoral vistas we go! My business is cute puppy pictures, a business which is always good. I would be hard pressed to point to one that is more visually and emotionally evocative as this next chocolate Lab puppy. Perched on a bale of hay in the late afternoon, there is a bucolic poetry to this photo that cannot be denied. I saved it for last because I wanted to linger on it. Share your chocolate Lab photos and memories! Do you love chocolate Labs? Share your love and photos in the comments! Learn more about dogs with Dogster:. I had dogs all my life until my beloved Golden Irish Emmy died 2 years ago. I was working on obtaining my Master's degree at the time and knew that besides not being ready for another companion just yet, I didn't have adequate time to devote to another dog. I started biting at the chomp a few months before finishing school and could hardly wait to find my new best friend. I think I was more looking forward to getting a new dog than graduating! Cody was my graduation present to myself and came home on May 12, , at 10 weeks of age. Even as a water-loving breed, Lab puppies still need to learn how to swim, and for his safety, I got him a life vest for swimming in deeper waters such as lakes and rivers. He loves playing in shallow water and is quickly learning to love the pool. He can't stand for me to be in it without him! He has a very calm temperament and trains easily. From the first day I had him he sat for treats without command and was totally housebroken within 2 weeks. He already retrieves the newspaper from the mailbox and drops it in my hand on command every morning. Pretty good, I think! He goes to Puppy Kindergarten every week to learn good manners and be socialized. He will become a certified therapy dog and enrich the lives of others, just as he has mine. I think the most important thing I've learned is the need to be "pack leader. Another thing I have put into practice is generating the kind of energy I want Cody to have. He will react to situations based on the vibes he receives from me , so I must be diligent in projecting the correct energy. I have never put this much work into training a dog before, but I already see the rewards of my efforts. Sometimes it seems sad that he is no longer that small little fur ball, but it is so much fun to see him grow and watch him develop. It is especially nice to see those razor puppy teeth falling out! I look forward to enjoying many more years of companionship with him! He is growing rapidly, and his paws are big, therefore the vet says he will be a huge dog! Logan is a pup who wants to play all day and sleep at night. Whenever he greets people, he gets excited and loves to get belly rubs. He is very good with the children, and doesn't like to sleep alone. He needs to be at your feet or by your side. Logan likes to jump around like a rabbit, especially when socializing with other dogs. He is very good at it. We have not mastered the art of retrieving yet, well.He likes to keep it. In all the pics I am sending, he is sitting pretty for me, but I think Logan likes to have his picture taken, he is such a ham! Logan makes us smile every day. Good night, Lolly. This is Mindy. She is sitting with her brothers Steven, age 12 and David, age .This is Jake! He is pounds 52 kg and loves to swim! As an adorable pup Rudy the Lab at two years old Happy Rudy! You can use these images for various projects such as website design, social media posts, promotional materials, and print materials. Quality and Authenticity of Our Images We understand the importance of quality images and ensure that all stock photos in our library are of high quality. The lab puppy images in our collection are taken by professional photographers, ensuring that each picture captures the adorable nature of lab puppies. We only select the most authentic images, which means your projects will look natural and organic. Tips on Using Lab Puppy Images When using lab puppy images, you want to ensure they support your message and complement your brand. Here are some tips for using lab puppy images effectively: 1. Consider the tone of your project and choose images that match it. Use images that are high quality and will look good on large or small screens. Be mindful of where and how you use the images. They should enhance the message and not distract from it. If you choose to add text to the images, be sure it is legible and complements the image. In conclusion, using lab puppy images in your project can create a warm, friendly, and irresistible atmosphere. With our high-quality stock photos, you're guaranteed to find the perfect image for your project. The tips provided will help ensure that your lab puppy images are used effectively to support your project's message. Our extensive library of high-quality stock photos includes a wide variety of images featuring this beloved breed in various settings and in different stages of life. Whether you need a photo for a website, brochure, or any other marketing material, we have the perfect image to suit your needs. Types of Images Available We offer a wide range of images featuring Labrador Retrievers, including photos of puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs. Our collection includes different colors of Labradors, including Chocolate, Black, and Yellow. You'll find images of Labradors in a variety of settings, such as playing in a park, resting at home, or working as service animals. These formats make it easy to use our images for different purposes, such as print and digital media. Our images can be used for a variety of projects, including websites, social media, brochures, posters, and banners. When choosing an image, keep in mind the intended purpose and the audience. For example, an image of a Labrador playing with a ball may be perfect for a brochure promoting dog toys, while an image of a Labrador as a service animal may be ideal for a website promoting disability services. Practical Advice on Choosing the Right Image When selecting an image, consider the message you want to convey and the emotion you want to evoke. A happy Labrador playing in a park may convey joy and playfulness, while an image of a Labrador comforting an owner may convey comfort and compassion. It's also important to consider the composition of the image. A well-composed image draws the viewer's attention to the subject, making it more effective in conveying the intended message. Choose images with a clear subject and a clean background to avoid distractions. Conclusion No matter what your project requires, we have the perfect Labrador Retriever image to meet your needs. Our extensive library of high-quality stock photos features a variety of Labradors in different settings and stages of life. Make your project stand out with our Labrador Retriever images.

Ian discusses how we should learn to see the world from our dogs perspective and in doing so, how we can better earn their love and trust. Armed with this love and trust, we will form a better relationship and as a result, effective training becomes just that much more effective and enjoyable for both you and your dog. But please, first make sure to use the search facility in the footer of this website and browse our other sections as the subject may have already been covered: Labrador health and care , Labrador behavior , Labrador puppies , infobites and Labrador breed information. External Resources On Labrador Training Although referring to all breeds in general and not purely Labradors, for those of you that love to watch and not read, the series of dog training videos on www. If you like reading books then check out one of our favorite Lab books: The Complete Labrador Handbook. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. If this is the case,…. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the toilet at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialisation Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the garden Besides the gnomes and questionable garden furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own garden is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and garden to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favourite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!