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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.Growth and weight The German Shepherd puppy is a popular addition to many households. Sometimes called the Alsatian puppy, the German Shepherd was initially developed for herding and now commonly used as a working dog or pet. This is your guide to providing all the nutrients your new puppy needs. When Your Puppy Comes Home Although they look pretty sturdy at eight weeks old, German Shepherd puppies are vulnerable to tummy upsets when they arrive at a new home. To help them settle in stick with the food their breeder was giving them for the first two weeks minimum. You can then gradually swap over by increasing proportions over the course of a couple of days. However, if they are doing well on their original food, considering sticking with it for longer. To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the breeder, the feed manufacturer or by your veterinarian. This will vary depending on how calorie dense the food is and how it is formulated. Your puppy should be fed four times a day up to the age of four months. After this age, two larger meals at regular times will be sufficient. However, the more often you feed your pup the stronger your bond will grow. Simple sits and recalls, puppy tricks, they all make a big difference to how your dog behaves towards you and feels about you as they grow. What to Feed A German Shepherd Puppy You will find there are a lot of different opinions about what kind of food is best. Kibble and wet food are the most popular, but you do also have the option of raw or homemade meals. Puppy Kibble Great quality, high meat content kibble is my go-to for feeding larger puppy breeds. At the beginning of the day I measure out their daily food amount, then separate it into little pots. Some as meals, and the remainder to use throughout the day to reward good behavior or get off on the right foot with positive reinforcement. The FDA recently issued a notice alerting dog owners to a potential increased risk of a serious heart condition. This is called canine dilated cardiomyopathy DCM. The risk is in dogs eating foods that include peas, lentils, or potatoes instead of grains. The underlying cause of these cases is not clear, but the FDA note suggests that caution should be used in selecting foods with these ingredients for German Shepherds and other large dogs. Canned Dog Food For picky eaters canned food can be more appealing. It smells stronger, and debatably tastes nicer. These diets do not include cooked or otherwise processed foods. However, it may be more difficult to regulate a BARF diet to ensure a slow and steady growth rate in young puppies. If you find this option intriguing, you can check out our article on feeding your dog a raw diet. Homemade Diets Research has shown that in the past, poorly balanced homemade diets have been harmful to German Shepherd puppies. There is now abundant information available to anyone who is willing and able to produce a safe and balanced diet. However, modern cases studies have shown that well-meaning owners may still over-feed or create an unbalanced diet. So, this is an area where you really can have too much of a good thing. As with commercial foods, homemade diets must be properly formulated for a large breed dog. Do not deviate from recommended recipes as provided by a veterinarian. If possible, preferably a vet with a board certification in veterinary nutrition. Recipes published in popular magazine and websites may not be nutritionally complete or suitable for a large breed puppy. Is My Puppy the Right Weight? You can also refer to German Shepherd puppy growth charts to see if you puppy is gaining weight and within the normal range. However, keep in mind that some dogs will be unusually small or large but still be perfectly healthy. Do not try to maximize growth rates as this can lead to health problems later. Ensure that you are familiar with how to assess the body condition of your puppy. The ribs and spine should be easy to feel but not simple to see. My Puppy Is Still Hungry If your puppy seems excessively hungry provide more frequent but smaller meals. Young puppies cannot tolerate going without food for extended periods. With older puppies you may wish to experiment with foods that help them feel more full, and provide low calories treats. Keeping a health puppy active and occupied will help prevent them from becoming overly focused on anticipating their next meal. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. 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.

It also contains salmon meal, which is a high-quality variety of fish meal. Like other Wellness offerings, this food is made in the USA without artificial preservatives or meat by-products. He loves it and I like the fact it is vet recommended and has both pre and probiotics. It contains all the essential vitamins and minerals your dog needs: vitamins B6, B12, and D3, to name a few. Our only complaint is that the first ingredient is chicken by-product meal. Our first pick would be a real meat of higher quality. However, the nutrients and substantial protein level make this a great food for a growing Bernedoodle puppy. Royal Canin does studies and tests to make sure their food supplies all the nutrition needed. The first ingredient in this Purina food is real lamb. There are plenty of nutrients here, including DHA, vitamins, and live probiotics for gut health. It even has a small amount of garlic oil which helps lower cholesterol and prevent blood clots. I am very happy with it. Real chicken is the first ingredient in this one. The amount of fat, carbs, calcium and phosphorous has been carefully planned by nutritional experts, so you can feel confident knowing your dog is getting just the right amount of nutrients for his size and age. We also love to see sufficient levels of DHA here that will help your pup with brain development. I was only interested in a small bag and found exactly what I needed. Fair price and rapid delivery! One huge benefit of this Solid Gold formula is the number of superfoods packed into it: veggies like broccoli and carrots, and fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. It even has pumpkin and kelp! This is sure to deliver the vitamins and antioxidants your little Bernedoodle is craving. If your dog is prone to food allergies, you might be in luck here. No wheat, corn or soy are used in this food. Very happy we switched to this. The list goes on from there, including eggs, chicken liver, and herring. Like other Orijen formulas, this kibble is freeze-dried coated for extra flavor. The ingredients are so good, your little pup should dive right into this one. He is healthy, has tons of energy, a beautiful coat and no digestive issues. Check with your veterinarian if you have concerns about food restrictions. Salmon is the first ingredient. In fact, this product contains no beef or chicken, so it will also work well for pups who have allergies to those ingredients. The omega fatty acids should also help maintain a shiny coat. She has a soft and shiny coat! She loves it! Check the feeding instructions on the package for more detailed information. How long should a Bernedoodle eat puppy food? You should feed your Bernedoodle puppy food until he is no longer growing. This will typically occur between 6 and 18 months. After you have confirmed with your veterinarian that your Bernedoodle has reached full size, you can switch to an adult kibble formula. What are Bernedoodles allergic to? Like many breeds, bernedoodles are prone to food allergies. Your puppy may be allergic to beef, chicken, wheat, dairy, eggs, or other ingredients. Whenever you switch to a new food, you should monitor his behavior and appearance and take note of any allergic reaction. Check with your vet if you have any questions. Conclusion We know you want the absolute best food for your precious Bernedoodle puppy! Now is the best time to consider his nutritional needs since he is still growing and needs plenty of protein, vitamins and minerals. For now, we hope this article helps you select a great dog food for your pup. Post navigation. It even seems to go down a treat with fussy pups who otherwise turn their nose up at kibble. Pet parents comment that the ingredients are high quality, and one even goes as far as to say the food almost smells good enough for people to eat! Pros Given that this food is specifically formulated with puppies in mind, it has everything a growing dog needs to keep them happy and healthy. Cons Two concerns mentioned by reviewers are the price — which some say is a little high although many say the food is worth it and the fact that the bag is not resealable. You might have to transfer this food to another container to keep it fresh. It can also be the most expensive if you prepare food each day rather than in batches to freeze. Now filler ingredients are the number one enemy of pet owners looking to grab their dog some tasty, healthy nosh at a reasonable price. Many companies make use of such ingredients because they are cheap, easy, and sadly there are no rules against using them — yet. Look for foods that list the fillers low on the list so that you know your dog is not getting an unhealthy amount of fillers. The Long Debate Bernedoodle Feeding Guide A feeding schedule is essential to ensure your pup receives the right amount of food at the right time of day. Under four months, you can let your puppy graze. However, after this age, their mealtimes need to be a little more regulated to stop them from putting on too much weight too quickly. Smaller Bernies should be fed little and often, whereas larger ones should be given four small meals a day. At six months, your dog can switch over to an adult feeding schedule and formula. Mealtimes should be reduced to either twice or three times daily, and this routine will remain in place for their adult lives unless there are any changes in their health. Bernies are, generally speaking, happy, healthy hounds. For this reason, any high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food, prepared for their size and life stage, should do the trick. All of the foods on our list come highly recommended by pet owners and are well suited to a Bernies needs. Is chicken bad for Bernedoodles? While some dogs may be sensitive to chicken and chicken by-products, this is an occasional rather than frequent allergy. However, it can develop later in life. If you are feeding your pup food with chicken as the main ingredient, keep an eye out for any signs of sensitivity, such as changes in bowel movements or itchy skin. Are Bernedoodles picky eaters? Bernedoodles are generally not picky eaters; in fact, quite the reverse. Bernedoodles are fun, fab, lively hounds, and they make excellent pets. However, as is the case with any pet, we need to take care of them to the very best of our ability. A major part of this is giving them food that will keep them happy, healthy, and just as full of life as they naturally are. It is not intended to be a substitute for qualified professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have. You Might Also Like. Because your dog is an ancient carnivore, he thrives on a physiologically suitable diet rich in various sorts of whole animal products. Fresh or raw free-range chicken and turkey, wild-caught or sustainably farmed fish, and cage-free chicks make up this delicious chow. This dish uses WholePrey animal components, including organs and bone, to give 85 percent quality animal ingredients. This dog food is freeze-dried coated for a wag-worthy raw taste that canines like. Fresh or raw animal protein is always the first five components. Contains WholePrey nutrition, including nutrient-dense organs. Due to its popularity, this brand has a reputation for high-quality food and is often simple to buy online and at pet stores. They back up their assurance with a promise of client pleasure. The main component in this dog food is genuine chicken, and the other ingredients include nutritious grains, garden vegetables, and fruits to provide a well-balanced diet for your Bernedoodle. This Blue Buffalo choice is chock-full of nutrients and minerals ideal for mature Bernedoodles. As a result, your dog will receive the necessary energy and nutrition. This food has no maize, soy, wheat, by-products, additives, or preservatives, which will satisfy you. Key Features: Carbohydrates give energy for an active lifestyle, while protein is required for healthy muscle growth. Strong bones and teeth need calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins. Glucosamine is included to help with joint health and mobility. There are no maize, wheat, soy, or by-product meals from chicken or fowl. This solution is designed to be easy on sensitive skin and tummies while also reducing the risk of problems for your delicate Bernedoodle. The Purina Pro Plan focus range provides a variety of sizes and flavors to choose from. You can select the taste that you believe will best suit your Bernedoodle. In addition, if you want to sample different types of dog food, there is a package that includes both wet and dry food. This is an excellent dog food option for a Bernedoodle with a delicate stomach. In addition, there are no traces of corn filler, wheat, or soy in this product. Kibble is high in live probiotics and prebiotic fiber, beneficial to gut health. Gravy-covered canned meals include chicken, energy-rich rice, and fatty acids that assist cognitive development. Biotin and omega-6 fatty acids are also included in the wet food mix for healthy skin and a lustrous coat. It contains a unique BC30 probiotic blend to help maintain a healthy immune and digestive system. Salmon also provides phosphorus and calcium, as well as D. Furthermore, the primary components are all derived from animal sources. This is the most OK dog food for a Bernedoodle puppy. However, it does tend to be more expensive as a premium alternative. Key Features: Grain-free dog food that contains no chicken or egg proteins. Made with low glycemic index ingredients and added calcium and phosphorus for healthy bones. It includes 80 percent animal-based proteins and D. Includes Omega-3 and omega-6 to help skin and hair shine. Each high-quality ingredient is carefully picked for a specific nutritional or functional purpose. As a result, he gets the healthy nourishment to achieve a terrific start in life, with no artificial colors or flavors. In addition, the highly digestible recipe enhances nutritional bioavailability, resulting in optimal nutrient absorption for your puppy. The lamb and rice formula in this formula is designed to fulfill the nutritional needs of pups under the age of one year, and each bite is as tasty as it is healthy. Key Features: An omega-3 found in fish oil is essential for brain and visual development. The first component is natural lamb. Lean muscles are built with high-quality protein. There are no artificial colors in the box, and tastes have been added. Probiotics have been introduced to help maintain a healthy digestive tract. Furthermore, there is no maize in the diet, and wheat is included to give the optimum nutrition for the dogs. Rice and hardly are added to the pack specifically to make it a portion of digestible dog food. This dog chow also contains some carbs from lean sources. There is no corn, wheat, or artificial colors or flavors in this product. Prebiotics can aid in the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. Natural fibers in a proprietary combination to assist with digestive difficulties Rice and barley are high-digestible, low-calorie carbohydrate sources. The antioxidants in this one-of-a-kind dog food package support a robust immune system. Omega 6 is also included in the pack to help with skin and coat health. Dry dog food with healthy grains is included in this dog food package. It also allows for better nutrient absorption and a more pleasant stool pickup. In addition, your Bernedoodle will benefit from the additional vitamin E and omega-six fatty acids. In this well-balanced diet, the best worldwide foods are employed. Limited Ingredient Diets L. Key Features: This adult dry dog food supports digestive health while also providing skin nourishment. A source of prebiotic fiber to help your adult dog maintain a healthy gut microbiota. This dog food is highly digestible, allowing better nutrient absorption and stool removal. Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids assist your adult dog in maintaining a glossy coat and healthy skin. This well-balanced dog food is ideal for a month-old puppy who will weigh between 24 and 55 pounds. This pack is perfect for promoting muscular development and bone health. Your Bernedoodle puppy will develop perfection thanks to the high-quality protein and optimal calcium levels. Key Features: Provides comprehensive and balanced nourishment for medium breed puppies up to 12 months High-quality animal protein and optimal calcium and phosphorous levels encourage muscular growth and bone health. Contains optimal D. Bernedoodles require a well-balanced diet that is high in protein and low in grains and fillers. Look for dog food brands that use high-quality ingredients, such as meat as the first ingredient and no artificial preservatives or fillers. Understanding Bernedoodles Bernedoodles come in different sizes, including toy, mini, and standard, and can weigh anywhere from 10 to 90 pounds. These dogs have a thick, curly coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Bernedoodles are also prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and well-being. When it comes to feeding Bernedoodles, it is crucial to consider their size, age, and activity level. Toy and mini Bernedoodles require smaller portions of food than standard Bernedoodles. Additionally, puppies and young dogs need more calories and nutrients to support their growth and development. It is recommended to feed Bernedoodles high-quality dog food that contains real meat, whole grains, and vegetables. Avoid dog food that contains artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. It is also essential to provide your Bernedoodle with fresh water at all times and to monitor their weight to prevent obesity. Nutritional Needs of Bernedoodles The nutritional needs of Bernedoodles vary depending on their age, size, and activity level. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you ensure that your furry friend gets the right nutrients in the right amounts. Protein Protein is an essential nutrient for Bernedoodles as it helps to build and repair muscles, tissues, and organs. Fat Fat is another crucial nutrient for Bernedoodles as it provides energy and helps to maintain healthy skin and coat. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are a good source of energy for Bernedoodles, but they should not be the primary source of nutrition. A well-balanced diet for Bernedoodles should contain complex carbohydrates such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, and whole grains. Vitamins and Minerals Bernedoodles require vitamins and minerals to maintain their overall health and well-being. A well-balanced diet should contain essential vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E, as well as minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. Water Water is an essential nutrient for Bernedoodles as it helps to regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, and remove waste from the body. It is important to ensure that your furry friend has access to clean and fresh water at all times. American Journey American Journey is a popular dog food brand that offers high-quality dog food formulas for different dog breeds, including Bernedoodles. Their dog food formula contains real lamb as the first ingredient, omega fatty acids, and antioxidant-rich wholesome vegetables, making it an excellent choice for Bernedoodles. Rachael Ray Nutrish Rachael Ray Nutrish is another top dog food brand that offers a variety of dog food formulas that are suitable for Bernedoodles. Blue Buffalo Blue Buffalo is a well-known dog food brand that offers a wide range of dog food formulas that are specially formulated for different dog breeds and sizes. Their Freedom Grain-Free Adult Dog Food is a great option for Bernedoodles as it contains high-quality protein, healthy carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. Royal Canin Royal Canin is a premium dog food brand that offers a variety of dog food formulas that are tailored to meet the nutritional needs of different dog breeds. Their Medium Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for Bernedoodles as it contains high-quality protein, whole grains, and essential vitamins and minerals. Purina Pro Plan Purina Pro Plan is a trusted dog food brand that offers a variety of dog food formulas that are designed to meet the nutritional needs of different dog breeds and sizes. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best dog food brand and formula for your furry friend. Ingredients to Look for in Dog Food Choosing the best dog food for your Bernedoodle can be a daunting task, but one of the most important things to consider is the ingredients. The right ingredients can provide your dog with the necessary nutrients to maintain a healthy and happy life. Here are some key ingredients to look for when selecting a dog food for your Bernedoodle: High-Quality Protein Protein is an essential nutrient for dogs, and it should make up a significant portion of their diet. Look for dog foods that have high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken, beef, fish, or lamb. Whole Grains Whole grains, such as brown rice, oats, and barley, are excellent sources of carbohydrates and fiber. They provide your dog with energy and help keep their digestive system healthy. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which can cause allergies and digestive problems in some dogs. Fruits and Vegetables Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Look for dog foods that include ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, and spinach. Look for dog foods that contain sources of these fatty acids, such as fish oil, flaxseed, and chicken fat. Probiotics are live bacteria that help promote healthy gut bacteria, while prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed the good bacteria. Look for dog foods that contain ingredients like chicory root, inulin, and Lactobacillus acidophilus. Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Food As a Bernedoodle owner, it is important to be aware of the ingredients that are harmful to your furry friend. Here are some of the ingredients you should avoid in dog food: Artificial Preservatives Artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are commonly used in dog food to extend their shelf life. However, these preservatives have been linked to cancer and other health problems in dogs. It is best to choose dog food brands that use natural preservatives such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C. Artificial Colors Artificial colors such as Blue 2, Red 3, Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6 are added to dog food to make it more appealing to pet owners. However, these colors have been linked to hyperactivity, allergies, and cancer in dogs. It is best to choose dog food brands that do not use artificial colors. Meat By-Products Meat by-products are the leftover parts of animals after the meat has been removed. These parts can include organs, bones, and other parts that are not fit for human consumption. Corn, Wheat, and Soy Corn, wheat, and soy are commonly used as fillers in dog food. However, these ingredients can be difficult for dogs to digest and can cause allergies and other health problems. It is best to choose dog food brands that use high-quality, easily digestible carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes, peas, and brown rice. Avoid overfeeding your puppy, as this can lead to obesity and health problems later in life. Provide plenty of fresh water at all times. Adult Stage Once your Bernedoodle reaches adulthood, their nutritional needs will change. Senior Stage As your Bernedoodle enters their senior years, their nutritional needs will change once again. By following these general feeding guidelines, you can help ensure that your Bernedoodle receives a well-balanced diet that promotes their overall health and well-being. Abruptly changing their food can upset their stomach and cause digestive issues. If they experience any vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, slow down the transition by adding more of the old food to their diet. When selecting a new food for your Bernedoodle, make sure to choose one that meets their nutritional needs. Look for a food that contains high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Conclusion The best dog food for your Bernedoodle is crucial for their overall health and well-being. This formula contains high-quality real lamb as the first ingredient, omega fatty acids, and wholesome vegetables. It is also free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Both of these options provide a balanced and nutritious diet for your Bernedoodle. Overall, providing your Bernedoodle with a high-quality and nutritious diet is essential for their long-term health and happiness. Frequently Asked Questions What should you feed a Bernedoodle? When it comes to feeding your Bernedoodle, it is essential to provide a balanced and complete diet. You can choose dry or wet food, but make sure to read the label and check the ingredients before buying. Is Royal Canin good for Bernedoodles? Royal Canin is a popular brand of dog food that manufactures breed-specific formulas. While some Bernedoodle owners may find it suitable for their dogs, it is important to note that not all dogs have the same nutritional needs. It is best to consult with your veterinarian before deciding on a specific brand of dog food. What can Bernedoodles not eat? Bernedoodles should not eat foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, caffeine, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and avocados. How long should Bernedoodles be on puppy food? Bernedoodles should be on puppy food until they are around one year old. After that, you can switch them to adult dog food. Is chicken bad for Bernedoodles? Chicken is not bad for Bernedoodles as long as it is cooked and served without any bones. Cooked chicken is an excellent source of protein for dogs, but it should not be the only source of protein in their diet. What should I feed my Bernedoodle? You can feed your Bernedoodle a high-quality dry or wet dog food that is specifically formulated for their size and age. Additionally, you can supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, cooked meats, and other healthy foods. It is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet for your dog. Share this:. A diet that meets these life-stage needs is essential for proper development and health maintenance. Bernedoodle puppies. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for Bernedoodle puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial developmental stage. Adult Bernedoodles. Require a diet that is moderate in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. You must slowly transition your dog to an adult recipe at one year old. Senior Bernedoodles. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. At around 8 or 9, you should slowly transition your Bernedoodle to senior food. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are important to boost their weakening immune system. High-quality, nutrient-dense food fuels Bernedoodles for their naturally energetic and playful behavior. Proteins are vital for muscle development and repair, while fats provide an efficient energy source. Carbohydrates, particularly complex ones, offer sustained energy. However, overfeeding or feeding a nutrient-deficient diet can lead to obesity or other health issues. Portion control and ensuring a balanced diet aligned with their exercise regimen are essential for maintaining optimal health and activity levels. Similarly, periods of high activity may require increased caloric intake, while less active periods may necessitate a reduction in food portion sizes. Although certain health issues that Bernedoodles may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by Bernedoodles include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Bernedoodles. Food allergies in Bernedoodles may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, unlike allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Hip and elbow dysplasia. These genetic conditions affect the joints in large dog breeds like Bernedoodles. Both can lead to discomfort, pain, and lameness. Eye conditions. Like their parent breed, the Bernese Mountain Dog, Bernedoodles are prone to certain hereditary eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy PRA and cataracts. Both conditions can lead to vision loss if not diagnosed and treated early. It can lead to prolonged bleeding following injury or surgery. It can result in weakness, vomiting, and weight loss. Gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV. Immediate veterinary intervention is necessary. Sebaceous adenitis. This is a skin condition where the sebaceous glands become inflamed and can eventually be destroyed. It can lead to hair loss, scaling, and secondary skin infections. A disorder that causes insufficient thyroid hormones. Here are the key qualities to look for in dog food for Bernedoodles. Avoid common allergies. Because Bernedoodles can develop allergies or food intolerances, we highly recommend conducting an at-home dog allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Bernedoodles can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Bernedoodles can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food or homemade dog food for Bernedoodles. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. Joint health support. For mitigating the effects of hip and elbow dysplasia, look for dog food that includes ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health. To counteract eye conditions like PRA and cataracts, choose food packed with antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C, and E, which can help protect eye health. For hypothyroidism, look for food with ingredients high in iodine, like fish, as it aids thyroid function. Always consult a vet, though, as your pet may need additional supplementation. Suitable for skin health. For sebaceous adenitis, a diet rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids will be beneficial as they can help maintain skin health. Vitamin K. Balanced electrolytes. A diet that is not excessively high in potassium would be beneficial. Chapter 2: The Reviews. Bernedoodles are known to be voracious eaters, so they tend to gain weight easily, especially if their daily exercise needs are not met. Fortunately, you can help keep their weight stable with this food. Antioxidants also help control the premature aging of cells and support a healthy immune system. However, this option is quite expensive, and some dogs may not like the smell and texture. How much to feed your dog? You should use the portions listed on the package with a scale or measuring cup. That said, remember that these amounts are usually appropriate for a dog with an average activity level. So, if your Bernepoo is active, it is normal for them to eat more. If they are more sedentary, watch their portions or the fat level of their food. Bernedoodles can suffer from obesity if they eat too much and do not exercise enough. That said, it depends on the behavior of your pet. Some dogs have the habit of barely finishing their food even if their bowl is only filled once a day. But if you have an overeater at home, there are toys designed to make it more difficult for dogs to access their food in order to limit this habit and even enable them to recognize signals of satiety. What about treats? Not only is your Bernepoo at risk of becoming overweight if they eat too much, but treats are also not formulated to be balanced like their staple food. If your dog is having trouble with their teeth, you can find large kibbles that will force them to chew more, which will help reduce tartar. When choosing dog food , try it for a month and observe your pet throughout that time. Pay attention to their general condition: the luster of their coat, the condition of their eyes and muzzle, etc. Are they energetic, and playful? If not, this food may not be right for them. Nulo Freestyle may also be perfect for them, although this option is rather expensive. Her deep love for capuchin monkeys, pumas, and kangaroos has taken her worldwide to work and volunteer for several wildlife rehabilitation centers in Bolivia, Guatemala, Canada, and Australia. As a Canadian expat, Genevieve now lives in Argentina, where she wakes up every morning to horses and cows saying hello from the vast plain next to her home office window. She is the proud mom of three rescued dogs, Lemmy, Nala, and Pochi, and a frisky kitten, Furiosa. Having the privilege of sharing her knowledge and passion for animals of all kinds is what makes her fulfilled and happy.Read more Advertisement.

