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Several puppies available yet! A Furever Friend We would love to invite you to our facilities to meet our dogs and see the latest litters. Give us a call or send us an email to set up a day and time that works for you, we are more than happy to show you around! Litters are arriving! We have lots of puppies available and had several litters. We have a brand new litter out of Bella born November 14th and Ruby had hers on November 15th. Sandy had her litter on September 28th, Annie had her litter October 6th and if you scroll to the bottom of this page, you will see current available puppies still looking for loving homes. Sign Up For Updates Sign up Photo Gallery Lexie and Magnum, one of our breeding pairs that have produced some beautiful puppies either black and tan or all black Bella is one of my favorites with her motherly instinct she even cares for other dams' puppies Buddy is a handsome hunk that is a lover and he knows how to please the ladies. He has thrown some nice all white puppies with great personalities Ceasar is considered a long coat with is flowing hair that shows red and black. Debbie is retired! Duke was our first and had sired a lot of puppies in our first few years here at Grandview Kennels. Duke has passed on at 12 years Show More Please contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question. First Question What are your plans for your puppy once he is grown? Second Question Are you interested in a specific puppy on our website? Third Question What are important traits to you in a puppy? Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. The average price for a German Shepherd puppy in South Dakota will vary depending on the breeder. If you are looking for a quality German Shepherd puppy, there are many reputable breeders in South Dakota who can help you find the perfect pup. Most of these breeders have been raising GSDs for many years and they know how to produce healthy, sound puppies. When selecting a German Shepherd breeder, it is important to consider a few things. This is the governing body for dog breeds in the United States and only registered breeders are allowed to sell puppies. In addition, responsible German Shepherd breeders will always do health screenings on their breeding stock to ensure that they are free from genetic defects. Some common health problems seen in German Shepherds include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, epilepsy, nerve problems, and autoimmune disorders. Reputable breeders will also require that you sign a contract promising to return the puppy to them should you be unable to keep it. Seeing where the puppies live and how they are treated is an important part of choosing the right breeder. As you visit, look around for cleanliness, proper conditions, and healthy-looking dogs. Finally, consider contacting your local Better Business Bureau BBB or animal services in order to learn whether there are any complaints against the breeder. If there are, be sure to ask the breeder directly about them before signing a contract—while reputable breeders may not have perfect histories with these organizations, problems uncovered by BBBs can show signs of poor business practices. These references can give you a good idea of how the breeder operates and whether or not they are reputable. If there were any problems with the purchase process, such as delivery issues or incorrect paperwork Overall satisfaction with the experience of buying a puppy from this breeder If you cannot find any references from previous buyers, it is best to move on and find another breeder. Responsible breeders will always be happy to provide references from their past customers. Ask Your South Dakota German Shepherd Breeder if You Can Meet Past Customers If for any reason you cannot find references from past customers, your final option is to contact the breeder and ask if you can meet some of their previous owners. While this may not be a perfect substitute for written references, it can give you a good idea of whether or not the breeder is reputable. That being said, meeting previous customers in person is always an excellent way to determine how reliable your German Shepherd breeder in South Dakota may be. If the breeder is unwilling to let you meet any of their past customers, it may be a sign that they have something to hide. One of the best ways to determine whether or not a breeder is responsible is to ask about their veterinarian. Reputable breeders will have a good relationship with a veterinarian and will be happy to provide you with their contact information. This veterinarian should be experienced in treating German Shepherds and should be available for check-ups and consultations after you take your puppy home. If the breeder does not have a good relationship with a veterinarian, it may be a sign that they are not concerned with the health and well-being of their puppies. If you encounter a breeder who is not reputable, there are several signs you can look for: The breeder is unwilling to answer any questions about their breeding stock or the puppies The breeder does not have a good relationship with a veterinarian The breeder tries to pressure you into buying a puppy The puppies are unhealthy or have genetic defects The puppies are very young below eight weeks old or very old above 12 months old If you encounter any of these red flags, it is best to walk away and find another breeder. It is never worth risking the health and well-being of your puppy in order to save a few bucks. Unfortunately, not all breeders do this, which means that some puppies may be born with health problems. A reputable breeder will always be happy to provide you with information about the health of their puppies. If the breeder is unwilling to provide you with any information about their breeding stock or will not let you visit the parents of your puppy, it may be a sign that they are not responsible and do not care about the health and well-being of their puppies. A good breeder will always be open and honest about any health problems in their German Shepherd puppies. Responsible breeders should always stand by their puppies, which means that they usually offer at least one health guarantee against genetic defects. If the breeder does not offer any health guarantees, it may be a sign that they are not concerned with the health and well being of their pups. The best way to avoid forgetting anything is to make a list and start checking items off as you purchase them. When preparing your home for a new German Shepherd, here are some things that you will need: Food and Water Bowls — You should aim to have two food bowls and two water bowls in different locations around your house. It may also be a good idea to get one or two elevated dog feeders, which can help prevent bloating and add additional comfort to your pup. This is especially important for long-haired breeds like German Shepherds, who often kick their food and water all over the place as they eat. German Shepherds love their crates and will often retreat there whenever they want some peace and quiet. Toys — German Shepherds love to play and will need plenty of toys that they can chew, tug, fetch and chase after. Steer clear of rubber balls that are easily chewed apart as well as plush animal toys, which can be ripped apart by sharp teeth within seconds. Rawhide bones are also not recommended for puppies below eight months old, as they tend to break off small pieces inside the mouth that could cause choking risks. If you are not comfortable using a standard leash and collar, there are many other types of leashes and collars available on the market, such as halti or gentle leader headcollars. Bed — A soft bed is ideal for your German Shepherd puppy. It may also be helpful to put your pup on a regular potty schedule. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter.

Blue standard poodles blue standard poodles Blue Standard Poodles are born with a black coat, which changes over time and is usually blue by years old. A blue coat can fade or lighten over time. They have dark brown eyes that are oval shaped and a black nose. They have silver or white hair in their paw pads and black toenails. Blue Standard poodles can be identified at 8 weeks old A true blue coat can be identified when the puppies are 8 weeks old. When you shave the muzzle, you can notice a slight difference in color between the muzzle hair and the topknot hair. Sometimes dark grey hair can be found along a puppies ear edges. Blue Poodles: Unique and Adorable Poodles are one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world, known for their curly coats and intelligence. However, not all poodles are created equal, and the blue poodle is a truly unique. What is a Blue Poodle? A blue poodle is not a separate breed of poodle, but rather one of the variations in color of the standard poodle. Blue poodles have a distinctive blue-gray coat that sets them apart from other poodles. This coat color is the result of a genetic mutation that affects the production of melanin in the hair follicles. Personality and Temperament of Blue Poodles Poodles are known for their intelligence and trainability, and blue poodles are no exception. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living environments, from small apartments to large homes with big yards. Blue poodles are also affectionate and loyal to their owners, making them great companions. Due to their high intelligence, blue poodles are easy to train and are often used in obedience and agility competitions. They are also known for their good memories, making them great at retaining commands and tricks. Physical Characteristics of Blue Poodles In addition to their distinctive blue-gray coat, blue poodles have a number of other physical characteristics that set them apart from other poodles. They have a muscular and athletic build, with long legs and a compact body. Blue poodles also have a long and curly coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Blue poodles typically weigh between 40 and 60 pounds and stand at a height of inches. They have a life span of years, making them a long-term commitment for their owners. Caring for Your Blue Poodle Blue poodles require regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition. This includes brushing and trimming their coats on a regular basis, as well as bathing them to remove any dirt and debris. It is also important to keep their nails trimmed to prevent discomfort and injury. In addition to grooming, blue poodles also need regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. This can include walks, runs, and playtime in a fenced yard. It is also important to provide your blue poodle with mental stimulation, such as training and playtime, to keep them engaged and prevent boredom. Blue poodles are also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and bloat, so it is important to work with a reputable breeder who performs health screenings on their breeding stock. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help catch and treat any potential health problems early on. Choosing a Blue Poodle Puppy When choosing a blue poodle puppy, it is important to work with a reputable breeder who performs health screenings and has a history of producing healthy, well-tempered poodles. It is also important to meet the puppy and its parents in person to ensure that they are a good fit for your family and lifestyle. The blue poodle is unique and special and is sure to steal your heart. Please contact Connie via email highview gmail. Deposits will be refunded if the gender or color preference requested is not available in the litter you placed your deposit on. There are no refunds otherwise You may move your deposit to the next available litter, providing we can not provide you with the color or gender you requested, This would be at your discretion. Puppies are vet checked, first puppy vaccination, dewormed and microchipped at 8 weeks of age, prior to leaving for new homes. We request all perspective homes have the puppy they have chosen to be examined by your vet within the first 72 hours of purchase. After the 72 hours period we will register your puppy online directly to you the buyer with the American Kennel Club. The American Kennel Club will then mail your registration papers to you You may reach us by calling or our email highview gmail. We reserve the right of refusal Health Tested, Champion sired puppies are occasionally available to companion homes. Our puppies are socialized from birth and come with a Health Waranty and a written contract. We do not cross our Poodles with "Doodles" or any other mixed breed, so please do not ask. Our poodles are our family pets and are spoiled with lots of love and attention. They go on trips with us including errands and they love to take our boys to school and pick them up. They sleep in our bed with us every night. Gypsy will only sleep with mama but Rocco makes his rounds! We are dog lovers and have had several breeds over the years. Our middle son suffers from allergies so the standard poodle has been a blessing to us! We are fascinated with the breed as a whole. They are incredibly smart and intuitive. They love to run and play fetch and also be challenged with new tricks. Always so eager to learn and please! Welcome to True Blue Standard Poodles. I feel this is a wonderful definition for our Standard Poodles as well as our dedication to this amazing and beautiful breed. They express love, intelligence and loyalty in a way that can only be reciprocated in the same manner. They are silly, loyal and intuitive, They love to play and they love people…… especially their humans. Oh, and they are extremely smart! Hugging is such a huge human interaction unless you have encountered a poodle. They are the only breed I have known that can not only be hugged by any age child or adult but have graciously learned to hug back. Our poodles bow their heads to be hugged and use their paws to give hugs in return. Standard Poodles are extremely intelligent. One day I came home and asked him to hang a nail on our interior door. While willing, he questioned the reason, I told him I read that we can teach our dogs to ring a bell to let us know they needed to go out for the bathroom. He had a good laugh about that and was in total disbelief. Fast forward to two months later and now his favorite story is that not only did the pups get trained but now he himself is trained to let them out when they ring that darn bell! Standard Poodles are also elegant, energetic athletes who move with a light, springy gait. They excel in advanced obedience competition, where retrieving and jumping skills are required. In agility obstacle course competitions, they fly over, under and through the obstacles with a strength and grace that is breathtaking to watch. Although they are not an aggressive breed, most Standard Poodles make great watchdogs with protective instincts. When properly socialized as puppies, they have an attitude towards people that varies from friendly to politely reserved. I have many stories to tell about how Standard Poodles have fit into our family and am more than happy to visit with you about how they can fit into your family as well. We are so blessed.We are so blessed with our Phoebe. It took us a while to find the right person who could answer all of our questions and who cared about her pups future, but also made sure we had all the information we needed to care for our sweet girl. Shae gives the best care and love to her babies. Her puppies are well socialized, healthy and top quality. Shae even remembered and wished Phoebe a Happy birthday, which warmed our hearts. Thank you True Blue standard poodles for our girl Pheobe. Thank you Shae Bonnie Shae is amazing! Shae is amazing! Her poodles are so sweet and already so loved before they even come home. She was even working on housebreaking him, which was so helpful for us! We are so happy with our pup and would be thrilled to get another pup from Shae in the future. My puppy was spoiled before I got him! Shae is still keeping in touch and loving my new baby from afar. There is no doubt we picked the best breeders. They truly love their puppies and I would highly recommend them to anyone, family included. Our puppy, Declan has an amazing temperament, has taken easily to my pack of dogs, lets my son bear hug him, and has already brought us so much JOY! Our Story The very first Poodle in my life was in .This was a white boy named "Pierre". After Pierre, there were several Toy Poodle girls in the family over the years to .In , Brian and I married. No kids, but much discussion of bringing a large, silver male Standard Poodle into our family came about. Brian has had Brittanys since and always thought a Standard Poodle would be a great upland game bird hunting partner for his Brittanys. It was very impressive. After alot of research and planning, bringing in our first standard poodle Gi Gi in and the many poodles that have followed, the kennel name, Marquis Diamond came to be. This name came to us as a result of many of our dogs that had "Diamond" in their registered names and the favorite cut in the precious stone for us is the MARQUIS cut. It just worked out that the full name, "Marquis Diamond" for our Standard Poodles was the right fit. Our poodles and brittanys have full access to our home, our grounds and all areas on our property. Our puppies are born in our den on the first floor of our home and for the first 4 - 6 weeks are raised with us in our house and fully interact with us in our everyday lives. By 6 weeks of age, they are ready to move to their puppy play area in our basement which is adjacent to our grooming room. Our outside puppy play area that is set up with astro turf is the next step for them by 7 weeks of age, they go to the outside play area, weather permiting, a few hours each day. We live on 10 fenced acres and when there are no visitors expected, our adult dogs are allowed free access on our grounds, house and play areas. Over the last 13 years, bringing us to early , we have many accomplishments with our dogs that can be reviewed by going thru the various pages on our website. We breed, raise and show standard poodles in various colors such as Silver, White, Blue and Black. We have bred pups in Red and on a small scale, Apricot and Brown as well. Many of our performance accomplishments have been with our puppy families as our event commitment with our dogs has been in the conformation venue. We also hunt upland game with our poodles, along side our brittanys. Our standard poodle foundation was established with the Pinafore linage in the colors Silver, White and Black. Pinafore standard poodles is the hard work and commitment of Penny Harney, established in .Penny now resides in McKenzie TN and is still active in the Standard poodle breed and all things that follow. We maintain a close working relationship with Penny and she remains our mentor and biggest contributor for our current line of standard poodles at Marquis Diamond. Our History Standard Poodles and Brittanys are the breeds of dogs we currently share our lives with at Marquis Diamond. Brian is the Brittany fanatic and his first Brittany was "Countess Suzette". Brian received Susie as a gift from his Uncle Jim after Brian lost his beloved Fox Terrier, Trixie, in due to a tragic hunting accident. Susie lived to be 16 years old and was Brian's hunting partner until she was .Our family's first poodle came to us in December of , and we named him Pierre. Pierre lived to be 12 and was followed by many toy poodles over the years. We have many fond memories of Pierre. Pierre was responsible for the passion we feel for the Poodle that has brought us current to our place in life at Marquis Diamond Standards. May are some of my earlier photos with the first love of my life, Pierre. I was 6 years old, and my Mom took these pictures of me and Pierre. The center picture is of