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Currency Dogger Blog Learn tricks of the grooming trade and how to get the most out of grooming and deshedding your doggo pal. Have you tried getting them into the tub or even keeping them still in the garden with the hose pointed at them or a bucket of water by their side? They will most likely want to run away. Before you try to wrangle them for a bath, read these tips first, or you may end up getting wetter than them! German Shepherds have a double coat - the topcoat and the undercoat. The topcoat protects them from sun exposure, dust and other particles. The undercoat protects them from the harsh, cold weather during winter, and the heat from the summer. Their double coat has natural oils, and bathing too frequently will only strip away these oils. And which may cause their skin to get dry and irritated. Nevertheless, during flea season, you can bathe your German Shepherd more often to control any pests. In addition, if your dog has a bit of a pungent scent during the summer, you can bathe him every 2 months. And if your German Shepherd plays out in the open and gets dirty, you may consider bathing more often. Brushing is another factor that would determine how often you bathe your German Shepherd. Brushing also makes their coat shinier and healthier. Start from the neck working your way towards the tail and use enough water to reach the undercoat. Scrub in circular motions with your finger so that the shampoo reaches the undercoat. You can also do long strokes like a massage that your German Shepherd will surely enjoy. Thoroughly wash off your German Shepherd, and you may want to repeat this step to ensure that all the suds are removed from the undercoat and any crevices. If a residue is left and it dries up, this can cause skin irritation. This is the part where you get wet, as they shake off all the excess water. Rub him with a towel to dry off faster. Brush their coat well to make it shiny. And blow dry in the direction of hair growth, otherwise, blowing back and forth can lead to matting. German shepherds don't really need haircuts but if your dogs coat is getting out of hand then a light trim of their coat could help them in the warmer months. As puppies, they can start bathing as young as three weeks. An organic shampoo, or at the very least, a gentle shampoo will do. Harsher shampoos can strip their natural oils, or make their skin dry. Final Note Diet plays a big role too, in their physical appearance and health. Feeding your German Shepherd the proper foods and keeping them away from harmful ones will prevent them from getting any skin problems. Now you are better equipped to bathe your German Shepherd Treat bathing as a bonding moment between you and your dog, and he will love you for it. German Shepherd coat care procedures German Shepherds have a beautiful thick coat, requiring regular and thorough care. In the first place, it involves the correct selection of a full-fledged diet and various hygienic procedures. The owner of such a dog should know exactly what and when to do to ensure that the coat of the pet is properly cared for. Often German Shepherds tolerate water procedures and love to bathe if they were accustomed to it from an early age. Later on, an adult kept in an apartment should be bathed with special products two to four times a year: in autumn, spring and summer. In winter, the coat is sometimes cleaned with snow outside. Water procedures performed in winter can cause the dog to fall ill. If there is an urgent need to bathe the pet during this period, the room allocated for bathing should be well prepared and warmed up. If your dog gets dirty on a walk, wash him under the shower or use a wet towel to wipe his coat. If your pet is clearly attracted to water procedures in summer, you can shower him after walks. When keeping a Shepherd Dog in an apartment, you should wash it during the following periods: after shedding; 7 days before the treatment against parasites ticks, fleas, and others ; before the dog shows. If the pet is kept in an aviary, bathing is performed no more than three times a year. Small puppies should not be bathed several days before vaccination and during the day quarantine after vaccination. The first vaccinations are given quite early, at 6 weeks or 2 months of age. Bathing a puppy at 1 or 2 months is still too early. Try to communicate with the puppy calmly and gently, not frighten him with harsh motions. Allow him to settle in by sniffing and looking around in the bathtub. After that, you can start bathing your German Shepherd puppy. What you need for bathing at home Prepare in advance everything you may need for the procedure: First, provide the bottom of the tub with a non-slip surface — a cloth or rubber mat — to prevent your dog from slipping. Wear clothing suitable for this kind of procedure a waterproof apron. Do not use soap on your Shepherd. Prepare a bathing towel. Remember to take your pet for a proper walk outside before bathing. Otherwise, he will want to go for a walk again afterward and may get dirty or catch a cold. Prepare carefully and anticipate everything beforehand. Make sure the water temperature does not exceed degrees Celsius. Using a special shampoo and sponge, thoroughly soap his entire body, including his paws, belly, and neck. Rinse off the foam with your shower. Repeat if necessary. Wrap your puppy in a towel and get him out of the tub. If the coat is still partially wet, let the puppy shake it off and dry himself by running around the house. If the puppy is not afraid of loud noises, try drying the coat with a hairdryer. After bathing, Shepherd fur dries for about 3 hours. Try to bathe your pet in 10 minutes. Exclude the possibility of draughts in the room to avoid the risk of catching a cold. After washing, walks are allowed only after 3 hours. How to bathe a German Shepherd outdoors In the summer heat, you can bathe your German Shepherd puppy in an open pond every day, starting at the age of 4 months. If you take your pet to a river or lake, pay attention to the state of the body of water and the shore before bathing. Are there any sharp objects, shards of glass, or other trash visible? Such precautions will help avoid unwanted injuries and poisoning of your pet. After examining the area, let your dog off the leash and allow him to get acclimated to his new surroundings. German Shepherds are not timid, but each animal has its own personality traits. Swimming in a body of water is good for strengthening muscles and joints. Start by stepping into the water and calling out to your dog. Due to their high degree of trust in their owner, Shepherds are then eager to follow. Allow him to dry naturally, play and run with him. After sickness, it is better to wait about ten days after the pet has recovered before bathing. If the coat falls out or it is dull and broken, it indicates a disease or lack of vitamins in the animal. German Shepherds are divided into long-haired and short-haired according to the fur coat. Their coats need daily brushing. While brushing, dirt, dust, and dander are removed from the coat and skin. At the same time, skin diseases are effectively prevented, and blood circulation and metabolism in the pet are stimulated. The following tools are necessary for taking care of the coat: A frequent brush for the massage effect for long-haired — with long teeth, for short-haired — with short teeth. Metal comb: used to detangle fleece hair. Scrubbing brush: used during the seasonal shedding of the pet and for detangling the tangles. In brushing, it is necessary to release the brush from the clogged hair and dirt periodically. If your pet is calm, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a small brush attachment. After dry brushing, wet-clean the coat with a special mop, then dry the coat with a dry towel, and do not forget to wipe the eyes and ears with a wet cloth. There are special complex procedures designed to care for the fur and skin of animals, the so-called grooming. A bath should be a good thing, right? After all, baths keep humans away from dirt and bad odor, so you may think the same logic applies to dogs. However, you should not bathe your German Shepherd more often than necessary. German Shepherds have a double coat with natural oils that keep their skin healthy. This could lead to skin issues such as allergic reactions or dryness. Dogs with thick double coats and heavy shedders like the German Shepherd can be bathed every 3 months. This is because when they shed , the coat naturally removes dead skin cells and harmful bacteria. While bathing your German Shepherd is an essential part of their grooming and care, you should only do it to remove dirt and unpleasant odors. You should only bathe your German Shepherd every two to three months or as necessary. They should be bathed when they have accumulated mud or dirt on their skin or coat or the dog smells unpleasant. Regular bathing is unnecessary if your German Shepherd has a clean, shiny, and healthy coat. There are a few other factors that can affect how often you should bathe your GSD: 1. A monthly bath may be necessary if your GSD is extra active and often gets full of dirt. Some dogs are known for rolling around in fox poop; if this is your dog, then more frequent bathing will be on your list of doggy chores. Others like to jump in muddy puddles whenever they see one on a walk, like Willow, my German Shepherd. She likes to cool off in swampy areas or sludgy puddles, as shown in the photo below. My German Shepherd taking a mud bath! Your German Shepherd Has a Skin Condition You may need to bathe your dog regularly if they have a skin condition that requires treatment with a special shampoo. One antibiotic-controlled study found that bath therapy twice weekly with a chlorhexidine shampoo and spray was as effective as amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in treating dog pyoderma. Although these pests are a threat to doggos all year round, they are most active during the warmer months. In such cases, he may need even fewer baths than the recommended once every months. Nonetheless, many enjoy a paddle in a river or shallow lake or other water activities. Willow is not keen on swimming — I think her heavy double coat weighs her down. But she loves being in the river and finds it fun sticking her head in the water to find pebbles. My German Shepherd hunting for river pebbles! Your GSD Has a Skin Allergy German Shepherds with skin allergies typically have issues with their skin barrier epidermis , meaning their skin dries up more easily. Regularly bathing a dog with skin allergies using harsh shampoos can worsen the already compromised layer of skin, further aggravating the allergy. If you do need to keep your German Shepherd clean and spiffy, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Brush your GSD twice or thrice every week. Removing loose fur also takes away old skin oils and prevents dog odor. Do you want to know the grooming tools I swear by? Get your German Shepherd tired. If you use the treatment that you rub between the shoulders, you should wait 48 hours before bathing. For example, you can consult your vet on how often you should bathe your dog. After all, your vet is likely knowledgeable about dog skin types and any skin issues your dog may have. The oatmeal and aloe mixture works well with sensitive skin. Additionally, the shampoo is manufactured in U. German Shepherd puppies should not be bathed with shampoo until they are at least 3 months old. Before then, just use warm water and a cloth or wash rag. At 3 months, you should use a good quality shampoo and conditioner made for dogs and pH balanced to avoid skin irritation. Do German Shepherds Like Baths? Most German Shepherds do not enjoy baths. They find being confined and scrubbed in the bathtub an entirely different experience from splashing around in a river which they enjoy. Some dogs are nervous around water, so reassure your pet, use a calm voice and offer high-quality treats. Long-haired German Shepherds should be bathed 3 or 4 times per year. Their bathing frequency is no different from the short coat variety. Too many baths will remove the natural oils that are present in their coat which can result in their skin becoming dry and inflamed. Final Thoughts How often you should bathe your German Shepherd depends on a few factors. In general, you should bathe your GSD whenever they get dirty or smelly. If you must have a regular bathing routine for your dog and they have healthy skin, you can bathe them once every two to three months. If you doubt how often you should bathe your GSD, ask your veterinarian. Your vet may recommend that you bathe your dog more or less than the recommended once every two to three months. Related Posts You May Like:. Health As a German Shepherd owner, you probably know all of the joys of having one of these amazing dogs. In order to keep your dog happy and healthy, there are some things involved that may not be as fun as playing fetch with Fido. Grooming your German Shepherd could be one of those things depending on how cooperative your GSD is during the process. In this short guide, we will give you advice on how often you should bathe a German Shepherd as well as other grooming tips. Bathing your dog is not like bathing your child. This is the ideal amount of bathing for your dog, but there are other factors that can come into play. Personally, I bathe Allie once every weeks. Of course, if your dog goes outside often and gets really dirty, you may want to bathe him before he can track that dirt all over your home. If your German Shepherd stinks, you definitely want to give your dog a bath. You should brush your German Shepherd a couple of times a week. The difficulty of bathing your German Shepherd will largely depend on whether your dog is cooperative or not. Some dogs may not like baths at first so you will be busy trying to keep them still or trying to keep them from running away from the bath. The good news is that if you are patient and reassuring, your dog will eventually get used to it. I found that getting Allie used to baths as a puppy helped tremendously so now I am not fighting with 70 pounds of Shepherd for every bath. You will want to do the head last. Apply shampoo and begin to lather your GSD all over starting from their neck and working your way down. You can either use your fingers or use a sponge if you want to really rub the shampoo in. I just use my fingers. Once you are finished, dry your dog thoroughly with the towels. Is Dog Teeth Cleaning Necessary? You may have to work with your dog to get them comfortable with getting their teeth cleaned. Make sure you use toothpaste for dogs, not toothpaste for humans. Try putting a tiny amount of toothpaste on each tooth before you start brushing just to relax your dog. Once your dog is relaxed, brush the teeth in a circular motion, making sure you brush near the gum lines. Try and be thorough but be gentle. This is one of the things I wish I did more when Allie was a puppy. Normally, her mouth is wide open, but when the toothbrush comes out her mouth closes up like a clam. Handle any broken or split nails immediately. You will want to use a dog nail clipper not human nail clippers. You can buy special ear wax drops from your vet. Your dog will shake out the remaining liquid by shaking its head. Final Thoughts Keeping your German Shepherd properly groomed goes a long way in keeping your dog healthy. A healthy dog is a happy dog! If you are ever in doubt about grooming your dog, you can seek out professional help. There are many great dog groomers available and your vet can also give you good tips. The rest of the time, proper grooming can keep them clean and healthy. Shedding For The Season Dogs have two different types of coats. Some have hair that continually grows. Others have fur that sheds. German Shepherd Dogs have a double coat of fur. According to Dog. The top layer also known as the primary layer serves to protect the dog from light injury and add additional insulation from temperature. Throughout the year, some of this fur detaches from the body sheds , in order for new growth to come in. German Shepherd Dogs go through two big shedding cycles every year to adapt to the coming season. You will also notice that there is more fur around the house than normal. The best way to keep up with their shedding is daily brushing with a de-shedding brush or comb. You will want to make sure you are getting both the top layer and undercoat when doing this. Use positive techniques and stay consistent with this daily routine. After some time, this can become a great bonding experience. Global K9 Protection Services , a company that specializes in training Shepherds, recommends not bathing GSDs too often to avoid drying out their skin. Dry skin can lead to itchiness, redness, and hot spots that they can start chewing. If they walk on pavement or gravel often, their nails may get ground down from those surfaces. The goal is to cut the nails down without hitting the nerve in the nail. This can lead to foot and joint issues later on. When clipping their nails, high praise in a calm environment will give you the best results for them to get through it in the most positive way. They need it but do not want you to put anything in there. The best way to do this is to clean the outer ear and use ear drops designed for dogs. As they shake their heads, it will remove the excess ear wax and dirt. Speak to your veterinarian about which product to choose. Some dog treats have plaque removing properties to them. Another way is to brush their teeth around three times a week. Make sure you use toothpaste made for dogs. The toothpaste made for humans can be toxic to dogs. Remember, if it goes in their mouth, they will swallow it. Let them get used to the warm water. The water level should not be more than elbow high for them. Work from their bottom and move forward, saving their head for last. They are very sensitive to having their faces handled. When scrubbing them, use circular motions with your fingers to get through the undercoat. You can also use long strokes in a massage-like way. These two methods can calm them down. Who does not like a massage? Make sure you rinse often and repeatedly to make sure that all of the soap has been cleaned off. Dried residue can create irritation on their skin. Have at least towels ready to dry them off. If you are going to use a hairdryer, do not focus on one spot for too long, to avoid making one spot too hot for them. Use products that are designed specifically for dogs. Avoid products that use artificial chemicals. Products that use natural ingredients and have simple formulas are just as effective. Going With The Pros Using a professional dog groomer has advantages. They have the proper equipment, products, and skills to groom your German Shepherd Dog. Before you go online and choose the first one you see, both PetMD and the AKC have a few recommendations on how to choose the right groomer. Grooming program , that can assure you the groomer is of the highest quality. You will also want to make sure they are caring for your dog well with their kennels and that their staff is trained for any emergencies. Finally, make sure you understand all the costs that come with their services. Your dog may never look forward to it, but when it is time to take a bath, using positive training techniques can be the best approach to make it a choreless event. Make sure you use the proper shampoos and keep up with their grooming requirements. If you do need further advice, see the help of a certified trainer in your area. In such cases, you will have to bathe the dog more frequently than usual, using an antibacterial and antifungal dog shampoo. They target the effects of different skin conditions and help clear them up so your German Shepherd can be free from symptoms like itching or hotspots and get their shiny coat back.