There are so many breeds to choose from; how do you know which one is right for you and your family? Boxers are a medium-sized dog that were originally bred to be guard dogs. Nowadays though, they make ideal family pets as long as you can keep up with all that energy! Generally, boxers have three main colors; white, fawn or brindle. Brindle coloring is a combination of two colors that express themselves as a pattern in the fur. Usually one of the colors is beige or brown and the pattern can be long stripes along the back or shorter, more disturbed stripes. Brindle Boxers are one of the most popular coloring there are, however, the colors and patterns of brindle Boxers can vary dramatically. There is, however, a rarer reverse brindle coloring with a dark background and lighter markings. It is sometimes referred to as an inverted brindle boxer. Sealed Brindle Boxer Now this is the rarest coloring for a Boxer out of them all. They appear black because their black stripes are sealed shut so you can see hardly any fawn at all. Some people try to sell these Boxers as having a black coat but that is not true. It is impossible for Boxers to have a true black coat; those that appear black are actually brindle with very thick, close set black stripes. Flashy Brindle Boxer Boxers often have a white underbelly and white feet. Sometimes the markings go up the neck and onto the face too. This is known as flash. However, white Boxers are not. Brindle Boxers are not rare, they are one of the three standard coloring for the Boxer breed. Certain types of markings and coloring are more rare than others though, like the sealed brindle. Brindle Boxers are prone to certain health problems Like all purebred dogs, there are some health conditions that Boxers are more prone to. To help reduce the risk of your puppy developing these conditions you should always buy from an AKC compliant breeder. They have to adhere to much higher standards than most and will undergo the necessary tests of the parent dogs to help reduce the chances of medical issues in the future. AKC registered breeders will usually cost more than private breeders but they come with more peace of mind about the genetics and the treatment of the parent dogs. Also, there are some pet insurance companies that focus on providing the best insurance for a specific breed, meaning they can cater to the likely health problems of that breed of dog. Alternatively, you could look at the American Boxer Club website. They have a specific page all about breeder referrals. There are even some organizations that specifically re-home Boxers! Wherever you go looking, make sure you have a list of questions you want to ask the breeder about how the dogs have been cared for, tests they may have had etc. If you need a hand coming up with all the appropriate questions you should check out this resource. How do you know if a Boxer is the right dog breed for your lifestyle and situation? Well, there are some common characteristics that most Boxers share which can help you get an idea of what they might be like. However, you have options when it comes to colors. As a matter of fact, Boxers come in three distinctive and stunning colors. No matter the color, they will be gorgeous dogs. In addition, Boxers are bred with 5 different types of coat markings. With that said, the three possible colors of the Boxer include: Fawn Brindle White Furthermore, these dogs can come with distinct markings on their coats. On the contrary, white, brindle and fawn markings are not. Many Boxers you encounter will come with the base colors of fawn or brindle. Fawn Boxer A fawn colored Boxer is perhaps the most popular of the three available Boxer colors. This color is the iconic look of the Boxer. The color fawn is not exclusive to Boxers. Purebreds such as the Beagle or Chihuahua also come in fawn, among many other breeds. Even mixed dog breeds like the Chiweenie or Gerberian Shepsky have this color as well. In a nutshell, fawn is a lighter brown color — almost like a milk chocolate color. However, even this hue of brown can vary depending on the dog. But if it gets a little too dark, it may be encroaching on the brindle color for Boxers. Fawn Boxer Markings Most fawn Boxers will have a sleek brown coat with a black mask and white markings. This Boxer color is attractive and well known among the dog community. Brindle Boxer The brindle colored Boxer is the second most popular color choice for this dog breed and perhaps my favorite color. Still, we categorize it as a general color for simplicity. But what makes it unique is the black colored striping. The stripes can vary in degree of black, either lighter or darker. Also, the stripes can be either thin or thick. There are cases where the stripes are so dark and thick that the Boxer looks like a solid black dog. On the other hand, brindle Boxers with extremely light stripes can look like a fawn Boxer. Brindle Boxer Markings Like with the fawn Boxer, brindle Boxers typically have a black mask with white markings. The black mask refers to the muzzle of the dog. In addition, white markings include areas of the chest, paws, ankles and face. Other instances of markings include brindle Boxers with only the black mask and no white markings. Though not as popular, they are fairly common with brindles. Both of these marking combinations, along with the brindle color, are considered standard and officially recognized. However in the past, white Boxers were widely popular and were officially recognized as a standard color. These colors will continue to be bred as people consider them unique and appealing. Keep in mind, these dogs are not rare and breeders demanding a premium for a white Boxer should be avoided. The white color gene is recessive, so as long as both the mother and father Boxer has this gene, you will get a white Boxer. White Boxer Markings The markings on a white Boxer are much more unpredictable than with a fawn or brindle Boxer. Some white Boxers will be solid white with no markings. Others will have only brindle markings. However, the most common marking is fawn — often a darker shade than usual. As for the placement of these markings, it can also vary as well. It really depends on the dog and parentage in this case. The biggest health condition seen in white Boxers is deafness. This is a rather large percentage for such an important sense associated with canines. The deafness is caused by the lack of pigmented skin in the inner ears of the dog. This leads to atrophy of their nerve endings in the crucial period just weeks after birth. But even if you have a deaf white Boxer, they are still great dogs that are highly trainable. Additionally, a white Boxer will be no different than any other Boxer — even if they are deaf. Some people believe that lacking the ability to hear can make a dog more aggressive. However, there has been no substantial proof that this is the case. Each Boxer has its own personality and temperament, and they have the same chance of developing an aggressive temperament as any other Boxer. This myth is simply not true. Posts you may like:. What Is a Brindle Boxer? The brindle Boxer is a Boxer dog that sports a tiger-striped coat pattern. Its coat has a light-colored base coupled with distinctive stripes of a darker color. The unique appearance of brindle Boxers is primarily associated with a particular recessive gene. Brindling is not unique to the Boxer breed. In fact, there are dozens of other dog breeds that exhibit this eye-catching coloration. Some of them are the French Bulldog, Basenji, and Greyhound. In Boxers, brindling comes in a handful of assortments. A brindle Boxer can be classified based on the shade and color of its coat. Light brindle, golden brindle, fawn brindle, mahogany brindle, and red brindle are some classifications. Moreover, brindle Boxers can also be classified based on the intensity of the brindling pattern on its coat. For this, there are three main classifications: tiger brindle, reverse brindle, and mahogany brindle. Furthermore, there are also the so-called flashy brindle Boxers. These are brindle Boxers with white markings covering at least a third of their bodies. Brindle Boxer dogs are medium-sized pooches with a squared-off build. These dogs have tight-fitting fur, relatively slender limbs, and a slightly sloping topline. On some occasions, a Boxer may also resemble a Bullmastiff. The brindle Boxer comes in a wide variety of coat colors and coat marking combinations. Needless to say, these dogs are pretty diverse in terms of their overall appearance. One thing that brindle Boxers have in common is their full-grown size range. On average, adult brindle Boxers weigh .More often than not, slight weight and height difference is noticeable among male and female Boxers. Males are typically a few pounds heavier and a few inches taller than their female counterparts. In total, there are eight different types of brindle Boxers. These types are mainly based on the different possible Boxer colors that can exhibit brindle markings. Light Brindle Boxer Dog From the name itself, the light brindle Boxer dog is the lightest shade amongst the brindle Boxers. Its coat color is close to tan, just a few shades lighter. Light brindles have dark stripes, which may or may not be accompanied by white patches on the chest area. Often, these dogs are almost indistinguishable from the fawn brindle Boxer. In fact, an untrained eye will find a hard time telling them apart! Fawn Brindle Boxer Dog Speaking of the fawn brindle Boxer, the bossy-looking dog from the image above is a fawn brindle. Its color is closer to the yellowish-tan color fawns are known for. Fun fact: the highest chance of breeding a fawn brindle Boxer is when a non-brindle fawn is mixed with any brindle Boxer. Its coat color is often described as deep, rich, and bold. A mahogany brindle Boxer has nearly the same coat appearance as the Treeing Tennessee Brindle. If a brindle Boxer has at least one-third of its coat covered with white patches, it is automatically considered a flashy brindle Boxer. In fact, there is no such thing as a purebred black Boxer. This color is a very dark shade of brown. Are Brindle Boxers Rare? In general, brindle Boxers are not considered rare. However, some variants of the brindle Boxers may be harder to find than others. For example, seal brindle Boxers are considered the rarest due to their unique genetics and difficulty to breed. Unsurprisingly, seal brindle Boxers often come with the highest price tag among all the Boxer dogs. These pooches typically sell for a few hundred dollars more compared to other brindles. Seal brindle Boxers are dogs with a nearly black-colored coat with dark striped markings. On a different note, it is a common belief in the pet community that white Boxers are the rarest, but this is far from the truth. Similarly, reverse brindle Boxers are also often mistaken as a rare color of the Boxer. While these pups are incredibly eye-catching, they are actually pretty standard. As for the rest of the brindle Boxers and other Boxer colors, in general, they are all relatively mainstream. This means it is pretty easy to find the Boxer color you are eyeing for! Like all dogs, brindle Boxers inherit their coat color from their parents. Genetically, a Boxer can only be either fawn or brindle. The color variations and flash markings in brindle Boxers are due to pigmentation cells. Statistically speaking, there is a significantly greater chance that a Boxer is born with a brindle coat rather than a fawn coat. The reason behind this is that a brindle coat is more dominant than a fawn coat. To review, a dog carries two sets of color genes. For Boxers, these are combinations of recessive fawn bb , non-dominant brindle Bb , and dominant brindle BB. Meanwhile, combining a non-dominant brindle Bb with a dominant brindle BB will result in brindle puppies. As you can see, breeding brindle puppies is relatively straightforward. While this is an overly simplified summary, this is basically what breeders do to breed brindle Boxers. In fact, all the color variants of the brindle Boxers are accepted by the AKC. The truth is, if you have a flashy brindle Boxer, you may be out of luck. In the latter part of the AKC Boxer breed standards, it is stated explicitly that Boxers with white markings covering at least one-third of the body shall be disqualified. That said, semi-flashy brindle Boxers should still be able to register with no problems. If you have doubts or questions regarding the breed standards, you may reach out to the AKC through their dog registration page. The perks of having your Boxer AKC-registered include eligibility in pet shows, agility contests, and more. Brindle Boxers are loyal, intelligent, and highly trainable. While these pooches may seem timid at first, they can get real boisterous at times! The brindle Boxer, much like the rest of the Boxer family, needs about one to two hours of exercise a day. This dog is perfect for you if you love exercising outdoors. Jogging, playing fetch, hiking, and swimming are activities brindle Boxers enjoy. However, it is worth noting that Boxers are intolerant of extreme temperatures. That said, be sure to work out with your dog outdoors only when the weather is good! If you have kids and plan to add a brindle Boxer to your family, you can do so with relative ease. Boxer dogs can get along with kids and pets as long as they are raised alongside them. However, it is crucial to train your Boxer to see your kids as a figure of authority. It will help if you do this early on while your Boxer is still a puppy. Another thing to take note of about brindle Boxers is that they drool a lot. This may or may not be an issue to you, but it is worth mentioning! On average, the Boxer is a pretty healthy dog breed. This lifespan applies to all Boxer colors, including the brindle Boxer. However, not all Boxers are born equal. Unfortunately, some Boxers are born with life-altering health issues or congenital conditions that drastically reduce their life expectancy. Aside from congenital issues, there are also other conditions to watch out for. Below are some of the common health issues of brindle Boxer dogs: Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a physical condition characterized by the misalignment of the ball-and-socket joint. This condition causes excruciating pain, deteriorating posture, or inactivity. Hip dysplasia is often genetic, and many breeders strive to eliminate this condition from their litter. Kidney Disease: Boxers are one of the dogs that are predisposed to chronic kidney disease. In fact, many studies suggest that kidney disease is inheritable in the Boxer breed. A Boxer with kidney disease will show signs of vomiting, sudden weight loss, increased urination, and increased thirst. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is the medical term used to describe an improperly working thyroid gland. A Boxer suffering from hypothyroidism will experience a slow-down in bodily functions. This condition manifests in the form of weight loss, slow heart rate, and high blood cholesterol. Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition in dogs characterized by an irregular heartbeat. This health issue is most evident in Boxers that are around two years of age. Cardiomyopathy needs urgent medical attention as it can lead to heart failure or even sudden death. This disease targets the nervous system of a dog and interferes with muscular control. Often, a Boxer dog with DM will find difficulty moving its rear quarters. Among the list of health issues in brindle Boxers, those mentioned above are the most common. As a Boxer parent, you must recognize the symptoms of these health issues early on. While some of these are curable, others are fatal. It is also essential to watch out for canine diabetes , canine obesity , and bloat. These are life-altering conditions all dogs are at risk of, including brindle Boxers. Brindle Boxers are around the same price as other Boxer colors, such as white and fawn Boxers. However, one particular variant of the brindle Boxer is always priced higher than the average. This odd one out is the so-called seal brindle Boxer. This color variant is the darkest possible color of Boxer dogs. For the longest time, black Boxers have been one of the biggest fantasies of Boxer fanatics. These dogs are also the most controversial color of the Boxer. Some breeders take advantage of this controversy and perceived rarity to sell black brindle Boxers for more. Snagging the 14th spot, the Boxer is just one place below the adorable Yorkshire Terrier. Needless to say, these dogs are basically celebrities! But where can you buy one? However, you should always be careful in picking a breeder. It is recommended to only buy or adopt from reputable sources. To make it a bit easier for you, we have listed the best places to find brindle Boxer puppies! Boxers raised by this breeder get to enjoy their massive two-acre property! Be sure to check out brindle Boxers from this breeder! This breeder specializes in raising and selling European and American Boxer dogs. This rescue indeed has tons of brindle Boxers you can check out. This rescue has a couple of brindle Boxers from time to time. If you are interested in adopting from them, feel free to check out their adoption process on their website. This rescue has helped approximately 10, purebred Boxers and Boxer mixes ever since. If you live in Arizona, this rescue is the one to check out! Adopt-a-Pet — Adopt-a-Pet is a pet adoption platform with one of the largest databases of adoptable pets. On their website, you can narrow down your search using their advanced filters. You can look for specific brindle Boxer dogs based on location, gender, size, and more. Firstly, you can check out our round-up of best Boxer breeders and best Boxer rescues for adoption. Moreover, you may also opt to outsource from other Boxer owners. You can do this by joining Facebook groups and Reddit communities that share a common interest in Boxer dogs. Other pet enthusiasts in the group will surely lend a hand! Boxers are short-coated dogs with a single layer of fur. While it might be tempting to think that they are hypoallergenic, they are not. In fact, these pooches are still considered medium-to-high shedders. One interesting thing about the Boxer breed is that it is known for grooming itself. You will often find this dog cleaning itself many times throughout the day. But since they still shed, these pups are not recommended for pet owners with sensitive allergies. On most occasions, fawn Boxers are also called tan Boxers. Interestingly, Boxers come in a wide variety of patterns and markings. This includes black masks, white markings, and brindling. Boxer dogs make excellent companions. These pooches are loyal, lovable, intelligent, trainable, and pretty famous, too! However, if you want a slightly more eye-catching pet, you may want to take a look at the brindle Boxers. Brindle Boxers come in plenty of color variations. 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. There are some Boxers that appear to be black. However, a solid black coat is not indicative of the breed. So, how can this be? Read more about what markings and patterns can cause a black-like coat. Fawn- What exactly is the color fawn in regard to dogs? This sample is a typical fawn. However, as you will see, fawn is a range of hues. To the right below on mobile is a medium fawn is the standard hue when referring to this terminology. With nice white flash markings on the chest and with black on the muzzle, this Boxer meets color breed standard very well. Brindle - What is brindle? Brindle is not technically a color, it is a pattern. The base is fawn and there is striping. The stripes may be light or dark, and density of the striping can range from thin to thick. Some brindles will look almost fawn and some will appear so dark that they look black. This Boxer shows the standard brindle striping. With white on his chest, paws and ankles and black on the muzzle, this Boxer also meets breed standards perfectly. This is a red fawn Boxer. As you can see, this fawn is darker and deeper than that the common tan fawn; producing a slight shading of red. What a gorgeous coat. This Boxer is a dark brindle. As you can see, with dark brindle the black is over powering the fawn color. The black striping in this pattern is heavy; which would be called a reverse or even a seal. Which simply means that the dog is not officially a solid fawn; he is a mix of colors. Seal - The Boxer dog you see here on the left is Vesta; this color is often referred to as seal. This is a super tight brindle. Siennna, right, is a fawn. Photo courtesy of Nancy Dark Brindle Boxer. Turkish, at 7 years old, photo courtesy of Renata Boxer Dog Flash The white markings on this breed are called "flash". If a Boxer has a moderate amount, one often refers to this as semi-flashy. Those with prominent white on a good portion of the coat are called flashy. No Markings? Not all Boxers have white markings. These are known as plain Boxers, but the term is misleading, as it refers to the genes at work. Read more: Boxers without White Markings Brindle Explanation Brindle one of the colors of this breed is actually a pattern. Stripes running through the coat partial or full is brindling. These are often black hairs, but may be any color that is a darker shade than the hairs that run under it. Depending on the exact color of these brindling pattern stripes, one may refer to a Boxer using one of the following terms listed in order from a very light brindle to a heavy dark striping : Light super light. They make it so darn easy to fall in love with! Boxers are affectionate, a little goofy, and always ready to play. They pretty much agree on all the major points. Remember that these organizations set the bar for competition for confirmation to the essence of the breed. Each one has a group of criteria by which they are judged. It includes things like general appearance, body shape, coat, and color. Think of it as kind of a buzz cut for dogs. Going over your pup with a hound glove or curry brush regularly will help keep it in check. His fur should be shiny and feel smooth. The Boxer is fussy about their appearance and will keep themselves clean. The 3 Boxer Colors: Boxers come in three colors, although these can be mixed and matched into different combinations. Those 3 colors are: 1. The density of the black can vary from barely noticeable to almost dark brown. Genetics handles the pattern and thickness of the striping. The darker colors pop against the light. They set a limit of up to one-third of it. They are not desirable on the back or flanks. The Boxer, after all, has a long to maintain. They may have the black muzzle with the color extending up toward their eyes. The shade can range anywhere from buff to chestnut brown. The rest of the official standard reads similarly to the part describing Brindle Boxers. A dog that is all Fawn is acceptable in the show ring. Markings of the Fawn Boxer Likewise, there are the same restrictions on the proportion of white on the Fawn Boxer. The goal is to keep that definitive look that the breed has. We have to agree. This hue has been with the breed for hundreds of years. For a while, it was accepted as part of the standard. The personality of the pup is also a part of these criteria. In Germany, Boxers followed their earlier history as a guard dog. The decision was merely a cosmetic one. Some people equate it with albino, which technically is not valid. A White Boxer usually has brown eyes and a black nose. If it were an albino, it would lack the pigmentation for those colors. Instead, his nose and pads would be pink. As an aside, albinoism is a disqualification in the show ring. White Boxers often have other black markings on them. However, is the white color a problem? Many breeds have a predisposition to one or more congenital health issues. Reputable breeders will pre-screen parent dogs and their litters for the ones most common in that line. They also provide recommendations for testing. Dogs that test positive for specific conditions are not bred to reduce the incidence in the population. Unfortunately, the white color of the Boxer carries some of these problems. To be clear, some of them are not exclusive to this breed. The issues with the White Boxer and others of this ilk result from the lack of pigment. Besides detracting from his appearance, it can make the dog more likely to go blind. It can also cause deafness. The pooch may also get sunburned more quickly, which can increase his risk of cancer. All of these things seem like compelling reasons not to breed White Boxers. There is a happy ending to the story. However, they still discourage breeding them. While the risk for genetic issues exists, any color of dog can make a delightful pet. Owning a Boxer—or any pup—is a serious responsibility. The lovable disposition of the breed makes it an easy thing to do. Final Thoughts The Boxer is a handsome dog, no matter if they are fawn, brindle, or white. They are happy and friendly pooches that will make excellent pets and faithful companions for you and your children. They are always a bit of a character, which makes owning one a fun experience with new adventures every day. Featured Image Credit: Pikist.