Mom, Grandma, Pierre, and Leroy, the cat in .Pierre was a white miniature poodle, and he travelled all over the country with us and lived a long, healthy, and happy life as our first family dog. It was to be, a new pup. Although I wanted a silver Standard Poodle puppy, I fell in love with this blue girl and that continued my passion for the Standard Poodle. Gi Gi has never had puppies, has done some agility and hunt retrieves, but mostly is my shadow and our mascot at Suzy's Pampered Pet's, greeting all those that come. Gi Gi is our "heart" dog and the love of our lives. She is our best friend. Gi Gi is over 12 years old and still going strong. This is Gi Gi at the Hunt Club. Not sure if she is pointing or going to retrieve? Our 1 goal for our offspring is to strive for good health, even disposition and pray for beauty. We do not feel feeding RAW fits into everyones lifestyle but we strongly recommend reading more about it on our RAW food page to learn our process. Their results are also published and copies of the testing with their performance pictures are prepared and placed in their information file that accompanies them to their forever homes. We respect individuals that are seeking a poodle pup for conformation exhibition purposes and at times, we have offered pups for this venue on private treaty; however, that is not our main goal for our offspring in which we place. We remain available to offer referals to other breeders for a purchase of an AKC conformation show prospect. Our puppies are not placed with breeders soley for reproduction purposes. We strongly believe in the Standard Poodle being the Total Dog and on our Working Dog page and Now Showing page, have many examples of the accomplishments of our standard poodles. This breed can be anything one wishes for them and as such, we can say, standard poodles are the "Total Dog". Training and development of your standard poodle puppy are paramount for acheiving that total dog outcome. We do not offer a prospective companion or performance family something in a puppy which we cannot guarentee. We have been active with the standard poodle breed for many years with our companion dogs, performance prospects and most current, as AKC Breeders of Merit. We do not and CANNOT promise our offspring will be anything more than what we describe them to be at the time we offer our pups for placement. Mother nature is a brutal force to contend with and couple that with all that the elements that are present in a breeding program, there are many factors that are to be considered when meeting a group of puppies that are offered for placement. Our years of experience and continuous ongoing training, research, and trying harder each year we breed our standard poodles, we have created a line of dogs that have brought us great pride, some very impressive titles, and many of our puppy families wonderful, lifetime companionship with their Marquis Diamond Standard Poodle. We have personal and professional references upon request. Please take a moment to look over our website pages and read our information. We are both Service Retired from the State of California completing our career paths. We are now home with our dogs each and every day, rarely leaving together at the same time. Our lifes work is now with our passion for the Standard Poodle and all of them that share our home and our lives. We are able to ship our puppies via commercial airlines, we can accomodate private charter, at times we travel to meet pup families on the road and as always, all are welcome in our home. This is our Boy that started it all for us in the American Kennel Club. We had alot of firsts with our Boulie. Boulie finished in 5 weekends as an AKC champ. It was a proud accomplishment for all of us. Boulie is now retired and our resident SR Champ, doing whatever He wants to do. Performance Poodles of Colour. Read more about Passion and her handling team on our Girls page. Read more about Quinn on our Girls page. Read more about our Louie on our Boys page. To Review her Stats, click to our Girls page. Read more about CH Finn on our Boys page. Read more about Laycee and Taffe on our Girls page. Read more about our CH Lovie on our Girls page. Read more about our newest show stopper on our Whats New page. Info that will be available is Registered Health Genetics, 5 generation pedigrees, Co-efficiencies on the breeding, Sibling records , etc. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion. Next you will meet our canine Gentlemen in living color and view their slide shows, pedigrees, height, weight and any testing results. They are kind enough to put up with us and our all night puppy deliveries. They deal with cancelled plans because a sweet mom decides she just has to have her puppies right then! Blake, my husband, as you probably have already read, is the love of my life. On July 28, we welcomed our bouncing baby boy, named Dustin Blake Sauls. So at that time we decided for Blake to take on all the responsibility of our home and he become a stay at home dad. Blake can be found cleaning, cooking, washing clothes and his favorite duty, taking wonderful care of Dustin when I am unable to do so. Even when I am able, he is right by my side helping. Clearly, we are a team. Before he became a dad, he did a lot of our grooming prior to Darlene starting with us on a full time basis. He kept all of our water troughs, tubs and pools clean and disinfected. Blake helped with the mowing, weed eating and other lawn maintenance. Unlike my daddy, Blake was raised in the city. I am sure as a young man he never dreamed he would be working full time putting up fences, taking care of a mini farm or grooming a Standard Poodle. Not only has he hung right in there and learned a lot from my daddy, he truly loves his new farm life. Blake will still runs errands like picking up dog food and other supplies if needed. He will also transport a puppy to the airport to be shipped and does a lot of our personal regional puppy deliveries as well. In Blake became EMS certified, which has come in handy occasionally here at the farm and in our home. Blake is a very soft spoken, quiet and mellow blessing in my life. Simple things we do together bring certain tranquility to my life that I have come to treasure. I cannot imagine loving any one more and I thank God every day for blessing me with a husband and an amazing father to our son, like Blake. He is has spent several years being a builder so his expertise in the construction of our facility has been irreplaceable. His hands have touched every fence post, shingle, nail and painted wall on the property. You will occasionally see him doing a two-step dance step while singing this tune. He brings a sense of humor to everything he does. My daddy is very out spoken and a little loud sometimes. He is very driven and sometimes forgets to slow down and enjoy life. But on the other hand my daddy has always loved babies of any kind and the puppies are no exception. Quite often we find him holding a newborn or talking to an older puppy while giving them a pat on the head or a big bear hug. Luckily for my dad, we have been able to bring on two amazing young men who have taken over the very difficult and labor intensive duties that my he did in the beginning. You will read more about Zack and Cody below. My dad has gone back to his passion of driving a truck for a great company out of Wilson, NC, S. The twelve rolling acres, called Arrowhead Acres, located in Spring Hope, North Carolina is a long awaited dream come true for my mama and daddy. In Arrowhead Acres became our home as well. Blake and I are very thankful for our parents. Without their support thru the years, our life would have been much more difficult. Before my sister Holley decided to return to showing horses, my brother-in-law Brian could always be counted on to help when there was manual labor to be done. Brian puts on an air that he is not interested in the Poodles, but we know different and have caught him many times in the act of cuddling our Standard adults and babies! He loves the puppies too! He and my daddy would sometimes disappear for a couple of hours leaving us to tend to the canine members of our family and a while they will walk out on the back porch and yell, letting us know that our dinner is ready. We make our way to the house and walk into a meal of grilled chicken, steak or ribs with all the fixings. We can count on any one of the three to make us smile. Of course they are men and we are women, so they will make us cry from time to time. My little brother Luke and nephew Scott have always lent a helping hand. They love working with their daddies. They are like little men taking all the responsibilities assigned to them quite seriously. They both love to hunt with my daddy. Now that Scott is a teenager he works right along side with his dad at the tire shop he owns, Woodruff Tire, and can be seen driving a tractor around their farm. Luke has become a great helper here on our farm. When anybody needs a helping hand he is the one that always volunteers first. Luke can also be found out in the maintenance shop helping his dad change oil in our vehicles and farm equipment and sharping the blades for the lawn tractors. We never know what they will be into next. But he did such a good job we offered him a full time position which he graciously accepted. He keeps all of our water troughs, tubs and pools clean and disinfected. Our Standard adults have free feeding available at all times and Cody keeps all the feeders clean and inspected for bugs as well as keeping them filled with feed. This is not a hard job to do, but a hard job to do well! It takes up a lot of time. Cody helps Zack in the well care of our horses and keeps the stalls and barn clean. We concentrated on the two conformations of Standard Poodles. The Standard Poodle Club of America is, of course, made up of humans. They are pretty special, amazing and dedicated humans. They write the standards for the breed, and the standard has to some extent changed the original look and purpose of the Standard Poodle. Our primary goal is to enrich the very small gene bank of the Standard Poodle pedigrees, which is and will continue to be the best weapon against genetic disorders. The preceding statements may raise some eyebrows and ruffle some feathers. It might even become a topic on Poodle Forum, but we stand firm in our belief and respect those who disagree. We have added, in after lots of research and prayer, the ability to produce the very controversial colors of phantom Standard Poodles and parti Standard Poodles. Although these colors are permitted registration with the American Kennel Club, we hope someday these colors will be accepted on a higher level with AKC, by allowing the color variety in the show ring, just as in the cocker spaniels and other breeds of color are shown in the ring. A self-portrait of Rembrandt shows him with his parti colored poodle, in ! To read more about the origin of these poodles of color please click here. Here at Family Affair we will continue to learn and grow.

Acana Top 10 Dog Food Brands in the Philippines In the past, people fed their dogs leftovers and table scraps; however, as international dog food brands found their way into this nation, households with above-average income started opting for these products. Pedigree This is among one of the most recognized dog food brands in the world, and Pedigree was also the first brand to sell its products in the Filipino market. Owners claim that even after a decade of feeding their dogs this product, their dogs have not encountered any urination or kidney problems, which most sources state, they encounter. While it is not the best dog food available in the market, it sure is readily available, and most convenient. Moreover, the brand states that their recipes are created with keeping wolves in mind, as dogs derived from them. This dog food is suited more towards active breeds, and it can be a little too much for less active pooches, but it is grain-free, which is always a sign of a great product. Royal Canin This brand is fairly new, it was established in in France by a veterinarian, and it is quite famous among dog owners with a picky eater. Some dogs just hate kibbles, and for them, this wet dog food is an ideal choice. Solutions Go! Solutions is an American brand, which not only offers premium-quality dog food but also serves as a noble cause by providing food to animal shelters. Moreover, they offer special dog food for pooches with sensitive stomachs, and they are more than happy to provide to state their limited 15 ingredients, and none of them are grain-based. Holistic Select This brand specializes in kibbles, while they do offer wet dog food, dogs seem to be in love with their dry food. Furthermore, if you happen to have a dog that is very specific in its eating habits, then this brand is for you because they have about 16 different flavors with varied meats. Although their products are grain-free, they are packed with other fillers, which may be a concern for some pooches. Eukanuba Easily the most trusted dog food brand of Filipino dog owners, Eukanuba has gained huge popularity in the last decade. Plus, they have a specific product for each type of dog, small dogs, large puppies, senior dogs, you name it, they have a product for them. While it is a favorite of many dog lovers, it consists of grains and many fillers. Summit This is the only Canadian brand on the list, and its parent company is Petcurean. Being a brand of such a large manufacturer, it is unsurprisingly affordable. Aozi A fairly new addition to the Filipino market, and it is a unique product, as it was formulated in Europe, and is manufactured in China. Additionally, it is the only product on this list that contains spinach. Special Dog Excellence The only Italian dog food brand on the list, but similar to Summit, it is a part of a huge corporation, Monge. Plus, none of their product contains any artificial flavoring or preservatives. Additionally, this brand is often recommended to dogs with high cholesterol. It also has a long shelf life and does not require refrigeration. Canned Most dogs enjoy canned or wet food; it has a long shelf life and is easy to find in any supermarket, but it can be costly. For some owners, the cost is well worth it, but not every brand of commercial canned food contains the protein that your dog requires. The higher the water content, the lower the nutrient content, so your dog will need to consume more food to get the nutritional value his body requires. Home Cooked A home-cooked diet allows the owner to know exactly what is in everything her dog eats and ensures that his nutritional needs are met. Feeding your dog, a home-cooked diet takes time and money, but many owners believe the extra effort is worth the peace of mind. Semi-Moist Semi-moist foods are commercial dog foods shaped like pork chops, burgers, or other meaty foods. These foods are the least nutritious of all dog foods and contain a lot of artificial flavors and colors. Raw Raw meat, preferably with some bones never cooked bones, only raw and organs mixed in, is a natural source of phosphorus and calcium. Many dogs respond well to this diet because they have short intestinal tracts and strong stomach acids, both of which make it easy for them to consume and digest raw food. Here are the Top 14 Dog Food in the Philippines that you can trust! Purina Purina Dog Food has been a well-known and well-liked dog food brand on the market for over 80 years. Purina is without a doubt one of the most popular and trusted dog food brands on the market today. It can be difficult to sift through their product lists to find the perfect meal for your four-legged companion due to their ever-expanding dietary selections. Owners claim that even after a decade of feeding this product to their dogs, they have not experienced any urination or kidney problems, which most sources claim they do. While it is not the best dog food on the market, it is easily accessible and convenient. Furthermore, the brand claims that their recipes are inspired by wolves, as dogs are descended from them. This dog food is more suited to active breeds, and it may be a little too much for less active dogs, but it is grain-free, which is always a sign of a good product. Eukanuba Eukanuba has easily become the most trusted dog food brand among Filipino dog owners in the last decade. Furthermore, they have a product for every type of dog: small dogs, large puppies, senior dogs, you name it, they have a product for it. While it is popular among dog owners, it contains grains and a lot of fillers. Sensitivities This nutritious GO! Solutions is an American brand that not only provides high-quality dog food but also contributes to a good cause by donating food to animal shelters. Furthermore, they provide special dog food for pooches with sensitive stomachs, and they are happy to provide a list of their limited 15 ingredients, none of which are grain-based. Royal Canin An all-around brand for different types of dogs. Royal Canin has variety of dog food to offer depending on the needs, breed, and age of a dog. This dog food is a well-balanced diet designed to prevent food allergies and digestive issues. To ensure that the meal is hypoallergenic, it contains hydrolyzed protein with a low molecular weight. Over Ph. The company is based in San Diego, but the food is produced at an Illinois factory that also produces food for human use. The Honest Kitchen only uses healthful products that you can recognize and pronounce, such as eggs and salmon, pumpkin, and parsley. Bil-Jac Biljac produces wet, dry, and frozen dog foods for dogs of different sizes and breeds. A novel mechanism protects critical nutrients. Bil-Jac is full and balanced nutrition for dogs of all ages. AAFCO-approved animal feeding studies show that Bil-Jac dog food delivers full and balanced nutrition for all life stages. Unlike most dog brands, Acana proudly declares that grains are used in their products; however, they stress that they do not utilize processed grains that dogs cannot digest. They are high in animal protein, low in carbohydrates, and use low-glycemic components to maintain healthy body conditions and consistent energy. All of the ingredients were chosen with attention and thought. They are useful, tasty, and healthful. Canidae Recipes that are ultra-nutritionally packed, with more nutrients and protein per cup than top brands. The said dog food manufacturing company also promotes the usage of recyclable materials through their pre-packaged items, as well as Kibble Refill Station. Cesar When it comes to feeding their pets delectable meals that are prepared and cooked in a manner that closely resembles human food, many pet parents turn to Cesar dog food. IAMS This one gives dogs a healthy weight. IAMS, one of the most well-known brands, has a solid nutrient profile for dog nutrition. The ingredients vary depending on the type of Iams you buy, however they often contain actual meat and grain ingredients. How to select the best brands? Consider the type of dog that you have, its digestion and allergy sensitivity, and classify everything you need for your pet. In this way, you will be able to find the best brand that manufactures the best dog food for your pet. Is pea protein bad for dogs? Amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fiber are all found in pea protein. However, research reveal that peas can induce a rare heart ailment known as DCM. Peas and lentils are likewise not suitable for dogs with renal disorders. Which ingredients should I avoid in dog food? Nutrition is a complicated subject. Just like in human nutrition, different ingredients in dog and cat food can help or harm your pet. These are seven ingredients to avoid in pet food. Best dog food brands in the Philippines Different types of dog food The first step to choosing the right dog food is understanding its many types. There are five types of dog food that you need