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Also known as a borador, or border Lab, this energetic and clever mix combines the best traits of its parent breeds. If you are looking for an affectionate and lively companion dog that loves children and can keep up with your active lifestyle, check out the border Lab! Medium to large in size, these pups are best suited for active families and homes with access to securely fenced backyards. Take this to heart. We had a borador who was an absolute escape artist. He found his way out of our backyard and to the local park on nearly a daily basis. This exceptionally smart mix craves attention and needs a lot of mental stimulation to stay on the best behavior. When bored or left to their own devices, border Labs can become destructive and resort to chewing or digging just to have fun. If you want an outgoing, eager-to-please, loyal, and smart mixed-breed dog for your family, read on! Border Collie Lab Overview Size — 19 to 24 inches tall, weighs between 40 and 65 pounds Coat — Short to medium-long double coat, color varies Shedding — Moderate to heavy shedding Lifespan — 10 to 15 years Temperament — Eager-to-please, outgoing, clever, and energetic Trainable — Highly trainable but can become bored if not mentally stimulated Activity — Very active needs around one to two hours of activity every day Best For — Active families and people, and homes with outdoor space What Is A Labrador Border Collie Mix? As you may have guessed, the Labrador border collie mix is a cross-breed created by mixing a purebred Labrador retriever and a purebred border collie. While both parent breeds are officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, the borador is considered a designer dog breed. Border Collie And Lab Mix Appearance Like all other mixed-breed dogs, no two border Labs are the same and there is no way of knowing exactly what you will get when mixing a border collie and a Lab. Most, however, have a Lab-like build, although they are on the thin side. When it comes to the head and general features, this mix takes more after the Labrador, but they do have the slightly pointed nose of a border collie. However, nothing is set in stone, and the only thing you can do is wait and see how your border collie and Lab mix puppy will grow up to be. With that being said, there are some things you can expect from your mixed breed, mainly when it comes to size and coat color. Size As a mix between Labrador retriever and border collie dog breeds, expect your border Lab to be a medium to large size dog. Most border collie Lab mixes are between 19 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. There are yellow, brown, black, and fox red Labrador retrievers , but border collies come in many different colors and markings. Most border Labs have brown, black, or tan coats and white markings like their border collie parent. The amount of white fur varies greatly from one borador to the next, with some dogs having completely solid coats and others having several white markings. Coat Depending on which parent they take after, boradors can have short to medium-long coats. Having a double coat means your Lab mix is going to shed moderately all year round, and lose more hair during the shedding season. Most border Labs are outgoing and people-loving dogs that make amazing family pets. In fact, this mix is so friendly that they will likely meet everyone with a wagging tail. They generally become fast friends with children and are very gentle with them. However, thanks to their border collie ancestry, some boradors may try to herd and nip smaller children or other pets. If your mix exhibits this trait, know you can curb their nipping tendencies with training and positive reinforcement. As an offspring of the border collie — the smartest dog breed in the world — the borador tends to be pretty smart as well. Aim to take your border collie Lab mix for at least two long walks every day and also include several playing sessions throughout the day. Games such as fetch, tug-of-war, hide and seek, and flyball are some great ways to exercise your borador and keep it mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab mix, Maffy was high, high, high energy. Obviously inherited from the Border Collie side of the equation. However, a Lab is no slouch when it comes to energy level. Caring For A Borador As with any other dog, you should develop a care routine as soon as you bring a border collie Lab mix puppy home. Exercise Ideally, boradors need around one or two hours of exercise every day. Activities such as running, swimming, jogging, cycling, and hiking are just some ways you can keep your mix exercised and in good shape. Boradors also excel at agility, which is a great way to keep your dog both physically and mentally challenged at the same time. Intellectual Stimulation Since they are very smart, border Labs do best with lots of mental stimulation. If not properly challenged, your mix will become destructive and turn to digging and chewing to relieve boredom. A word of caution, a bored Lab border collie mix might be a recipe for disaster! You might return home from work only to find your shoes, pillows, or carpets chewed and shredded to pieces. Invest in durable chews, interesting puzzle toys to stimulate your dog , and spend some time every day interacting and playing with your pooch to keep them mentally stimulated. Our Border Lab got into all kinds of trouble in the yard digging holes and hiding treats throughout the yard. Another game he enjoyed playing was dropping his ball into the swimming pool. Then wait till it floats to the middle then jump in after it. Without mental stimulation Boradors definitely invent their own games. Companionship Eager-to -lease, loving, and friendly border Labs are true companions and are happy as long as they are involved in all family activities. These dogs crave attention and companionship, and they are best suited for homes where there is someone who can spend a better part of the day playing and interacting with them. When left at home alone a lot, this mix can develop separation anxiety and become destructive. Grooming When compared to other Lab mixes, the borador is a fairly low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Although they shed moderately all year round, their coats are easy to groom and need to be brushed two times a week. Brushing your mix regularly with a slicker brush will help you remove loose hair and keep the shedding to a minimum. Diet An ideal diet for a border Lab should be formulated for medium to large size dogs with high energy. Make sure to feed your mix with age-appropriate high-quality dog food that contains all essential micro and macronutrients. Avoid free feeding your mix and set up a regular feeding schedule to prevent obesity and health problems associated with it. Although border Labs are generally healthy, they are prone to some of the same health problems that affect Labrador retrievers and border collies. This can be extremely painful for a dog, causing arthritis, difficulty walking, and lameness later in life. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a congenital eye disease that occurs in border collies and affects the retina, sclera, and choroid. CEA is caused by a recessive gene defect and can be a mild condition or cause blindness. Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland is no longer able to produce the hormone thyroxine. Life Expectancy The border Lab has an average life expectancy of 10 to 15 years. When properly cared for and taken to regular veterinary checkups, some boradors can reach senior years completely healthy. We had a Border Collie Lab mix that we rescued from our local animal shelter. They told us he was approximately 2 years old when we rescued him. He lived with us for 18 years! Add on the approximately 2 years he lived before he came to our home he lived a whopping 20 years! True to their parent breeds, border Labs are eager to please and very intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. Like all other dogs, the Lab border collie mix responds well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. Start training and socializing your borador puppy as soon as you bring them home when they are eight to 12 weeks old. While your pup might seem small, you can start potty training and teach them basic commands. Border Labs make truly wonderful companions and pets to active people or families with children. Couch potatoes be warned; this designer hybrid needs a lot of exercise and will keep you on your toes. Due to their energetic nature and high exercise needs, boradors need a home with access to a fenced yard where they can run around and play. Buying A Border Collie And Lab Mix Puppy If you want to purchase a border collie and Lab mix puppy, find a reputable breeder and schedule an appointment to visit their facilities. A reputable breeder will let you meet the mother and all the puppies. Check your local shelter and rescue groups to see if they have any border Labs. You can also contact Labrador retriever and border collie breed-specific rescue groups since they often take care of mixed-breed dogs too. History Of The Breeds Labrador Retriever One of the most popular dog breeds in the world, the Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland where they helped fishermen catch fish. Universally loved for their kind, friendly, fun, and loyal nature, Labs make great family pets and companions. Highly intelligent, gentle, and eager-to-please, Labrador retrievers are favored as service dogs and are often seen assisting people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Border Collie Developed in the border country between Scotland and England, the border collie is a working and herding dog breed. Originally bred to herd sheep, border collies are a highly intelligent and very trainable dog breed. Naturally athletic and energetic, border collies need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and thrive. Boradors are good companions and amazing pets to active people and families with children. They tend to be friendly, loving, eager-to-please, and smart, which makes training fairly easy even for novice owners. As long as they are properly exercised and provided with the attention they need, border Labs make wonderful pets. Are boradors aggressive? Boradors are rarely aggressive towards people or other dogs and tend to greet everyone with a wagging tail. Inherently friendly and kind, the collie Lab mix gets along well with children with whom they become fast friends. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Conclusion Extremely clever, eager-to-please, and friendly, the border collie Lab mix makes a great pet for active people and families with children. True to its parent breeds, this mix has a lot of energy and needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation, otherwise, they can become bored and destructive. Boradors are best suited for: Outdoorsy people and active families with children Homes with securely fenced backyards People who can interact and play with their pup every day We told you a little about our Border Collie Lab mix, Maffy, but how about you? Have you ever owned a Borador? What was your dog like? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. 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. The borador, a Labrador retriever and border collie mix, displays some of the most sought-after traits of its parent breeds. Like their parent breeds, boradors are extremely active and will do best in families that provide a lot of exercise and social interaction. Appearance Because the borador is a mixed breed that inherits traits from both parent breeds, what a pup can look like can vary wildly. If a borador takes after his Lab side, he can have a short coat in black, brown, or yellow. Or, if they lean more toward their border collie parent, they can have a medium-length coat that's solid black or black and white. Depending on the traits inherited from their border collie and labrador retriever parents, boradors can stand 18—25 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 30—70 pounds. Most border collie and Lab mixes, Derse says, tend to be on the smaller end of the range. But, she adds, "It depends on whether an [shorter, stockier] English lab or an American lab [which is taller and has a more athletic build], was the parent. Just like with their looks, boradors will inherit these traits from their parent breeds. In other words, these are dogs that need jobs, Derse says. Boradors are energetic and intelligent ; without outlets to channel their physical and mental energy, Derse says boradors can be prone to "naughty behaviors" like chewing the sofa. They are especially affectionate with their families and appreciate opportunities to tag along on all kinds of activities. Overall, Derse calls the mixed breed "well tempered" with one caveat: Boradors must have healthy outlets to channel their abundant energy. They'll enjoy fast-paced, heart-pumping activities that require problem solving—with training, your borador might just be the next agility champion. Living Needs When it comes to their dream living situation, boradors have one wish: space. Your borador might romp around the backyard solo for a short period, but sniffing around the fence line solo won't be enough to fulfill his need for exercise. You'll need to provide plenty of opportunities for him to burn off his boundless energy, from long—very, very long—walks and trips to the dog park to epic games of fetch. The adage, "A tired dog is a good dog," definitely applies to the borador. Whether you're hiking , running , or swimming , a borador will want to be right by your side. They are also naturals at dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and dock diving. Basically, the more exercise, the better. Although boradors are easygoing dogs that will happily nap on the sofa after a good workout, they are probably not the right dogs for apartment life. In fact, Derse says, "If you live in an apartment and you're thinking about [a borador], you might want to rethink it. But with early and consistent training and adult supervision during puppy and kiddo playtime , a borador can quickly learn that kids are not something to herd. Training is a great way to give them a mental challenge—but it's not just about teaching basic cues like " sit ," " stay ," and "leave it. Labs tend to have short, straight, and dense coats, while border collies have longer, coarse, often wavy coats; boradors can have some combination of these coat types. Both parent breeds are heavy shedders , which means boradors will need regular grooming, regardless of which coat type they inherit. Expect to brush your borador daily to remove dead hair and keep it off your couch. Thanks to their love of outdoor adventures, boradors will also need regular baths. Frequent nail trims , routine dental care , and monthly preventives to protect against fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease are also an essential part of caring for your borador. Health The typical borador lifespan is 10—15 years and they are typically healthy pups. However, these border collie and Labrador retriever mixes can develop a few health issues their parent breeds are prone to. This includes: Hip dysplasia: Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia. The condition, which causes grinding and pain, is diagnosed when the hip joint and socket don't fit together. There is no cure, but physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications can help ease the pain. Sometimes surgery is needed. Ear infections: Excessive head shaking, pawing or scratching the affected ear, odor, discharge, redness, swelling or scabs in the ear canal are common signs of ear infections. Thanks to their floppy ears and love of swimming, boradors may be diagnosed with ear infections more often than breeds with small, pricked ears. If your borador has chronic ear infections, your vet may also look for underlying causes such as allergies , thyroid disease , or other endocrine disorders and autoimmune disorders. Epilepsy: Epilepsy is an inherited disorder that causes recurrent seizures. It's the most common neurological condition diagnosed in dogs. While the condition isn't painful, it can cause dogs to feel anxious and confused. Medication can help control seizures. Keeping up with regular veterinarian appointments will keep your pup healthy, and make sure to consult your vet if you notice signs of any of the above conditions. History Both border collies and Labs have centuries-long histories. Border collies are known as indispensable working dogs, herding sheep and other livestock in the Scottish Highlands and in Wales for generations. Labs were also bred to work , though on the other side of the pond; they were used to retrieve ducks and keep fishermen company in Newfoundland, Canada. Given that the border collie and Labrador retriever consistently rank among the U. In fact, there were likely a lot of Lab and border collie crosses before anyone dubbed the mixed breed a "borador. But one thing is certain: These outgoing, active, athletic dogs are the ideal companions for active owners who want enthusiastic four-legged companions for outdoor adventures. Was this page helpful? 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 Borador Highlights The Borador is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Border Collie or Labrador Retriever parents. The main colors of Boradors are brown, black, tan, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. Boradors are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do. Most Boradors are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. This makes them better as companions than as watchdogs. Any nipping related to herding tendencies can be easily curbed with positive reinforcement and training. Boradors are generally great with kids, other pets, and all members of the family. Playtime between dogs and kids, as always, should be supervised. Borador History The Borador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Border Collies and Labrador Retrievers in the early s, likely in North America. Breeders likely started to cross-breed the Labrador Retriever and the Border Collie to create a smart, family-friendly dog. Both parent breeds are working and herding dogs, and when combined, they make for an intelligent, affectionate pup. Breeders continued to create Boradors as demand for the mixed breed dogs climbed. Even though the Borador mixed breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Borador rescues, or check with breed-specific Labrador Retriever or Border Collie rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Borador Size As the Borador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Border Collie and Labrador Retriever parents, you can expect Boradors to be on the medium to large side. Most weigh in at 40 to 64 pounds and range in height from 19 to 24 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. Borador Personality Many Borador enthusiasts stress that the mixed breed is truly a family dog. The good-sized pooch is eager to please, and they are just as happy to participate in agility contests as they are to snuggle on the couch—as long as its with their family. In fact, they are so outgoing that they will often greet any stranger with a wag of their tail. Since they are smart and highly energetic dogs, Boradors do best with lots of activity and stimulation. If not properly exercised, the Borador could fall into some bored destructive behaviors. Prevent unwanted chewing and digging by providing plenty of physical and mental stimulation for your Borador. Borador Health The Borador breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Border Collie and Labrador also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Borador suffer from include : Collie Eye Anomaly. Breeders vs rescue dogs A Combined History Mixing dog breeds is not a new thing. In fact, cross-breeding has been around for centuries. But, it takes many years to create a distinct breed that is recognized and registered. Designer dogs are typically named based on the breeds used for mating. Border Collies and Labradors are both intelligent working dogs. They have been selectively bred for generations to choose dogs that are driven as well as cooperative, but in slightly different ways. Border Collies are a traditional herding breed mostly used by sheep farmers to control their unruly flocks. Labradors on the other hand spend more time waiting than working, then have bursts of energy fetching fallen birds over long distances and tricky terrain. Like many of the other designer breeds, the Borador has come into existence within the last 10 to 20 years in North America. By mixing the lovable Labrador with the hard-working Border Collie, breeders hoped to get the best of both worlds — an intelligent, energetic, and people-oriented dog that suits almost any role. Most Labradors are quite a bit bigger than Border Collies. But, your mix could