We are the proud parents of the smartest, sweetest, most laid back lab, Gracie. Steve Karp and family are incredible to work with and truly care for their puppies and the families who adopt from them. If I could give stars, I would! If you're searching for a lab, look no further. Kara Bunbury We cannot say enough great things about M. Steve is very hands on throughout the entire process- sending weekly updates until the pups come home and remaining in contact thereafter. Everywhere we go people ask what breeder he came from. We got many very cute updates on our soon to be little puppy. We feel honored to be apart of the Michigan Elite Labrador family! Jill Price We were looking for a pure bred lab but were very skeptical about many breeders until we found Michigan Elite Labs. We knew after our first contact with them we found the breeder we were looking for. Stan is 10 months old and we love him to pieces. If you are looking for a pure bred lab you have found the perfect breeder. We would never think of going anywhere but Michigan Elite to get a Lab. Steve is always just a phone call away if you have any questions. Steve is very knowledgeable about his Labrador Retrievers. If you want an amazing Labrador puppy check out Michigan Elite Labradors you will be glad you did! From the first contact with Steve, you are reassured with their dedication to the breed and the MEL family that you become a part of. It's said that one of the best signs of a "good product" is repeat customers. We're proud to be an example of that, with 2 MEL dogs in our home. Temperament, physical health and the characteristics of MEL dogs are perfection. The added benefit of the MEL owners group is also a great perk. We've made amazing friends through the group, which is reinforced each year at the annual reunion. I would not hesitate to recommend Michigan Elite Labradors to family and friends! We looked at all of the photos and knew we would get a beautiful pup but didnt expect all of the wonderful traits they would have. We ended up getting 2! They are beyond my wildest dreams of what a pet should be.So intuitive! When ive had issues, steve has been a phone call away with the answers. Best babies around.You wont be sorry! I believe we were part his second litter and his biggest litter with Cocco and Chopper 14 pups. Both of the parents were beautiful and on site when we went to pick out our first "Pink Collar" girl. We picked up our second "Pink Collar" girl in late .They have become best friends from the beginning. They have never fought or growled at each other and play very well together. The Karp's are very caring and knowledgeable about the Labrador breed. Any questions I have ever had Steve has always been there to guide me and teach me. His extended MEL family has been very inspiring and amusing as we all watch the pups grow into beautiful pets. Kris Thompson Michigan Elite Labradors are wonderful. We had a great experience working with the Karp family. Our little black lab has brought us so many blessings! They are the most wonderful family and breeders. They are extremely reputable and involved with every pup. Steve is always available to you. I called so many times. He is conscientious and really cares about where his puppies go. He is beyond gorgeous. As a matter of fact, I can honestly say that I have never seen better looking labs. Elite labs are very intelligent and have excellent temperaments. Jax was potty trained right away. When I got a trainer, He learned everything immediately. She was so impressed with him and shocked how well he did. She trains Leader of the Blinds dogs so it was a huge compliment coming from her. We have people stop us everywhere to ask if he is a show dog. One of them was a breeder. Another huge bonus is the all the relationships we have made amongst the Elite family. I love all the stories and pictures. Many of us got together for a Michigan Elite Lab's Reunion. All the dogs were gorgeous fun and well behaved. Even all the parents were a blast. I could go on and on about Michigan Elite Labs, but most important is the fact I would never get a dog from anyone else! We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us. For nearly 50 years we have produced English Labradors in the true style of the all-around dog they were meant to be. Our ultimate goal has been a beautiful dog conforming to breed standards with soundness of temperament and body. Our Labradors retain the hunting ability that has made them the supreme hunting retriever. This intelligent, well-tempered dog is a perfect family companion and service dog. We are pleased to not only have many of our On The Bluff Labradors in pet, show and hunting homes, but also used as guide dogs for the disabled and specialist for airscent detection. Our breeding program strives for perfection in every litter. We use the highest quality stud dogs with a background of multiple Grand Champions. We combine their linage with the outstanding genetics of our females. The result are not just cute, adorable puppies, but dogs that can be well trained, healthy companions for a lifetime. We have never lost sight of our initial goal to produce the perfect Labrador- in mind and body. Feel free to email us for additional information or to get on a waiting list for one of our puppies. Staffed by professional trainers- each puppy receives several weeks and hundreds of hours of individual lessons- Obedience Training, House Living Training, Group Socialization, and Outside Etiquette. We believe our unique training methods and individualized programs sets us apart from any other breeder. Here you will find many adorable pictures of our current puppies. Visit our Facebook page for more pics! Louis, and Indianapolis to name just a few. All of our lab puppies in Chicago and St. Louis for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our Labrador retrievers in St. Louis to ensure that we are only producing healthy Labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well-loved, and well-cared-for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We operate quite a bit differently than the majority of other breeders. We hold a VERY high standard here in regards to health, conformation and temperament. We always have a goal in mind when we perform a breeding. Those breeders are not breeding to better the Labrador breed or produce quality, well-bred lab puppies, they are simply producing puppies to sell and make a profit from. We own mostly females here and we use outside males stud service to cover our females. This gives us a huge advantage when choosing the perfect male for a particular female. Each female will need something different in a mate and using one male will not be sufficient for every female if a breeder is true to themselves and is breeding for a purpose. For example, you have a chocolate female but she is lacking in something whether it be coat, bone, length of leg, too long of loin, carries her tail too high, eye color is too light, etc. She is going to need a specific male to help improve those imperfections. If you have one or even a couple of males on your property and none of them have what your female needs, you are not doing the breed any justice by mating two dogs together that do not compliment each other correctly. Breeding correctly and responsibly can be very complicated, stressful and very expensive. Another important thing to consider is health testing. Do you know the genetics of your female and your male? Is one or the other or maybe both of them carriers of a certain genetic disease? Will you be producing affected lab puppies by mating these two dogs together? Genetic testing is extremely important and necessary! We specialize in producing lab puppies from high quality show lines which are commonly known as the English Labrador Retrievers. We have also been blessed with some exceptionally well bred American Labrador Retrievers which can be referred to as field labs. All of our lab puppies for sale are loved unconditionally from the minute they are born up until the day they join their new families. As a responsible and reputable lab breeder in Illinois, we genetically health test all of our labrador retrievers to ensure that we are only producing healthy labrador puppies for sale. If you are looking to add a happy, healthy, well loved and well cared for lab puppy to your family, you have come to the right place! We would love for you to join our lab puppy family and see for yourself why we are one of the best Labrador breeders in Illinois. We have chocolate, black and yellow puppies available now as well as some older pups! We only produce lab puppies in the 3 recognized colors by the american kennel club and labrador retriever club. We are dedicated to improving and protecting the labrador retriever breed. If you love labrador retrievers and would like to bring one into your family, you have come to the right place! Louis and Chicago are a popular choice for individuals who need companionship, active families, hunters and also for the serious competitor.

See license below. He was my best friend, went everywhere with me, and my childhood friends all, to this day, remember him. When Casey passed away in , I spent considerable time looking for someone to fill that void. Jonny pictured at top as a puppy was my next love. The pictures of both Casey and Jondog hang in our shop to remind us why we do what we do. We ask for a nonrefundable down payment that will be applied to the full cost of your puppy. Once we have a deposit, we send you information specific to your chosen puppy. This includes information on your deposit, vaccination schedule, registration, and health check information. Our pups are also microchipped. We do not accept checks. Payment is taken through Paypal for your and our protection. Sales tax is calculated through the paypal system based on the amount of purchase and our zip code percentage of 8. Price of the pups vary based on breed and registration preference. Call us to discuss your specific preferences. Order of selection is done by order of deposits received at weeks of age. Also note the link to our Facebook page to your right. Thank you for your interest in our pups!! Manhattan, KS gotgamebirddogs outlook. Please protect yourself and ensure you are dealing with us. We do not take responsibility for the actions of scammers. We have answers. What are Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Manhattan like? A Golden Retriever is a beloved breed of energetic, affectionate, intelligent dogs that can make wonderful family pets and loyal companions. They have a reputation of being gentle, patient and tolerant, making them a perfect breed for families with children of all ages. With their distinctive golden coats, they are easily recognizable and make a great addition to any home. While they do require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, they are incredibly friendly and love to be around people. Golden Retrievers have a life expectancy of years and can be easily trained and taught basic obedience skills. Will Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Manhattan cause me to have allergies? Whether or not Golden Retrievers will cause a person to have allergies is largely dependent on the individual. It is important to note that even if you have never experienced allergies to other animals, it is still possible to develop an allergy to a Golden Retriever. People have different sensitivities when it comes to their immune system, and if you are prone to allergies, it is likely that you will experience some sort of reaction when exposed to a Golden Retriever. Do Manhattan Golden Retriever puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Golden Retrievers do have special dietary needs that owners should be aware of. Their diets should include a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. While store-bought kibble is suitable for most Golden Retrievers, some may require dietary adjustments due to allergies or other health concerns. It's best to consult your veterinarian for advice on what foods are best for your pet. More active dogs may need higher-calorie diets, while those that are less active may do well with lower-calorie foods. Am I ready to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Manhattan? To get ready for your new Golden Retriever, it's important to take a few necessary steps. Firstly, make sure the areas most frequented by your pup are puppy-proofed and free of items that could be accidentally chewed or eaten. Additionally, find an area in your home to designate for your Golden Retriever's crate, bed or nap spot. Make sure it is comfortable, ventilated and not in a room that is too hot or too cold. What sizes do Golden Retrievers for sale in Manhattan come in? Golden Retrievers typically come in three sizes: standard, medium, and miniature. The standard size stands up to 23 inches at the shoulder and typically weighs between 65 and 75 pounds. The medium-sized Golden Retriever is smaller than the standard size, usually weighing between 40 and 55 pounds and standing between 18 and 21 inches at the shoulder. As the smallest of the three sizes, the miniature Golden Retriever stands between 10 and 14 inches at the shoulder and weighs around 15 to 40 pounds. Are Golden Retriever puppies near Manhattan active dogs? Yes, Golden Retrievers are considered an active breed of dog. They have an outgoing personality, boundless energy, and are always ready to be your companion on long walks, hikes outside, and even a run around the block. These happy-go-lucky dogs thrive on human contact, whether its patting, playing, or a simple smile. They also need plenty of mental stimulation, making interactive games like tug of war and fetch particularly suitable for their active minds as well as their bodies. Do Golden Retrievers in Manhattan make good family dogs? Golden Retrievers have beautiful, gentle dispositions that make them perfect family dogs. They are also highly intelligent and eager to please which makes them easy to train. Golden Retrievers form strong bonds with their humans and are known to be incredibly loyal. They generally get along well with other animals, so they can fit harmoniously into a multi-pet household. As an added bonus, they are extremely lovable and can provide hours of entertainment. A Golden Retriever is sure to make any family complete. Is training Manhattan Golden Retrievers for sale easy? Training a Golden Retriever can be relatively easy, depending on the individual dog and the owner's commitment. Like any intelligent breed, a Golden Retriever's success is largely contingent on their owner's devotion to consistent, repetitive training. If the owner is willing to give the pup the time and dedication necessary to reinforce commands and learn basic obedience, Golden Retrievers have the potential to be very obedient and loyal companions. Furthermore, their placid and endearing personalities often make them open to new instructions and eager to please.