to know about: dry, canned, semi-moist, home-cooked, and raw. Dry food Otherwise known as kibbles, this is the typical dog food you see in many pet and grocery stores. Dry food is the conventional choice for many dog owners because of its affordable price, easy preparation, and long shelf life. Always read the labels when shopping for dry dog food. Also look for essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, E, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. It has a long shelf life but is a little bit more expensive than dry food. This will give you an idea of how much fat and protein it contains. These are snacks made to look like bacon, pork chops, or hot dogs. Semi-moist food contains more sugar, salt, artificial flavors and colors than dry or canned meals, so use it sparingly. Home-cooked Aside from store-bought food, pet owners can prepare meals from scratch for their fur babies. Home-made diets haven't been proven to be 'better' than ready-made dog food, but whole and unprocessed ingredients are well-known to have long-term benefits. When preparing home-cooked dog food, you should include proteins such as beef, turkey, lamb, chicken, pork, tuna, and the occasional egg. Avoid fatty cuts or anything covered in garlic or various seasonings. Take great care to remove chicken bones since they tend to splinter. You can also include vegetables such as peas, carrots, spinach, cucumbers, pumpkin, sweet potato, and corn. Carbohydrates like rice, pasta, oatmeal, and even quinoa are also important. Avoid including alcohol, avocados, chocolate, coffee, garlic, grapes, raisins, mint, and artificial flavors in their meals. While most of us would prefer to prepare home-cooked food for our pets, it can be expensive and time-consuming. Raw Dogs are carnivores, so a raw diet is an obvious choice for many dog owners. A raw diet can comprise of organ and muscle meat, whole or ground bone, raw eggs, dog-safe fruits and veggies, and even dairy products. It can be home-made, freeze-dried, or dehydrated. However, before you transition to a raw diet, be sure to consult your veterinarian. Although these mostly cover the basics, they might not have all the nutritional needs of a growing puppy or a nursing mother. Many veterinarians recommend feeding your dog according to their life stage to maintain optimal health and wellness. Puppy 0 to 9 months From birth to nine months old, puppies need the right amount of nutrition to support their growth and development. At six to eight weeks, they need to be fed as often as four to six meals a day. Puppy dog food should include high amounts of calcium and protein to support bone and muscle growth, especially for large breeds. After weaning, they lose their ability to digest lactose. Although small amounts can be tolerated, milk may cause an upset stomach and diarrhea. Overweight dogs need less fat and protein and vice versa for underweight dogs. Ingredients like prebiotics and probiotics help maintain a healthy gut by promoting microbial populations. Increased omega-3 fatty acids can combat inflammation and help promote a stronger vascular system. Glucosamine can also help promote joint health and combat arthritis. What might work for other dogs may not work for yours. As descendants of wolves, early hunting dogs are capable of ingesting large portions of food before going for days without eating. However, dividing meals once or twice per day is recommended for household pets these days. Regardless of their feeding schedule, never allow your dog to exercise after a big meal, especially when they consume it rapidly. This can help avoid intestinal obstruction, bloating, and other digestive problems. Should I avoid grain in dog food? Unless your dog suffers from intolerances to grains or carbohydrate malabsorption, a small amount of gluten-free grain can serve as part of a healthy diet. If not, it's best to feed your dog grain-free dog food packed with nutrition to help them stay healthy and active. What if my dog has allergies? Believe it or not, dogs can be allergic to certain foods. Meat, dairy products, and eggs are some of the most common allergens for dogs. If you see symptoms such as redness in the skin or paws and loss of coat, try switching to a different protein source until you have narrowed down the source of the allergy. Best dog food brands in the Philippines As fur parents, it is our responsibility to provide the best for our pets. Here are some of the best dog brands in the Philippines that you can purchase online: Beef Pro One of the most popular dog food brands in the Philippines, Beef Pro takes pride in the nutritional value of their products. Loaded with vitamins and minerals, Beef Pro also contains Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids to give your fur babies a shiny coat and healthy skin. Aozi Aozi dog food is packed with different vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to give your pups the energy boost they need. This dog food brand also gives your puppies healthy skin and fur and boosts their immune system. Aozi dog food comes in two variants - lamb and apple - which have different health and nutritional benefits. The lamb variant is a good source of iron and helps improve their nervous and immune system. IAMS has developed different variations of their dog food for different types, breeds, and life stages of dogs. Good Boy The Good Boy brand has distinct variants depending on the size of your dog and life stage. It contains lamb and beef to give them the nutrients they need to power through the day. It also has anti-tartar to give your adorable puppies healthier gums, stronger teeth, and fresher breath. The Good Boy Original is best for adult dogs or large-breed dogs. The former is formulated specifically for puppies and pregnant or lactating dogs that require a certain nutritional value, while the latter is made for adult dogs aged 1 and above. They are also formulated with a hypoallergenic formula that is used to offer all dog breeds the proper digestion they need. To wrap it all up.Providing the best food for our pets is a top priority for any responsible fur parent. We need to make sure that every serving has the right balance of proteins, carbohydrates, nutrients, and minerals to meet the needs of the body. Always read the label to avoid unnamed meats, preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors. While some may find it unconventional, many dog owners are now shopping for dog food online. Not only is it easier and more convenient, but it is also cheaper than buying from the pet store or grocery store. One trick when shopping online is to find the products on iPrice and easily compare which shop has the best price! Try it on our dog food catalogue now! In her free time, MJ enjoys first-person video games and digital illustrations. How to Choose Puppy Food — Buying Guide Here are some key points to consider: Wet or dry food: pick the type that's best for your puppy. Look for high-quality and nourishing ingredients to support development. Consult your vet to check if your puppy has special needs. For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below. Here are some of the differences between dry and wet food to help you choose the right one. They can also be easily ingested because they commonly come with softened meat chunks. Wet foods are also more flavorful and aromatic for dogs, which is why most of them prefer them, especially picky eaters. Moreover, if your fur baby is sick and has less appetite, wet food can entice your pup to eat because of its flavorful smell and taste. Dry Foods Are Convenient and Have Dental Benefits Compared to wet food, dry food or kibbles do not spoil easily and can be pre-portioned. They are also cheaper than the other type, making it a more cost-efficient diet for your puppy. Moreover, dry food encourages your pup to chew on their food, which helps remove tartar buildup and encourages the development of stronger teeth. You can always pick breed-specific puppy foods, but below are some tips for easier selection. For Smaller Breeds, Choose Small-Sized Kibbles and Chunks If you have a chihuahua, a toy-sized shih tzu, or a poodle, opt for small-sized kibble and chunks, whether it is dry or wet. This is so that your puppy can easily chew and ingest the food. Moreover, small breeds require a higher amount of protein and calories compared to larger breeds because they are more active and have higher energy levels. As their bones grow faster, it is recommended to choose puppy food with the appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of to 1. This prevents joint and muscle diseases like developmental orthopedic disease DOD. Moreover, large breed puppy foods typically come in larger sizes, so be careful not to overfeed them to avoid getting them overweight. This is also why their food has fewer calories than small-breed puppy foods. Franz Philip Joseph R. Ubaldo Regular weighing of large breed puppies is important. In the first months, large breed puppies grow way more than the smaller breed ones making the adjustment of their food portions more crucial in ensuring they get the proper amount of food to sustain their rapid growth. Puppies also have a lot of energy, so it is important that their food contains a good amount of calories and carbohydrates. Steer Clear of Puppy Food Made With Meat By-Products Part of ensuring that your puppy is eating safe and nourishing foods is avoiding those that are made of meat by-products. With this in mind, always remember to check the label and choose puppy foods with real meat. They may be allergic to a certain type of meat or ingredient found in most puppy foods, so you have to be picky when selecting one. Ubaldo Aside from food allergies, food intolerance is another concern in puppies that pet owners need to be aware of. This is different from allergies because it does not involve the immune system and can just cause transient gastrointestinal problems like one-off vomiting, stomach pain, or stool changes upon ingestion of the trigger food component. It becomes a lot more complicated when given or fed on a regular basis because those symptoms may mimic the effect of allergic reactions and could have longer effects. Report Issue with Content 10 Best Puppy Food to Buy Online The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide. The kibble's shape, size, texture and formula are adapted to the Labrador Retriever puppy. The Labrador Retriever Puppy formula contributes to the healthy development of the growing Labrador's bone structure and promotes harmonious weight gain with an appropriate intake of energy, protein, calcium and phosphorus. Digestive Health Digestive health is essential during the puppy's growth period: the digestive system is not yet fully developed and cannot absorb nutrients in the same way as adult dogs. The Labrador Retriever Puppy formula helps support digestive health and helps to maintain a balanced intestinal flora. Natural Defenses During the growth period, the puppy's natural defenses are not yet fully developed. An exclusive complex of antioxidants vitamins E and C, lutein and taurine contained in the Labrador Retriever Puppy formula helps support the puppy's natural defenses. Ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, corn gluten meal, wheat gluten, corn, chicken fat, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, fish oil, sodium silico aluminate, egg product, vegetable oil, pea fiber, potassium chloride, psyllium seed husk, calcium carbonate, salt, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, taurine, hydrolyzed yeast, L-lysine, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , inositol, niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, menadione sodium bisulfite complex], choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, DL-methionine, trace minerals [zinc proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc oxide, manganous oxide, copper sulfate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite], marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. 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Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. 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 Boxer Overview Boxers, large, muscular, square-headed dogs, appear imposing until their mischievous and joyful eyes reveal their true nature. Boxers reach full maturity at three years, boasting intelligence, alertness, and fearlessness, while remaining friendly. Their loyalty to the family is remarkable, though they can be headstrong when faced with harsh training. With minimal grooming needs, Boxers make excellent family companions, as long as they receive ample physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their origin traces back to Germany, and their short, shiny coats are usually fawn or brindle with white markings. Docked tails and cropped ears are common, but many owners now prefer leaving them natural. Boxers are renowned for their love and loyalty, often trying to be lapdogs. Their strength and courage make them suitable for military, police, and search-and-rescue work. Proper care includes indoor living due to their sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Boxer Highlights Here are some of the highlights of the Boxer breed: Affectionate: Boxers are very affectionate dogs and love to be around their people. They are known for their wagging tails and slobbery kisses. Playful: Boxers are also very playful dogs and love to have fun. They are always up for a game of fetch or a good belly rub. Intelligent: Boxers are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. They are often used as working dogs, such as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. Trainable: Boxers are also very trainable dogs and can be taught a variety of tricks. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Loyal: Boxers are very loyal dogs and will always protect their family. They are known for their bravery and willingness to stand up to danger. The Bullenbeisser was used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer, tasked with catching and holding the prey until hunters arrived. Over time, Bullenbeissers lost their jobs on estates and began to be used by farmers and butchers to guard and drive cattle. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century when a Munich man named Georg Alt bred a brindle-colored female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown origin. Schecken was then bred to an English Bulldog named Tom to produce a dog named Flocki, who became the first Boxer to be entered in the German Stud Book after winning at a Munich show that had a special event for Boxers. One of her pups was a white female named Meta von der Passage, considered to be the mother of the Boxer breed, even though photographs of her show that she bore little resemblance to the modern Boxer. Our great line of sires all trace directly back to this female. She was a substantially built, low to the ground, brindle and white parti-color, lacking in underjaw and exceedingly lippy. As a producing bitch few in any breed can match her record. She consistently whelped puppies of marvelous type and rare quality. Those of her offspring sired by Flock St. Salvator and Wotan dominate all present-day. The breed became known in other parts of Europe in the late s. Around , the first Boxers were imported into the U. Lehman of New York. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Through them, the breed was introduced to more people and soon became a favorite companion animal, show dog, and guard dog. In the early days, there was a lot of controversy within the club about the Boxer standard. In , the club finally approved a new standard. The latest revisions of the standard were in .Today, the Boxer ranks 7th among the breeds and varieties registered by the AKC. Boxer Size The height at the shoulder for males usually ranges from .Females typically stand 21 to .Strangers are met with wariness, but they respond politely to friendly people. They display aggression only in defense of their family and home. Temperament is influenced by factors like heredity, training , and socialization. Boxer puppies with good temperaments are curious, playful, and open to approaching and being held by people. Socialization, early exposure to diverse experiences, people, and places, is crucial to ensure they grow up as well-rounded, friendly dogs. Enrolling them in puppy kindergarten classes and regular interactions with visitors, neighbors, and various environments help develop their social skills. Boxer Health Boxers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they have certain health conditions to be aware of. Here are some conditions to watch out for, along with precautions: Cancer : Boxers are prone to mast cell tumors, lymphoma, and brain tumors. White Boxers with excessive white markings can get sunburned and may develop skin cancer. Apply sunscreen to their ears, nose, and coat when they go outdoors. This condition can lead to fainting and sudden death. A veterinary cardiologist can diagnose it after detecting a heart murmur. Affected dogs should not be bred. Boxer cardiomyopathy BCM : An inherited condition causing an irregular heartbeat due to an electrical conduction disorder. It can result in weakness, collapse, or sudden death. Detection is challenging, leading to unexpected fatalities. Dogs showing signs of this condition should not be bred. While some dogs show signs of pain and lameness, others may not exhibit discomfort. X-ray screening helps detect hip dysplasia, and affected dogs should not be bred. Hypothyroidism : Caused by a deficiency of thyroid hormone, leading to infertility, obesity, mental dullness, and lack of energy. It can be managed with daily thyroid replacement pills. Corneal Dystrophy : Non-inflammatory eye diseases inherited in Boxers, affecting one or more corneal layers, causing opaque areas in the eyes. A weakened immune system can lead to demodectic mange, resulting in localized or generalized skin issues. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV , also called Bloat or Torsion : A life-threatening condition more common in deep-chested dogs like Boxers. Feeding habits and exercise patterns can contribute to GDV. Immediate medical attention is crucial. Allergies : Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. Itchy, scaly skin should be examined by a vet. Responsible breeding is essential to reduce the risk of deafness. Boxer Care Boxers are indoor dogs due to their short noses and coats, making them unsuitable for outdoor living. However, they enjoy playing in a fenced yard. Engage them in play or walk them twice daily for at least half an hour to keep their muscles toned and their energy satisfied. Activities like fetch, long walks, or dog sports like agility and flyball are great options. Adequate exercise ensures good behavior—a tired Boxer is a well-behaved Boxer. Training is crucial for Boxers, as their size and strength can inadvertently harm people. Their temperament, being happy and excitable, requires early and consistent training using firm, fair methods with positive reinforcement through praise, play, and food rewards. Be consistent to avoid pushing boundaries. Settle them down before training class with a walk or play session for better focus. Housetraining requires patience; some Boxers are trained by four months, while others take longer. Regular potty breaks and praising them outdoors are essential. Crate training is recommended for their successful training. Boxer Feeding For an ideal Boxer diet , choose high-quality food suited for medium-sized breeds with high energy. Optimize their chances for a long, healthy life by providing proper nutrition. To prevent weight gain, adhere to a regular feeding schedule with two meals per day. Limit treats and avoid leaving food out all day. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations based on factors like weight, energy levels, and overall health. Boxer Coat Color And Grooming Boxers boast a sleek, short coat with tight skin, accentuating their athletic bodies. They come in fawn or brindle colors, occasionally with white markings. Fawn ranges from light tan to mahogany, while brindle displays striking black stripes on a fawn background. White markings should not cover more than one-third of the coat, and excessive white is discouraged due to potential health issues like skin cancer and deafness. They lack the gene for a solid black coat, so black Boxers are not seen. Bathing should be done as needed. Maintaining dental hygiene and nail care are essential. Regularly brushing their teeth prevents periodontal disease, and trimming nails every few weeks keeps their feet in good condition. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps them become accustomed to the process, ensuring positive veterinary exams and handling as adults. Regular grooming also provides an opportunity to check for any potential health issues, such as sores, rashes, or signs of infection, promoting early detection and care. Boxer Children And Other Pets Boxers are fond of kids and make excellent playmates for active older children. However, their rambunctious nature may be too much for toddlers, possibly causing accidental knocks during play. Never leave a dog unsupervised with a child. With proper socialization, Boxers can also get along well with other dogs and cats, particularly if raised together. Boxer Rescue Groups Boxers are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Boxers in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Many can be found with a quick internet search. Prevalence: Common Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful. Males grow to about 25 inches and weigh from about 65 to 80 pounds 30 to 36 kilograms ; females grow from about 21 to 25 inches and weigh from about 50 to 65 pounds 22 to 30 kilograms. Boxers have regal, distinctly shaped square heads. Their jaw is undershot and the muzzle blunt. They have a broad, deep chest and a relatively short, strong back. Boxer's ears fold over naturally, but traditionally, their ears have been cropped to stand erect. Their tails generally are docked and carried high. Their feet are compact and the toes are arched. The boxer's coat is short and sheds moderately. Some boxers are a rich, fawn color and others are brindle. Their face or mask is usually black, but many have white face markings and white on the chest and paws. Personality: Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers. Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking. Living With: The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary. Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry. Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years. History: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. After the breed rose to become among the most popular in America. Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children. Related Pet Care Articles. However, there can be some other physical differences between a male and a female. Similar to other breeds, the female Boxer is also slightly different from the male one. Those differences are as follows. Male Male Boxers used to be heavier than females. They weigh around 65 to 80 pounds, and their height is about .They have a healthy muscular body with floppy ears, droopy eyes, and squashed face. Female It is a fact the females are shorter in size than the male ones. Female boxers are significantly smaller than the males. Females can be up to a height of around 21 to .Temperamental Differences It is thought the male dogs are aggressive and dominant than females. However, to some people, temperament is an instinct that can be controlled by proper social training. Male Male Boxers are very much aggressive than the female Boxers and are territorial at home. They are more playful at home with the children and need at least 40 minutes of exercise daily. Male Boxers are highly energetic and excited about to do new things, and they take more time to mature as compared to males of other breeds. Male Boxers are comparatively challenging to train than their female counterparts. However, it takes longer for both sexes to get house trained easily. They are aggressive because of their genetic traits and history as a hunting dog and also falls into the category of working dogs. Furthermore, male Boxer is more confident than females. Due to their cuddly nature, playful nature, males can be the best companion for your family. Female Females Boxers are quicker to aggression as compare to their male counterparts. But they are equally loyal and friendly as the males. The mood of female Boxes changes day by day, which makes them less predictable than the males. However, as they age, their temperament and mood used to gets in control. The positive point about the female Boxers is that they are very obedient and dutiful and are comparatively easy to train than the male Boxers. Females are also very affectionate and loving to family members. They are more emotionally attached than the Male Boxers, although they are not very much excited about the playfulness but are a very affectionate companion for the household due to their sensitive nature. Trainability Differences Training plays a vital role in determining the behavior of your pup currently and in the future. Training and exercise go parallel with each other, which is necessary for every dog. Therefore, the ability to get trained easily by your pup matters a lot. It is recommended that the breeds which are hard to train are for experience owners and which are moderately easy to train are for new pet owners. Male Male Boxers are typically challenging to train as compared to female Boxers. But due to their medium-large size, they are not as hard as the large or giant size breeds. Males usually have an independent nature, which pushes them to retaliate during the training sessions. Generally, Boxers are a bit stubborn in terms of temperament, but male Boxers are more stubborn, which can be difficult for the new pet owner who has no experience with the breed in the past. However, they are a sweetheart when it comes to loyalty and playfulness. Training techniques with positive reinforcement can make them your best family companion. Female Females are relatively easy to train as compare to their male counterparts. They are also a bit stubborn, as we have discussed above, similar to males but are also very obedient to their master. It is seen that female Boxers are more cooperative in training and gets attached to its master and family member more easily. Another interesting fact is female Boxers are quicker, active, and responsive than the male Boxers, which contribute to more speedy training. Although females get frightened more quickly than males. They are not prone to heavy-handed training and gestures. They need motivation, firmness, patience, and consistency to get along with the training. Health Differences Boxers are susceptible to many genetic or inherited health concerns, which can shorten their life expectancy. It should be kept in mind that both the males and females are prone to some common genetic disorders. Boxers are no more different than the other breeds. Male Male Boxers are prone to testicular cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia besides the common genetic disorders of the breed. These specific disorders related to male Boxers can be prevented by the process called neutering in which the testicles of males are removed that eliminates their sexual desire. According to petMD, neutering the males not only eliminates the specific health problems related to gender but also the risks of other common health problems and increases the life expectancy. Some common health concerns are cherry eye, dry eye, entropion, reverse sneezing, hip dysplasia, tail problem, and patellar luxation. Female Females are also prone to some specific health concerns such as uterine infections and mammary cancer besides the common genetic health concerns which we have discussed above. Fortunately, uterine infections and mammary cancer can be prevented by a process called spaying. Spaying is the process in which the uterus and ovaries are removed to avoid unwanted pregnancy. With Children Every pet owner is mostly concerned about the friendliness and adoption capability of the dogs in household settings with children. Because every family has children and to be a family pet, the dogs must be friendly and harmless. However, to some folks, it also depends on the training. Early socialization and proper training can control the stubbornness in the Boxers. They are gentle and playful with the kids at home. Male Male Boxers are very energetic and excited. They get mature at the age of 3 years, which is relatively longer than the other breeds of the same size. Males are more playful and extrovert, and they enjoy the company of small children But you should keep an eye on them while they fun with children at home as they are playful and friendly, but after all, they are medium-large dogs. Boxers have a natural habit of jumping on the people to have fun. However, this habit can be eliminated by obedience and household training. Female Females are more reserved than males, and they are not as much excited as males and subtle. Because they become mature earlier than the males and are equally protective for the family members. Due to their delicate nature, they are not as harmful as the males for the children. Both males and females are stubborn in their early life. Therefore, early socialization and obedience training is recommended for all type of different people. With Other Dogs When you opt to bring a Boxer at home, you should be aware of the specific behavior of both sexes. Males and females respond to the same or opposite genders differently. And without knowing those factors, it can be problematic for you in the future. They are some indoors and outdoors things which you should consider before selecting any one gender. Male Males Boxers are dominant and territorial with other males. They bark on each other, which can be exhausted and frustrating for the owners. Therefore, it remains a challenge for the breeders to form a hybrid or designer breed of them. However, within the same breed, their behavior is no more different than the males of other breeds. From the age of six, male Boxers start to react to the females in heat, and adult ones become aggressive to do anything for mating with the female Boxer. This aggression can be prevented by neutering the males. Making them sexually disable can also significantly increase their lifespan. Female You should be aware of the fact that females are more temperamental and aggressive towards females. They can end up in terrible battles, especially when they raise cubs, they become overly protected and aggressive. Females have a heat cycle twice in the year, which lasts for 3 to 4 weeks. In their period, they attract the males in the area which can be shameful for you if you take them in the neighbor and can result in an unwanted pregnancy. To avoid this, a female can be spayed. Spaying is the process in which the ovaries and uterus of the females are removed. Which Is Better For Families? And what fits best for you and your family. Because it depends on the owners and their pet needs according to their family setting. If you are more interested in a smaller size of the breed, then you can opt for a female one. Both sexes can be trained for household settings. Existing Dogs Similarly, if you have a female dog at home, bring a male neutered male, and if you have male and at home, you can bring a spayed female to avoid unwanted pregnancy. It can be severe trouble if you opt for a female Boxer and your neighbor has a male dog. It can create a problem during her periods and can result in unwanted pregnancy until the female is spayed. In this scenario, a male Boxer can be preferred. Advantages of male Boxer in a family environment: Male Boxers are playful and excited. They love to hang around different people Boxers are more social than their female counterpart They are incredibly protective of the owners. Loyal and fun-loving naturally. Advantages of female Boxer in a family environment: Female boxers are more intelligent due to early maturity They have better control over themselves Females Boxers have ideal size for a family More adaptable for the small children Loyal and equally protective as their male counterpart. Which Is a Better Guard Dog? The history of Boxers has a root to 2, BC. Their ancestors were the war dogs of the Assyrian Empire. They were also used for hunting down the bear, wild boar, and bison in the past. And it is then used as a working dog. It shows that both male and female Boxers can be a good guard dog. Both genders are still used as a working dog as well as the home guardian. They have the capability to protect the property and family members from any unwanted strangers nearby. Due to their protective nature, they are used by different departments. Advantages of male Boxer as a guard dog: They best fit to protect the property Male boxers are territorial More protective for their territory Thrilling and courageous Energetic with natural hunting instincts Aggressive and dominant Advantages of female Boxer as a guard dog: Quick to aggression and temperamental Best fit for a personal guardian More attached with the owners but rarely shows affection Courageous and takes every risk to protect the owners More protective about the family members Final Thoughts Boxer is one of the famous medium-large size breeds for the family because of their energetic, loving, and playful nature regardless of gender. However, male Boxers are recommended for the people who need large size highly active, playful, and excited companions at home. And females are recommended for the people who need a reasonably small, energetic, quicker, reserved, mature, and careful dog at home. Obedience and household training matter a lot for both sexes as Boxer is an indoor breed. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Female Boxer Dog Overview Boxers are energetic, charismatic, and playful pooches that are also sweet, kind, and gentle yet fiercely loyal and protective. Although differences between males and females are small when it comes to Boxers, there are a few key differences to be aware of that may influence your choice. But how do you know which sex is right for you? While there is no straightforward answer, there are certain aspects that can help your decision. If you want a pooch that is more independent, calculated, and less impulsive, a female Boxer is probably better. These dogs can have an imposing appearance at first glance, but once you spend just a short time with one of these pooches, you quickly see their sweet and gentle side. This makes them great family pooches and ideal playmates for children, but this long puppyhood can also make training a challenge, especially with male Boxers. Males are also more energetic and easily excitable, and since they mature slower than females, they are also more difficult to train. That said, both male and female Boxers are late to mature, so training can be a challenge for both sexes. Males are more attention-seeking than females and are less happy to be alone. They become more attached to their owners and prefer to be around their human family whenever possible. Lastly, male Boxers are also known to be bolder, more outgoing, and more confident than females, making them excellent family protectors. Training Male Boxers are definitely more of a challenge to train than females, as they tend to act out and get easily distracted, and their dominant nature makes them want to be the leader of the pack. These dogs need a ton of patience, consistency, and a firm but gentle hand for successful training. While males can be more of a challenge, in all fairness, the Boxer breed in general is known to be challenging in training. Some of the conditions that only males are susceptible to can be prevented by neutering, and this simple procedure may prevent other general health conditions too. Common health issues include:.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Arizona Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Arizona? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Arizona? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Nature has a way of changing our plans sometimes. We cannot put in an order for the correct amount of females or males. We will also only breed if we have a substantial amount of commitment deposits for that litter. Please be patient, we are committed to find the right puppy for you, it might even be with another breeder we recommend that would better fit your needs. Phoenix, Arizona. We breed quality Golden Retrievers for service, therapy, facility, hunting and pets. Sires we pick have all of the same health certifications as well. Which means that our goals for being a good breeder revolve around Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility and Tradition. Our local owners enjoy six weeks of free puppy classes after they take their pups home and have unlimited counseling with us and our trainer. Family Pets Goldens are made to love We believe Golden Retrievers are the best for all types of owners. They are so gentle that you can be assured your loved ones are safe around these wonderful dogs with responsible training. Service, Therapy and Facility Dogs goldens are made to serve We breed for service, therapy and facility dogs at a high quality. All of our puppies are trained as if they are going into service. We typically have about pups in every litter that go into service of some kind. We usualy donate one puppy out of every litter. It is our tithe and a gift we love to give to someone in need. Our Training Mission goldens are made to work We strive for excellence in our training program. All puppies are introduced to many sounds, textures and surfaces to create a confident dog. We offer complimentary 6 weeks of puppy Socialization and Obedience with their litter mates. Testimonials "Quality parentage and conscientious breeding standards.He is beyond eager to learn. She has truly changed our lives, especially our daughters life. They are affectionate, obedient and loyal to a fault. Originally bred as a hunting dog for retrieving waterfowl it makes an ideal pet for any type of family. They make a great family dog because of its patience, versatility, and adaptability. A golden retriever is super easy to train because of how smart and devoted they are to their owner. Goldens are gentle and playful with children and other pets, making them a perfect family pet. Their coat comes in various shades of gold and is dense, waterproof and may be wavy or straight. Discover more about our Golden Retriever puppies below! Interestingly, the Golden Retriever is very calm and relaxed indoors despite its hunting roots. However, they immensely enjoy activities, such as carrying objects around in its mouth and a good game of catch. The breed is faithful, obedient and easy to train. Golden Retriever Disposition The Golden Retriever does best when kept inside with the family, though it needs daily exercise. The Golden Retriever is very playful. Not surprisingly, it lives up to its name as a great retriever, excelling in games of catch and carrying objects around in its mouth. While it enjoys active time outdoors, the Golden Retriever is calm indoors — making it a great household pet for anyone. They do especially well with kids too. This breed is highly regarded for its love of human companionship. It is faithful, obedient and picks up easily on new commands. The Golden Retriever is among the easiest breeds to train. Its enthusiasm for learning new tricks and the ability to quickly and easily understand new commands makes it a pleasure to own and train. See store for details on this particular puppy. American Canine Association.