fall anywhere between the sizes of its parents. Most Borador dogs will be somewhere between 40 and 60 pounds. Females are usually smaller than males. While Labradors are seen with a solid yellow, brown, or black coat, this mix often takes on the distinct dual or tri-coloring of the Border Collie. You could also end up with a beautiful black Lab Border Collie mix. Black is a dominant coat color, so the black Lab Border Collie mix is one of the most common colors. This can be in a plain form, or bi-color pattern, such as a white and black Lab Border Collie mix. Grooming and Shedding The Border Collie parent can have long or short fur. Labs will have short dense fur. Your Borador mix could be anywhere inbetween. Both parent dogs are known to shed all year round, and heavily during hotter seasons. So, expect to find lots of fur around your home if you own one. Use a bristle or pin brush for grooming once or twice a week and use a slicker brush to remove any mats that you see. Especially if your dog spends a lot of time exercising outdoors. You may need to groom more frequently when shedding is at its heaviest. Border Collie Lab Mix Temperament These dogs can inherit some very unique and positive personality traits from their parent breeds. For starters, Collies are extremely intelligent. According to studies completed by the American Psychological Association, the dogs have the same mental abilities as a two to two-and-a-half-year-old child. While Labradors may act more like toddlers, and have a good deal of smarts themselves, what really stands out about them is their kindness, happiness, and generally easy-going attitudes. Socialization Early socialization is hugely important if you want to raise a healthy, happy, outgoing dog. This process involves exposing your puppy to other dogs and to different people when they are young. It is done so that your dog will not be fearful or aggressive around new people or dogs. Ideally, socialization should begin when your puppy is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Luckily, both the Border Collie and Labrador are known for their easy, kind temperament, so you should find this process easy and effective. Training Both Labradors and Border Collies are dogs with high levels of intelligence. So, a Borador is likely to become bored and disruptive if not properly entertained. Training can go a long way to help with this. There are various programs that can help you with training. Keep in mind that studies show that positive reinforcement or reward based training are best for your dog. Not only is it highly effective, but it reduces the incidence of problem behaviors and anxiety issues. Borador Energy Levels It should not come as a surprise that the Border Collie Lab mix also needs a fair amount of exercise. They are extremely active dogs that love to run, play, and exert energy for hours each day. The Lab part of the mix typically calms down the hyperactive nature of the Border Collie. But, it depends entirely on the traits they inherit. Some Borador mixes will still have strong herding instincts and could even try to herd young kids or other pets in the house! Border Collie and Labrador Health All dogs are at risk of certain illnesses. The Borador is no exception. Here are some health problems that potential owners should be aware of: Hip dysplasia. Breeds By Meg Marrs 6 min read September 24, Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. When you combine two already-awesome things, you usually wind up with something even better. And this is especially true when you are talking about mixed-breed dogs. For example, Labradoodles, chorkies and Gerberian Shepskies are a few of the most well-known and popular designer dogs, but few mixtures are as reliably awesome as the borador — a cross between a border collie and a Labrador retriever. Labrador Retrievers Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the world the most popular breed, according to the AKC. They are famous for being loving, fun, energetic and intelligent pups, and most people who can provide proper training and sufficient exercise fall in love with their labs. Although originally developed to help fishermen collect their nets and retrieve escaping fish, they also excel in hunting, therapy and bomb-sniffing contexts. Of course, labs also make fantastic family pets; they are gentle with children, friendly with strangers and simply love to hang out with their people. Labs are medium-sized dogs, who typically weigh somewhere in the to pound range. They have very thick, short- to medium-length hair and come in three different color forms: Black, golden and chocolate. Border Collies Border collies were originally used as herding dogs, but they also make great family pets. Border collies have one of the most well-developed work ethics of any breed, and they are very smart many authorities consider them the most intelligent breed. This means that you must keep them busy and stimulated, or else they may become destructive. Border collies are very good at a number of different jobs, and people frequently use them in agility, disc, obedience and tracking competitions. Most are very friendly and loving with their families, although they occasionally exhibit a bit of dog aggression. Border collies are covered in fairly long, soft hair, and they are generally black with white masks, chests and feet. However, some border collies also display patches of brown. Most weigh between about 30 and 50 pounds. Borador Traits and Characteristics While boradors can vary from individual to individual, most are relatively similar in terms of appearance, personality and skills. Image from Pinterest Size and Shape Boradors are medium-sized dogs, who are generally about 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 65 pounds. However, all dogs are individuals, and some will fall outside of this range. Boradors usually have a lab-like build, although they are often on the thin side. Color Patterns Most boradors have black and white markings, like their border collie parent. However, the amount of white fur varies greatly, with some individuals being nearly black and others possessing several large, white patches. The most common places to see white on these dogs is the face and chest. Temperament Boradors are typically lovely dogs, who are sweet and affectionate with their families. While they will gladly bark at strange noises or people, they make friends quickly and generally get along with people and dogs alike. Neediness Boradors usually prefer to be with their pack as much as possible. This can lead to separation anxiety and other problems, if they are left alone for long periods of time. Image from Pinterest Intelligence As you may expect, when you cross two of the smartest dog breeds in the world , their offspring tend to be pretty sharp puppies. Make sure to have some dog puzzle toys on hand to keep those canine brains sharp! Energy Level Given the fact that both of their parent breeds are bursting with energy, it should come as no surprise that boradors are some of the most energetic dogs on the planet. Owners who are not willing to go on multiple walks and toss the ball for a while on a daily basis should look elsewhere for a pet. Boradors who do not get enough exercise and playtime often become very destructive and depressed. Training Potential Most boradors love to work with and please their person, so they are generally easy to train. However, their impressive intelligence can occasionally make training difficult, as they can be headstrong from time to time. Nevertheless, most boradors respond well to firm, consistent training based on positive reinforcement, so grab your clicker and a handful of treats and teach your borador a new trick! Health Profile Boradors are generally healthy dogs, who are not especially susceptible to many illnesses or ailments. Bloat can also be a concern, given their relatively deep chests, so encourage your dog to eat slowly consider investing in a slow eating bowl or — even better — start a hand feeding routine and insist on a period of calmness after meals. Maintenance Needs Boradors tend to have the short hair of their lab parent, which means they need relatively little grooming or maintenance. Lifespan The average lifespan of boradors can vary widely, but most probably live between 10 and 12 years. Best People and Families for Boradors The best families for boradors are active and love to get out and about with their pooch. They may not be the best choice for families that already have other pets particularly cats , although some seem to get along with other pets more than others. What kinds of things surprised you about your borador? Did she present any special challenges? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it! We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are looking for a friendly and energetic dog to adopt into the family, then the Borador, which is a mix between a Labrador retriever and a border collie, might be a perfect choice! Attractive, intelligent, and friendly to a fault, these dogs have the perfect temperament for playing at home with the kids or accompanying their parents on epic adventures. However, they do need lots of love and attention to thrive. While there exists a diverse range of different types of Boradors, the most popular mix is between a black Labrador and a border collie. This typically results in a distinctive and sleek black pup, often with white accents. Always consider heading to your local shelter before purchasing a pup. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Boradors and decide whether they are the perfect pup to join your home. The breed was established in the s and has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the Western world ever since. Their friendly nature, intelligence, and eagerness to please make them ideal working dogs, and you will often see Labs in service dog roles such as disability assistance. Their composure makes them the ideal dog to accompany their owners into public spaces, though they are known as big shedders. The border collie is a herding dog that was developed along the Anglo-Scottish border. It was officially recognized as a breed in .Border collies are both intelligent and athletic, which has made them favorites as sports dogs, particularly in sheepdog trials. It is believed that initial combinations of Labs and border collies were probably accidental, but breeders soon realized the combination made for a very desirable mix. While all kinds of Borador mixes exist, the most popular mix is between black Labradors and border collies, creating distinctive-looking black dogs with white accents. The term is not generally used for accidents, but rather specifically for these designer dogs that are emerging. However, it is important to differentiate between crossbreeds and pure breeds. Pure breeds tend to pass down physical and character traits in a very predictable way, making it possible to define the breed. When it comes to crossbred dogs, though, there is less consistency in the way characteristics manifest. It is possible to generalize to an extent about what to expect from a crossbred dog, and breeders do control for characteristics as much as possible. Luckily, when it comes to Boradors, you are working with two incredibly intelligent and friendly breeds, so the result always tends to be something special. Borador Appearance Labrador and border collie mixes are medium-to-large-sized dogs that tend to fall somewhere between the size of their two parents. Breeders typically make sure the mother is larger so they have no trouble passing the baby pups. Labradors tend to be between .They usually weigh between 55 and 80 pounds. Border collies are a bit smaller, reaching between 18 and 22 inches in height and weighing between 30 and 55 pounds. They tend to have a longer muzzle and a leaner physique, though this is not always easy to see through their medium-length hair. As a result, you can expect a Borador to be between 19 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds. Remember, you can get a better idea of the potential height and weight of a puppy by looking at their parents. Most Borador pups tend to have the slightly heavier build of the Labrador, though they are usually a little on the thin side. They also tend to have the broad face of their Lab parent, though with a longer, more pointed nose. You can usually expect your Borador puppy to be a mix of whatever color their parents were. Most puppies take on the more solid black color of their Lab parent coupled with the white markings of their border collie parent. So, if you are mixing a black Lab with a border collie, you can expect a mostly black dog with white accents. Boradors typically have a double coat that will either look like the short hair of a Labrador retriever or the medium-length hair of a border collie. Regardless of their coat color, your Borador will shed quite a lot, as both Labradors and border collies are known for their high-shedding coats. Borador Personality Labradors and border collies have a lot of personality traits in common, so the characters and temperaments of Boradors are relatively easy to predict. First and foremost, both breeds are considered to be highly intelligent. They can both learn new things quickly, and they are also able to think independently. This allows them to adapt to new situations and determine what is expected of them, even if they have not been provided with specific instructions. But unlike very independent dogs that can be difficult to train due to their stubbornness, both Labradors and border collies were bred to work alongside humans. This has made them very eager to please, which makes training through reward and positive reinforcement highly effective. This is also why Labradors can be trained to complete the complex tasks required of a guide dog for the blind and why border collies can be trained to deliver elaborate tricks in a sporting dog competition. You can expect a Borador to be highly trainable as well. Both dogs tend to be friendly with strangers and other animals rather than territorial. They are more likely to be curious and keen to make friends than raise the alarm. This quality makes Boradors great companions but not very effective guard dogs. Their affectionate nature tends to be particularly notable with children, around whom they are instinctively careful. It is generally considered safe to let Labradors and border collies play with small children, though they should be supervised at all times in case of any mishaps. This can involve giving them a nip that is designed to surprise rather than hurt. Fortunately, they can easily be trained out of this behavior if you notice it and implement corrective training early on. While they can safely be left alone for up to four or five hours at a time, they can develop anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time while everyone in the household is off working. You can expect them to respond with destructive behaviors, such as digging and chewing. This is not done out of vengeance but rather boredom or frustration. Finally, these dogs are very energetic, and they need lots of exercise. Ideally, they should get at least an hour of activity each day, spread out over two shorter sessions. They will also love to accompany you on weekend field trips and hiking adventures. Due to their size and energy levels, Boradors do best when they have a big home with a nice backyard to play in. While they can be trained to put up with apartment living as long as they have regular opportunities to stretch their legs, it is not the ideal environment for them to thrive in. Borador Health Risks You can expect a Borador to have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, which is respectable for a dog of their size. While they are generally healthy dogs, they are at risk of some health conditions. In particular, they may develop elbow or hip dysplasia, which is a painful malformation of the joints that can make movement difficult, especially as they get older. Boradors are less likely to develop this condition if they get sufficient exercise and have a healthy diet. An orthopedic bed will also give them a lot of comfort in late life. Boradors are susceptible to a variety of different eye conditions that can cause them to partially lose their sight in later years. This can be highly disorienting for them, but they can still feel comfortable in a familiar home where they know where everything is. Finally, Boradors can also be prone to obesity, as they have little control over their hunger hormones. This is why it is imperative that they get enough exercise and that you monitor their calorie intake, reducing or increasing portions as required. Never leave food out for these dogs; they do best with strict and limited meal times. With all that information in mind, you might still be wondering whether a Borador is the right dog for you. Here are a few questions to consider when making your decision. A Borador can actually be a great dog for first-time owners. They are easy to train and they have a friendly temperament, so you are unlikely to find yourself dealing with an aggressive or troublesome dog. A Borador will want to be part of the family and involved in everything. You also need to invest time in exercising them and teaching them, as they need the mental stimulation of training. Do you have time to look after a dog like this? If so, the Borador is likely a good choice. How Big Is Your Home? Boradors are pretty big dogs with lots of energy, so they do best when they have quite a bit of space. Will your home feel full with a inch-tall dog wandering about? Additionally, do you have an outdoor space where they can let off energy when needed? When you bring a Borador puppy home, you can expect them to live for anywhere from 10 to 15 or more years. Can you handle the responsibility of caring for them for that time, including the financial responsibility of caring for them? Do you have people who can look after them when you go away or in case of an emergency? Dog ownership is a big responsibility, regardless of the breed you adopt. Yes, Boradors are considered very good dogs, especially if you are looking for a loyal and fairly easy to manage family dog. They are highly intelligent, very trainable, and bond with families quickly. Boradors are high-energy and need a lot of attention, so they are best for families that have time to enjoy them. How smart are border collie Lab mixes? Both border collies and Labrador retrievers are considered among the smartest dog breeds, alongside the likes of poodles and German shepherds. As a result, you can expect crossbreeds that bring together their genetics to be highly intelligent. How much does a border collie Lab mix cost? Can Boradors swim? Labrador retrievers are known for their love of playing and swimming in water, so there is a good chance their Borador offspring will also love a good swim. If they have the longer coat of their border collie parent, just beware of the amount of water that they are likely to drip after a swim! When is a Borador fully grown? Boradors actually remain playful puppies for quite some time and can take quite a long time to reach their full size. You can expect females to reach their full adult size when they hit around 24 months, while males take a bit longer and are not fully grown until around 36 months. While the dogs will also lose most of their puppy energy upon reaching adulthood, they will remain energetic and athletic dogs for most of their lives. The Verdict If you are a first-time dog owner or anyone looking for a friendly, intelligent, and easy to manage dog to adopt into your family, a Borador is a great choice. Since their Labrador and border collie parents are both intelligent, trainable, and friendly dogs, their offspring are sure to inherit these wonderful traits. Overall, the Borador crossbreed is: High-energy and needs plenty of space to feel comfortable Agreeable, friendly, and loyal, though they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time Quite large dogs, like their Labrador and border collie parents While Boradors are generally easy to manage, they also need quite a bit of your time and dedication to stay happy. Take time to consider whether you have the time to look after one of these pups properly before taking them home. Do you have any experience with Boradors? Share your insights with the community in the comments section below. Related Article:.