The perfect combination! But how often should you bathe a Labradoodle, anyway? And how to do it? First of all, regular grooming and brushing is crucial to prevent matting and tangling, which can quickly turn into a matted mess if left unattended. And believe us, no one wants to deal with a miserably tangled pup! Speaking of bathtime, regular bathing helps to remove dirt, debris, and any lingering odors that your pup may have picked up on their outdoor romps. With a little TLC and some time spent in the tub, your Labradoodle will smell fresh, which is obviously nice for both of you. Just make sure to use a dog shampoo, as human shampoos can strip their skin of precious oils and cause unwanted skin irritations. Did you know that you can use special shampoos for targeted care? So grab that brush, fill up the tub, and show your pup some grooming love today! Labradoodles come in either curly, wavy, or straight coats, depending on which genetics they inherit from each of their purebred parents. Curly coats tend to trap in dirt, debris, and loose dog hair, which can quickly lead to stubborn knots and tangles inside the fur. Then we have the wavy combination coat, that may shed some hair, depending on whether they have an undercoat or not. These pups usually come with a double coat, which means that some shedding may be present. Fortunately, you can keep this at a minimum by regularly brushing your Labradoodle. It goes without saying that Labradoodles really shine with their long and fluffy coats, giving them that signature Doodle look. However, long hair also requires more brushing and bathing. This helps prevent matting, but also get rid of any build-up dirt, dander, loose dog hair, and debris from the coat. On the other hand, shorter hair is usually easier to manage and maintain. And for other pups, washing them every two months is perfectly enough! But if your Labradoodle struggles with skin dryness or irritations, then bathing them too often could lead to more problems down the line. We recommend you start bathing your Labradoodle as soon as possible. In fact, many reputable Labradoodle breeders already start basic grooming, such as brushing, nail trimming, and bathing even before adoption. Just make sure you continue with this at home so that your pooch can get used to it. For this step, we recommend you also get a dog detangler spray , which will help you get the job done much faster. The next logical question would be — how to brush a Labradoodle? First, you want to run your fingers through all areas of the fur. If you find any knots, first work on each of them individually with a sturdy metal comb. Make sure you never pull on the hair! Start from the feet and paws, moving your way up towards the belly and neck, and finish with the back. Be sure to start brushing from the tip of the hair and then moving up towards the root to prevent any tangles getting worse. One of our favorite methods for Doodles is line brushing — say goodbye to any knots and tangles! Start out by putting a little bit of warm water in the bottom of your bathtub so that your pup can just stand in it. You might even want to let them sniff and inspect it first. If your Dood seems all good, you can turn on the showerhead while petting them at the same time. Having a few tasty treats at hand can also be helpful here! For the ears, we recommend putting cotton balls right at the opening of the ear canals. This will prevent any water from getting into the ears. Make sure that the water temperature is just right — not too hot and not too cold. By thoroughly rinsing the coat beforehand, the shampoo can also lather up nice and easy. Apply a generous amount of your chosen dog shampoo and lather it up all over the coat. Make sure you properly massage the shampoo into the fur so that you can get all areas clean. Also, be mindful of areas like the armpits and groin, as some people tend to overlook them. This is also a great opportunity for you to check for any lumps and bumps under the skin. Again, make sure you use warm water and thoroughly rinse off all areas of the fur, especially armpits and groin, where the suds tend to collect. For obvious reasons, we recommend a tearless dog shampoo for the facial area. You might want to pay some extra attention to areas that tend to get dirty, such as the muzzle and beard. Since the face can be a bit tricky, it might take some time to thoroughly rinse off all that shampoo. Apply a decent amount of conditioner with your hands all over the fur. Although conditioning the head and face is optional, it is recommended for curly-coated Labradoodles. This way, the product gets into all areas of the fur, but also prevents tangling. Again, pay extra attention to those hard-to-reach areas that we tend to overlook. Before you jump in with a towel, let your pooch shake all that excess water off themself. Then, you can gently squeeze out any excess water from areas with longer hair with your hands. Then, take your towel and start gently, yet firmly patting your Labradoodle dry all over. You should start with the lowest power and temperature settings. If necessary, you can gradually increase the settings, but the temperature should never get too hot. Also, keep in mind that some pups can get scared of noisy blow dryers. You can also use a leave-in dog conditioner or a dog detangler spray and brush it through the fur to keep the coat tangle-free and luscious for longer. We recommend you use a specially formulated dog ear cleaner for this step, as Labradoodles and other Poodle mixes are prone to ear infections due to the restricted air flow inside their ears. It goes without saying that you should never use a human shampoo on your pooch, as it could lead to skin irritations, dryness, and a host of other issues. We recommend you check out our in-depth guide on the best shampoos for Labradoodles , where we have some excellent recommendations for different skin and coat concerns. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Australian Labradoodle Grooming Guide Choosing a Groomer Before you bring your Australian Labradoodle to the groomer, ask if they have had previous experience clipping Australian Labradoodles. Show your groomer some photos from our website so that they know exactly how you expect the clip to look. Labradoodle coats require a regular brushing and grooming routine. How often you have your Australian Labradoodle trimmed will depend on how fast their coat grows, your personal preferences in how long you leave them, how much maintenance you want to do at home, and how often you have them groomed professionally. You can expect to bathe and completely blow out their coat every weeks, and plan to have them trimmed approximately every weeks. For an adult Australian Labradoodle, you should allow on average, 60 minutes every two weeks for brushing time. If your Labradoodle is active in the water or hiking in nature areas, you may have to run a brush through them more often to remove debris or loosen hair clumping during the drying process post-swimming. Wait until your dog is dry, then run a slicker through their coat. Purchasing a small grooming table and arm, and training them to stand still during brushing and drying will save your back. But be warned that you need to always have a hand on your dog when they are on the grooming table or attached to a grooming arm. Never leave them or turn away or they can try to jump off the table and injure themselves. When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair by adding a metal greyhound comb. If loose hair is not removed near the skin, mats can begin to form. In separating your dogs coat with your hand, you can brush and comb all the way to the skin. Work backwards from the feet up to the body, and the tail to the head. Brush in the direction of the hair, but add small amounts of coat to each stroke. At approximately eight months old a puppy coat needs more frequent brushing during its changeover to the adult coat. Bathing: Australian Labradoodles need bathed and brushed out approximately once a month. Puppies can be bathed as needed. If you are going to bath your Australian Labradoodle at home, be sure to brush through the coat completely first. If you do it the other way around, any mats will get tighter when you get them wet. Also, watch that you do not pull on the mat while you are cutting it, and be aware of how closely the skin may be to your scissors. We also use a dematting tool to help break a mat into a smaller piece for easier removal. Then brush, comb, or gently work any mats out. Purchasing a commercial hair dryer is worth the investment and will speed up the drying process. Head: The lovable teddy bear look of your Australian Labradoodle is enjoyed every time you look at them, and every time you take them out and others look at them. No matter what length the body is trimmed, that adorable teddy bear face can make up the difference in winning hearts everywhere they go. A picture is worth a thousand words, so the photos and grooming card below coming soon will help to clarify the following worded instructions you will need to convey to your groomer to get exactly the look you want to see. It is best to print out the grooming card and take it with you at each visit to your groomer. This creates a more natural look and keeps the hair from poking at or covering their eyes. It also makes it easier to clean any matter out from the corner in the morning. Feet: Keeping your Labradoodles paws shaped nicely will help less water and debris attach to their feet as they are coming and going. We start trimming around their paws by around weeks of age to get them used to the action of having their feet picked up and worked with. You want to go around the bottom edge of their paw in a nice, rounded shape, snipping off longer hair so that it does not hit the ground. Your groomer can trim hair from the bottom of their feet with a clipper and a 30 blade. Nails should be trimmed regularly every weeks depending on wear. The hair under their tail should also be trimmed to keep the area clean. Labradoodles need to be bathed every two to three weeks. This will help clean their fur and allow you to check their skin. Dogs can get dirty really easily, and they need regular grooming to remove dirt and dust from their coats. Bathing your Labradoodle is not only essential to keep them clean and healthy, it helps to prevent hair knots and matting As a single coated and low shedding breed, Labradoodles will require deep rinsing when they are bathed. A small Doodle puppy having a bath Regular brushing, bathing, and groomings are all different things. Grooms include the trimming of the fur, and is usually done together with bathing or directly before. Groom every weeks for most Labradoodle coats Bathing helps with both aesthetics, coat health, and prevention of skin conditions Brushing for a wavy or curly coat LAbradoodle should be at least every few days the more the merrier If you own a straight coat Labradoodle shedding you should consider how much shedding is happening. If it is a higher shedding season, you should bathe and groom your dog more frequently to assist in shedding. Also, if your dog spends a lot of time outside, he gets dirty with sweat, mud, pollens, or sticks. He needs a more frequent grooming routine. This causes your dog to itch. Grooming for Labradoodles like Max after the beach means thorough rinsing with fresh water, followed by a Gentle Shampoo and brush at home. Labradoodle puppies need bathing just the same as full-grown Labradoodles. However a spot clean here and there is usually more appropriate for a puppy. They frequently make messes so a full bath is overkill and can hurt the coat. Puppies love playing in the dirt. This is normal behavior. Puppies often also struggle with potty training Puppies make a beeline toward bad smells and messes So expect a lot of spot cleans and mini baths for your Labradoodle puppy. How Old Should Labradoodle Puppies Be For Bath In terms of a full bath, you can start bathing your puppy when he or she is old enough to understand what is happening. Make sure you do this in an appropriate place, such as a bathtub or sink. Puppies need to learn about water before being bathed, so try to teach your puppy to enjoy baths. Do this by slowly introducing the concept, making it seem fun, and minimizing background distractions. Bathing dogs in a smaller container makes them feel more comfortable. These small gestures all work well together to create and reinforce a positive experience. Instead of using adult Labradoodle shampoo — go for a gentle puppy shampoo or even some baby shampoos if they are Vet and Groomer approved. Straight hair dogs still can have some Poodle-esque snout furnishings. This one needs a bath! A Labradoodle needs to be groomed and trimmed about once every two months. Trimming the hair around the face, butt, and ears is important because this is where most dirt accumulates. Our detailed grooming guide for Labradoodles gives 11 tips for DIY grooming. It is very possible to confidently groom a Labradoodle, but it takes preparation and practice. How to Bathe Your Labradoodle Bathing your Labradoodle takes longer than bathing many other breeds because of their thick coats. You should set aside some time before you bathe your Labradoodle so you can prepare everything you need beforehand. Some Labradoodles LOVE the water and playing fetch At Home Labradoodle Bathing Shopping List A decent shampoo that suits Labradoodle coats does not need to be crazy expensive Towels many, many towels Scissors even though we are not grooming, in case of knots or surprises Rubber gloves I do not use but many do Dog brush optional — I suggest a metal comb as well Small bucket for rinsing Tear stain remover if your Labradoodle has a light coat The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath by putting some water in the bottom of a tub and allowing him to stand in it. Turn on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting him. Make sure he sees it is not harmful and allows him to get used to the sound and feel. Rinse first before adding any product. Sand, dirt, debris. Make sure the water gets to the skin level through the long coat. Once you are able to get the dogs completely rinsed off so that there is no visible dirt left on the fur and their coats are entirely wet , you will then want to lather them up with the product of your choosing. Labradoodle Max enjoys a cuddle in a towel after a shower and bath Make sure that this product is safe to use on your dog by checking with a veterinarian or by using products that were specifically designed for your furry friend. Use this opportunity to perform your own health check. Rinse your dog with water from the tap or small bucket and inspect them thoroughly before washing them again. Twice over gives a thorough and great result. This might seem obvious, but make sure there are no more bubbles coming out of the coat. Labradoodle luxurious hair does tend to trap some soap. Dry Time a Challenge Drying a Labradoodle is hard work! You need to use lots of towels, and you need to be careful not to scare your puppy too much. Use a hairdryer if you like, and be careful when turning it on. Also, take extra care to dry their eyes and ears. Most dogs find the noise of a hairdryer overwhelming. Brush a dry dog only. A wet dog can be combed blunt steel comb though, these are so helpful. You should bathe your dog fully when he is 3 months old. Use quality puppy shampoo and conditioners designed for puppies. You can skip the conditioner really — but some owners like this extra step. Before 3 months, you should get him used to being wet and having been washed. Do mini baths or fast baths for the puppy coat until this age. This helps make future baths much easier. Even getting used to the running water and towel dry will help your dog be happier as an adult doodle during a grooming session. The Consequences of too Many Baths for Labradoodles If you wash a Labradoodle too frequently, we risk damaging their adult coat. The coat needs time to grow and develop properly. If you wash your dog too often, you could damage its natural protective oils and leave it feeling rough and scratchy. The likelihood of skin irritation or reaction to cleaning equipment also increased with an over-washed coat. Dry skin, loose hair, and irritated skin need to be monitored. Realistically this will not be a concern for most of us. Our Labradoodle Max does visit the beach often, so he gets washed in Summer FAR more frequently than the other times of the year. We try to efficiently wash him using safe and gentle shampoo — but cut down the repeat lathering. When winter comes round, he bathes far less frequently — but we use more shampoo and later more when he does wash. A happy gray Poodle and Doodle dog. Their fur looks dull and lifeless. The entire coat has an odor If you have a sedentary, indoor Labradoodle — do NOT feel obliged to bathe your dog every 2 weeks. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labrador by starting early and introducing him to water gently. Use treats and praises to introduce him to all elements of the bathing process. A dog needs to learn how to take baths, shampoo, conditioner, wash rags, brushes, and blow dryer. It takes time and effort to teach a dog everything he or she needs to know about bathing. Start with a few short baths then gradually increase the frequency. Be patient. Dogs and puppies can take many different attempts to understand and learn a new concept. Should you blow-dry a Labradoodle coat? Start by using a gentle hairdryer setting. I know this sounds ridiculous as even the quiet settings are often very intense. But as possible, build up the settings slowly. Start with the outside of the legs — most dogs tolerate this the most. Then dry the legs. Save the head, chest, and face for the very last. The restraint is calming a bit and safe and makes maneuvering around a displeased Labradoodle much easier. It is the only area that requires you to have a little extra knowledge and to be cautious. We have a guide specifically about ear cleaning. A big number of issues that Labradoodles have with health and odor all relate to the ears. Ear infections are common, as are grime and mites caught in the ear hair. The Curly coat type is particularly prone to this issue. It was the most surprising area of grooming that I have encountered with Poodle Mix breeds. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. It is important to realize that regular brushing, bathing, and grooming are different things. Grooming includes the trimming of the hair, and is usually done in tandem with bathing or directly after but does not need to happen quite as frequently, although you are welcome to do so if you would like. Bathing helps you check in on your Labradoodle, maintain their coat from tangling, and keeps them healthy and clean. Labradoodles should be bathed every 2 to 3 weeks but can go up to 4 or 5 weeks depending on the time of year and their other grooming habits. For example, a dog will shed more in the fall and spring as he or she prepares for the cold or hot weather respectively; you will want to bathe him or her more during this time. Bathing your Labradoodle regularly helps you take care of their hair and also allows you to inspect all areas of their body. You will want to take into consideration the amount of shedding happening as well as the amount of outside time your Labradoodle is getting. If it is a high shedding season, you will want to bathe and groom your Labradoodle more frequently to assist in the shedding process. Similarly, when they spend a lot of time outdoors they get dirtier with sweat, mud, pollen, or sticks and need a more regular grooming routine as well. Since a Labradoodle coat repels dirt anyway, this should not be difficult. Simply follow the standard guidelines, and you should be fine. Labradoodle puppies actually need less bathing than full-grown Labradoodles, except in the case of visible dirt. When a Labradoodle puppy is developing his or her adult fur coat, his or her body will be attempting to regulate the oils that help to prevent dry skin among other concerns. Additionally, it is not until a dog has reached past the six- to eight-month range that his or her adult coat has become more water-resistant. Thus, as your Labradoodle puppy grows and plays, it is important to consider only bathing once per month or unless you can see visible dirt. If you are able to simply brush the dirt away, and your puppy does not have a strong odor, you may consider doing this to spread the bathing process out. Daily brushing is not necessary but will make the scheduled grooming less intensive. Labradoodles are pretty playful dogs all throughout their lifetime, but this may be especially true during their puppy years. Therefore, you may find that your Labradoodle puppy tends to roll around in the dirt more than he or she will in later years. If this is the case, then the basic brushing or rinsing method may be preferable to bathing weekly. Many people wonder when it is safe to first bathe a puppy. Puppies can be bathed as soon as they are ready and able to go home. Keep in mind, though, that bathing a puppy can be a scary process for them, so you will want to consider a few tricks to make the process more fun. For example, you may bathe them in a smaller bin than a large white tub, run the water prior to baths so that the initial process is not as loud, and provide a treat before and after they complete a job well done in the bath. By creating a safe and fun environment and reflecting an exciting personality for them to mirror, your Labradoodle will have a better likelihood of enjoying bath time from the start. How often you groom your Labradoodle will largely depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Many Labradoodles do not need to be fully groomed more than four times per year. You can minimize full shaves by trimming more regularly before a full shave is needed. Keep an eye out for signs of wax buildup and excessive ear hair; these may be indications of ear mites or disease. You put the solution into each ear, massage it for seconds, and then wipe it out using a tissue. Check with your vet for tips on loose hair removal and which solution to use. Labradoodles have a thick, curly type of coat which means it will take longer to bathe them in comparison to other dogs with straight or thinner coat types. Choosing when you will bathe your Labradoodle, as well as having all of your bathing tools ready in advance is important for a successful bath. Do not expect to be done in a few minutes like you would with a short-haired or small dog. One thing to note is that if you want your Labradoodle to have time outside afterward for drying purposes or just to help them be comfortable before bed, you should aim for mid-day so the sun is out and they have plenty of drying time. Otherwise, you may choose to dry them with a towel or blow dryer if they will let you do so. Keep in mind, though, that many dogs are scared of loud noises, so your Labradoodle may take some warming up to a hairdryer if this is the option you choose to go with. Knowing What You Need Getting the right products and equipment is very important for bathing your Labradoodle. Below, I will include a section on great shampoos and conditioners to use with your furry friend. If you are comfortable just using your regular tub, you will not really need much more. Just a couple of towels and maybe a hairdryer for drying as well as a good slicker brush to detangle after will be the essentials! Ideally, you will have a hose or removable showerhead so that you can rinse it easier. If you decide that you would rather use something other than a regular tub, you may need access to other tools to help make this process go smoothly. You may choose to use a bin for them to stand in and a bucket to transport water for rinsing purposes. By choosing something that will require less effort on your part, you will be more accessible to your dog and make this process a fun and routine experience for him or her. The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate Your Labradoodle and Rinse The first thing you will need to do is get your Labradoodle used to the bath and showerhead. A bath is not something that a dog has naturally been bred to understand, so it takes a little coaching and familiarizing on your part. Many dogs quickly acclimate to the process, but it is helpful if you are there encouraging them along the way both in practice and in attitude. To help acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath, put a little water in the bottom of the tub and allow them to stand in it. Making sure it is warm is a good idea to get them a positive first impression. This can be done in a quiet and calm fashion to show your Labradoodle that this is nothing to be scared of or dreaded. After you have gotten them more comfortable with their surroundings the tub plus a small amount of water , try turning on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting them. Let them see it is not harmful and allow them to get used to the noise and feeling. Again, your calming presence and helpful comfort will be helpful if they are more fearful of the bath or bathing devices. Add Products and Check on Their Skin Once you are able to get them fully rinsed off as in there is no visible dirt on the fur and their coat is entirely wet , you will want to lather them with the product of your choice. Please ensure that this product is safe for your dog by checking with your vet or by using products that are designed for your fur baby. When you are lathering them with the suds, it is best to use your hands to do this so that you can feel around under the coat on the skin for any problems such as lumps, bumps, or parasitic ticks. Regularly feeling them including during bath time will help you to detect ticks or abnormalities earlier on and could save your Labradoodle from experiencing much worse pains. This is considered more of a preventative health approach than a reactive one. Keep in mind it is good to avoid ears on Labradoodles when rinsing and using products. Their floppy, large ears are prone to infections and issues. By using your hands to rinse and wash them, you will have much more control over the areas of the body that receive treatment. As they may be excited and moving about more freely, you can help to show them how to stay calm by holding them lovingly as you rinse them. It will be important for you to consider wearing clothes that you do not mind getting wet or sudsy so that you can feel comfortable providing whatever support your pup may need during bath time. Rinse and Maybe Repeat After lathering your Labradoodle with shampoo and inspecting by rustling your fingers through his or her fur, you should thoroughly rinse them off. You will want to make sure to use the hose or showerhead to get all areas of them thoroughly rinsed off. Be sure that there are no more bubbles or suds that are coming off from their hair as you complete the process. This is particularly important because leaving in shampoo by accident can cause worse tangling after the bath. So, rather than helping in the grooming process, this can actually hurt their fur and can become painful for them. Additionally, this can cause the next bath and grooming time to be much more difficult for you as you will have to untangle more fur than you would have had you just rinsed your dog off completely the first time. Drying Drying the coat of a Labradoodle is no easy task! If you know anyone with thick, curly hair or if that is you in this case , then that person can absolutely verify that drying their hair is likely the lengthiest part of the hair maintenance process. When drying off a Labradoodle, you can expect to go through large towels during this. You will want to use towels that have a higher absorbency, but they do not have to specifically be designed for use with a dog. Using a hairdryer if your pup will let you can improve drying time significantly! Many dogs get very excited positively or negatively by loud noises such as hairdryers. If your dog is positively excited about the hairdryer, you will want to hold them more firmly while you dry them off- though be sure that this is still considered a fun activity for your pup. If they are negatively excited by the loud hairdryer, be sure to warn them before you turn it on, calmly approach them, and keep the intervals of use short. Take extra care to dry their ears, using tissue or cotton, to make sure they do not have water caught in there for long. It is important to note that just like humans should not cram a Q-tip into the ear canal as this can actually push and pack wax and other substances further into the canal , you will want to follow the same precautions for your dog. Wipe off any surface of the ear that is visible to the human eye, but do not go any further. Allowing tangles to sit can cause them to become much worse — and the last thing you want is to end up at a groomer after spending time and effort attempting to do this on your own. Similar to human hair, one of the best things you can do is to use a thick bristle comb on the fur while it is still wet. This will ensure that the tangles are removed thoroughly without breaking or damaging the hair. You can find thick bristle combs specifically designed for dogs, or you can even just use one that is designed for human hair as long as you remain cautious and aware of your dog during the grooming process. Brushing with a thin bristle brush or comb before they are dry can cause their hair to break or come out more easily, so waiting to brush them is the best option here. If you are going to attempt to do this on your own, this is also the best time to trim them as well. If you notice they need it and have learned how to do so without causing harm to your dog there are several areas you can learn online then taking off a bit of length can be a great thing for them and you. If you are unfamiliar with the trimming process or do not have the right tools, it is important to take your dog to a professional groomer instead of attempting this and accidentally harming your furry friend. This would absolutely delay their enjoyment of bath and grooming time. Then, the owner can attempt in a small capacity on areas instead of the entire coat that he or she feels comfortable prior to the groomer trimming the rest, and then eliminate the groomer completely. When considering purchasing a shampoo and conditioner for your Labradoodle, it is critical to remember that you must find one that is designed for doggy fur. Sometimes, human baby shampoos can be used on dogs, but it is best to purchase one that is designed specifically for use with animals. Here are a few to consider: 1. Ph Balanced! Made In The Usa! Buy With Confidence! Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. One of the things that I love about using this brand of shampoo is the fact that it makes untangling so much easier afterward. I am not positive as to why this is the case, although I assume it has something to do with the oatmeal. Either way, it definitely feels great for their fur. Healthy Breeds Pet Shampoo is a great product that is also economical. This brand is a great, safe choice if you are looking for a shampoo to try out for the first time! They are energetic, fun-loving, and playful dogs. But they definitely have a lot of fur; it can either be tight curly locks and sometimes straighter hair with a thick coat. Although their thick coat can be a reason for you to love them even more, the thick coat paired with their playful nature can make bathing a long and not-so-easy process. How often to bathe a Labradoodle? Labradoodles should be based once every weeks, if you are lucky, they can last up to 5 months without a bath. Thankfully, their thick coat is not only beautiful, it is also dirt-repellent, which will make the need for bathing less frequent. If you want to know how often to bathe your furry Labradoodle and how this changes depending on things like seasons, for example, how to do it quickly and properly, when it is absolutely necessary to bathe them right away, and how to dry your Labradoodle, keep reading. Your life is about to get a whole lot easier. How often should you bathe your Labradoodle? If your Labradoodle is still a puppy, the bathing task will be much easier. As puppies, you can teach them to like bathing. Once your Labradoodle turns 3 months, it is your green light to start bathing them. Puppies should be bathed once every 3 to 5 months. If your Labradoodle is grown, it should be once every weeks. A scheduled bath for puppies will make it easier for them and you when they get older. Their dirt-repelling coat will make the bathing easier to manage. You should not over-bathe, though. But what does this actually means will depend on many things, and most importantly of those is the season and their activities. There are many situations where you just have to give your Labradoodle a bath right away, for example, Labradoodles are quite playful, and during your walk, your dog may even splash into a puddle of mud and get dirty. Bad Odor If your Labradoodle smells, you should bathe them right away. Bad odor is not typical for these adorable dog breeds. Medical condition If your Labradoodle has a medical condition that requires you to use a specific medicinal shampoo, you might need to bathe them more regularly as part of their treatment. I also have a few recommendations for medicated shampoos in my guide to shampoos for your dogs here. Chemicals If you have been doing some gardening, it is possible that you have used some chemicals. You have probably warned your Labradoodle not to go out, but they got tempted anyway. If Your Labradoodle has been exposed to such chemicals, you should bathe them right away and make sure all the chemicals are out of their coat. Fleas All dogs can get fleas, however, Labradoodles are more prone to them because of their thick coat, which means fleas can be hidden deep inside their curly locks. If you notice fleas on your dog, pick them out and bathe them using an oatmeal shampoo right away. Salt If the snow did not stop you from going for a walk with your Labradoodle, then hats off to you. Before going out in the snow, make sure your Labradoodle is warm enough. The salt that is used to melt the snow on the street can be quite harmful to your dog. It can hurt their little paws. Thus, you should bathe your dog the minute they get home. You should also double-check to see if their paws are salt-free. How to bathe your Labradoodle Properly and Quickly If you follow the steps I explain here, I guarantee you that you will bathe your Labradoodle properly and quickly. Cover their ears, eyes, and nose If water gets in their ears, eyes, or their nose, the bathing experience will be completely annoying and may be harmful for your Labradoodle. You can use cotton balls to cover such sensitive areas. Check the water temperature Before putting your Labradoodle in the bath, test out yourself first. The water should not be too cool or too hot. The most convenient water temperature for your Labradoodle is warm. However, if you are bathing your dog during Summertime, you can make the water a bit colder. Wet the fur Curls need hydration. Completely wet hair will be easiest to detangle and will absorb shampoo and conditioner better, just like humans. Speaking of curls, you can learn how to prevent your curly dog from getting matted here. Make sure to use circular motions that allow the shampoo to travel to the root. After you apply the shampoo, you should make sure that it is completely rinsed out. Curls need love, if you are a curly-haired person, you understand. It might be useful to detangle their hair while the conditioner is in. After that, make sure you rinse out the conditioner completely too. Use shampoos and conditioners that are made for dogs, not humans. Dry them with a towel If you are lucky, you will need only one towel to dry your dog. Normally, people use three medium-sized towels to dry out their Labradoodles. Squeeze the remaining water out of the fur Using a towel alone is not enough, you should make sure all the water is out of their fur so that their skin does not get dry. Using your hands here is essential to squeeze out the remaining water. Hairdryer This step is optional. You can use your hairdryer to speed up the process. Make sure to hold the hairdryer away enough to not hurt your Labradoodle. Due to their floppy ears, they do not get enough air circulation, which can be a pretty cozy environment for bacteria. How to dry your Labradoodle after a bath As I have mentioned before, Labradoodles have a thick, curly fur coat, which makes it very hard to dry them after a bath. You should make sure that you are using high-absorbency towels to dry your Oodle with. Some people claim they use up to 5 high-absorbency, medium-sized towels. Laundry day is about to get messy. Labradoodles are very playful creatures, they might mistake your attempts of drying them with play-time. They might think you are petting them and get excited. It might be better to use a hairdryer to dry your Labradoodle in Winter. Thus, you would be doing your Labradoodle a favor. In all cases, it is best if you dry your Labradoodle thoroughly. If you find water in these sensitive areas, you should use cotton swabs to suck out the water. However, just like humans, you should be careful not to stick it in too much. Drying your Labradoodle will require a lot of effort and time, which is inevitable. But, it is essential that you do it correctly so that you prevent them from getting any serious skin issues such as dandruff or dry skin. Bathing and drying your Labradoodle is also considered to be valued quality time between you and your dog. So, try to enjoy it as much as possible. Yes, I know that is a lot of hard work, but it would save you a lot of time during washdays. You could also use coconut oil to soothe their skin and make sure they have a moisturized and shiny coat. Related Questions Do Labradoodles like baths? Yes, most Labradoodles like baths. If your Labradoodle is still a puppy, it is completely in your hands to make them like baths. If not, you are still in luck. Labradoodles are crossbreeds and since they are partially poodles, they like to swim too. Can you Bathe your labradoodle once a week? No, you should not bathe your Labradoodle once a week. Overbathing your dog might lead to skin issues such as dry skin and dandruff. As a rule of thumb, you should bathe your Labradoodle once every weeks. Can Labradoodles swim? Yes, it is most likely that Labradoodles enjoy swimming. They are bred from Poodles, which enjoy a swim too. However, some doodles require some encouragement and love to gather the courage to swim. How often should you wash a Labradoodle puppy? Labradoodle puppies often stay indoors. Thus, they require less bathing time. You