Pugs will eat as much as you give them. Measure your pug's food and feed him small meals at scheduled times. As he ages, decrease how often he eats. He should eat four times a day. High-quality dry foods and wet foods are nutrient-dense, so your little guy will not need as much of it as he would lower-quality foods. You can find high-quality puppy foods in pet stores and at your veterinary clinic. Avoid semi-moist puppy foods because they contain high amounts of sugar. Adjust the amount so he is still getting his daily requirement. He may want more; but as long as he is at a healthy weight, don't start giving him extra food. Pugs gain weight easily. Obesity in pugs can lead to muscle and joint problems, diabetes and heart disease. It is doubtful that you will need to increase the amount of food per day even though your pug is growing. Your vet may suggest that you decrease the amount of food if your pug is starting to gain weight. Some owners prefer to continue the twice-a-day feedings because pugs have a smaller stomach than larger dogs. It's hard for them to digest a large amount in one feeding. It is now time to consider adult food. Introduce the new food slowly so he doesn't have difficulty digesting it. If you are concerned that your pug is not getting enough to eat, look at his shape. He should be broad at the shoulders and narrower beyond the shoulders, with a slight widening in the rump area. If his shape is square, he is getting too much food. More Articles. You may find yourself on the dog food isle trying to make sense of all the ingredients, types of foods and categories. And all you want to know is… How often and what should I feed my Pug? Every dog is different, every type of food has its specific quantities and it even varies between brands. Start simple and figure out all the details and methods. I have collected information about the different types, brands pros and cons of dog feeding to try and give an unbiased as much as I can look, so you can make a better-informed choice which will be right for you and your Pug. Remember, people care deeply about their dogs and will often get very emotional about the health and feeding they chose. Having been the owner of a pet store, I have learned that although I have my personal preferences and very good reasons for them, others may have different choices and they believe they are the right ones for them. There are a lot of issues to consider. How Many times a day should I feed My Pug? A mature Pug can easily live a healthy life with one meal which provides all his nutritional needs. In most cases, it is more convenient for both us and the pug to split this to two meals. If your Pug had a full meal in the morning, be sure he will nag you like crazy in the afternoon. Puppies have smaller stomachs and need, relative to their size, a larger quantity of food so it is better to break it up to three or even four meals a day. If you are around your Pug all day and prefer to give 4 meals a day to a mature dog, there is no harm in it, as long as the overall daily quantity stays the same. Free Buffet or Set meals? Pugs are notorious for becoming overweight and need to be limited to a set amount. If your Pug is not typical in that sense, you are welcome to put the full daily portion in the bowl and see how long it lasts. One more reason for set meals is monitoring. You want to know how much you Pug eats. If you want your Pug to lose weight, you need to know how much he is eating in order to cut down. On the flip side, if your Pug is not eating the usual amounts it may be an indication of a medical condition. What food do Pugs Eat? Pugs love food. They love treats, dry food, wet food, table scraps, raw meat, cooked meat, spicy meat and meat gone bad. In rural areas and farms, they may have also got more meaty scraps. Our Pugs who grew up with Emperors and Royalty were probably treated to high quality scraps. Today, dry bagged kibble or canned wet food are the standard for most homes, although there is a growing number of people and companies promoting more natural diets of either raw or cooked food for dogs. Every type of food claims to be the healthiest, more appropriate, tailored and nutritional. Kibble Kibble is the most common dog food available and has become the staple for the average dog. Pros of Kibble The makers of dry food claim it has the most balanced and scientifically based formulas to provide the best nutrition for a dog. They also tailor these formulas to dogs of different size, breed, age or other needs. Even the most discerning dog owners should be able a composition to satisfy them. The ingredient list is unclear and misleading. There are numerous food recalls yearly. There are websites dedicated just to keep up with the recalls. Teeth are going to need cleaning. Wet canned food Aside from the meatier texture and the higher water content, there is little difference between kibble and the canned, wet counterpart. The ingredients can be similar and so are the health benefits. Some dog owners report that wet food makes for softer stools when fed exclusively. Many dog owners will give a combination of wet and dry food. Home cooked As with human food there is a growing number of people fed up Pun intended with commercial and over engineered food. Raw food Also called the BARF Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods , the idea behind it is that the dogs digestive system has not evolved as their behavior, and much like wild dogs or wolves, they should eat the equivalent to small animals they would pray on in nature. Since dogs are also scavengers this diet will include some vegetables, berries etc. The pros As with the home-cooked diet, you have total control of ingredients and quality No preservatives, additives, fillers etc. You need to learn how to make, takes time Ingredients like bones and internal organs may not be available in your area. Can be pricy. Even More expensive if buying ready and frozen. Takes freezer space Raw Disclaimer I am a little bias towards raw food. I used to own a pet food store specializing in raw food for cats and dogs and I have been feeding my own Pugs raw food for over twelve years. Obviously, I am very happy with the raw diet and its outcomes as switching to dry food would have been easy and cheap. I believe it is the better choice for myself and my dogs. I believe I have presented the facts fairly objectively as far as the other feeding options go. There is no standard or way to measure what natural is and what the added value of it is other then the origin of it. Natural color could come from some secretion of an insect. Special Needs Puppies These little ones need the most nutritious and high-quality food you can find. If you want to find an economic way to feed your dog, please do it later in his life. Allergies Pugs are relatively sensitive to allergies. In some cases, this is due to an external source such as home detergents, but more often than not it has to do with their diet. There are a few brands that you can try with low, or no grain. If you are feeding your pug home cooked food or a raw diet, taking the carbs and grain out would be easy. Our Pugs were and are on a raw diet from day one and we never had any issues with allergies, except for one time. We started noticing that Preston had pinkish skin around his paws and around the nose fold. Since we owned a pet food store specializing in raw food, at the time convenient, I know we tried different types of meats, but nothing helped. It took us some time to realize the cause. We had our baby daughter at the time, and since she was very close and intimate with Preston, and he was eating raw, we made sure to wipe his mouth and feet with baby wipes after every meal. The baby wipes were the culprits. We switched them both to hypo-allergenic wipes and the skin went back to normal… Hip Dysplasia Pugs are ranked as one of the breeds with the highest chances of suffering from Hip Dysplasia. This can lead to trouble in walking and running and arthritis may follow as well. If your Pug is suffering from Hip Dysplasia to any extent you may want to either supplement their diet with Chondroitin and Glucosamine or to choose a brand that is made for joint support. Vets and nutrition. Having said that, if I needed nutritional advice, I would go to a nutritionist and not to my Doctor. The nutrition training vets get in many schools is provided by agents of the commercial food companies who are bias at best. Skipping meals Dogs will sometimes skip a meal. It is natural for them as food is not something that was always available on daily base. It is not typical for Pugs but it may happen. If it happens it will probably be a one meal deal. If your Pug misses a few meals in a row you may want to consult a vet. Treats and snacks I try and think of treats and snacks the same way I think of candy for my daughters. If the amount of treats your Pug is rivals the actual food, in quantity, you should reconsider or at least re calculate it. If you are using kibble both at meals and as treats for training, and your stubborn Pug ends up consuming a lot of treats, just take it off the next meal. The same goes for snacks. They should be a part of the total daily feeding and not extra. How long can a pug go without eating? An adult Pug can probably survive many days without food, but no Pug would stand for it. Unless your Pug has a medical condition, he will surely let you know he is hungry. Do make sure that your Pug is not deprived of fresh drinking water at all times. More so if the weather is hot and if he is on a dry food diet and has no other source of hydration. What if my Pug is overweight? Pugs love to eat and have a tendency to eat too much. A chubby Pug is very cute, but at some point, it becomes a health issue. Overweight Pugs may suffer from a wide range of conditions and or aggravate others. Conclusion Food is an important part of your Pugs life and will directly affect his health and well-being. Do make sure you know what your Pug is eating, the quality as well as the quantities. Actually, yes. This is an actual condition called Eye Displacement or Proptosis. It is not a common occurrence but with extreme trauma or circumstances it may happen. In most cases the condition is treatable. More on the condition here… Are Pugs Loving? Pugs have been bred as companion dogs for over two thousand years. Being with people is almost in their DNA. So yes, Pugs love to cuddle, snuggle and just be in contact or as close as they can to their human friends. More on Pug Love here. 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. 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:. 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. 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.

With the focus of our program being on breeding and raising labradoodles that are intelligent, willing to learn and eager to please our puppies are well suited for families that are novice dog owners to the most experienced trainers and anyone in between. It is also important for the health and well being of the dog. Teaching basic behaviors such as come, stay, place, off, leave it, etc. These commands will build on the foundation we instill in our puppies through our use of Puppy Culture early rearing techniques. Finding a trainer to work with before bringing a puppy home is important as learning appropriate behavior from the beginning is key. This is far easier than trying to correct bad behaviors later. We recommend finding a balanced trainer that uses a combination of positive reinforcement and correction techniques. Even for experienced puppy families working with a trainer is ideal. Depending on where families live there may be several options in the area, or a family may need to travel a distance to find a good trainer to work with. Finding out this information before adding a puppy to the home will ensure a family has the time, and financial means to dedicate to raising a well behaved companion, not one that jumps on people, bolts out the door, does not come when called, or other dangerous and discourteous behaviors. This data is evidence that a breeder cannot simply state that because a Labradoodle is a certain generation, there is a guarantee of minimal shedding. If a breeder states that an F1b litter will have all puppies with minimal shedding it would be prudent to reevaluate the knowledge that breeder has of coat inheritance. At JNB Stables we did a considerable amount of research to ensure that we never mislead our families about the coat type of each puppy. Through proper selection and using the limited genetic testing for coat variations available we can pair our dogs to produce litters that have the best chance of minimal shedding puppies with the exception of earlier generations where we KNOW there will be coat variation. We can evaluate each puppy's coat as they grow and make a strong approximation of that puppy's adult coat. However due to recessive lab coat genetics that can unexpectedly come into play, we do not make any guarantees in regards to shedding nor allergy friendliness of the coats of our puppies. If allergies are a large concern, we can set up a meet and greet with our dogs or past puppies with coats similar to the litter you are interested in to evaluate any reactions. So — why an F1, F1b, F2 or multigen Labradoodle? Their temperament and intelligence are what make our Labradoodles so exceptional! The Importance of Training Labradoodle The grooming requirements of a Labradoodle will vary greatly depending on the coat type. Those with a hair coat shedding will be much lower maintenance than one with a fleece or wool coat. A Labradoodle with a hair coat will need to be brushed once a week depending on the coat length, and will likely need to visit a groomer once every weeks. They are easy to bathe at home and are less likely to have matting or felting. Fleece or wool coated Labradoodles will need to be brushed multiple times a week, those with longer coats will require brushing daily. If time to groom is a concern these coats can be kept shorter, but brushing several times a week to prevent matting will be needed especially around the ears, muzzle, collar, legs and tail. Labradoodles with wool or fleece coats can be bathed at home but after they dry blow drying is preferred they must be completely brushed out using the line brushing technique. These Labradoodles need to visit the groomer every weeks. This extra time and expense needs to be taken into account before a family considers choosing a Labradoodle. Grooming can be done at home to save money in the long run, we groom our own dogs at JNB Stables. There is an initial investment of the equipment including a grooming table, quality clippers and scissors, and a dryer. There are many videos on YouTube to demonstrate how to groom a Labradoodle, so it is not hard to learn. But it is time consuming, it can be tedious and the resulting area will have hair.Consider these factors before deciding if grooming a Labradoodle in the home is best choice. Combining the eagerness to please, devotion and drive of the lab along with intelligence, affectionate demeanor and non-shedding coat of the poodle produced the first generation, or F1 Labradoodle. This first generation had esteemed qualities from both parent breeds, but these puppies still had moderate shedding hair coats and were not as allergy friendly as their poodle parent. To create coats with more of a poodle influence these first generations were again back crossed to a poodle creating an F1b to obtain the fleece coats that are desirable in the breed. Though many of the puppies had less shedding than the F1 Labradoodle, there are some that still had moderate shedding. By selecting the puppies with more desirable coats that also inherited the best qualities of both breeds they set the foundation for the next generation, the F2 which is an F1 x F1b, F1b x F1b, F1 x any higher generation or F1b x any higher generation , to try and produce puppies with even more coat consistency. Each subsequent generation to produce a third generation, or F3, a cross of an F2 x F2 or higher generation is needed that is produced through proper selection produces puppies with a higher percentage of minimal shedding coat consistency. Once a breeder reaches puppies that are multigens both parents are true third generations F3 or higher the coat consistency is almost completely minimal shedding with desirable fleece quality. Puppies that inherit more of the poodle coat genes may inherit the harsher wool texture. This coat quality is still likely to have lower shedding but may not be as desirable as the fleece coat. What does this information mean for owners? Knowing a puppy's generation can help future owners to understand the likelihood of shedding in a litter they may be interested in. The chart below shows the data we have gathered from owners of Labradoodles all over the world and the shedding they experienced with their dog. All Rights Reserved Privacy Policy. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More Labradoodles, one of the earliest of all the Doodles, make terrific family pets. These loveable dogs are great with adults and children alike. However, early Labradoodle training and socialization are critical to their development. They require a calm yet firm and consistent hand to ensure they know how to act both in and away from home. With a bit of research, some hard work, and a little patience, you can develop a secure, loving, and mutually respectful relationship with your pet. Below we have outlined different types of training, listed a few must-have items, and have included some top tips for dealing with common obedience issues. Training is the very last thing on your mind as they wriggle sweetly about in your arms and lick your nose. You just want them to feel happy and loved with their new family, right? Well, guess what… the very best way to make your new canine friend feel quickly at home with you is to establish clear boundaries from the get-go. This is more about setting ground rules so as to not leave them confused when they are allowed to do something one day and suddenly not the next. Training is all about developing a consistent routine. For example, make sure to feed your new puppy and let them out to do their business at the same times each day. This all goes towards helping them feel comfortable and secure in their new environment. The owner would do everything they could to establish their alpha status over their dog and use this status to control them. As our knowledge of dogs has improved, we have moved away from intimidation and coercion for shaping long-term positive behaviors. We know now that it may seem effective in the short term, but the end result is a fearful pet that is more likely to lash out when they feel uncomfortable. Many modern methods encourage good behavior rather than discouraging bad behavior — although this is done in slightly different ways. Despite what some trainers may tell you, there is no one-size-fits-all method for training your dog. Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is based on the theory that dogs will repeat any actions for which they are rewarded. Treats, verbal praise, and play can all be used to mold behavior. This method also focuses on developing positive associations with both you and with training that will have your pup clamoring to learn even more. With this style of training, unwanted actions are simply ignored. The idea behind this is that owner attention is simply another form of reward — whether you are telling your pet that they are being good or bad. Not acknowledging an unwanted behavior removes the positive reinforcement, so it is less likely to be repeated. The issue with this is that some bad actions can be their own reward, e. In such circumstances, the owner might respond by removing a favored treat or toy. This is known as negative punishment. It differs from positive punishment, which would be shouting and hitting. Clicker Training Reliant on the same principles as positive reinforcement, clicker training is often utilized by professional trainers. Best for Clicker Training Compare Products Benefits of the clicker include marking the exact point at which your dog does what you want them to do. In this way, they will know precisely what they are being rewarded for. With long-term use, the sound itself can even become the treat — your pup will derive pleasure from a job well done. However, your dog needs to first be trained to associate the clicker with a treat. This is done by asking them to carry out a behavior they are already familiar with, using the clicker when they do, and promptly administering the treat. Any issues with the dog are considered to be the fault of the owner. The dog is simply a mirror in the process, reflecting what the owner is doing and feeling. The owner needs to figure out what they are doing wrong. Similarly, a dog that has developed a close attachment with its owner will mimic their actions in order to please them. If they sit on the ground, their pup will copy them — they are learning by example. This copying behavior also extends to other dogs that they have an attachment to, so proper socialization is vital to the process. Another important aspect of this method is allowing the dog the freedom to develop and make the best use of their natural instincts. Dogs are often trained off the leash, and much of the training and associated games focus on hunting, defending, and retrieving. In this way a strong bond is developed between the dog and the owner. Relationship-Based Training This hybrid of other training styles also relies on a strong connection between a dog and its owner. It depends upon this cooperative relationship to achieve mutually beneficial results. However, relationship-based training does require greater patience than other methods, especially in the early stages while the bond is formed. They also need to understand what motivates the animal and make effective use of this knowledge. While positive reinforcements are applied, the owner also sets their pet up for success by carefully controlling their environment. Training will first occur in a quiet place free from distractions and new puppies will have their house access limited while toilet training. By far, the biggest requirement is high-value rewards to reinforce behavior. By high-value rewards, we mean things that your pup absolutely loves. Best Training Treats These can be a good option. However, moderation is essential with snacks. Go for healthier options and consider alternative reward options like toys. The latter is particularly recommended for training, for younger dogs that still pull on the leash, and for giving you a lot more control of a more powerful pup. Many seasoned dog owners also swear by crates for things like toilet training , for making traveling with your pet that much easier, or for just giving them a place to call home. Yet, it also means that they will happily run rings around you if you let them. The sad truth is that plenty of beautiful but boisterous Doods have ended up being kicked out of their new home because their inexperienced owner did not know how to properly train them. Here are a few issues you may encounter while teaching your Labby D the right way to behave in your home and around your family. They are opportunistic eaters and will happily chow down on whatever they can get their cute little paws on. While counter surfing may seem funny the first time it happens, it can quickly become super frustrating. Probably the most effective way to prevent your dog from stealing food is to just remove temptation in the first place. Use positive reinforcement methods to help your pup understand what is expected of them. Avoid giving them mixed messages by feeding them off the counter or table you are trying to prevent them from jumping up to. Jumping Up Most Doodles, Labby ones in particular, are incredibly sociable dogs, but they need to learn how to behave around other animals and especially around people. Socialization training is a key aspect of getting your dog ready to be out in the real world. The more people they meet and spend time with, the less exciting it will all seem. Over-excitement is usually what lies behind jumping up behaviors and barking ones covered below. Pushing the dog down is the natural response, but to them this is all part of the game. Instead, you need to withdraw attention. Simply turn and walk away. You might then encourage your pup to sit when new people approach them and ask that the person only pets them when they are doing this. Barking Labradoodles are not usually nuisance barkers. If they are spending a lot of time making noise, chances are something is seriously upsetting them. Barking can signal everything from boredom to separation anxiety. This can help you understand how best to manage it. Socialization can make your pooch feel more comfortable around people, and other dogs, while access to toys may make them happier about being left home alone. Training can then be used to encourage your dog to refrain from barking. As with other unwanted behaviors, avoid rewarding them with your attention when they are barking. Provide them with treats only when they are quiet and calm. You may also want to train them to respond to a command that will tell them to quit barking. Pulling on The Leash Leash pulling can be a major issue for most canines before they walk properly to heel — young, excitable Labradoodles are no exception. Walking calmly at a much slower pace than they would like does not come naturally to canines. Pulling is also self-rewarding for dogs. They are getting to where they want to be, often at a quicker pace than before. However, this daily tug-of-war is likely to be far less fun for you and your poor arm. The quicker you can get your pet leash trained, the better. When they start to pull, simply stop and wait for them to return to your side before moving on again. See Also: Click the image Digging Digging is another activity that many active dogs love. This behavior can be difficult to combat because the digging itself is the reward — it can be a lot of fun for them. There are several possible solutions to prevent your back yard constantly resembling a churned-up cow field. The easiest one is to keep your pal stimulated and occupied. Up your exercise game — throwing in active play alongside frequent walks to keep them plenty busy. Finally, you might consider providing your pup with their own special place to dig and encouraging them through positive reinforcement to restrict this behavior to that part of the garden. In our experience, it does seem to work…until they simply find a new place to dig. Good thing poop is abundant! Biting and Mouthing Nipping and chewing are normal puppy play behaviors done with love and fun in mind. Aggressive biting in this breed signals an often serious underlying issue. Puppies will lightly bite their playmates as part of a game. Older dogs will rarely engage in such behaviors. Chewing, on the other hand, could be a sign that your young dog is teething , or that your adult dog is bored. Determining which one your dog is doing and identifying the possible reasons why are crucial. Both teething and boredom chewing is usually easily cured by providing appropriate chew toys. Biting especially in older dogs could indicate that they are stressed, fearful, or in pain. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with further support with this issue. Eating non-food items is not just antisocial, it could result in some pretty serious health problems, including intestinal blockage that requires surgery. However, they can be pretty good fun to chew. Chances are your pooch is just looking for something fun to do to relieve their boredom. Dogs also instinctually chew to keep their teeth clean and their jaws strong and healthy. The simple solution as covered with avoiding chewing behaviors is to substitute your socks for a much more interesting-looking chew toy. Then aim to keep your socks and other chewables well out of their reach — especially dirty ones which seem to be by far the bigger draw. Consistency is crucial for helping your dog to understand the rules of this game. Get into a fast pattern of letting them out at the same times each day first thing in the morning and last thing at night are both vital and taking them to the place you would prefer they relieved themselves. Keep in mind that there will be accidents and setbacks — there always are, but given time your dog will learn. Refrain from punishing or reprimanding your pet when they do slip up, as this could make them anxious, which will make the problem even worse. See Also: Click the image Professional Obedience Training For Dogs If your dog is exhibiting many naughty behaviors, it may be time to seek professional help. Oftentimes, at-home obedience training for puppies is combined with professional training or puppy classes. You can access these amazing resources and professionals from anywhere, to help you have the most well-behaved Doodle around. Need help with training? This makes them much easier to train than other breeds. The fact that they are so people-focused means they usually enjoy learning new skills and tricks. How do you discipline a Labradoodle? Disciplining dogs is rather an old-fashioned idea based on erroneous notions about how dogs live in the wild. However, some owners may discourage bad behavior by removing a treat or favorite toy for a while or by withdrawing their attention. What is the best way to train a Labradoodle? There is no best way to train any dog. Most owners swear by rewarding good behavior with treats, games, praise, or using a clicker to help your dog better understand when they are doing something right. However, it takes time and practice to find the right method and to get it to work for the both of you. A fair amount of patience is needed — especially in those very early days. Your little baby is not going to understand everything you are trying to teach them right off the bat. F-1 indicates first cross, one half Lab and one half poodle. F1B is the second generation or first back cross. F-1's are normally back crossed to the poodle to achieve the curly, allergy friendly coat which does not shed. There are a few exceptions to the rule. Just as poodles come in a variety of sizes, so do labradoodles. The Australian Labradoodle has six parent breeds. In addition to the Lab and the Poodle they have infused some blood of the following breeds. Australian Labradoodles inherit the best of all the breeds involved in their make up. They are very trainable, intuitive and intelligent. They are loyal to the people they own and they do own you, they only let you think you own them. Most are gentle and they have the hybrid vigor typical of cross breeds. Training the labradoodle puppy is a must, they thrive on love, attention , routine and discipline. If your don't train them, they will train you as they are very smart and will have you figured out in nothing flat. Start their training as soon as you get them home. They love toys and things to chew on such as greenies. Overall, they are friendly, fun loving, quiet and calm. They make wonderful pets. The coat types range from woolly which is similar to the poodle coat. It requires regular grooming and is allergy friendly and non-shedding. The fleece coat is considered the "ultimate" in labradoodle coats as it is easily maintained and is also allergy friendly and non-shedding. The flat hairy coats occasionally show up, particularly in the first generation F-1's and these are rarely used as breeders but they still make wonderful pets. Here are some feeding tips for your Labradoodle: Your Labradoodle should have a healthy and varied diet. Feed your dog a protein rich diet needed for their active lifestyle. Provide your dog with high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Avoid excess amounts of grain heavy foods. Always ensure that your dog has clean and freshwater at all times. Training your Labradoodle: The Labradoodle is an intelligent and easy to train dog. These dogs can fairly understand your commands and are quite eager to learn new things. Training can be a great experience for you and your Labradoodle puppy. Here are some tips for training your Labradoodle: Form a bond and gain trust with your Labradoodle. Start socializing your dog right from puppyhood. Challenge their mind and prevent boredom. Start training in a controlled environment with minimum distractions. You need to be consistent and firm with your pup. Train them using positive reinforcement techniques. Grooming needs of Labradoodle: Labradoodles are low shedders and are considered hypoallergenic dogs. However, they require routine grooming depending on the length and type of coat. Use warm water and a good quality canine shampoo and conditioner. Clip or coat trimming: These dogs can be clipped or they require trimming every six to eight weeks. Ear cleaning: Labradoodles are prone to ear infections. Ears should be examined and cleaned every week. They should smell good with no exceptional amount of wax. This will remove bacteria and tartar buildup and prevent gum infections. Make your dog accustomed to grooming when they are a puppy. Grooming should be a positive experience for your dog, filled with praises and rewards. Exercise requirements of Labradoodle: Labradoodles are high-energy dogs and need exercise to stay fit and healthy. These dogs require around 30 to 60 minutes of exercise per day. You can meet their exercise requirements by: Taking them for a walk Playing fetch and frisbee toss Taking them for jogging Agility training Free play in a fenced yard Labradoodles are intelligent dogs and can get bored easily. They require mental stimulation to avoid destructive behavior. A well trained Labradoodle will always be good with children and other pets. These dogs are incredibly affectionate and gentle around children. However, small kids should never be left alone with any dog. Labradoodles are known to be friendly around other dogs and pets. With proper care and attention, they can make great family pets. A well-trained Labradoodle is a true joy! Hope you enjoyed reading this article! Feel free to share your thoughts and questions. We would be happy to hear from you! Playing with other dogs Swimming These dogs cans do great in apartments, particularly the smaller Labradoodles mini Labradoodles. They do still need that daily exercise so lace up the shoes, throw the tennis ball, or take them to a dog park. You can even get super tiny Labradoodles. The Mini Labradoodle is that miniatures stand as little as 13 inches high at the shoulder which is around 30 centimetres tall and weight about 15 pounds which is 7 kilograms. You can find out more about Labradoodle sizing in our article comparing Labradoodles and Goldendoodles. They inherit these traits from both the Poodle and Labrador parent breeds. They are also low to no shedding. This can mean no hair dropped at all for Labradoodles. These traits make them excellent guide dogs and service dogs. In fact that is one of the original reasons the guy named Wally bred the Labradoodle! Labradoodles have a moustache that makes them look like a teddy bear. This facial hair has a special name furnishings You can actually get Labradoodle that do NOT have furnishings or moustaches, but they tend to just look like a Labrador or a Poodle. Such a coat is highly correlated with shedding. Labradoodle Not all Labradoodles have the facial furnishings moustache. Improper coat Labradooodles often resemble Labradors. They might be cautious at first but Labradoodles learn to love the water. It is in their genetics! Labradors historically were used to hunt water birds, and Poodles were used to retrieve ducks and waterfowl. They take to water readily. Labradors love lakes, Poodles prefer pools! It is wonderful to know that Labradoodles can live a long time because of the smaller size introduced by the Poodle breed. Author note: I met a sixteen year old Labradoodle at the dog park two days before I wrote this article! She was a miniature and still somewhat active. And of course, friendly and cute. Labradoodles are generally healthy dogs if given good nutrition. There are not many diseases to worry about. The larger Labradoodles do have a shorter lifespan than the smaller ones. Labradoodle Conclusions Once you know these ten facts you can see what an amazing cross breed the Labradoodle can be. Low shedding dogs like the Labradoodle are in hot demand, and their excellent temperament helps. The Mini Labradoodle is that all of these great traits can safely be packaged into such a tiny dog! Our miniature Labradoodle Max has all of these awesome traits. More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. They know how to fix you without ever saying a word. In the 's a gentleman named Wally Conran of Royal Guide Dogs was given the challenge to find a guide dog for a couple in Hawaii who needed a non-shedding companion due to allergies in the family. Initially, the new breed was a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle. Mr Conran had success with these dogs and people who needed guide services were happily served. Then, in the 's Tegan Park and Rutland Manor, who were the founders of the current purebred Australian Labradoodles we know and love today, began selectively breeding in the English and American Cocker Spaniel to assist with consistent coat type, size, health, and temperament. Today we reap the fruits of those who have gone before us and are able to continue this magnificent breed which is intelligent, provides devoted companionship, silly at times, who grow super soft silky coats, and are of therapeutic temperament. Welcome to Sweet Tea Australian Labradoodles! Labradoodle Headliner F1 Also known as a Labradoodle, this is the first generation of cross breeding between a purebred Poodle and purebred Labrador Retriever. The results of this paring are mixed as far as coat. Fur is sparse similar to Lab vs kinky curly similar to Poodle. Moderate to low shedding. F1 means "first generation" and is a common scientific term. The results will still be unpredictable as this is not the breeding of two "like" dogs. Coats may be hair or fleece and shedding is low to non-shedding if both parents are non shedding. Coats are typically non-shedding. Labradoodle About Us Mini: " at wither, max height 17" approximate weight lbs. Medium: " at wither, max height 21" Approximate weight lbs Standard: " at wither, max height 25" approximate weight lbs Labradoodle About Us Australian Labradoodle Colors and Patterns The Australian Labradoodle has a variety of coat colors and patterns ranging from light cream to black. The ALAA has a fantastic page dedicated to navigating colors and patterns. Click for more information. This link will take you to their FAQ page. Search for "Australian Labradoodles have two types of coats and ten different colors. Discover the 7 biggest mistakes you, as a Labradoodle owner, make and reinforce every single day—and ultimately—encourage destructive behavior over the years. These mistakes may seem innocuous and sometimes cute—but they're anything but. Solving your puppy's behavior problems starts with you learning. Many first time pet owners think they're prepared to raise and train a Labradoodle without possessing the proper tools for the job. What I am about to share with you will put old-school training methods to shame. I am a hardcore Labradoodle enthusiast by every definition. What started as a love for dogs quickly turned into an obsession to understand Labradoodle behavior; allowing me to formulate the most effective and ethical principles backed by science and years of experience. I am here to tell you that teaching your Labradoodle good behavior, as well as tricks and concepts—while maintaining integrity—doesn't have to be complicated! I encourage you to please keep reading as I reveal to you Key dog training principles that will allow you to have a powerful bond and enjoy an exceptionally behaved pet. So I thought, "What could possibly go wrong? Imagine my frustration when in just 3 months after adopting "Oliver," he: Constantly urinated and defecated inside Chewed through all my shoes, socks and furniture Growled, barked and lunged at family, neighbors and friends Jumped on anyone walking through the front door; even small children Barked non-stop when I left the house; which left my neighbors feeling exasperated Refused to listen to me and ignored any commands that he previously learned Begged at the dinner table, ignoring his own food Chased around the neighbor's cats and small animals. .Learn to Correct and Prevent Some of The Worst Labradoodle Problems Today My precious little pup Oliver would climb up on our furniture and perform a series of systemic barks and howls; as if he was giving a speech to a sea of pups! Feeling frustrated, I took him to dog training classes. Although his behaviour slightly improved, it wasn't even a week later when Oliver was back to his old routine of ignoring my commands and chewing on my antique French Rug; a not-so-stylish gift from my grandmother. On top of it all, he only seemed to obey commands when the dog trainer was around. I decided to take matters into my own hands. I was on a mission to figure out why traditional dog training didn't work for my dog. I spent countless hours after work studying dog behavior and essential dog training principles. Months into my research, my hope, as well as my coffee, was running out. One morning after a long night of research I looked at my books and notes, and stumbled upon a startling realization: They were all dog training books. .Not Labradoodle training books! In the moment of clarity, I was also astonished by the sheer amount of inaccurate and outdated information that dog trainers and ordinary pet owners blindly accept and follow. I was beginning to understand why so many Labradoodle owners grew tired and confused—eventually giving up altogether. This teaches your puppy to avoid pain and discomfort, rather than learning how to communicate effectively. Sadly, many Labradoodle owners just like you are blindsided by inaccurate information; compromising your integrity, as well as the respect and trust of your puppy. This will exert immense stress and anxiety on to your pet; drastically slowing down training progress and causing him to exhibit countless behavioral problems. Pet owners that entertain old-school training methods end up with dogs who live in a state of perpetual fear—leaving owners feeling exasperated. What baffled me the most is that it took me months of extensive research to distinguish the right way to train your Labradoodle, from the wrong. How many pet owners have the time or patience to read and study a mountain educational material? Suddenly, I wished that I had known the truth when I first adopted Oliver to prevent behavioral problems from developing in the first place. To my own surprise, these key training principles were so powerful and effective, I was able to reverse behavioral issues within weeks. My new mission was clear: delineate my keen understanding of key Labradoodle training principles to dog owners who are desperate for information that actually works. I began working with my Labradoodle in an attempt to filter out training techniques that were ineffective, and only stuck to what worked. After many months of trial and error, I compiled what I believe is the "bible" of dog training methodology. I still remember writing in my black notebook in red ink every time Oliver complied with a new concept ridiculously faster than the average dog would using traditional methods. This way I was able to discover how to effectively communicate with my dog, as well as the ins and outs of Labradoodles. For the longest time, I could not figure out why my little Energizer-Bunny loved to chew all my furniture to shreds. Or why he thought it was amusing to knock over my new crystal vase. Today, Oliver knows better than to chew on things other than his toys. We have a mutual understanding based on respect. I decided to share my findings with family and friends to help them build a bond with their dog. The feedback was overwhelming! I began receiving questions, as well as thank-you cards, e-mails, and gifts like it was Christmas morning. Several months later, keeping up with questions became impossible. Many people only got a piece of the pie, but wanted the whole thing! I needed a better way to get this powerful information to every dog owner. Every dog owner deserves to know the right way to train their puppy, and avoid the wrong. Labradoodle Owner's Guide offers the most simple and modern way to understand and train your Labradoodle without jeopardizing your integrity, or losing your puppy's trust. Simply put, you won't be pulling your hair out with frustration any longer. Luckily, I've already done the work. Labradoodle Owner's Guide encompasses that, and so much more. Dog training isn't just about teaching your dog a back-flip trick to impress your crush. It's about dog owners just like you having a peace of mind that their couch won't be shredded to pieces when you leave your home. It's about avoiding behavioral problems from occurring in the first place. Labradoodle Owner's Guide is the only tool you need for your puppy's success. This will prevent behavioral problems from developing or recurring. For that reason, I decided to compile this all-in-one guide into a digital format exclusively - available on all your devices while saving trees in the process. There's Simply No Alternative to Labradoodle Owner's Guide Every Labradoodle owner must understand that in order to have a happy, healthy and obedient puppy—they must first understand how to read their body language and how Labradoodles respond to you. It all comes down to effective communication with your canine friend. Labradoodle Owner's Guide is catered to owners who have little-to-no experience with Labradoodles as well as those who previously attempted to train their dogs with no success. You will learn how to win your Labradoodle's obedience, loyalty, and respect using a series of training techniques that will appeal to their natural canine instincts. You will learn how to use simple voice commands, hand gestures and well-timed positive reinforcement methods to put a stop to your Labradoodle's bad habits and save thousands on property damage due to destructive behavior. Both you and your Labradoodle will be having fun during the training process, which will produce timely results and a powerful bond. Labradoodle Owner's Guide contains the most accurate knowledge, as well as personal tips and advice that would cost you time, and thousands of dollars to figure out on your own. Simply put, it contains everything you need to know about living happily with your Labradoodle whether it's a puppy you had just brought home which needs training, or an older dog. Don't take my word for it, here are some of the feedback I received from proud Labradoodle owners that have read and applied the techniques that are mentioned in my guide: Fiona is my first Labradoodle who was adopted last March at the age of 3. She had serious anxiety and behavioral problems. .After following the training techniques in this book for several months, Fiona is truly happy and obedient! I can honestly say I'm finally a happy dog owner thanks to your advice. I don't know what I would do if I didn't come across this info. Thank you!!! Claire G. Fiona is my first Labradoodle who was adopted last March at the age of 3. I've come across a lot of dog training books, but this one is the best one I've ever read! It's so comprehensive and specific to the Labradoodle breed.It really covers everything I needed to know. Even health issues, socialization, grooming, tricks and traveling. It is also so clear and easy to follow. Thank you SO much for sharing this with me! Andrew B. By now you are probably wondering "who is this crazy Labradoodle whisperer? Every Labradoodle owner deserves to have a dog who is Happy, Healthy and Obedient. Now is your chance to make that happen for you and your beautiful Labradoodle! In the modern world, everyone wants the best bang for their buck. I can guarantee that you are getting exactly that. Now is your chance to give your Labradoodle exactly what they deserve: A fun and exciting way to spend time together, while learning new tricks and concepts with ease. I'm so confident that Labradoodle Owner's Guide will give you a huge confidence boost and make you an excellent dog owner that I want you to use the guide for 60 days without any risk! Try these proven training methods for yourself. If for some reason it's not satisfactory, simply email me and get a full refund—no questions asked. Free Lifetime Consultation! The price you pay also includes unlimited ongoing support and advice by email—I will personally answer all incoming emails! If you have any questions about the book or general questions about Labradoodles I will get back to you swiftly and do my best to help you out. These books are a must have for any dog owner who want to expand beyond basic dog training knowledge. At this time, I was able to get them to you for free! Say goodbye to expensive grooming bills and say hello to fun do-it-yourself grooming.