I can bet these pictures will make your day. At the end of this cute pictures of Pug puppies, you will find the information about their origin and path to their natural behavior and instincts. A cute Pug puppy hanging on a wood swing. This is not what i asked for, I am hungry. Can you please offer me treat? This is what i am excellent at. Tongue Tuesday. This shake has become my favorite drink. Image Source: Instagram imapugnamedhamilton They call me chubby. If yes, you can see me working very hard. Image Source: Wallpaperplay Giving an innocent look for a photo. My hooman finally decided to take me on a trip. Image Source: Instagram cutepuglovers A cute Pug puppy laying upside down. This is what you get when you wake me from a deep sleep. This is mine! Source: YouTube The Pug is a lap dog that originated from China and has a docile, friendly and charming personality. You will definitely want to buy this cute dog after seeing some of the cute pictures of it. The small-sized Pug is one of the oldest breeds of dog that has flourished since before the B. It is a lean and leggy dog with short legs and a long body. Updated August 1, .This photo gallery includes photos of the cutest Pug puppies as well as cute pictures of adult Pugs. Pugs are a short faced, wrinkled, small breed of dog. This breed has its origins in China, but was brought to Europe in the 16th century. Their coats are typically either black or fawn in color and they have a compact and very muscular body. Because of their short snouts, they often experience a lot of breathing problems, though those wrinkled faces are absolutely adorable. Vote up the cutest, sweetest Pug pictures below. Dogs are man's best friend and have a special ability to lift spirits. This is exactly what the sweet dogs on this list of the cutest Pug puppies do. This gallery of adorable pugs can perk you up no matter how sad you are feeling. Pugs are good companion dogs and great with children. They are very strong willed and have big personalities. These cute Pugs are known especially for their muscular bodies and vibrant personalities. For that reason, a pug puppy makes a great pet for the whole family. Big Eyes. If you're working on a project and pug images could help elevate it, you've come to the right place. Our stock image collection boasts a vast range of high-quality JPG, AI, and EPS files that are perfect for a broad range of projects, from websites to print media and beyond. The benefits of pug images Pug images are perfect for many projects for several reasons. Firstly, pugs are undeniably adorable, making them an excellent choice for grabbing your audience's attention and making them smile. They can lend a sense of fun and playfulness to any project, whether you're designing a children's book or a website for a pet store. Pug images are also versatile and can be used in a vast range of contexts, from greeting cards to posters, and everything in between. How to use pug images effectively When using pug images, it's essential to consider the context and tone of your project. For example, if you're designing a website for a food brand, a cute picture of a pug eating a pizza might not be the best image choice. Instead, consider using images of pugs that are relatively neutral—such as a pug standing on a neutral background. Alternatively, opt for playful images of pugs only when your project calls for a more lighthearted or fun tone. Browse our collection of pug images Our collection of stock pug images is extensive, with thousands of files available for download. Whether you're looking for a specific type of pug picture or just browsing for inspiration, you're sure to find what you're looking for in our collection. With files available in a range of file types and formats, our images are suitable for a broad range of projects. Don't compromise on the quality of your project's images—browse our collection of high-quality pug images today and find the perfect image to elevate your project!

If you would like to have the puppy held for you, make a deposit online. You are certainly welcome to select your puppy this way without a deposit, but please note that availability may change on a daily basis. If you come and see the puppy, make your purchase and take the puppy home if the puppy is 8 weeks old or older. Skip to 6, unless you need to arrange travel for your pup. Connect with us and we will get the right information to deliver the puppy to you and set up the exact date and time. Enjoy the new puppy that you have adopted into your family. If you have any questions, please reach out to the breeder for help! How much is a Golden Retriever puppy, and why do the prices on the website vary? The price depends on the credentials of the parents and the number of puppies available at the time. This allows you to set up an appointment that fits both your schedule and that of our breeders. Our golden retriever puppies are all raised by families in the Northeast Ohio area, conveniently located about an hour and a half from both Cleveland and Columbus. This makes it easy to come visit our puppies and spend time playing with them in a home environment. How can I get puppy travel arranged if I am out of state? A little-known fact about golden retriever puppies is that they actually do very well with travel. Check out our puppy travel page here to find out more about how we go the extra mile. How do you raise your dogs? When buying a golden retriever puppy, the people who bred and raised them can have a big impact on the health and sociability of the dog! Because of this, we are dedicated to choosing caring, dedicated golden retriever breeders in Ohio who will get your pup started on the right track. Our small network of breeders in Ohio all are dedicated to the same principles. This starts by providing carefully-planned breedings to ensure the best pedigree for our pups. They raise healthy, socialized pups that can make a smooth transition to a new home. Most of our breeders actually have young children at home who help raise the puppies and play with them so they can become socially adjusted. How do I leave a review of my Golden Retriever experience? Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article. Frequently Asked Questions Male vs. As with most breeds, the males tend to be larger than the females. A fully grown male Golden Retriever can weigh anywhere between 65 and 75 pounds, while a fully grown female will top out at around 55 to 65 pounds. As expected, the two differ in height, as well. Adult male Goldens usually stand between 23 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders. In contrast, adult females stand at around 21 and 22 inches tall at the shoulders. Aside from height and weight, there are other visible differences between male and female Golden Retrievers. Both male and female Goldens need regular brushing and grooming , but males may require more, due to their thicker coats. Male Golden Retrievers also tend to have broader heads and snouts, while females have a more narrow head and a skinnier snout. In general, females are more slender, while males tend to have a stockier appearance. Male vs. Female Golden Retriever Key Difference 2: Personality Traits and Demeanor Male and female Golden Retrievers share many of the same personality traits , like friendliness and gentle nature. Some owners report that males and females tend to have different personality traits. However, many of these reports are anecdotal, rather than proven. Some owners believe that their male Goldens tend to be far more attached to members of the family, while female Goldens are more independent. A male Golden might be more likely to stay glued at your hip, eager to please you and earn your affection. While female Goldens do get attached and want to please you, they might not be as clingy as their male counterparts. This is not to say that female Goldens are not affectionate. They just might express their affection differently than male Goldens. Some owners also report that male Goldens also tend to have more stubborn behavior than females. That is true for both male and female Goldens. Whether they are male or female, if your Golden Retrievers has a higher energy level, they may require more regular physical activity and exertion to prevent destructive behaviors or mood issues. That can be throwing a ball in the backyard or going for a daily walk around the neighborhood. In the case of male vs. All Golden Retrievers are prone to certain medical and physical conditions, including elbow dysplasia, retinal cataracts, bloat, epilepsy, aortic stenosis, Von Willebrand disease, and various types of cancer. While all Goldens are susceptible to these conditions, female Goldens come with their unique health concerns in addition to those experienced by the breed. For example, unspayed female Goldens have an increased risk of conditions like hip dysplasia. Improvements in screening and careful breeding have been lowering the rates of this condition in recent years. Females are also more likely to develop ocular myasthenia and adrenocortical insufficiency. Overall, male and female Goldens have the same life expectancy, reaching anywhere between 10 and 12 years. In some cases, both male and female Golden Retrievers can even live between 14 and 15 years. While all Goldens are highly intelligent, some puppy owners report that their female Goldens seem to pick up concepts slightly quicker than males, making them more adept at associating prompts and actions. This may lead to the assumption that females are easier to train. Goldens can often correctly respond to commands starting as young as 12 weeks old, whether they are male or female. Working with an experienced professional who can show you positive training methods can help make things like obedience training much easier, no matter whether you have a male Golden puppy or a female one. Male vs Female Golden Retriever Key Difference 6: Family Compatibility While Golden Retrievers make great family pets, there are a few things about the two genders that may make you choose one over the other for your household. Since female Goldens are sometimes reported to have calmer dispositions, they may be a nice choice for families that include children or seniors. Female Goldens are sometimes believed to be more careful and observant around small children, whereas male Goldens might be more carefree and playful. Due to their larger size, a male Golden Retriever might be able to knock children or senior adults over if they get hyper. Goldens of either gender are remarkably friendly, but this energetic spirit could cause injury to certain family members who cannot handle the size of a medium-to-large breed dog. Goldens are an ideal match for young couples who love a lot of activity. Whether you choose a male or female Golden Retriever, rest assured they will bring years of love, loyalty, and fun to your family! Exercise and Play: Regular exercise is essential to keep these energetic dogs healthy and happy, ensuring daily walks and playtime. Early Training and Socialization: Begin training early and expose your Golden Retriever to various people and situations for a well-behaved and confident adult dog. Grooming Care: Their thick double coat requires regular grooming, including brushing and occasional baths. Health Maintenance: Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and preventive care are vital for their overall well-being. Living Space: Ensure you have enough room in your home and yard to accommodate their medium to large size and active lifestyle. Family Compatibility: Golden Retrievers are generally good with children and other pets , but supervise interactions to ensure safety and harmony. Financial Preparedness: Owning a dog comes with expenses, so be financially ready for their care and well-being. Safety Precautions: Puppy-proof your living space to eliminate potential hazards and provide a safe environment. Lifelong Commitment: Be prepared for a long-term commitment as Golden Retrievers typically have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years or more. Although golden retrievers are generally not hyperactive, females are sometimes believed to mature faster than males. This may help them to learn commands at a slightly younger age, although these differences tend to disappear as a dog gets a little older. Are male dogs friendlier than females? Male dogs are not necessarily more friendly, than female Golden Retrievers. In most cases, the differences will come from the individual personality of the puppy in question, rather than the gender. What is the difference between male dogs and female dogs? It really comes down to the individual personality of a puppy more than its gender. Can you have 2 male Golden Retrievers? Goldens are actually happier when they have companions, and while two males may fight to figure out who is the alpha between them, you could just as easily experience this same dynamic between two female Golden Retrievers or mixed genders. Do male or female dogs live longer? It has been noted that gender does not typically play a role in determining the life span of a dog, although males tend to live slightly longer on average. Spaying and neutering a dog seems to have a greater impact on the lifespan of a Golden Retriever. Is it better to get a male or female golden retriever? The answer to this question will usually come down to your personal preferences. While some dog owners report that males or females tend to have certain characteristics, in most cases, these differences stem more from the personality of an individual puppy than from their gender. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

Prices: For information on the prices of our puppies, please visit our Purchase a Puppy page by clicking on the "purchase a puppy page" icon. You may also use the bars cell phone or page names website at the top to go to our other pages on our website. Red Collar available for adoption. Blue collar Male available for adoption. Our puppies' new homes. We will update this map soon! These are our foundation dogs - Mady, Dayna, and Kaiser Check out this great video of our foundation dogs. About Us! We love our German Shepherds! They aren't just our pets, they are an important part of our family. Our dogs have calm temperaments, intelligence, loyalty, are healthy, and loving. Schutzhaus pronounced "Shoots-House" German Shepherds is a small breeding facility striving to maintain the old-fashioned lines of the German Shepherds. We are located in Southwest Missouri where we live on a small farm. Old-fashioned German Shepherds are taller, have straight backs, large bone structure, a longer life span, big heads, and generally are larger in weight than the German Shepherds of today's standards. Our dogs are tested! Since we are dedicated to a healthy legacy for our puppies, we test our dogs on various health tests seeking to produce the healthiest puppies. Please see our current litters page. We are taking deposits on our future litters! Please see our upcoming litters page. Our babies are adopted quickly, so reach out to reserve your furever friend or to ask any questions. Schutzhaus German Shepherds. German Shepherds for sale in Missouri Regis Regal Specializes in providing world class German Shepherd puppies and trained adult dogs Serving Missouri with german shepherds since With over 30 years experience in the breeding and training of world-class German Shepherds from some of the top bloodlines out of Germany, here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we've been very proud to have sold our puppies and adult dogs to the residents of Missouri. We're a small family run operation with our main training and breeding facilities based in Spring Grove, Illinois. Because of the quality and pedigree of our German Shepherds there's been a demand for our dogs all over the world. The owner, Cynthia Kelly, has a lifetime of experience in creating the perfect family companion, service dog or therapy dog. Because of the lack of top quality German Shepherd breeders in some parts of the United States, we've carefully set ourselves up so that we can send our dogs direct to your home by use of a private courier service. Louis, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy? At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. You should not forget that when it comes to buying a puppy you also need to be mindful of other costs outside of the purchase or adoption fee. Included within the cost of our puppies are: Lifetime health guarantee contingent on meeting criteria stated in the contract. Send us a message or give us a ring on .Emotional support dogs are suited for both children and adults and have the ability to work with their owners in all types of locations. We have placed many dogs with children and teenagers in MO that suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and manic disorders. Service dogs provide a physical service to their owners. We have been incredibly successful in providing service dogs to children afflicted with Autism and Asbergers, as our dogs can help to enhance the verbal skills of non-verbal Autistic children and support their overall way of communicating. Some of our previous placements our dog courier service - we ship to your door in MO! You might find this a bit hard to believe but we actually ship right to your door, wherever you are based in the US! Such is the demand for one of our dogs we decided it would make things a lot easier for our customers if we could hand-deliver them right to you. For those people in need of a top class GSD, and who can't get to our premises, this is a bit of a lifesaver. We make use of a private courier service whereby they come to us and pickup the dog in their vehicle before making the journey to your home. Our driver is well trained in the handling and care of your dog on the trip, and due to their temperament our dogs always enjoy the journey! On rare occasions our dogs have flown out to their destination, again accommpanied by one of the Regis Regal team to ensure for a very smooth and calm trip. We also go through a very thorough process to make sure our dogs are going to the right kind of owner - at the end of the day it's really important that we can rest easy at night knowing they'll be going to someone that's going to love them as much as we do. Because of COVID we've held plenty of online meetings where you can ask us any questions about our dogs, and you can even get to meet-and-greet them virtually! Reviews from Customers based in MO We like to think we've made a lot of people in Missouri happy over the years that we've been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we've received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too. He is so sweet, intelligent, and such a cutie. Cynthia was very knowledgeable and eased our minds in regards to this larger breed. As you can imagine this can change quite regularly - so please send us a message below, or give us a call on .We look forward to hearing from you! Your name. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Missouri? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Missouri cost? The market for German Shepherds is huge which means that when you begin your search for German Shepherd breeders in Missouri you should expect to see a large range of prices. German Shepherds sold by reputable, ethical breeders for example could be more expensive or harder to come by than a litter of puppies bred in a puppy mill or by a backyard breeder. Am I limited to local litters with Uptown Puppies? Absolutely not. Our network is made up of experienced breeders who have no problem arranging transportation for the perfect pup to a great home. How does the Uptown Puppies vetting process work? When we receive an application from a prospective breeder we set ourselves with the task of vetting that business based on their facility, animal standards, breeding techniques, experience and more! We are dedicated to helping our customers, just like you, find the best German Shepherd puppies for sale in Missouri. Is Uptown Puppies really different than finding a puppy through Google? Can you describe a puppy mill? Based on their websites, it can be pretty difficult to tell the difference between a puppy mill and an experienced breeder that you want to deal with which is why a proper screening process is extremely important. Puppy mills are factories that treat dogs like machines. A dirty place where female dogs are forced to mass produce litters of unhealthy puppies until they are no longer of value. Some backyard breeders fall into the trap of inbreeding which can cause health issues much later in life. Despite all of the applications to join our network that are denied, we have compiled an expansive network of experienced, ethical breeders who are sure to have your ideal puppy. How does the Uptown Puppies process go? Check our listings of available litters for sale from reputable breeders to find the perfect puppy of your dreams. Why should I trust Uptown Puppies? Because every good breeder, no matter their marketing budget deserves a chance to shine and connect with good families. At Uptown Puppies we are in the business of building positive relationships, with puppies, customers and our breeders. Do German Shepherds come in different colors? Yes, they absolutely do! German Shepherds are available in a ton of different colors, from black and silver, amber and black, and even black and tan. When you contact a breeder regarding German Shepherd puppies in Missouri through Uptown Puppies, the dogs that you are searching for are available and ready for their new home. Do German Shepherds like a lot of exercise? Yes, they can be pretty energetic dogs if not exercised regularly! Any breeder with German Shepherds for sale in Missouri will tell you that any German Shepherd, no matter the size will require daily walks or even a fun game of fetch in the backyard.