can bathe your pup once every 4- 6 months and it will be enough for them. Check out the best and healthiest foods for golden retrievers at every age here — Dry, Wet, Homemade Recipes, and Treats! Taking a walk? These are the best leashes, collars, and harnesses for the buck that you can find. They do not require frequent baths because too much bathing can strip away necessary oils in their skin and fur. If your Labradoodle has a curly coat, you probably take them to the groomer on occasion for a trim, and they can be washed there. However, as any dog owner knows, dogs love to roll around in gross things, and your playful pup may not shy away from a mud puddle. Dogs are the same way. Also, when long fur gets wet, it will stretch more when you pull on it, resulting in rips and tears that will make their coat look worse. Let your dog test the water before you turn on the shower head or start dumping it on them. The last thing you want to do is create an aversion to bath time. Labradoodles tend to enjoy water, so they are likely to be fine in the bath. Choose the right products There are so many dog shampoos and conditioners on the market. It can be hard to choose which one is best for your Labradoodle. With this breed, simple products without a lot of scents or colors may be best. While the Labradoodle is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog, this does not mean that the dog cannot suffer from allergies. Labradoodles are prone to environmental allergies, which can extend to grooming products. If your shampoo makes your dog itchy and uncomfortable, they will probably scratch themselves excessively, which can cause skin problems. Also look for products that are non-toxic, because it is hard to stop your dog from licking himself. Look for a gentle shampoo, perhaps even one that is made for dogs with allergies. The goal is to remove the dirt and bad odors, not completely strip their skin and coat of necessary oils. There are also shampoos on the market that are designed to make white coats appear whiter. If your white Labradoodle looks yellow or discolored, you may want to try one of those shampoos. Conditioners are also available for dogs with especially dry coats, but they are not necessary for bathing. We use Madden pin brushes on our labradoodles and have found this brush to be excellent quality. If you catch them in play mode during the day, you will only be reinforcing that brushing time is something to get all riled up about. Nail Clipping Clipping their nails is also a good exercise to do when you find them tired out. They tend to care a lot less about things. You can start by just clipping the nails on one paw. This way your pup learns this is quick and no big deal. It also gives you the opportunity to practice this exercise 4 days in a row, rather than once and then having to wait for them to grow again. When clipping, clip just the tip of the nail where it starts to curve downward, holding the nail clippers parallel to the bottom of the paw. Be careful not to clip too much, otherwise it will hurt and the nail will bleed. Lean towards clipping little bits more often than trying to get a lot off all at once. Ear Cleaning Ear cleaning is something that labradoodles need since they have those long ears that trap and hold in moisture. Check their ears every few weeks and if you notice they look dirty, then get a cotton ball or makeup remover pad, etc. Never push anything down in the ear, you could damage the ear and cause your puppy pain. Do the other side, and finish with an ear drying powder. In fact, over bathing can harm this quality in their coat, and actually cause you to need to bathe more often. If they get dirty, let them dry and simply brush the dirt right out. It is good to get them used to getting wet though, and when you do use shampoo, we recommend a tearless shampoo specifically designed for dogs as their PH balance is different than humans. A good minute walk daily will meet this need your new family member has. Up until then, their joints are developing and jogging on pavement would not be good for their joints. However, this does not mean you have to limit their activity. Running across the yard chasing a ball at their own pace and will is good for their developing body, and talking walks through the neighborhood is an excellent way to meet their exercise needs. Labradoodles are a wonderful dog breed and opening up your home to one of these pups is going to bring so much joy into your life. With that being said, Labradoodles also require a considerable amount of maintenance and upkeep — with bathing being an easy thing to overlook. How to bathe a Labradoodle To bathe a Labradoodle, start by brushing them to remove any loose dirt, set your bath water to a lukewarm temperature, and gently help your dog inside. Lastly, dry your Labradoodle with a towel and blowdryer. A Labradoodle combines the incredible personality traits of the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. This makes Labradoodles both unique and expensive , as you get to have the playful nature of a Labrador combined with the intelligence and cleverness of a Poddle, which is why so many pet owners are hopping on the Doodle trend. However, this kind of pup needs to be approached with careful consideration as it has unique qualities that make it stand out among other dogs. One of the first characteristics you will notice with your Labradoodle is that your pup has a different type of coat. Unlike most dog breeds that have fur, a Labradoodle has hair, which means that you need to bathe it properly if you want to keep its coat healthy. To help you understand this further, we are going to take you through our 5 step Labradoodle bath time routine. After extensively researching Labradoodle maintenance, I have been able to gather enough information to determine how to properly bathe this breed. My research has shown me that you need to follow the Labradoodle bathing procedure carefully if you want to get the best results from their coat. Keep in mind, you can always get your dog groomed by a professional groomer. Depending on who you ask, you will get a few different answers on this but as a general rule of thumb, you should bathe your pup once per month. With that being said, each Labradoodle is different and you may find that you need to bathe your dog more or less often depending on its lifestyle and environment. If your Labradoodle has a pretty stable routine at home and goes out for casual walks in urban areas, then you can probably get away with bathing your dog every 5 to 6 weeks. On the other hand, if you have a very active Labradoodle out in the countryside or simply one that tends to get messy at dog parks, you may need to wash your pup as often as every 3 weeks. You also need to consider that there is a difference between bathing and rinsing. Bathing is a thorough cleaning process where you give your Labradoodle a deep wash that targets its coat fully, as well as its skin. Rining is simply washing off your dog after they get a little bit muddy or dirty. When you bathe your Labradoodle, you want to do it routinely and systematically so that you can keep its coat as healthy as possible. Whereas rinsing is something that you can do quite regularly when needed — with some owners giving their dog a rinse multiple times a week after rugged play sessions at the park. Before you commit to a routine bathing schedule for your Labradoodle, you should try to observe its habits and behavior so that you can find an optimal timeframe that suits your pup. As we said, each Labradoodle is a bit different and you should decide on a schedule for your dog based on its lifestyle. Labradoodle Bathing Supplies Before you can begin bathing your pup, you first need to gather all of the right supplies for the job. Simply spraying your Labradoodle with your backyard hose is not going to do the trick. These are the bathing supplies that you need to get before you can start washing your dog. Given that this breed does not have fur, you need to buy a shampoo that is specifically meant for hair. There are a lot of different shampoo products out there and it is easy to feel overwhelmed when you consider your options. Some products have been made just for Labradoodle coats, which are going to deliver the best end results. Check Price One thing you always want to watch out for are shampoos that contain a lot of additives and chemicals. Much like with human hair, a Labradoodles coat is going to benefit most from natural ingredients — so read labels carefully and try to rely on trusted brands. Some products have been known to cause skin irritations, which is something you want to avoid at all costs. Whenever picking out a new shampoo, always do a test first to see how your dog responds. If you see that the coat is healthy afterward and that their skin is not irritated, you should be good to go. The coat of a Labradoodle will require a thorough drying process, which is why it is best to have at least two towels handy before you begin washing. A blow dryer with multiple settings is also recommended so that you can expose your Labradoodle to it slowly, which will keep them from getting frightened and intimidated. Exfoliated Dog Bathing Gloves Your hands should suffice for bathing your Labradoodle but by using exfoliated dog bathing gloves , you will find that the cleaning process is much more thorough. These gloves were designed for cleaning dog coats and having them on can make a huge difference in how effective the bathing process is. They are texturized to remove more hair, which will ensure a minimal amount of shedding, and they will also help get rid of any dead skin on your Labradoodle. This dog breed has a very specific type of coat that needs to be looked after carefully, as it can easily get messy if you forget to keep a consistent cleaning schedule. These are the steps that you need to follow to bathe your pup. Step 1: Hair Brushing Before you begin washing your Labradoodle with water, you want to get as much dirt and debris out of its coat as possible by using a brush Having a reliable brush for your Labradoodle is going to be a must for maintaining its hair — regardless of washing. You will be amazed by how much cleaning time you can save by doing this properly. In addition to dirt and debris, you also want to remove any loose hair from the coat, as this is also something that will hinder the bathing process. With that being said, we always find that it is better to take care of as much of the prep-work beforehand so that you can avoid a rough transition when the time comes to bathe your pup. The first thing that you want to do is make sure that all of your necessary cleaning supplies are nearby so that you can easily reach them. You want to make your Labradoodle as comfortable as possible when getting bathed which is why you should set the temperature of your water before throwing them into the tub. Lukewarm is generally the most ideal temperature setting for washing a dog. Step 3: Help Your Dog Get Into the Bath Again, each pup reacts differently to getting washed and you want to make the experience as pleasant as possible for them. If your dog is willing to hop right in for their routine bath, then great. However, not all Labradoodles are like this and may feel intimidated or dislike getting washed altogether. You can either usher your pup into the bath so they can hop in on their own or you can gently pick them up and place them inside. You must approach this with care so that they are not frightened by the idea of getting clean — especially if they are puppies and still getting used to the idea of bathing. Once they are inside, make sure that they feel comfortable and secure before you begin cleaning. Allow 30 seconds to a minute of adjustment time without the water on so that they can gauge their environment. This is always a good time for a pet, a pat, and a treat to reassure them that they are in good hands. You should be able to get a substantial amount of cleaning done with water alone, which will wash out the majority of the dirt, dust, and any kind of debris that is embedded into their coat. After you have gone through with the initial rinse, turn the water off if possible especially if they find it unpleasant. Go through their entire coat gently yet firmly and scrub all the way down to their skin. A lot of dogs actually enjoy this part of the bathing process, as it is essentially a massage. Once the product has been properly applied, let it soak into the coat for at least a couple of minutes. You can then rinse out the shampoo while giving them another quick scrub, which should remove any remaining dirt or debris. Given the curly and shaggy nature of their hair, a quick pass-through with a towel is not going to be enough to properly dry them. With your Labradoodle still inside the bath, use a towel to remove as much water as possible from their coat. You will find that the town soaks up quite a lot and it will likely become wet very quickly. Having a second towel handy is always a good idea when drying your Labradoodle, as you are going to need it. Now, that the initial drying process is done, use a blowdryer to remove the remaining moisture. Dogs typically do not like blowdryers at first and may even be afraid of them. Get your Labradoodle used to the blowdryer by gently exposing them to it. Use it from a further distance on a light setting and gradually work your way closer. Helping them get accustomed to the bathing and drying process will make it easier when they are bigger. The specific method used to bathe a Labradoodle will vary from one dog to the next, because their coat types can vary significantly. Some may have the tight curls of the Poodle, whilst others have straighter, thick Lab coats. Is Labradoodle Bathing Important? While many Labradoodle dogs are easier to manage than other breeds or mixes thanks to their low-shedding fur, they still need routine grooming. And yes, this sometimes includes a scheduled bath. Labradoodles are energetic, playful, and fun-loving breeds that love spending time outdoors and in water. And, playtime outside almost always involves some splashing in puddles and rolling in dirt. When this happens, your doodle dog will need a bath! This could also be the case if your pet develops a skin condition that needs to be treated with a medicated shampoo. So, you may find the event happening more often than you first expected. Even if you take your dog to the groomer regularly, there will be times where you need to clean them after a particularly messy walk. This is especially true if you have a first- or second-generation Labradoodle crossbreed. Their fur sheds less and produces less allergy inducing dander than many other types of dogs. All dogs shed and shed most during shedding season, including the Labradoodle. Along with being low shedding, the Labradoodle also has a dirt-repellent coat that tends to be much easier to manage. You can begin bathing your Labradoodle once he reaches three months of age. Try using a quality shampoo and conditioner that is designed for puppies. This is a part of socialization and can help make future bath times much easier. Once you begin bathing your Labradoodle, you may be tempted to do it more often than needed. But, over-bathing your Labradoodle can actually be damaging to their skin and fur. Once your Labradoodle reaches at least three months of age, you can begin bathing him once every two to three weeks. Doing so could have a negative impact on their skin and coat. All dogs produce natural oils that help aid in skin and coat health. Over-washing them can hinder this natural production of oils they need in order to keep their fur healthy. Overproduction or underproduction of these oils can cause an increase in skin problems. Including allergies, dry skin, patchy fur, and can even increase shedding. Luckily, Labradoodles are not known to carry much doggy odor. Still, if you want to help keep your Labradoodle smelling fresh between bath time, you always have the option of using grooming wipes or coconut oil. Some owners find this helps to reduce dry skin, soothe allergies, and keep their Labradoodle smelling lovely. However, be aware there is currently little evidence in scientific studies for these claims. You can then gently rub in your chosen shampoo, working it through their curls gently. Make sure the shampoo is fully rinsed out before moving onto the conditioner. Once again, make sure all conditioner is fully washed out afterwards. Dry them off with a towel at first, gently patting them dry and squeezing water out of the fur. Use your hand to soften the intensity of air. Tips for Getting Your Labradoodle Used to Bathtime Getting your Labradoodle puppy comfortable with being bathed at an early age can make all the difference when it comes to routine bath time. We should note that most dogs do not like being bathed. Even dogs who love water often tuck their tails when it comes time for a good wash. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labradoodle by starting early and introducing them to water gently. Use treats and praise to introduce them to all elements of the bath including: The bathtub.

You will be able to find all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can see what puppies they currently have available for sale. We provide you with all this information so that you can research each breeder individually and find the one that has your perfect puppy available! If you are considering getting a Miniature Bulldog, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to English Bulldogs". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Bulldog from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, here is the link to grab one on Amazon, or you can download the audiobook version here. If you can't find the perfect Miniature Bulldog puppy in your state, try checking at your local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many Miniature Bulldogs young and old need a loving home and adopting one can be a great way to save a life. We are so happy that you have chosen Local Puppy Breeders to help you find the puppy of your dreams. In addition to visiting us often here, you can check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for more information, pictures, and videos! Welcome to the Minnesota state page on TrustedPuppies. Known for its beautiful natural landscapes, warm-hearted cities, and variety of dog-friendly activities, Minnesota is an excellent place to find and raise your new English Bulldog companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional English Bulldog breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect furry friend for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable MN breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the thriving dog-friendly scene in Minnesota, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Minnesota State Fair Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of English Bulldog canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Holding the 20th spot in dog ownership across the United States, Minnesota is home to a canine population of approximately 1. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable English Bulldog breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Minnesota. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your English Bulldog puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect English Bulldog puppy on TrustedPuppies.