German Shepherd When To Visit The Vet You do not have to see a vet every time you notice your dog is starting to limp however, there are times your dog must see a veterinarian at an animal hospital to get a comprehensive examination. If any of the following situations apply to your dog call your vet or go to the nearest open emergency veterinary clinic for assistance. Limbs that feel hot to the touch Any moderate to severe swelling A broken limb will be at an irregular angle A dangling limb this indicates dislocation Limping in combination with a fever How Can I Help My Limping Dog? When you first see your dog limping immediately get them to rest the best way you can to minimize their movement and prevent them from injuring themselves more. Also, press pause on your dog's exercise routines until they have fully healed, and keep them on a leash when taking them outside for potty breaks to stop them from running away. Check your pup's paw for anything signaling an injury such as cuts. Contact your vet as soon as you can if you discover something painful. If you think your dog is limping because of inflammation, alternate between ice and heat packs to lower the level of swelling and discomfort. Call your veterinarian to ask them when you should be applying the packs. Look at the site of the limp for signs of bleeding, to help determine if the condition is from a bite, injury, or puncture. It is recommended that you should take your dog to the vet to be safe and give both you and your dog a peaceful mind in knowing what is causing your dog's limp, even if you think it is not serious. If your dog starts to whimper or yelp and the limp doesn't get better by itself call your veterinarian immediately or go to the nearest emergency vet. Your vet has the training and knowledge to diagnose what is causing your dog's pain and the severity of the injury. An exam to determine the source may include X-rays, blood work, or tick testing. The veterinarian will also take your pup's age, breed, history, and overall health into consideration when diagnosing your dog and creating a treatment plan. Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet. If you notice your dog is in pain and limping contact us now. Our Lafayette veterinarians are available to help dogs in need. It occurs when your dog cannot walk normally due to pain or weakness. Your dog may walk slowly or awkwardly, and he will generally favor one leg over the other. There are two types of limping that your German Shepherd may experience. Some forms occur gradually over time, whereas sudden lameness happens instantly, usually after an injury. Some cases are minor and can be managed at home, while others will necessitate the assistance of a medical professional. Too much of a good thing such as fetch, frisbee, intense running, or rough play with other dogs can leave your German Shepherd sore and hobbling with a muscle strain. Most dogs, though, will recover quickly after a few days of rest. Wounds on the footpads. Look out for your GSD incessantly licking his paw. Burns caused by hot sidewalks or frostbite can also cause your dog to limp. In extreme weather, hot or cold, get your GSD some booties or paw protectors. A thorn or stone stuck in the pads. Again carefully check the pads for a thorn or small stone that may have lodged between the paw pads. Remember to keep the fur around the pads and toes trim to enable you to examine the paws easier, especially as some dogs find this area quite sensitive. Toenail injuries. Examine your German Shepherd for ingrowing or overgrown toenails , as these can cause discomfort and pain if they dig into the skin. My GSD once had a dewclaw injury that required surgical removal, so make sure you also keep these trim. An insect sting or animal bite. Stings and bites can cause limping. Your GSD may raise his paw if stung by a wasp or bee. Bites from other animals can result in injury and infection. Fracture or dislocation. If the limping began suddenly, a fractured leg or a dislocated bone should be suspected. A shattered bone will prevent your dog from bearing any weight. A sprain occurs when a ligament or tendon is strained or torn. Something as simple as leaping off the couch and landing awkwardly can cause it. Your German Shepherd will be reluctant to put any weight on his leg or paw. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is a common hereditary condition in German Shepherds that causes hip and elbow joints to become loose and shift out of position. Sadly, .This persistent, painful condition is more common in older and larger canines. As a result of cartilage deterioration, it causes joint inflammation. Lameness, stiffness, or trouble getting up are all symptoms. Cruciate ligament injury or disease. This occurs when one or both of the cruciate ligaments that hold the knee together are damaged. Limping is the most common symptom of a cruciate injury, and it can be caused by turning awkwardly, jumping, or twisting. It can happen all of a sudden or gradually. Luxating patella dislocated knee. It is common in smaller breeds, but German Shepherds are one of the larger breeds prone to developing luxating patellas. Your dog may be in pain and reluctant to bear weight on the affected limb. An infection of the leg or paw can cause your dog to hobble. He may lick and chew the site and may need a course of antibiotics. Also, to prevent further inflammation, your GSD may be advised to wear the dreaded cone of shame Elizabethan collar. Lyme disease. This bacterial infection spread by ticks can result in intermittent lameness. Degenerative Myelopathy. This genetic condition affects the spinal cord, leading to eventual paralysis of the back end in older dogs. Weakness, lameness in the rear legs, and incontinence are all symptoms. Panosteitis Wandering Lameness or Growing Pains. Panosteitis is a condition affecting the long bones of the legs due to severe inflammation. It can affect growing large breed pups, aged months, including the GSD. It caused a shifting lameness from one bone to another and can occur over several weeks or months. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy HOD. Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy is a bone disease occurring in quick-growing large dogs, usually between the 3 and 5 months stage. The German Shepherd is one of the breeds prone. Signs will be a slight limp and pain in the affected bone. Osteochondritis Dissecans OCD. OCD is a disease of the cartilage whereby inflammation causes it to separate from the bone. The shoulder is the most usually affected area; however, the elbow, hip, and knee can also be impacted. It occurs when large puppies develop too quickly. Symptoms include limping, lameness, and pain. German Shepherds are predisposed to OCD; however, the offending gene has not been identified. Hind limb weakness, paralysis, or urinary incontinence are symptoms of this spinal disease. It is caused by intervertebral disk degeneration and protrusion, which compresses the spinal cord. Dog breeds having a short, stout appearance are most commonly affected. Lumbosacral Foraminal Stenosis. A degenerative condition of the lower spine resembling sciatica or a slipped disc in humans. The subsequent narrowing can cause nerve compression resulting in lameness. It occurs in medium-large breeds of middle to old age. Unfortunately, German Shepherds and working dogs are susceptible to Lumbosacral Stenosis. Immune-Mediated Polyarthritis. This is an immune system condition that results in inflamed, swollen, and painful joints. Your German Shepherd will be reluctant to walk or will limp on one or more legs due to the pain. Diabetic neuropathy. If diabetes is uncontrolled, excessive glucose can cause gradual weakness or paralysis due to nerve damage. However, this condition is rare in canines. Congenital limb deformities. Abnormally developed limbs can cause your dog to limp. These are pretty rare, and a study of congenital deformities of the limbs highlighted that little is known about the causes. Osteosarcoma bone cancer. Bone tumors can grow quickly, causing limping and pain, especially in the legs. Large and giant breeds are more prone to it. Limping can range from mild to severe. However, she is doing really well with exercise modification techniques along with anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication. My vet recommended these, they get good reviews online, and they seem to be working for her. She sleeps on the Big Barker , which is the only dog bed clinically proven to reduce pain and joint stiffness. You can check out my comprehensive review here. For more severe cases such as broken bones, orthopedic surgery may be required. How to Treat a Limping German Shepherd at Home Knowing how to treat your limping German Shepherd at home by giving first aid is fundamental to help minimize any further injury or pain. Firstly, pinpoint the affected leg, evaluate its seriousness and whether your dog needs medical assistance. So, how do you treat a limping GSD at home? To treat a limping German Shepherd at home, gently examine your dog, starting at the paw. Check the pads and between the toes, and slowly work your way up, looking for cuts or foreign bodies. Gently maneuver the joints for stiffness, but do not examine if your GSD is in severe pain. Remove any foreign bodies between the toes. Clean the wound with anti-bacterial soap. Finally, apply antibiotic ointment. For cut or torn pads and broken nails. If you cannot stop the bleeding in minutes, take your pet to the vet. Apply a bandage and change daily. For burned paw pads. If the pad becomes discolored or if the tissue underneath becomes exposed, contact your veterinarian. Apply antibiotic ointment to the burned pad, bandage, and change the dressing daily. For abscesses. Apply warm compresses to the affected area or soak in a warm Epsom salts bath. If the abscess bursts, take your doggo to the vet to get the wound cleaned and some antibiotics. For swelling due to a sprain or bruising. Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15 minutes twice a day. Place your GSD in the bath, and swirl the water around his leg, or spray with a gentle hose for 15 minutes twice daily. Flowing water reduces swelling, improves circulation, and helps with healing. Confine lame dogs and restrict their activity. Your German Shepherd will have a far better chance of recovery if you provide first aid when appropriate and seek prompt veterinary care if needed. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. If you notice your puppy is limping, it could be because of a: Bone break or fracture Muscle strain, pull or tear A slipped disc A torn or damaged ligament A cut or laceration on a paw or base of the leg Any of the above injuries or body damage could be caused by rough play, falling or landing awkwardly, poor genetic, or just general day to day activity. Higher energy puppies or puppies that engage in a lot of physical activity could be more at risk. With something particularly painful like a broken bone or deep laceration, the limping could have an immediate onset. You have to remember with puppies that they are still developing physically and growing. Particularly in large dogs, if they grow too quickly, they may develop injuries more frequently. A side effect of arthritis can be lameness in a leg — which can cause limping. Arthritis in dogs can occur over time with natural wear and tear, as a result of injuries, or as a result of a disease like hip dysplasia for example. This is why you should always check the official OFA hip and elbow certification of your puppy and their parents before you buy — and get a guarantee on the health of the pup against latent defects developing. With hip and elbow dysplasia, a malformation in the joint leads to deterioration of the cartilage according to assisianimalhealth. There are also other infectious diseases, and cruciate ligament disease, neuromuscular disease, and cancers which can cause limping. The best person to let you know which legs on your GSD are affected by a cause of limping is your vet. As in with humans, a dog might have a chronic disease like arthritis for example. The joints may deteriorate and the dog might develop a limp, but the leg may simply become lame with little or no pain. More German Shepherd Limping Resources 1. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon. Additionally, TheDailyShep. Information provided is for informational purposes only — it is not a substitute for professional or qualified advice. By consuming this information, you accept that TheDailyShep. You should always consult your own veterinarian, animal expert, or health care professional and follow their advice before making decisions on all matters. Enjoy your reading, and thank you for being here ','. Many different factors could be causing your German Shepherd to limp, and knowing is half the battle. See below for a list of the most common reasons why your German Shepherd could be limping. Below is a list of things that cause lameness, which is a persistent limp caused by a non-trivial injury. Trauma to Leg Any sort of leg trauma could be causing your German Shepherd to limp. This includes things like broken bones, torn ligaments, dislocations, and other injuries. Just like in humans, these limit the leg function and are quite painful, so it is pretty obvious why they would make your German Shepherd limp a bit. You can only really be certain this is the case after a trip to the vet, but if you saw your dog get hurt, you might have a pretty idea that this is the case. Either way, it should be followed up by advice and treatment from a qualified vet. Hip or Elbow Dysplasia Hip and elbow dysplasia are extremely common conditions in dogs. This causes pain and lameness, resulting in a limp. Being a genetic condition, this can start from a relatively young age and is often an explanation for lameness in younger dogs. Unfortunately, there is often no cure for this. Sometimes, surgery or lifelong medication can be helpful, though. Arthritis Older dogs, just like older humans, can often experience arthritis. Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints from years of stress. It usually affects the shoulders, knees, and hips. If your older dog is limping, you should probably consider this to be the most likely cause of that lameness. There are medications and nutritional supplements that can help with arthritis symptoms. Consult your vet to see your best course of action to make your dog a bit more comfortable with this condition. Congenital Abnormalities Sometimes, a limp or lameness can be the result of a congenital abnormality. These can often be skeletal or muscular abnormalities, which would explain limping. Hip and elbow dysplasia are often considered congenital abnormalities and are the most common type. Bone Cancer Unfortunately, as with all living things, cancer is a possibility with dogs as well. Although rarer than the other things above it on this list, bone cancer is a possibility when it comes to why your German Shepherd is experiencing lameness in one or more of its legs. Common Causes of Limping in Dogs Although there are some serious diseases and conditions that might be the reason your dog is experiencing lameness, you may also be able to attribute it to some fairly trivial, common things. Read on for a short list of common things that might be causing your German Shepherd to keep weight off of one of its feet. Wounds On The Footpads One of the most common reasons that a dog may be limping is that it has some kind of wound in its footpad. This can be the result of many things. Pulled Muscle Oftentimes, very active dogs can over-exert themselves and pull a muscle. This could cause the dog to develop a temporary limp as the area where the muscle was pulled becomes tender and painful to use. If your German Shepherd was bitten by a spider or stung by a wasp or hornet on its footpad, ankle, or anywhere near its paws, it may try to avoid walking on that as it would cause pain. Broken or Damaged Claw A broken or damaged claw could be quite painful to walk on for a dog, especially such a large one. Wait 15 minutes When you notice your dog is limping, the first thing you should do is wait and watch. A lot of limps are extremely trivial injuries like a paw that got stepped on or legs that may have been banged into something. Injuries like this will usually wear off for a bit. Wait and watch your dog for about 15 minutes. Do not coax it into walking or try to bring it for a walk, as too much movement could injure it further if it were to be something serious. Simply see if your dog gets up and walks around. Once it does, see if the limp persists for more than 15 minutes. Many minor limps will simply resolve themselves with time. These include bug bites and stings, paw pad wounds, damaged or cracked claws, and similar injuries that you can see physically. With many of these minor injuries, you can treat them yourself at home. Perhaps call your vet for tips on how and when to treat these injuries, but no major action is needed. When in doubt, bring your dog to the vet, or at least give them a call. This is the best and most accurate way to diagnose your dog, as your vet has the know-how and access to tools that can pin down exactly what is bothering your German Shepherd and causing its lameness. Check For Swelling If your dog is trying to avoid putting weight on one of its legs, it might be smart to check for swelling in that leg. That is a sign that you should go to the vet. This will be very helpful information for your vet should you decide to bring your dog in. There are a number of at-home remedies that can solve some of the less serious issues that are causing your German Shepherd to limp. Rest For many causes of limping, such as pulled muscles and open wounds, rest is the most important thing. If your dog is limping, try to scale back playtime and exercise to allow it time to heal. You should only really be going on walks to allow your dog to use the bathroom and allow your Shepherd to spend the rest of its time resting up its injured leg or paw. Make sure to use clean tools and wash your hands before and after to protect your dog from infection and cover any would well. Keep your yard clean of bees, spiders, other biting insects, thorny bushes, loose sticks, and other injury-causing materials. Keep your dog active and healthy to avoid injury that might come from weak bones or muscles. This can lead to joints and bones experiencing damage that causes swelling. In order to avoid or treat this kind of damage, you should make sure your dog is having its weight managed. Try to stick to a healthier diet with fewer carbs, red meat, and more lean proteins and vegetables. Make sure your German Shepherd is getting plenty of exercise between walking and playing daily. This is an athletic, active breed and should be treated as such! Your vet will be able