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.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. So, how many times a day should you feed your German Shepherd? German Shepherds should be fed at least twice a day. Vets recommend two smaller meals instead of one large meal for healthy digestion and energy. For puppies, feed 4 meals a day up to three months old, then 3 meals a day up to six months old, before finally reducing to 2 meals a day. It is essential to stick to food schedules that are consistent for the long-term health of your German Shepherd, especially as the breed is prone to the life-threatening condition, Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat. This article will cover how often to feed a German Shepherd whether puppy or adult and how much to give your dog to keep him healthy and happy. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. My German Shepherd Willow eating her meal Hey! As a working breed raised to herd and protect sheep, they are typically energetic, enjoy physical activity, and love having a job to do. Due to their dynamic character, they demand a high-energy diet. However, as large, deep-chested dogs, they are one of the breeds prone to bloat GDV , and vets advise against feeding one large meal a day. Twice per day is the standard, with a good few hours in between, as it allows your GSD to eat and digest his food properly. German Shepherds, like most dogs, work well when fed on a schedule. I absolutely agree with this, especially as the German Shepherd is susceptible to a sensitive stomach and is known to have more digestive problems than other breeds. However, if you have any concerns, you should speak to your vet. If you have a high-energy or working German Shepherd, such as a guard dog, assistance dog, or Police or Military dog that gets a lot of exercise, you may consider feeding little and often to prevent hunger. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Schedule German Shepherd puppies will require more frequent feedings as they expend far more energy and have smaller stomachs to hold their food. You should feed a German Shepherd puppy four meals a day between 6 and 12 weeks old. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks should have three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day. Age of Puppy. 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.

Varying Textures The links above will take you to product information and reviews on Chewy. Puppy Chew Toys From Kong Kong is a market leader who produce a wide variety of toys best known for their durability and entertainment value for puppies and dogs. You just have to make sure you get the right size for your particular breed of dog large for labs and other large breeds. Pros: Made from incredibly tough, durable rubber so is safe and will last for even the most aggressive chewers. Hollow and can be stuffed and even then frozen to keep a puppy entertained for hours as they work to get at the treats inside, with the coldness of the toy soothing for teething gums. Made in America a sign of quality some like to see! Kong Puppy Goodie Bone The shape gives your pup more chance to grip the toy and really go to town chewing, whereas many other toys can be hard for a young pup to tie down. This fact alone is a bonus. But as with many Kong toys, the standout feature of this chew toy is you can stuff tasty treats in each end of the bone to keep your puppy happy for a good length of time. If stuffed then frozen — and we recommend you sometimes you do — it can relieve the pain of inflamed gums while teething. Available in blue and pink. Made in America. So — rotate the toys! Pros: Easy for a puppy to hold in place for a good chewing session. Fortified with Omega 3 fatty acids. Another bone shaped toy, though this time from Nylabone, another big player in the pet toy market. Pros: Made from a soft material designed to be kind on puppies teeth, yet tough enough to be durable and long-lasting, suitable to be left alone with a puppy in their crate. Textured with numerous different surface shapes that keep a chewing pooch happy as well as clean their teeth. Can be stiffed and frozen for an interactive chewing session while soothing gums. Cons: Not so great for the most aggressive of chewers who some people have reported make short work of this toy. This is the second toy from Nylabone featured in our roundup. A fun, textured, chain link style toy that has many features to keep a puppy engaged, entertained and happy chewing for hours. Made from material soft enough for a chewing puppy, yet strong enough to withstand aggressive and sustained chewing. During chewing, bristles raise on the toy that help to keep teeth clean and healthy. Cons: Hard to find any — But perhaps the fact it cannot be stuffed with treats is a negative compared to the toys above? Another classic and extremely popular puppy toy from brand leader Nylabone, the puppy key-ring has many good features going for it: Pros: Soft enough for enjoyable chewing, strong enough to withstand it. Lots of moving parts that make a sound when shaken — and toys that make ANY sound are always more preferable and fun for a puppy. Irregular shapes and textures provide choices of different surfaces and feelings while chewing. After some chewing, raised bristles are released that clean teeth to help dental health. Small enough to throw and multiple holding points make it an interactive toy, useful for gentle games of tug or fetch. Not a toy that can be stuffed with treats though variety is good! To overcome these two cons, just make sure to rotate the toys, variety is key! Pros: Made from a tough Nylon material so will outlast most other chew toys. A unique and interesting, patented wishbone design that really appeals to puppies as a break from the norm. Easy for a puppy to hold down with their paws for some really concentrated occupational chewing sessions. Flavored with either one of two things dogs like the best: Bacon or peanut butter. Puppies go mad for these! Strong enough to be left alone with a puppy unsupervised — they will not be able to tear chunks off it. Cons: Made of nylon, it is a little harder than most other chew toys on this page. NOTE: This toy is bacon or peanut butter flavored, but it is not an edible toy. This toy is a great one for throwing, fantastic for tug, a great item to chew on and the perfect toy to rotate in and out of use to keep your puppy interested in the right things. This toy is also vet recommended an approved, made from luggage material, plastic and an outer soft fleece. Pros: Extremely tough and long lasting. A great toy for teaching retrieving. Flying discs are a great toy to start games of fetch with. It floats so can be used on water. Available in a wide variety of shapes colors to suit every taste Cons: Mixed views in the customer feedback regarding the durability of the toy, with some saying their dogs made short work of it. I recommend this toy for puppies with whom it will last for ages, but for an aggressive chewing adult there are better options you can find by clicking here. With a small investment in some of the best teething toys for puppies featured above, you can keep their teeth on appropriate items and away from your household items. Choosing a good selection of the right toys can keep your sanity and your home intact! During this 4 to 5 month period the urge to chew is as all consuming as it is entirely natural. They simply have to. Much like a human baby finds relief with chew toys while teething, so must a puppy. Knowing this, if you provide a suitable outlet for their needs in the shape of fun puppy teething toys, you can keep their chewing away from your soft furnishings and family heirlooms. If your puppy is faced with the choice of either specialized teething toys that are more fun, relieving and ultimately fulfilling to chew on in comparison to your household items, they will always — OK, mostly — aim for their toys. Their needs are met more precisely and there will be no destruction and cost for you to deal with. A win-win. What To Look For in the Best Toys for Teething Puppies While teething, the urge to chew comes from the fact that the very act of chewing relieves the pressure of all these new teeth breaking out through and hurting their gums. Furthermore, we want a toy with some durability or we will forever be spending on new ones and, of course, we must always have safety at the forefront of our minds. It must be soft enough to feel like prey, to keep their interest in it high, and so they continue to use the toy. We need to find a good middle ground between softness and durability. Must Be Shatter-Proof and Must Not Break Into Pieces It is a sad fact that many dogs and puppies die every year from choking on or by ingesting small objects — and fragments or small pieces that have broken off from cheap or unsuitable toys are high on this list. So a suitable toy must be shatter proof and made from material that your puppy is unable to tear small pieces away from. Otherwise costly surgery — or worse — could be the result. Try Different Shapes and Textures Different dogs have different likes and dislikes. A toy one puppy goes mad for might be completely shunned by another. Familiarity leads to boredom. With a few toys at your disposal you can rotate them in and out of use. Make sure the toys you buy are appropriately sized for the breed. Why, chewing on something that tastes simply great of course! Many teething toys are edible these days though still long-lasting , and many more can be stuffed with goodies that will keep your puppy entertained for hours as they try to work out the treats out. Invest in tasty chews, not to use all the time, but to mix in for use now and then. These will become highly valued toys that your puppy will truly look forward to. Some will last just 5 minutes, some your puppy will simply turn their nose up at, and others can be downright dangerous! They can be very easy for your puppy to tear apart and if your pooch eats the squeaker it can be very dangerous indeed! Make sure all toys are BPA free: BPA is a harmful chemical found in some cheaper toys, and studies have shown it to be toxic in even small quantities. Avoid at all costs. This carries a little extra cost. Small breeds need far smaller toys than puppies from large breeds. Rule of thumb: Make sure the toy is larger than they can fit whole in their mouth. If you give your puppy edible toys, you should supervise their chewing. No need to watch them like a hawk, but at least be in the same room so you can hear if they get into trouble. Some puppies may try to swallow too large a piece and get it stuck. You want to be there to help. Avoid anything that looks like household items: If you buy your puppy a cute rubber slipper to chew on, guess what will happen when they cannot find it? Try popping toys in the freezer: A nice, cold toy to chew on is just the thing to help relieve the pain of inflamed gums when a puppy is teething. A teething puppy will choose this over your belongings in a heartbeat. Interactive dog toys keep a pup entertained: There are many toys that can be stuffed with treats , are edible themselves or give a puppy a job to do in order to get a treat. These can be truly addictive for a puppy, working hard and feeling rejoiced after being paid of with their reward! This has absolutely no effect on the eventual price that you pay and we are very grateful for your support. 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. We have gone through the best selling dog toys on Amazon, and selected a few very popular choices that your dog will love. And will even give their teeth a bit of a clean in the process! It is designed with powerful chewers in mind, so should keep even the most determined dog occupied. The varying textures help to keep your dog interested, and promote dental health too. It is great for playing fetch, and has a fun internal squeaker for your dog to chew on. This means that if your dog does manage to destroy it, you will get a replacement for free although usually after you have shelled out for postage or a refund. Are They Truly Indestructible? Despite the guarantees, some dogs are made of tougher stuff than the toys. Especially if your dog is crossed with another breed known for their powerful jaws, like Pitbulls for example. Dog Chew Toys for Labradors Most dogs will use anything they can get their teeth on as dog chew toys. Regardless of whether or not this was why you brought them into your home! So it can be very helpful to find a few sturdy and entertaining items to keep them occupied in a less destructive way. Kong toys are popular tough dog toys who are keen chewers. And they come in a range of different materials to cater to the varying levels of biting your dog might exhibit. In the traditional Kong shape we have all come to love, but made from a tougher and more durable material. The top contender for the best dog toy manufacturer is Kong. The idea behind it is to have something you can fill up with treats in a paste, kibble or frozen form. Your dog can then stay happy for hours munching down on it. They are great for keeping them occupied whilst you are busy or if you have to pop out and leave them at home. Our bouncy chocolate Lab, Rachael, has other ideas for her Kong too. It is her favourite fetching toy. She loves to chase after it and bounce it around the yard. Staying interested in the game long after everyone else has tired and wandered back indoors. I have chosen the Extreme version for this list because a lot of Labs are tough biters too and this is their sturdiest version. Although I have known of a few Labradors that managed to take this tough item apart, they are for all but the most dedicated of destroyers a really good choice. This large blue bone is designed to stand up to long and intense chewing sessions. It is carefully manufactured to be safe for your dog and comes as guaranteed by the maker. So if your crunching canine does manage to take it apart it can be replaced or refunded. This bone shaped chew toy comes in a range of sizes. Goughtnuts are more than just a catchy name. If your dog manages to chew through the green outer layer to access the red inner one, they will replace the toy for you. However, once they have found how hard it is to break through, they should spend many a happy hour chewing it. It even comes in three weights depending upon the size and strength of your dog. Choose the heavyweight for your keen chewing dog. This toy is specifically designed for enthusiastic chewers. It is durable, with the added bonus of helping to keep their teeth in a good condition with the raised bumps on the surface. The Best Dog Toys For Tugging Dogs love carrying things in their mouths, and many of them extend this to games of tug. If your dog wants nothing more than to pull on the other end of your tea towel when you pick it up, then he will probably enjoy playing with a specially designed tugging toy instead. Get the right design and they will last for ages, and be fun for you and your dog. Some designs can even be used by two dogs together, giving them all the entertainment factor without you having to lift a finger! A popular dog toy is always a rope. Our Labs and Spaniels all love and have loved ropes, especially those with knots that make them easy to pick up and carry around. For very big and strong dogs you might even consider the extra large version. It is not just a fun tugging and carrying rope toy for your dog to play with. It is made of a solid resilient rubber, and is designed to be thrown and retrieved. As well as held onto and pulled by human hands or a doggy mouth. It is a guaranteed tough tug of war toy. The guarantee means that if your dog does manage to damage it they will replace or refund the toy. However, you are unlikely to need to use this guarantee as it can stand up against some fairly intensive biting during games. It also flexes and stretches as you play, which keeps the structure from tearing. Buy yours in the larger size to suit a Labrador. The Goughnuts Tug Toy Once again the popular Goughnuts brand is one of our main contenders for the best toys for Labradors. Brilliant for playing tug with your dog, or for two dogs to tug together. Soft Toys for Dogs Buying soft toys for dogs can be tricky. However, it can be pretty frustrating to buy them a lovely new soft toy only to find it in pieces mere minutes later. Fortunately, there are some options depending upon how ferociously your dog likes to play with his cuddles. From unstuffed cuddly toys for dogs who like to pull out the padding, to noisy soft toys and those just for hugging. The Matz toy alligator includes over 30 squeakers in his body, so he has a high entertainment factor for dogs that love to shake and squeeze. His long jointed body is great fun for the dog to flap around with. It is also soft and cuddly, so when they are done playing your dog can happily curl up next to it in bed. Great for minor to moderate chewers. The Unstuffed Skinneeez Raccoon A good option for the dog who is a keen stuffing extractor is to buy them some unstuffed toys. There are quite a lot of these available nowadays, and a nice new option we found is the Ethical Mini Skinneeez Raccoon. It contains no padding to tear out, and a fun squeezer to chomp down on. However, if your puppy is a very intense chewer it is possible to pop the squeakers, so I would recommend this for supervised play to be on the safe side. He is specially designed to be durable and withstand a moderate amount of chewing. His body is tough, and also helps your dog to polish his teeth and remove plaque whilst he gnaws on it. The downside of this toy is the head is soft and padded, so it is not ideal for the most exuberant stuffing destroyers, but the body should stand up to a good chewing session. Interactive dog toys like treat toys, dog puzzle toys, and dog mazes all require the dog to learn how to access his reward. In our experience not all dogs are happy with these games. But our lively younger girl Rachael delights in all of them. We have had a look at some of the best interactive dog toys, so that you can pick the ones your Labrador will love. It has proved very entertaining for us as well as her. We love watching her figure out how to move the pieces of kibble from the centre of the maze to the exit points. She uses a combination of her tongue and paws to get the kibble through the maze. And in fact you could see her learn and develop her technique as she progressed. A big bonus for a boisterous Labrador. I highly recommend this toy for lively dogs who need a bit of additional entertainment, or even for occasional use as a slow feeder for the dog who is wolfing down their dinner too quickly. It is not as complicated to use as the maze, but for the dog who is less inclined to work for their treats this is a great option and more quick to reward them. The only word of caution I would give with this is that it is not chew proof. It is designed to be played with by pushing with their noses, tongues and feet. If your dog puts the whole thing in his mouth and starts gnawing down you might need to remove it from him temporarily. However, for supervised play it is a very popular little dog toy. Make sure you buy the larger version for your Lab, as the small is more appropriate for toy breeds. The Stuff-a-Ball is great for fun dogs who love treat dog toys. This is ideal for bouncy pups who love treat dog toys and playing, bouncing and pushing them around. You will find that if you limit the time they get to play with it each day too, it will keep its novelty for longer. You can even up the skill level as your dog learns to master it. It is one of the pricier options on the market at the moment, but should provide your dog with many hours of entertainment. It is also dishwasher proof, so you can keep it in a nice condition despite the inevitable drool which follows its use. Whether your dog likes to fetch them, gnaw them, bounce them, paw them or chase them around the back yard. The best balls are ones that are fairly large, fairly durable and often with a bit of bounce. At around 3 inches in diameter is large enough to avoid choking but small enough that your large dog should be able to pick it up and carry it. It is also bouncy, but puncture resistant. Designed with medium to large breeds of dog in mind, this ball from a trusted brand has been very well received. With numerous excellent reviews from owners of intense chewing dogs who are delighted with it. Designed to be chew proof, however enthusiastically your dog tries to get his treats out. This ball should stand up well to the pressure. It can even be popped into the dishwasher when your dog has finished playing, to prevent it from getting unpleasant. It contains not only a squeaker but a tennis ball inside. The handles make it easy for you to pick up and shake, whilst not interfering with your dog using the ball as intended. I recommend choosing the larger size option for most big breeds. Not ideal for persistent chewers, but great for those that love to play ball and like a noisy toy. It comes in a large size, and it glows in the dark. So no more groping around in the dim light looking for the ball in the back yard. It stays bright and keeps its glow even after dark. It is also compatible with the Chuckit ball launchers. So if you want to give your arm a rest you can use it here too. Retrieving Toys for Labradors Labradors are all born and bred retrievers. A great way to keep them entertained with their toys is to use them in games of fetch. Not all of us are blessed with an excellent ball throwing arm. In fact, when I lob a tennis ball it is just as likely to end up 3 feet behind me as it is to soar gracefully down the field. The Chuckit! Classic Ball Launcher My personal favourite retrieving aid is the Chuckit! Classic 26m launcher. Rachael the chocolate Labrador has an endless enthusiasm for fetching things. And I was having a hard time challenging her with my erratic throwing capabilities. The Chuckit is fairly intuitive to use, it will only take you a couple of goes to work out the best release point. Stick a ball in the socket and firmly gripping the handle throw your arm, aiming for the ball to be released high. It will sore for a long way, and give your Lab a great exercise session — without you straining your shoulder or needing to run back and forth yourself! This is definitely a recommended purchase from our Labrador family. With the added benefit that it can also be used as a tug toy. This ball and rope combo is tough and durable, designed originally for use by police dog handlers as a reward toy for training. It has the benefit is being light and easy to carry around. The ball is also tough and durable, giving you and your dog hours of play time. The Zisc Frisbee Our last retrieving toy option for lively Labradors has to be a frisbee. It is a tough flying disc toy, that can withstand frequent use by a large dog. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Freezable and edible chews Chewing on objects is a normal part of growing up for puppies. Pups experience the world with their mouths, and get relief from teething by chewing. Here are some of our top choices when it comes to the best chew toys for puppies. Safety First Because your dog will be chewing on it, the best teething toys for puppies are durable and non-toxic. Inexpensive toys may be tempting for budget conscious folks, but cheaply-made pet toys can contain toxins like BPA or even lead in some cases! The poor durability of these cheaply made pet toys means they can result in pain for your pup. A few could even cause serious damage if your pup ingests pieces. Ideally those with lots of positive reviews from conscienscious puppy owners. And come to think of it, which brands are we referring to? Hard Chews Hard nylon toys like Nylabones give pups something to safely bite and tug on. This starter pack includes two of the best chew toys for teething puppies. A hard nubbed chew toy that rubs the gums to ease pain during teething, and softer bone for the youngest chewers. Keeping them entertained for a long time and helping them to chill out too. Rubber Kongs are considered the go-to chew toy by many dog lovers, but the standard sizes are likely too big for little puppy mouths. Fortunately they also do some great small puppy chews. The open center is perfect for holding treats like peanut butter and a couple hours in the freezer turns these into perfect frozen puppy teething toys. Puppy Kongs can take a good chewing, and stand up to even the most powerful puppy. It is also great for active play between pup and their owner. The Kong Goodie Bone is a perfect tug-of-war toy. It is made in the USA of nontoxic natural rubber. They are good for chewing sessions with our without treats. The super durable rubber holds up to puppies that already have some power to their bite. The tire shape is tons of fun for puppy to flip with his paws and mouth. Elk Antler Hard puppy toys can be great for teething puppies too. Probably the small or medium. It is a great, natural way to keep your chewy puppy happy. This makes the chewing and treating last longer. It is also soothing to teething gums in small puppies. This toy can be filled with kibble or treats to engage your pup in active play. They have plenty of places for grabbing hold, and can help to keep their teeth clean too. These fun toys are also great for games of tug. This set of four different ropes is perfect for teething pups. They are very hard and take pups a long time to chew through. Great for keeping busy jaws occupied! They are digestible and a good alternative to rawhide too. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. For example, a lab puppy will need toys to chew on - or rather, to destroy! Fortunately for you, we've put together a list of the top seven best chew toys that'll have your lab pup chewing their way through hours of enjoyment. Note: We're not saying this is the only list you could consult - in fact, it's just our opinion on the best options out there right now. And, if you're looking for a more general list of the top toys for lab puppies, then be sure to check out our Best Dog Toys listing. Kong Wobbler Cube Dog Toy 2. Chuckit balls 4. Nylabone Puppy Chew Toy 6. Dog Dental Chew Toy Bone 7. This toy is great for pups who like to chew on their toys without destroying them in seconds, as the soft and flexible design makes it easy for your lab to chew without doing any damage. However, keep in mind that if your pup really likes to tear up their toys, then the softer Nylabone Chew Toy may not be the best choice. This toy is better suited to pups who are still learning to chew, or who just want something they can play with and enjoy safely. This toy has a natural rubber bone design to help encourage your pup's chewing, while also giving them something to gnaw on while they play. The unique design makes this a great toy for your lab pup, as they can use it to chew while they play with their toys. Plus, the toy can be filled with treats or peanut butter if you want to give your pup something extra special to chew on! This toy is made to help increase your pup's oral health, which will make sure that their teeth are protected from infection and sickness. The unique design also allows you to choose how durable this toy is, making it easy for you to buy the perfect level of strength for your pup. And, the brand is known for making great products that dogs certainly can't destroy, which is a definite bonus for pups who are still learning to chew. The unique design is great for pups who like to be left alone with a toy and a snack, as the opening means that you can fill it up with treats for your pup to enjoy. The soft material makes it easy for your lab to play with, and there are also no small parts that could get caught in their mouths. This makes this toy a great choice for any pup looking to enjoy an afternoon with some snacks and fun playtime! This ball is precisely designed to be easy for small dogs to pick up and throw around - even pups who are young puppies. This makes it a great toy for interactive playtimes with your lab pup, who will enjoy playing with their ball and fetching it back over and over again. If your lab puppy likes to chase, then they'll certainly love this toy! And, the unique design helps them to play on land or in water, meaning you can take the ball wherever you want - whether you're on a vacation or an energetic morning jog. This toy is specifically designed to help dogs with sore teeth, which can be incredibly painful for your pup. The unique design means that your lab can chew on this toy without getting its teeth caught on anything it shouldn't have - making it a great choice for any dog who's just beginning to teethe. The soft and flexible material used in this toy makes it a perfect choice for any doggy playtime, as well - especially if your pup has a ton of energy! This piece of chewing equipment has a soft, flexible body design that's perfect for your puppy to chew on and dig into. The unique design is not only safe for your pup to play with, but it also helps to keep its teeth healthy and clean. This toy is also dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean after your pup has chewed on it for a few days straight. And, the entire thing can be easily frozen to make the Kong Wobbler an even more exciting plaything for your lab. A great choice for all doggy playtimes. The Bottom Line Hopefully, one of these top 7 best chew toys for labs has found a place in your pup's daily routine and has made it into their daily toy rotation. But, if your pup is more destructive than average, then you may want to take a look at our list of the best chew toys for puppies as well. Either way, we're sure that you'll find something to suit your doggy's needs. And, if your pup is still too young to chew on toys, then don't worry!

Still, you may discover information about how much to feed a Pug puppy here if you were unaware of the specifics before. Pugs are very food-motivated and will do just about anything for a tasty treat. Unfortunately, pugs gain weight as fast as any other dog breed. You are, supposedly, what you eat. The pug is a little dog, so even a slight increase in weight might be noticeable. Because of their tiny stature and low activity levels, pug pups have a lower caloric need than puppies of other breeds. Because of their unique nutritional needs, small-breed puppies should be fed food that has been developed particularly for them. Furthermore, make sure the puppy food you choose has all the nutrients it needs, and ask your physician for recommendations on how much and how often to feed the puppy. By the age of three to four weeks, you may begin feeding your puppy solid food. Mix equal parts of puppy chow and milk replacer as a first step. Give a little bit teaspoons many times a day. Weaning off of milk and onto solid food is complete when a pug puppy reaches this age. Independence from their mother and siblings and other littermates may begin to emerge. Puppies may start interacting socially and maturing rapidly at this age. Water should be kept fresh at all times. This is a good age to start teaching children to use the restroom without assistance. At this age, pug pups are full of energy and wonder. As they become older, puppies often become more receptive to training and socializing. There may be a period of boundary testing when they need constant guidance in training and socializing. Baby teeth may start falling out and adult teeth emerging in puppies. Proper potty training should have been completed. They may begin to express themselves more openly and build their own identities. Get started on the changeover to puppy food for adult dogs. They may test limits and need ongoing socialization and discipline. Make sure they get lots of exercise to keep their weight in check. Their interests and preferences in playthings and other pursuits may become more clearly defined. Maintain a high volume of physical activity and intellectual challenge. Pug pups achieve their full size at this point, however they may continue to gain weight. As puppies become older, they often become more devoted to their families and develop stronger bonds with them. The amount they eat should be adjusted based on their weight. At reaching adulthood, pugs often slow down and spend more time lounging. They may set in their ways, but they can still be taught new tricks with enough repetition. Aging symptoms in adult pugs include the development of gray hair and a general slowing down of activity. Understanding Pug Puppy Nutritional Needs Depending on factors including their age, weight, and level of activity, the calorie needs of Pug puppies might change over time. Pug puppies, on the whole, may need anything from to calories each day. The food of a Pug puppy should consist of between 22 and 25 percent protein, since this is the macronutrient most crucial for promoting healthy muscle and tissue development. Consuming between 8 and 10 percent of their calories from fat is recommended for optimal health and energy levels. To maintain a healthy skin and coat, they need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well. High-quality commercial puppy chow designed for pups is what you should be feeding your Pug. The growth and development of pug pups may be supported by feeding them multiple little meals throughout the day. Feeding them three to four times a day till they are roughly six months old is the norm. To figure out how often and how much to feed your Pug puppy, talk to your vet. Having access to clean water at all times is also crucial. Puppies of the Pug breed need three meals every day. For ages 8 weeks to 6 months, try to stick to this schedule for feedings. As soon as your Pug reaches 6 months of age, you may begin reducing the number of times each day it is fed to twice. Kibble is practical since it may aid in the prevention of tartar accumulation and can be stored easily. Yet, the added moisture provided by wet foods may aid in the fight against dehydration and support efficient digestion. Wet food may have a better texture and flavor for certain Pug pups, while kibble may be a better choice for others. You should talk to your vet about what kind of food and how often you should feed your Pug puppy. Yet the specific time might vary from dog to dog based on their nutritional requirements. To prevent stomach trouble, the change should be made slowly over the course of a few weeks. Puppy anorexia may be caused by several things, including sickness, dental issues, stress, and dietary or habit changes. In the meanwhile, you may try introducing a new kind of food or moistening their normal kibble with a little quantity of wet food or broth to pique their interest. Do not feed your Pug puppy any human food or table scraps since this might cause gastric discomfort and other health issues. Pugs have a tendency toward becoming overweight and overeating, which may lead to a host of medical complications. Instead, you should make sure your Pug puppy is receiving the right quantity of food by sticking to a regular feeding schedule and controlling portions. This may improve general conduct and aid in the process of teaching toilet independence. This formula is designed for purebred Pugs. Little dogs with short muzzles may easily pick up and chew the kibble design. This meal supports Pug immunological, skin, and digestive health with antioxidants and important nutrients. Supports digestive health 2. Calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins strengthen bones and teeth in this specifically prepared combination. Vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants for immune system, Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for skin and hair No corn, wheat, soy, or chicken or poultry by-product meal Cons May contain artificial flavors 3. This puppy chow supports strong muscles and a healthy heart by starting with high-quality protein. Antioxidants and natural glucosamine will maintain his joints for a lifetime of sports. Pros Protein-rich chicken is the first ingredient DHA aids puppy brain and visual development Four antioxidants boost immunity Omega-6, vitamins, and minerals for skin and coat No artificial flavors or preservatives. Best Dog Foods for Pugs Choosing the right dog food for a Pug is essential as this will ensure that it gets proper nutrition. However, this can be challenging and time-consuming, considering that there is a lot to choose from. Whether you choose to feed your Pug commercial, homemade food, or raw food, make sure that they are of good quality and recommended by a trusted veterinarian. Proper nutrition is one of the factors that affect their lifespan. Below is a list of the best dog food choices for your Pug: Dry Food: One of the best options for Pugs is dry dog food as it is widely available, cheap, and has a long shelf life. These are packed with all the nutrients essential for your Pug. Wet Food: Wet dog food is another good option for Pugs. Its flavor and texture make it more appealing to Pugs than dry food. Wet food contains fewer grains, making it healthier and easier to digest. However, wet canned food has a shorter shelf life and should be consumed immediately after opening. Wet foods are also more expensive than dry foods. Homemade Food: Your Pug may benefit from cooked food consisting of chicken, eggs, fish, rice, and vegetables. The process is time-consuming, but it is less expensive and more convenient in the long run, especially if you plan on giving them a grain-free diet. Raw Food: Raw food diet for most Pugs results in better digestion, healthy skin, and a stronger immune system in Pugs. Mixing any of the aforementioned food choices is also good. Hence, you may want to try dog food alternatives to fit your budget. With their sensitive little stomachs, some foods can be poisonous, cause allergic reactions, and can even be lethal. Below is a list of food that you should completely avoid feeding to your Pug: Alcohol: Any amount of alcohol is hazardous for Pugs. Pugs do not have the enzyme to metabolize alcohol. Ingestion can cause hypoglycemia , metabolic acidosis , breathing problems, and central nervous system CNS impairment. Avocado: Avocado contains persin , a fungicidal toxin that has been linked to the death of many animals, including Pugs. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart damage in large quantities. As a result, even small amounts of chocolate can cause poisoning. Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins contain tartaric acid , which causes vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and kidney failure among Pugs. Unfortunately, even one whole grape can cause irreversible damage and death in small breeds like Pugs. Macadamia nuts and walnuts: While the exact reason why they are poisonous is unknown, it is best to avoid giving them to your Pugs entirely. In Pugs, macadamia and walnuts can cause diarrhea, weakness, breathing problems, and pancreatitis. Onion, garlic, leeks, and chives: All these vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide , which damages the oxygen-carrying substances in red blood cells. Ingestion of these vegetables can eventually lead to hemolytic anemia. Xylitol: In Pugs, xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia, lethargy, collapse, and seizures. It is frequently found in gums, candies, syrups, and toothpaste. Pugs should avoid the foods listed above at all costs. Food with high sugar content: If your Pug consumes too much sugar, it is more likely to develop health problems such as diabetes, obesity, and tooth decay. Food with high sugar content can also give Pugs an upset stomach. Salty food: Just like sugar, too much salt can cause health problems in Pugs. If left unchecked, it has the potential to poison your Pug. Excessive salt consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and kidney failure. Milk and dairy products: Because the majority of Pugs are lactose intolerant , dairy products can make them sick. They will have digestive problems because they are unable to break down lactose. This causes gastrointestinal blockage and death if left unattended. If you think your Pug has accidentally ingested any of the aforementioned foods, bring your dog to the nearest veterinary clinic for appropriate treatment. Transitioning to a new brand or type of food may be beneficial to their well-being and development. For most dogs, transitioning to new dog food can be difficult. Fortunately, Pugs are not born picky eaters, so changing their diet will be easier. The ideal transition for Pugs should be gradual changes spread over three weeks. Do this until they are comfortable with the new food. Below is a more detailed breakdown of how to transition your Pug to a new food: Days. Aug 25, Share An important part of taking good care of your Pug puppy is making sure that they are properly fed and that they get all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and if your Pug is like most, they seem to like anything that they are fed. Luckily, there are many commercial foods available on the market. There is also the raw doggy food diet that seems to keep getting more popular as time goes on. But what kind of dog food is right for your Pug? How much should you be feeding them? What will the dog not eat? Are there special considerations for a senior Pug? The answers to these questions and more can be found in our Pug feeding guide below. What you do decide to feed your pooch should be based on the quality of the food, no matter the type, and your personal feeding preferences. Here is what can be on the table for your Pug. Image credit: PxHere Commercial Dry Food Kibble Commonly referred to as kibble, commercial dry dog food is the most common and widely available option on the market. Manufacturers of this type of food work hard to balance the ingredients and create a completely balanced nutritional profile for dogs like your Pug. In fact, some brands, like Royal Canin, offer puppy and adult foods made just for Pugs. Whether you choose a dry dog food made just for Pugs or one made for dogs in general, it should include real meat or animal meal as one of the first ingredients on the list. The upside to commercial dry dog food is that it is affordable and easy to administer. It is also typically easy to store for the long term without worrying about it spoiling. The downside is that it tends to be dehydrating, so water should be available to your Pug throughout the day. Commercial Wet Food Commercially made wet dog food tends to be more nutrient-dense than dry food because it contains fresher ingredients and usually has fewer grains, if any at all. Most wet foods have real whole meat or seafood and broth as the first ingredients. Sometimes, veggies are thrown in for good measure, but many are meat-centric to meet the high protein needs of your growing Pug. Wet food is not as easy to store as dry food is, because it must be refrigerated after being opened. However, Pugs tend to enjoy the flavor and texture of wet food more than dry. Wet food is also a little more expensive than dry food, especially when trying to feed Pugs that are full-grown and in their prime. Raw Food A raw food diet is said to result in better digestion, a healthier coat and immune system , optimal dental health, and less susceptibility to allergies among other things. A raw food diet typically consists of quality meat, a source of calcium such as bones , animal organs, and a lower fat count than most commercial foods offer. Feeding your Pug a raw food diet will take commitment and a strong understanding of the nutrition that they need. This type of diet can be expensive and can require storage space in the fridge and freezer. It is recommended that you consult with a veterinarian to put together a complete meal plan to follow if you choose to go this route. It is a freeze-dried raw food supplement that is delicious and nutritious. The process requires about a day of cooking in the kitchen, but the time that you spend in your kitchen should yield enough food for your pooch to eat all week long. You will just have to store the leftovers in the fridge each day until the entire batch has been offered and consumed. Homemade dog food usually consists of whole meat like chicken, eggs, fish oil or flaxseed, brown or white rice, possibly vegetables like carrots and peas , and maybe even supplements of some kind. It depends on what kind of recipe you decide to follow. Any recipe that you consider feeding your dog should be approved by your veterinarian first. But you can quickly tell whether your pooch is being underfed or overfed by checking out their physique every day. If your dog is underfed for too long, you could notice signs like lethargy and an unwillingness to interact with family members. If your dog is overfed, they may succumb to problems like diabetes. If you find that your dog is getting underweight, start feeding them up to an extra cup of food each day. Reduce the amount by up to a cup if your dog is getting pudgy and out of shape. To help avoid under and overfeeding your dog, follow the feeding directions on the packaging of any commercial food you buy for them. If you decide to go the raw or homemade food route, your veterinarian can provide you with a feeding guide. You are free to use this image, but please give credit back to Hepper. Extra immune support is also typically present in puppy food. Once Pugs become adults, they are not as active as when they were pups, and they are not growing at exponential rates, if at all. Therefore, they need food with less protein than what puppies get. Pugs can typically switch to adult dog food between the ages of 9 and 12 months because much of their growth will be complete at this time. The tricky part is the actual process of switching your pooch from puppy to adult dog food. If not done slowly and intentionally, switching to a new food can cause digestion issues for your dog that could create messes around the house. Lethargy and nausea may follow. Finally, offer only adult food. There are many reasons why your Pug might seem like they do not have an appetite. The first thing to consider is whether you are overfeeding them. If your pooch does not want to eat their last meal of the day, they could simply be full and satisfied. However, other issues could lead to a pup not eating such as: Dental Problems. If your Pug has a toothache or some other kind of dental problem, they may not be comfortable eating. Check for red gums, bleeding, and tenderness throughout the mouth. If something unusual is detected, consult your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Recent Vaccinations. Vaccines can cause side effects, including a lack of appetite. So, if your Pug does not seem to want to eat for a day or two after getting vaccinated, this is normal. Uncomfortable Surroundings. If your pooch goes on an adventure with you and is expected to eat their meal in a situation that is not familiar to them, they may pass on the meal altogether in favor of waiting until they get to what they feel is a safe space to eat. Even if your dog seems fine in every other way, a lack of wanting to eat could mean an illness of some kind is brewing. If you cannot find any other reason for a lack of appetite, you should see your vet as soon as possible. Adult Pugs will generally eat about a cup of dry commercial dog food each day or the equivalent, although certain differences might scale this amount up or down as time goes on. Here are the most important factors to consider. Active vs. Sedentary More active dogs will require more food than those that tend to be sedentary. If your pooch takes multiple walks every day, spends a great deal of time playing with kids throughout the day, or enjoys outdoor time with family members each afternoon, chances are that your dog will need a little more food than the average pooch. If your pooch takes only one short walk each day and spends most of their time lounging around the house, chances are that they should be fed as sedentary dogs. Spayed vs. Neutered Sometimes, dogs that are not spayed or neutered eat more than the average pooch. This is because they tend to be more active and excitable, which results in the need for more calories to support their energy needs. Pregnancy Pregnant Pugs need up to twice the amount of food that an adult dog would need. Instead of feeding your pregnant dog puppy or adult food, consider a food designed for all life stages that indicates its suitability for pregnancy. This type of food offers more protein and fat than adult food to support the extra growth they go through, but not as much as puppy food, which could make them overweight after the birth. What Foods Are Bad for Pugs? Image By: Momentmal, Pixabay There are a few foods that you should never feed your Pug to ensure their good health and to avoid serious problems like poisoning and even death. Here are a few food items that should be avoided at all costs: Alcohol. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. This feeding routine should be followed from 8 weeks to 6 months old. But how much food should that be exactly in each feeding session. How many cups of food should I feed my Pug puppy and adults? Before you check out this Pug feeding chart below, you may just want a quick reference to how many cups of food you need to feed a Pug. The common guidelines say you should feed a Pug puppy of 8 to 20 weeks different cup sizes depending on their weight and age. You can see the cup amounts in the chart here: Puppy feeding amounts This Pug puppy feeding chart explains just how many cups of food you should give them and the regularity. It will be 3 times a day, then twice a day as they get older. As your Pug ages, the number of cups of food you need to him or her will change, as will the regularity. Take a look at the guidance in the graphic below. Adult feeding amounts This is feeding chart for adult Pugs explaining how many cups and how often in the day the feeding times should be. The Pug feeding charts you see above have been scanned from the Royal Canin brand of dog food. This is a very trusted brand, and you will find it being sold in vets all over the world. It contains all the nutrients your Pug puppy will need and is great for starting out with and into adult ages. Almost every time, this happens by the age of 3 weeks; and puppies should not leave their mother until at least 8 weeks of age. They will be like eating machines at this age because they have so much energy to burn. You could also try to sit your Pug down on some scales, but good luck with trying to make them sit still. Instead you can weigh yourself if you have accurate scales, and then get someone to pass you your Pug puppy to see what the difference is. The age of your Pug You might find it hard to get your Pug used to commercial dry food at first. The commercial puppy food should be high enough in calories and nutrients to make up for what they used to get from their mother. In terms of adjusting for their ages, Pug puppies of 8 to 12 weeks old can have one and half cups of food each day, split into 3 servings. By the ages of 6 to 9 months, Pug puppies will be in a regular eating routine where they drop to two meals a day — and this is how it will stay as adults. The dangers of over-feeding Some Pug owners might decide to go to 4 meals a day, but still with the same amount of food. This is because tinier Pugs might find the half a cup 3 times daily, too much of a large meal. Overfeeding is something to keep a strict eye on. If you feed your Pug puppy too much, he could get gastric dilatation-volvulus see definition on ACVS. This is the medical term for a twisted gut and can actually be fatal. Feeding more senior Pugs As Pugs get older, they will start to get less active. With reduced levels of energy comes the need for a lower calorie intake. But only if they are reducing their exercise due to age. With an older Pug you might start to see them putting on weight. If you do see weight gain, start to pull back on the portion sizes. Sometimes your vet may even recommend you go to a higher frequency of daily meals albeit smaller portions , almost like they are puppies again. With senior dogs this can help with weaker stomachs. Overweight or underweight? The average Pug puppy will weigh between 2 and 4 pounds at 8 weeks. These are healthy weight ranges. If you do have a Pug puppy who is clearly underweight, start to add a little bit more food to each of the daily meals until they come back into the health weight range. With overweight Pugs you do the exact opposite but mix more exercise into their daily routines as well. Handy Hint: If your Pug is losing or gaining weight and how much food they eat makes no difference, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Health problems related to Pug feeding Not all dogs are the same, and all the guidance on this page is very generic towards how much you should feed a Pug. The bottom line is that your vet will be able to properly tell you how much your Pug should eat due to their age and weight. Raw food vs. I understand why people feed their dog raw food though; they say commercial food has too many additives plus preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and proteins. Consult with your vet for a professional opinion. Pugs that eat their food far too quickly You should also monitor how quickly your Pug is eating. Puppies are used to having to compete for food, and even when they are home alone with you, they will still have an instinct to wolf their food down. This can cause indigestion and vomiting, so there are a few things you can do to slow their intake down. Use a muffin tin evenly spread the portions throughout the tin. The best dry dog foods should have a high percentage of meats and fish in. Omega-3s are healthy fats, so those will also be a good sign if listed. All of the notes and guidance are based on my own personal experience of raising puppies, with exception to the feeding schedule which is from the Canin dog food brand. However, the Canin Pug feeding charts you see, are exactly how I have fed my puppies and adult dogs. Once your dog reaches adulthood, the best times to feed your Pug will be breakfast and dinner times. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Pug will stay at healthy as our dogs have! You might also like… If you have found this useful and are new to Pug ownership, you might find these other handy guides useful during the puppy phase:. Kibble, cans and specialty foods Proper Nutrition Since puppies need energy to grow big and strong, their food is higher in calories and packed with more nutrients. This includes more fat, protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. So always choose a food that is labelled for puppies. Since a Pug is a small toy breed , they will grow very quickly and reach adulthood much faster than larger breeds. Toy dog breeds actually need more calories per pound than larger breeds due to their higher metabolic rates. The structure of their flat muzzle and facial folds , while appealing to look at, unfortunately causes a number of serious health problems. This causes soft tissue to block the airways, making breathing very difficult. Their jaws and teeth can also cause them problems. Remember, slimmer is better. How Often To Feed Your Pug Puppy I always recommend feeding puppies small meals at scheduled times several hours apart, and then decreasing the frequency as they get older. For puppies under six months go with something like 7am, 12noon, 3pm then 6pm. As they grow you can reduce this routine to three or even two times a day, but there is no harm continuing with multiple feedings as long as you dividing their daily rations evenly. Kibble vs Canned Food Dried puppy kibble is affordable, easy to store and transport, and readily available. Serving is as simple as opening the package and pouring it into the bowl. Canned or wet food will sometimes offer more meat protein and fewer carbohydrates than kibble does, but you will usually pay more as well. Wet food is also associated with an increase in periodontal diseases , which is not ideal for a dog already prone to these issues. Specialty Pug Puppy Foods The introduction of breed-specific formulas to the market has made it even more confusing. However, there are some Pug puppy formulations that address some of their health issues that might be worth considering. Some kibble is designed in a shape and texture that makes it easier for short-nosed puppies to pick up and chew easily. While food portion quantity matters less for other dogs who know how much to eat, pugs can be endless eaters. Unless you give specific amounts, chances are your pug will grow obese very soon. Care should be taken to stick to recommended portions of meal suggested and not exceed even if your dog is urging for more feed. If you have got an adopted one whose age is below 45 days and has no living mother, you can feed the puppy milk replacers like Beaphar lactol, choostix petasure or royal canin babydog milk. Cow milk cerelac is not recommended. Not only human cerelac causes loose motion, it may result in stunted growth as well. After 45 days age, you can go for starter dry food of any brand like drools starter, royal canin mini starter, farmina puppy starter or a brand you like. Starter dry food can be fed to both mother and puppy till 3 months age. If starter kibble is too hard for your puppy to chew, you can add water in it, blend in a grinder and make a mixture that can be fed by feeding bottle. You can feed a pug puppy up to g of feed combined at this age. Home-made food can be fed as well. If you are feeding cooked meat, remove bones. Pug puppy months :This is the ideal growing stage of the puppy. Your puppy will gain the maximum in mass, length and height at this age span. You can feed junior dry food at this age of your choice brand or home-made food like chicken rice or curd rice. Feed the puppy not more than 3 times a day even if puppy acts like he. Make sure food is rich in protein quantity. Water should be kept available at all times while feeding dry food. Puppy weight needs to be monitored every month. Go safely for any kibble your puppy likes, brand should depend on budget. Some good choices are royal canin pug adult, farmina chicken pomegranate mini adult, orijen original, acana small breed adult etc. Pugs live longer years than most dogs like labs. A healthy diet at adult age is important to maintain immune functions and prolong life-span to the maximum extent. Feed no more than g a day divided into two meals. Quantity should be monitored closely depending on body weight. If fed home-made food, amount should be almost same a dry food, a home-made meal like chicken-veggie can be as nutritious as dry food if not more. A pug can also start eating the left-over food of other dogs if you have multiple dogs in the household, which should be avoided. Most reputable brands have different calorie concentration in their diet. So, recommended portions can differ to some extent across brands, you can also look at feeding instructions on packaging of food product for required amount or take advice from a practicing veterinarian. Whenever you are eating, pugs may act like they are hungrier now than ever and want some. Keep them away from human feed at all times. Also, keep yourself and those around your pug informed about things which can be poisonous and unhealthy for most dogs like chocolate or citrus fruits like orange and never feed your pug these. Help, my pug is fat and wants to eat all the time? You are not alone. Most pugs become obese even if owner tried to restrict food quantity. If your pug is fat, you need to go for less fat rich and more protein rich food. Stop giving starch-rich food like human biscuits. Keep your pug as active as possible. While pugs are not suitable for rigorous exercise, regular walking or mild sprinting can increase muscle mass and reduce obesity. Example: if you are feeding chicken rice, remove the rice and give only chicken. If you are feeding a regular dry food like Royal canin pug adult, opt for veterinary obesity food like royal canin satiety, drools vet pro obesity or acana light and fit. Protein-rich diet will help make your pug feel fuller with small quantities of feed. It is recommended to consult a practicing veterinarian in case your puppy is growing excessively obese for a better customized diet. Are you following any other diet for your pug and getting exceptional results? Do let us know in the comments below. This entry was posted in Pet Blog. Bookmark the permalink. But he cries alot for the same. Loyal Petzone says: You can give him dry food mixed with curd. I am sure he likes the curd, not the chappati. Moderate amount of unflavored curd can be mixed with dry kibble any time. Rishika Agrawal says: Have some mercy on the baby. .Feed less. .Ankit says: Hii. .My puppy is 3 months old…. .What should i give to her? Nayandharaa says: You can try curd rice, my dog ate it, I mived some crushed pedigree I. There and it ate it all up Deepa Rawat says: Hi, I have a Indian puppy, of around 45 days, can i give him milk in water with glucose biscuits, and if he is doing loose stool, can i give him mashed banana Loyal Petzone says:. But the sad part of the story is that just like any other dog, pugs get obese very quickly. As they say, you become what you eat. Since the pug is a tiny dog, even one extra pound will affect its appearance. For this reason, it becomes important to keep a check on what your pug is eating. The present article talks about the feeding guidelines of this adorable dog: How much is too much? It is very important to feed your dog the correct amount of food to ensure that the pug is getting enough calories for proper growth. Any deviation from the right amount will led to health problems in a pug. Age, activity, metabolism and build of a dog are the major factors on which the amount of food which should be given to a dog depends. Also, the type of food you are giving to a dog is another important factor. If you are feeding home cooked food to one pug and commercial dog food to another dog with same age, build and activity level, it is not necessary that both of them will consume the same amount. As a general rule of thumb, a puppy pug should be given 1 ounce of food per one pound of body weight. For adult pugs, the amount is halved. What about calories? A pug puppy which is in his growth phase requires more calories than adult and senior pugs. On an average, a puppy requires 50 calories per pound of their body weight while an adult pug requires 40 calories per pound of their body weight. Senior pugs need fewer calories because of slow metabolism and less activity level. Free feeding is not recommended to the pug. The following table illustrates the right feeding regime and meal frequency for pugs: Age Amount of food given at one time No.