to diagnose and treat any limp your dog is experiencing far better than you can. It may seem like a short, simple answer, but it is the best available in most cases. Cheaper than replacing everything they might break. And definitely cheaper than a lawsuit against you, if they decide to bite someone. And the best part is it also has a day money-back guarantee! You can also check out a full review here to learn exactly what the course has to offer! A: No. A limp is a sign that something is wrong. It may become normal as the dog ages if it develops arthritis or a similar condition. However, a limp is always a sign of some wound or condition. A: In many cases, a dog can get used to the cause of the limp and still run around if it feels it needs to during playtime or on a walk. Recap So, there are many reasons that your German Shepherd could be limping. Treat it at home if you can, but at least give your vet a call and get some advice. Related Posts:. This is because German Shepherds are intentionally bred to have a steeper angulation to the hind legs. The AKC breed standards for the breed, require German Shepherds to have as close to a degree bend as possible in their hind legs. Unfortunately, this steep angle in the back leg makes German Shepherds more susceptible to back pain and hind leg problems. After years of wear and tear, this makes them prone to serious leg problems as they age. For instance, studies have shown that German Shepherds are five times more likely to develop dysplasia as compared to Labradors, Rottweilers, and Golden Retrievers. A brief overview of these medical conditions: Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy DM is a neurological disease that makes German Shepherds slowly lose control of their hind legs. In the end, the dog may lose control of the urinary and bowel functions, and paralysis is a serious possibility. DM typically occurs in older dogs of about eight years or older, although it may also occur at a younger age. Unfortunately, there is no cure for DM. However, there are ways to reduce the suffering of your GSD because the condition progresses gradually. Therefore, treatment options for DM are geared towards ensuring a better quality of life rather than curing it. Most dogs with degenerative myelopathy will lose the function of their hind legs within six months to two years of diagnosis. Although there is no cure, regular exercise has been shown to improve the quality of life for dogs with DM. As a result, the ball of the hip joint causes pain as it glides roughly against the socket. Signs of hip dysplasia include a wobbly gait, lameness, limping, a decreased range of motion, and pain while walking. The most common causes of hip dysplasia include genetics, leg trauma, and environmental factors. In extreme cases of hip dysplasia, the dog may lose the function of their back legs and require a wheelchair. Arthritis may also occur due to the pressure exerted on the hip joint by hip dysplasia. Since GSDs are prone to hind leg weakness, they are at an increased risk for severe arthritis. Dogs with bad hips and arthritic joints may change their gait and walk lower to the ground, causing German Shepherd legs to appear even more bent. Signs of arthritis in German Shepherds include lethargy, loss of muscle mass in the hind limbs, reluctance to run, jump, or go up a flight of stairs, and stiffness in the hind legs. Prevention of osteoarthritis through proper dieting, exercising, and joint supplements helps to reduce the onset of osteoarthritis. Once osteoarthritis begins, the treatment is geared towards pain reduction, reducing inflammation, and improving the quality of life. Since osteoarthritis is difficult to detect in symptoms until the affected joints are badly affected, it is crucial to keep up with regular wellness visits with your vet. The best way to prevent these diseases is through genetic testing and following good breeding standards. This is possible by checking with your breeder for the hip score regarding hip dysplasia and proper parent matching to avoid degenerative myelopathy. Diet It works wonders for humans, and it will work for your best friend too. Since this breed is already a large-sized breed and the effects of breeding may be unpredictable, maintaining an optimal weight and observing a healthy, balanced diet is a wise precautionary measure. Some of the important dietary options to provide include ample proteins, vitamin D, vitamin K and magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin E. You should also ensure that the dog food you buy for your German Shepherd is well-suited, with enough calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone development. Your vet may also prescribe bone and joint supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussels, and collagen if they are required. An obese or overweight will experience increased mobility challenges. Second, regular exercise, especially walking and swimming, is important. Lastly, consult your vet on supplements or medications that may slow down the progression of DM. In any case, for these medical conditions , keep an eye out for changes in movement and contact your vet if there are any concerns. Some common symptoms that your German Shepherd may show include a wobbly walk, slipping on the floor, sitting crooked, hips giving way, swelling, lesser muscle mass in the back legs, and having a shorter stride on the hind legs. Remember that most dogs will not express pain or discomfort at first, so it is up to you to spot the symptoms if they do appear — This is especially important for degenerative conditions because when it comes to treatment, the earlier, the better! Regular exercise Regular exercising does two important things for your German Shepherd. One, it strengthens the hind and front leg muscles, and two, it helps you spot changes in the performance of the hind legs. This is the sit-to-stand routine. In this routine, you start with your dog sitting in front of you. Then, you move back a bit and call the dog to you. When he follows, give a treat to keep his interest and, once again, sit him down. Repeat as many times as needed. Taking your dog on daily walks up and down a hill especially or having swimming sessions will also strengthen the leg muscles and help in managing the weight. Hydrotherapy is especially beneficial for dogs dealing with mobility issues. Canine massage relieves fatigue and tension in the hind leg muscles and helps to spot any unrelated pain that may be a sign of something to watch out for. How to massage your dog: Compress the muscle against the bone with your flat hand using both your palms and fingers. Glide your hand along his spine, following the lay of the fur. Apply semi-circular strokes on the muscular areas of the back legs. Using a support harness Sometimes, it is crucial to moderate the pressure that your shepherd applies to the back legs when he moves about. This is where the support harness comes in. A harness helps to remove some of the stress that the dog may be feeling when taking walks, for instance, until the muscles of the back legs are strong enough to take it. The use of the harness reduces the pressure placed on the bad back legs and makes it easier for your dog to walk. Keep them at a healthy weight and ensure they get plenty of exercise. Even if your GSD is battling a degenerative illness affecting his mobility, you can explore treatment and supportive methods that will enable a good quality of life. German shepherds are known as a very resilient and strong breed. Your dog will match and appreciate any effort you put into ensuring his good quality of life. 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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.Weaning GSD puppies usually begins around 3 - 4 weeks of age. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. A well thought out weaning plan will definitely help this process produce healthy and food independent puppies. However, if the litter is unusually large, you may wish to start weaning puppies a little earlier than normal in order to ensure that the bitch is not overly fatigued from feeding all her puppies. You want to begin weaning GSD puppies at the appropriate time but don't start too early. Easy indicators to watch for are when the pups begin showing an avid interest in the mother's food and when the mother starts showing an aversion to feeding the German Shepherd puppies, or stops feeding them for as long or as often as she did in the beginning. Usually this happens naturally at around weeks of age those puppy teeth are sharp - I don't blame her. If your bitch shows no interest in starting to wean her puppies on her own especially if she is a first time mom or an overly protective mom , help her begin the weaning process around this time. Weaning GSD puppies is a natural process that is necessary for both the mom and the puppies in future development. The process I will outline below assumes that you are not hand feeding an orphaned puppy as this is an entirely different undertaking in itself and that you are weaning a healthy litter of German Shepherd puppies, or another larger breed puppy - 1 or more in a litter. Weaning puppy food formulas vary from breeder to breeder but I will offer you here the formula I use whenever weaning my own German Shepherd puppies - a formula that has worked well for me and my puppies for several years now and has resulted in many healthy, happy German Shepherds puppies, and then later, GSD adults. It works in stages as I don't feed my babies the same thing the entire weaning process. Weaning Alsatian puppies occurs over a series of a few weeks from mothers milk to a porridge like food, and eventually to a solid, and dry food in my weaning plan. Stage 1. Here I use a mixture of vanilla or unflavored plain yogurt, warmed lightly puppies will not eat cold food at this time , with just a little bit of good quality puppy food thrown in. This must be mixed up well and mashed up enough so that all the solid puppy food is mixed in well. Remember, there should be no lumps in the mixture to make this as easy as possible for the puppies to lap up - make the consistency as close to a thin milk shake as you can. Remember also to keep it luke warm, but not too hot. Warm water may need to be added to achieve just the right consistency for lapping up by the puppies. A flat dish such as a pie pan or one of the "flying saucer" shaped puppy dishes is a good choice to place the food in so that all the puppies have an equal chance to get at the food. Since the puppies are used to suckling warm milk from their mother you may need to encourage each puppy individually to take this new food by placing some on the end of your finger and then allowing them to lick or suck it off. If the puppies resist this new food, and many may, just keep on trying. You may have to do this several times before the puppy gets the idea that this is food. Soon they will associate the smell of the food with eating and eat it with no help from you. Start cutting back on the mom's food just a bit as well during this time to help her milk start drying up. By the way, expect a mess. Once the weaning German Shepherd puppies are established on the porridge mixture, and are eating it readily, you can gradually swap them over to Step 2. Step Two. This food is simply fantastic and I also use it with my adults GSD's - especially in training. They simply love it. You can find it at Kroger, Publix, Petsmart and Petco. Mix this well and keep the mixture as creamy and slightly lumpy as possible in the beginning. As the puppies mature you can increase the amount of lumps in the food a bit with each 2nd step meal as long as the weaning GSD puppies can eat it easily and have no problems swallowing the new food. Remember you are working the weaning GSD puppies toward eating a meal of solid foods. This stage lasts about a week. Step three. I still give Bil-Jac for a while as well to give the weaning GSD puppies the best start possible however I eventually phase that out as well and work towards feeding the puppies a commercially available dry food only. This is my final goal in weaning GSD puppies - to get those German Shepherd puppies to happily eat dry puppy food only on a daily basis. As the German Shepherd puppies consume more and more solid foods, and as long as they are healthy, you should gradually increase the periods that your bitch spends away from her pups, so that by the time they are about 6 - 7 weeks of age she may be moved away from them completely. Remember that, during this weaning period, your bitch's intake of food should have been gradually reduced while the weaning GSD puppies new food intake has been increased to help her milk supply dry up gradually over time. Once your bitch is completely away from her GSD puppies, adding some chopped fresh parsley to your bitch's food may help to reduce the risk of mastitis if she is still producing milk. However if her milk production is excessive, and her mammary glands become red, hot or inflamed, do not hesitate to seek immediate veterinary treatment, as mastitis can build up very quickly and should be taken care of immediately and is considered a medical emergency. Please use the suggested feeding quantities on the bagged foods as a guideline only. The required amounts will vary with the age of the weaning GSD puppies, the individual breed and level of activity of each puppy. Also, ensure that a plentiful supply of fresh, clean water is available at all times to your weaning puppies and adult dogs as well. You want this transition from mothers milk to solid foods to be as stress free as possible for both the mother and puppies and a well thought out weaning plan will definitely help this process produce healthy and food independent German Shepherd Dog puppies. Bernard coming in through the cat door. Time Zones puppy feeding schedule and recomendation Prior to weaning our German shepherd puppies, they would have obtain most of their nutritional needs from their mother's milk. By the time our puppies are ready to move into their new home, they will be fully weaned on to solid foods. The puppy is then entirely dependent on his new owner, to provide a fully balanced diet that will meet all of his nutritional requirements. All puppies thrive on the same basic nutrients as adult dogs, but due to their rapid growth rate, these nutrients are needed in proportionately larger quantities. Similar to human babies, puppies have small stomachs, so they need to be fed little portions but often. German shepherd puppies grow very rapidly in the early stages of their development. A German shepherd dog will reach about half their adult weight by five or six months of age. However, there is a wide variation in adult body weight between different breeds, and dogs mature at different rates, since this article is focus on the German shepherd puppy, we will focus at that. German shepherd puppies, in particular, which are most affected by the feeding regimen - as they are growing rapidly, these puppies are prone to disturbances in their skeletal development. It is unwise to overfeed such dogs at this stage in an attempt to obtain the maximum possible rate of growth. A puppy needs between two and four times as much energy as an adult of the same size - growing is an energetic business! They must have more protein than adults - this must contain all the right building blocks of the protein amino acids for growth, and they need just the right amount of minerals for healthy bones and teeth. Puppies therefore have to eat large amounts of food in relation to their body weight, but their stomachs have only a small capacity. To compensate for this, a puppy needs to be fed several small meals a day. It also helps if his diet is designed to meet a number of useful criteria: the food should be concentrated to ensure an adequate intake of nutrients before his stomach is full; The food should be easily digested to maximize its nutritive value; the diet must be balanced to provide the right amount of nutrients to meet the puppy's particular needs; and it should also be tasty so that he will eat it. Devising an acceptable nutritionally balanced diet for growth is thus a very complex exercise. Fortunately, feeding your puppy need not be as complicated as it sounds. Diets, which are specially formulated for growth, take all the guesswork out of rearing a healthy puppy and provide a balanced and concentrated diet, which he will enjoy and thrive. For a normal, healthy German shepherd puppy there is no need to use supplements. In some ways this could be harmful. If you do decide to use a supplement please consult your veterinarian. The feeding schedule of your puppy will depend greatly on his age and individual characteristics, until they are about four months old. Feeding can then be reduced to two times a day until six months of age. You can offer your puppy his daily food allowance in two separate meals. You can feed an adult diet from 14 months of age Since all puppies are individuals, some may need more and some less than the indicated amounts. Your puppy's condition is the best guide of whether you are feeding the correct amount. By recording his weight on a regular basis you will be able to check his growing at a healthy rate, appropriate to his breed. You can then make adjustments to avoid him becoming under - or overweight. Generally, a puppy should be allowed 10 to 15 minutes to eat at each mealtime. After then discard any uneaten food. Your puppy should have his own feeding and water bowls and should be kept clean, separate from the family's dishes. Provide fresh water daily If you notice that your puppy is excessively thirsty and often, you should consult your veterinarian. Note: When puppies come from a kennel environment "outside living", to a family house, most often they will show signs of panting and thirst. This is normal because they will be hot with-in. In few days they should adjust in being indoors. The "puppy" feeding schedule is a guideline for our German shepherd puppies. A puppy should be kept lean during 4 to 8 months of age rapid growth phase , BUT they should not appear thin. You should be able to feel the rib cage and the back bone, but not see them. Looking down on the dog, there should be a slight indentation between the end of the rib cage and the hip bones. If you have questions or comments that you would like to share, please EMAIL US Please do not use our website to attempt to diagnose or treat your pet. The consultation with your veterinarian is the best source of health advice for your individual pet. You should not rely, on the veterinary advice or any other information provided on this site for the diagnosis or treatment of any specific condition. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the medical condition or general treatment of your pet. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.