Blue Liver Although they are often a solid color, Staffies can also have brindle markings, available in any shade. White markings are also common, appearing on both the body and face. Caring for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier Exercise Staffies are athletic dogs, so at least an hour of walking daily is needed. Games like fetch and participating in dog sports like agility will also give them the mental and physical challenges they often crave. True to their terrier instincts, Staffies may dig a tunnel to escape. You could also reinforce the bottom of your fences for security. Staffies can run up to 25 miles per hour, so like any dog, be careful when letting them off the leash. This is particularly true in states with a lot of wildlife like Colorado or California, as Staffies have a tendency to run after animals. Nutrition Dogs need a balanced diet filled with protein-rich meat, grains, and vegetables. However, the amount of food they need depends on their size and activity level. Building a healthy diet and feeding schedule on your own may be challenging, so consult your vet for advice to ensure your pup is getting the nutrients they need. Remember to fill your dog's bowl with fresh water often to keep them hydrated. Sleep Adult Staffies will need around hours of sleep per day. You may find them napping during the day. However, puppies require around hours of sleep to promote healthy growth and development. Insufficient sleep may weaken your dog's immune system, leading to obesity or illness. Therefore, ensuring they get enough exercise and food is essential to help them rest. You may need to visit the vet if sleeplessness persists, as a lack of sleep could be a sign of an underlying illness. Generally, Staffies are kind-hearted dogs that love being part of a family. When properly trained and socialized, they can get along great with kids. They're often described as "nanny dogs" due to their protective nature. However, due to their fighting background, they can sometimes become rough when playing — especially males. They therefore need to be watched around young children. Staffords are a friendly and loving breed, making them great companions. Staffies are loyal dogs who are naturally protective of their families. They often use barking to alert their owners that someone is approaching the home, which makes them excellent guard dogs. When dealing with other dogs, Staffords can become wary and defensive if they feel threatened. The breed often prefers human companions over canine ones — they'll often greet other people when out for walks! However, they should get along just fine with other dogs if socialized from a young age. Due to their fighting ancestry, Staffords may need additional training and supervision when first introduced to other pets. However, they are a gentle breed that will learn to live with other dogs with early socialization. They can even get along well with cats if they receive the proper training. Leaving them with their favorite toy and rewarding them for good behavior when you get home will help. Shedding Levels Since they have a single coat, Staffies shed at a low rate, consistently throughout the year. However, this shedding does increase seasonally when weather conditions change. Brushing your Staffie once a week will help manage the shedding. Staffies are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Along with weekly brushing, you'll need to clean your dog's ears and clip their nails around every four to eight weeks. This can be done at home with dog-safe equipment, or you can take a trip to the groomer. As a general rule, Staffies need to be bathed every three months. But the exact frequency depends on their activity; dogs who love to jump in the mud need to be washed more often. Remember not to bathe them too much, as this can irritate your pup's skin. Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers Hypoallergenic? Although no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, Staffies generally shed little due to their short coats. However, they're very vocal dogs, using groans, grunts, and whines to communicate with their owners. Barking habits Staffies don't bark very often; when they do, it's usually a territorial behavior to alert their owner of someone approaching the house. However, your Staffie also may be using their voice to communicate discomfort. You must therefore be in tune with your dog to understand their feelings. If barking is excessive , it may be because your dog isn't getting enough exercise or food. As human-oriented dogs, it could also be due to separation anxiety or loneliness. Consistent training from puppyhood and ensuring your Staffie is given the time they need will reduce the risk of bad habits developing. Larger pups may take up to 18 months. Staffies are lively and active dogs that require a lot of exercise and playtime. They also love human companionship, so they often struggle with separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. Staffie owners will need a lot of time on their hands to keep their pups happy and healthy. Although they look tough, Staffies are very affectionate animals that love to cuddle with their owners. They also enjoy a good belly rub! Related articles. 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 Staffordshire Bull Terrier Overview The Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be an imposing dog with its strong, muscular body, intense stare, and powerful stance. Many are interested in the breed because it looks like a tough dog but are surprised to learn that the Stafford is a sensitive and loving companion who enjoys playing more than being tough. They see life as a joyful adventure and lives it to the fullest. Fans love the Staffordshire Bull Terrier for their small to medium size, short, easy-care coat, and dynamic yet gentle personality. With their short, broad head and muscular body, they resemble the other bull breeds such as American Staffordshire Terriers and American Pit Bull Terriers, but they are a breed unto themself with distinct physical characteristics that set them apart, including size and ear shape. The Stafford is known for their love of people and trustworthy nature. Expect to give this athletic and energetic dog a vigorous walk every day, as well as plenty of attention during downtime. They dislike being left to their own devices. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are not a breed that can be left outside alone or at home for long periods of time without human companionship. Nicknamed the nanny dog, the Stafford is prized for their patience with and love of children, although it goes without saying that no dog should ever be left alone with young children or expected to double as a baby-sitter. Be aware that some municipalities restrict the ownership of bull breeds. Be sure that yours is not one of them before acquiring a Stafford. For the person who has an understanding of their sensitive nature and can give them patient, firm leadership, the Stafford is one of the finest dog companions around. Because they may be aggressive toward unknown dogs, a Stafford should never be walked off leash. Staffords are highly intelligent, but they are also freethinkers who like to do things their own way. They need firm, patient, consistent training. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are energetic dogs who need a vigorous walk or play session daily. SBTs enjoy their comforts and will readily join you on the sofa or bed if allowed. Staffords shed little, although they may have a heavy shed once a year. They require weekly brushing to remove dead hair and keep their coat shiny. The Stafford needs early socialization, especially if you want them to be friendly toward other animals. The SBT is not recommended for a timid or first-time owner. This breed needs a confident trainer who is consistent and firm but also loving. Staffords love to chew, especially during puppyhood. Provide them with tough, durable toys. Like all terriers, Staffords are diggers. Staffordshire Bull Terriers can do well in apartments if they are properly exercised, but ideal living quarters include a fenced yard where they can play. Always supervise interactions between children and dogs. If properly socialized and raised with them, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can do well with other dogs and animals. It is important to understand that some Staffordshire Bull Terriers will never do well with other animals and may need to live in single animal homes. Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a strong prey drive which will send them after small animals around your neighborhood including cats. Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a high pain threshold and can become injured without any outward sign, such as whining. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a restricted or banned breed in many cities and the number of cities restricting the breed is rising. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are extremely mouthy as puppies and can be destructive if not closely supervised. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are protective of family members, but they are not too concerned about property. They are more likely to welcome burglars than to guard the silver. They were created in the early nineteenth century to be smaller and faster in the fighting ring, yet gentle and friendly toward people. They were probably developed by crossing the Bulldog with an ancestor of the Manchester Terrier. The cross eventually evolved into the Staffordshire Bull Terrier we see today. The first Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club was formed in England in , and a breed standard was written shortly thereafter. Today, the Stafford is ranked 85th among the breeds and varieties recognized by the AKC. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Size Staffords stand 14 to 16 inches at the shoulder, with males being taller. Male Staffords weigh 28 to 38 pounds; females, 24 to 34 pounds. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Personality Loving toward people from just a few weeks of age, a proper Stafford is never shy or snarly. They are energetic and enthusiastic in everything they do and remains on alert, even in repose. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when they grow up. Socialization helps ensure that your Stafford puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly, and taking them to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Health Staffordshire Bull Terriers are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be subject to certain health conditions. In SBTs, you should expect to see health clearances on both parents from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for hips and elbows, and from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation, certifying that the eyes are healthy. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. This can lead to painful lameness. Depending on the severity of the problem, your vet may recommend surgery, weight management, or medication to control the pain. Patellar Luxation: This common problem occurs when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and often slips out of place, causing the dog to skip or hop when it happens. It is thought to be hereditary. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation, ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. Hereditary Juvenile Cataracts: The development of opacity or cloudiness in the lens of the eye at an early age. This condition progresses rapidly, and dogs can be blind by 3 years of age. Surgery can sometimes partially restore vision. A DNA test is available to identify dogs that are carriers, affected, or clear of the defective gene. L-2 Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria: Affected dogs lack a particular enzyme to break down the aforementioned compound. It then builds up in cerebrospinal fluid and plasma, causing such signs as lack of coordination, muscle tremors, poor learning ability, and seizures. Signs can be treated, but there is no cure. Dogs with this condition are usually euthanized at an early age. Buy only from breeders who use this DNA test to screen their breeding animals. Skin Allergies: Also known as atopic dermatitis, this itchy, scratchy condition is sometimes seen in certain Staffords. The problem is often compounded by bacterial infections. Aggressive flea control treatment can help, as can supplementing the diet with omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil. Demodectic Mange: All dogs carry demodex mites. Also called demodicosis, it can be localized or generalized. In the localized form, patches of red, scaly skin with hair loss appears on the head, neck and forelegs. Generalized demodectic mange covers the entire body and affects older puppies and young adult dogs. The dog develops patchy skin, bald spots, and skin infections all over the body. The American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology recommends neutering or spaying all dogs that develop generalized demodectic mange because there is a genetic link. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Care The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a companion dog who does well in any type of home as long as they get daily exercise. They should live indoors, with access to a securely fenced yard. Like all terriers, Staffords are diggers, so it is important to reinforce fences by embedding them in concrete or burying chicken wire at the bottom to prevent escapes. Underground electronic fences are not suitable for this breed. A Stafford will ignore the shock if they see another dog approaching their territory, and the lack of a solid barrier means that other dogs can enter the yard, which can lead to a serious fight. Their short face makes the Staffordshire Bull Terrier unsuited to staying outdoors for more than a few minutes in a hot or humid climate, and they should always have access to shade and fresh drinking water. Some Staffords enjoy playing in water and will appreciate having a kiddie pool to lounge in on hot days, but others prefer to avoid the wet stuff. Staffords are not good swimmers, so take steps to protect them from falling into a swimming pool or spa. Engage their mind with training sessions or fun activities. Begin training the day you bring your Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy home. They are intelligent and learn quickly, but they can be impulsive and stubborn. Forget strict and formal obedience training. For best results, be patient, firm, and consistent to develop the strongest bond with your Stafford. Always look for behaviors you can reward instead of punishing them for infractions. Regular training practice and social interaction will help ensure that you live together happily. A bored or lonely Stafford is destructive in their attempts to entertain themself. A Stafford is not generally a barker, but they are definitely vocal. This breed will entertain you with their snorts, snores, grunts, and groans, as well as their singing voice, often described as a yodel. If you are consistent and follow a schedule, housetraining comes easily to the Stafford. Never use a crate as a place of punishment. Leash training is also important, especially since your Stafford will be a strong puller, small size notwithstanding. Never walk them off leash any place that they might encounter unknown dogs or other animals. They have a strong prey drive and will give chase if not restrained. Early, frequent socialization is a must for this breed, especially if you want your SBT to be friendly toward other animals. Visit many different dog-friendly stores, parks, and events. With proper training, consistency, and socialization, your Stafford will be a wonderful family member who protects and loves you unconditionally. To avoid gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as bloat, withhold food and water for at least an hour after vigorous exercise. How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your SBT in good shape by measuring their food and feeding them twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with your fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. It comes in red, fawn, white, black, or blue, or any of these colors with white, as well as brindle or brindle with white. Dirt brushes out easily, and the coat dries quickly after a bath. Brush them weekly to remove dead or loose hair. Bathe as needed. Other grooming needs include dental hygiene and nail care. Daily is better. Trim their nails once or twice a month, or as needed. Handle their paws frequently—dogs are touchy about their feet—and look inside their mouth and ears. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Children And Other Pets The Stafford is suitable for families with children, but despite their much vaunted patience and gentleness, They should always be supervised in the presence of toddlers or young children. They can be rambunctious and may accidentally knock small children down. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any mouthing, biting, or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. As adults, they may require more of an adjustment period before they welcome the company of another dog. To ensure the best relationship, choose a dog of the opposite sex. Make introductions in a neutral area away from your home. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Rescue Groups Staffords are sometimes acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. Other SBTs end up in rescue because their owners have divorced or died. Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a fun-loving character that loves playing with their family and friends. They are typically playful, companionable, amiable, docile, and generally responsive to their family. Their love of a good game is rivaled only by their need for human companionship. They are also characteristically friendly toward strangers. Some can be strong willed. They can be fearless and tenacious. They may not do well around strange dogs or sometimes even household dogs that are assertive. They are generally very good with children; although usually gentle, some can be rambunctious. In the United Kingdom the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is known as the Nanny Dog, in reference to their eagerness and ability to get along with children in the home. Upkeep This is an athletic breed that needs a good walk on leash every day. They also enjoy a good game in the yard or a run in a safe area, such as a fenced yard. Most Staffordshire Bull Terriers are poor swimmers. Their coat care is minimal.