Our waitlist is open with a few spots available to new applicants! Generally, we expect a month wait for puppies. For additional information on our adoption process click here. As breeders we see ourselves as the caretakes. Not only of these sweet, fun, charismatic dogs, but also of your future puppy and of the breed in general. We are also tasked with ensuring optimal health of each puppy born. We also have physical evaluations by our veterinarian done. From there it is our responsibility to review these tests results and match each dog with the best possible mate, resulting in healthy, beautiful, well-tempered puppies. It is also our job to keep up with continuing education on breeding, our breed specifically, and dogs overall. This means we often attend online seminars and classes offered through various resources like the AKC, Revival, Good Dog and some university veterinary reproductive programs. We find that participating in continuing education is very important to our breeding program, it helps us better care for our dogs and your future pups. That being said sometimes meeting someone in person can be difficult. Make sure you have been in direct contact with your chosen breeder. We have no problem talking to our future families on the phone. We actually prefer it and request a phone interview. It helps us better assess the right puppy for your lifestyle. There are also a number of reputable rescue groups who would love to find great homes for the pugs who have been abandoned, abused or surrendered to shelters, from time to time they do get puppies as well. When looking for your puppy online, try to follow these simple tips: Be sure to deal directly with a breeder, not a broker someone who buys puppies and resells them. Never send Western Union or money order payments. If you are told that there will be no refunds for a sick puppy, you are most probably dealing with a puppy mill. A reputable breeder or rescue group will always take the puppy back, regardless of the reason. Exercise Grooming The pug has origins majorly from China and Netherland. The Modern pugs are imported from China; the earliest breeds have also been known to originate from there. However, the pugs have a history with royal families in the Netherlands and England. The Modern style pugs were brought in to Britain in from China. The pugs were tended by the ruling families in China. The imperial court kept pugs because they were treasured by the Emperors who assigned guards to protect them while they the pugs lived in extravagance. Keeping pugs in Europe started at the House of Orange in the Netherlands. The pug became the official pug of the house after it saved the Prince of Orange from Assassins. Although these pugs were said to have been brought from China, the pugs from Europe at that time, as seen in pictures depict longer legs and nose. The pugs became prominent in the United States in the nineteenth century. They easily became family companions and show dogs. They became recognized by the American Kennel Club in .This occurred in , it was the first time a pug would be winning the show since it began. The pug would do anything to please its owners this is what makes them suitable to keep in many homes. Their loyalty is unwavering, they do well with children their calmness and sturdy physique allows them to tolerate children easily. Their Alertness makes them good security dogs but they are not predominantly used for security purposes. Pugs are stubborn, but this does not transform into aggressive manners. The pug thrives indoors. It is usually kept close to families that own it. It is classified by most Kennel Clubs as a toy dog. Despite their adaptation to heat, pugs cannot thrive well outdoors in hot and humid regions Pugs do not require high-intensity exercises; however moderate exercising will be sufficient. A reserved and reasonable amount of space for the dog to move around is ideal. The pugs have a fine coat that is sufficient to protect them from heat and cold. Maintaining a pug has low requirements. However, wrinkles and eyes have to be cleaned daily. Our Pugs puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Pug Puppies for Sale.

What used to be a minute chore each day became 5 max. See The Doodle Brush in action! Product Description The Doodle Brush has been designed specifically for grooming Labradoodles and other Poodle-crosses. Traditional slicker brushes tend to snag and pull, but The Doodle Brush head is flexible and the long, curved pins glide through the coat making light work of tangles and matting. It is easy to use, durable and ergonomically designed to reduce pressure on your dog and strain on your wrist. When one side has filled up with hair, simply switch over to the other side. The double head brush covers more surface area so speeds up the brushing process and is best for larger dogs. The single head brush is best for smaller dogs and more intricate areas, like their ears and under their armpits. The Doodle Brush will help you to maintain a beautiful, tangle-free coat at your desired length. For easy and hassle-free doodle grooming, this is the brush for you! Benefits Universal Grooming Solution: Optimal for Labradoodles and Poodle-crosses, and also great for all other breeds requiring meticulous grooming. Tangle Terminator: Long, curved pins glide through hair, reducing tangles and matting. Double the Efficiency: Dual-sided brush maximizes grooming productivity. User-Friendly Cleanup: Simple hair removal process for repeated use. Comfort in Hand: Ergonomic design reduces wrist strain for the user. One Brush, All Sizes: Suitable for dogs of all sizes with precision grooming for intricate areas. Tailored Groom: Helps maintain a tangle-free, neatly trimmed coat. Built to Last: Durable design guarantees a long product lifespan. Satisfaction Guaranteed We stand behind the quality of The Doodle Brush and guarantee your satisfaction. If you're not completely satisfied with the product within 30 days of your purchase, we'll accept your return and issue a full refund - no questions asked. Let The Doodle Brush make your grooming routine a breeze! Top Features : Showcasing The Doodle Brush's Key Advantages Comes in two sizes The Doodle Brush includes a double head brush for larger dogs and a compact single head variant for smaller dogs and intricate grooming, ensuring thorough care. Maximum Efficiency Equipped with a flexible brush head and long, curved pins that adapt to your pet's body contours, effortlessly gliding through the coat to tackle tangles and mats. Easy-to-clean design The Doodle Brush features an easy-to-clean design. Simply use a comb to remove hair from the brush, making maintenance quick and effortless. Ergonomic Design The Doodle Brush boasts an ergonomically designed handle, providing a comfortable grip and minimizing wrist strain, ensuring a convenient and fatigue-free experience. Sadly, that comes at a price, meaning they need more frequent grooming to stay presentable and stop their fur from becoming unkempt. To help you choose the right brush, you need to consider coat length, coat type, and age. Check out how these affect your brush browsing below. Coat Length Shorter-haired Labradoodles can get away with a softer brush or shallow slicker brush, but longer-haired Doodles will need a slicker brush with longer bristles. Inspect brushes to get an idea of their bristle length before buying, and keep the width in mind—shaggier Labradoodles need wider bristles, while shorter coats are fine with densely packed bristles. Coat Type Your Doodle is double-coated , meaning they have two types of hair. One is softer and the other is coarser. Because of their coats, it tends to tangle and matt easily. Often, we recommend using a de-matting rake as well as a regular brush. Then, you should go over it with a standard brush with softer bristles to remove loose hair and distribute their natural oils, leading to a shinier, healthier coat overall. Age Puppies have very sensitive skin, so you may want to go with a double-sided brush or a slicker brush with plastic-coated pins. Their coat may change by the time they reach adulthood, so keep an eye on their coat to see if you need to change up your grooming tools. Tail After that, I continue with the rest of the body. The whole process usually takes 30 minutes and should be done every two days at a minimum. Finding The Right Size Brush The perfect brush for a Labradoodle is like striking gold—it will make your life and grooming routine much easier! Picking the right size is key to finding that golden ticket. To help you out, here are some tips: Consider the coat type — Is it curly or wavy? This helps determine which bristle length and shape are best suited for the job. Measure the body of the dog — Longer brushes can be cumbersome on smaller dogs, while shorter ones may not work as well in thicker coats. Knowing which type of bristle is best for your pup can help make brushing easier and more effective. Firm-bristled brushes are ideal for short-haired dogs like a Labradoodle as they remove loose hair from its coat quickly and efficiently. They also work well at distributing natural oils throughout the fur, leaving it shiny and soft. Finally, slicker brushes have very thin metal wires with rounded tips—these will help de-tangle any knots in long coats without causing discomfort due to tugging or pulling. Be sure not to press too hard though; use light strokes to break up mats, then switch back to a regular brush afterwards. With just the right combination of these four types of bristles, brushing your Labradoodle should be an enjoyable experience for both you and them! Deciding Between Natural And Synthetic Bristles When it comes to finding the best brush for your labradoodle, one of the first decisions you must make is between natural and synthetic bristles. Or do you opt for a nylon or polyester brush that offers more control? Natural Bristles Natural bristles are typically made from animal hair, such as boar or horsehair. These brushes are great for spreading oil over the entire coat, creating an even softer and shinier sheen than regular brushing can provide. Synthetic Bristles Synthetic bristles come in various shapes and lengths and can offer both firmness and flexibility depending on the type of material used. Nylon brushes tend to be stiffer yet still flexible enough to reach through long coats without causing discomfort. When choosing between natural and synthetic bristles for your labradoodle, consider how much cleaning power your pup needs versus how often you plan on providing baths and grooming sessions. But if all-natural products are important to you then going with a sturdy boar bristle brush could be just what your four-legged friend needs! The right handle can make all the difference in your brushing experience. Comfort is key when grooming a Labradoodle, so consider what works best for you and your pup. There are two main types of brush handles to choose from: long and short. Long-handled brushes provide greater reach than shorter ones, making them great for larger dogs or those with longer coats who require extra attention on their backs and tails. Short-handled brushes fit comfortably in your hand and offer better control over strokes, which makes them ideal for smaller breeds or those with dense fur that need more precise coverage. No matter which type you opt for, there are some additional features to look out for: Material: Plastic handles tend to be lightweight but may not last as long as wooden or metal options. Ergonomics: Look for rubberized grips that feel comfortable against your skin during extended use. Flexibility: Some models come with adjustable heads so you can customize the angle of the bristles for specific areas like underbellies or around legs. Whichever style you select, remember that the most important factor is how well the tool works for both you and your pet! A Labradoodle has both wiry and curly hair that can be difficult to groom without the right tool. It is essential to find a brush that will effectively detangle their fur while minimizing discomfort for your dog. The best brushes for this purpose are those with flexible pins or bristles designed specifically for breeds like Labradoodles. This type of brush should have long enough pins so they can reach through each layer of fur down to the skin. It is so beneficial to invest in a good quality product that will withstand regular use over time. With so many types, sizes, bristles, and handle styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming. However, understanding the features of each type of brush will help you make an informed decision about which is best for your pup. Amazon Associates Program This article may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchase. The cost is not inflated to account for the commission earned. Veterinary Disclaimer: travellingwithadog. Please consult your vet for any questions you have regarding your pets health. She has years of experience fostering dogs and has helped find homes for a variety of different breeds, both large and small! Learn more about her here. Establish a routine that you will follow through with or you will end up with a puppy with nails that may rip or cause problems walking properly, ears that have infections, and coats that are severely matted to the skin and cause severe discomfort for your dog. These are the areas that are most prone to matting. Part the hair and brush from the base of the coat in small sections. Many people only brush the surface of the coat and do not realize the dog is matting very badly next to the skin. Remember, if you cannot maintain basic brushing and grooming on your own, then you will need to budget for using a professional groomer. You should still try to clip nails and clean ears weekly at home, and give your dog a brushing at least once a week. BATHING When you groom your puppy or dog, you will want them to have a clean coat so your scissors and clipper blades work efficiently and do not wear down more quickly. Here are some general, simple tips for basic labradoodle grooming when doing your doodle at home. Eyes: Your Labradoodle should always be able to see well and not have hair hanging and restricting vision or growing up and into the eyes from the bridge of the nose! Using blunt tipped scissors, trim the hair over the bridge of nose and in between eyes so vision is not obstructed. Hair that hangs over the eyes should be trimmed neatly across the brow blending down into the sides of the face. If your dog gets eye gunk, use eye wipes every few days to keep them clean. A Labradoodle with long ear hair does NOT look like the standard for the Labradoodle, it looks more like a Cocker spaniel. Shape the ears and blend hair neatly into the top of the head. This will help prevent infections. You can use a clipper with 10 blade for a good length in this area. If the canal has a lot of hair inside, you will need to pluck it out in very small amounts to prevent irritation. Clean ear canal with solution and then use ear powder to eliminate moisture. Paws: Trim paws in a nicely rounded shape so that hair does not hang over the paw and cannot be walked on. Completely clip hair from in between pads on bottom of feet. This is most easily done with an electric clipper and a 30 blade. Keeping the paws shaped nicely will aid in less debris attaching to feet when outside and being drug into your home. Long muzzle hair results in beards that drip with water every time your dog gets a drink. The hair on the sides of the muzzle should be even with the bottom of the lower jaw. This is an area of the body we frequently see with matting. Hair is left to grow and grow and GROW and you not realize it is severely matting close to the tail. This helps prevent matting and urine or feces from building up on the coat when your dog uses the bathroom. Body: If you like a longer coat, more brushing and maintenance will be required. Here are a couple examples of shorter cuts that most find easy to maintain. Share this: Click to share on Pinterest Opens in new window Newsletter Subscribe to Spring Creek's monthly newsletter for training tips, recipes, dog health care, seasonal tips, grooming advice, behavioral help, and more! Just enter your email address and sit back and enjoy our monthly news! Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: Spring Creek Labradoodles is an Oregon Labradoodle breeder, and one of the first in the U. The small, sharp trappers remove mats, knots, and tangles with ease, and the sharp, curved teeth prevent it from pulling on the fur and scratching the skin. Check the price now! A buyers guide to the best Labradoodle brushes Grooming your Labradoodle should include monthly baths with a gentle, all-natural dog shampoo, haircuts every weeks, and regular brushing. In order to buy the best brush for your Doodle , you must first understand their needs. The Doodle coat Labradoodles have long, thick, soft double coats with fur that ranges from wavy to curly and comes in a wide variety of colors such as brown, black or black and white. As mentioned, this type of fur is prone to tangling, matting, and trapping dirt. Matting is a serious problem that can cause dogs discomfort and pain. It can even lead to and conceal skin infections. Type of brush When shopping for a brush for your Labradoodle, you should consider the type of brush that they need. There are four main types of brushes for dogs; pin brushes, bristle brushes, slicker brushes, and rake brushes, and they are all best-suited to different types of coats. Pin and bristle brushes are best suited to dogs with thinner, shorter coats with less textured fur, while slicker brushes are better for longer, thicker, curled coats, and rake brushes are designed for dogs that shed heavily. There are also other types of brushes for specific needs, like bathtime brushes for wet fur and mat removers for a matted coat. As previously mentioned, slicker brushes are generally the best type of brushes for Labradoodles. They are categorized by their fine pins that can reach through long fur, untangle knots, and remove loose fur and debris. Other factors Other important factors to consider when buying a brush for your Labradoodle include the size, design, and material of the brush. It should work effortlessly and gently, as well as be lightweight and comfortable to hold. It should be appropriately sized for your Doodle, made of high-quality, durable materials for long-term use, and be easy to clean for your convenience. You may also want to consider any individual needs your Doodle has, such as skin sensitivity or brushing anxiety, and any personal preferences about style and sustainability. Should you brush a Labradoodle? You absolutely should brush your Labradoodle. Others may be worried that brushing may mess with those lovely curls — but this is just not true! How often should you brush a Labradoodle? You should also check them a few times a week for mats in the coat. You should start as soon as possible. If you get your dog used to being brushed while he is still a young puppy, your Labradoodle will grow up to tolerate and even enjoy the grooming sessions! How to brush a Labradoodle? Before your brush your Labradoodles fur, ask them to sit or lay down in a comfortable place. Part the hair and brush from the base of the coat in small sections, starting from the head and going all the way down to the tail. Brush their fur following the direction that it grows, paying a lot of attention to the chest, the hindquarters, under the neck, armpits, and behind the ears. Use firm pressure with short strokes as to not pull or rip any fur out, and hold the fur at the base if it feels knotty. Start brushing your Labradoodle as early on in their life as possible to get them comfortable with it, and once you get into a routine with them, keep it up! How to brush a Labradoodle puppy? Labradoodle puppy coats are a little bit different from their adult coats. They start off with much thinner coats that are replaced with the thick, wooly ones we are all familiar with at months of age. During this transition, you should brush your pup at least once a week to remove the loose fur and prevent matting as their new coat grows in. Should you brush a Labradoodle wet or dry? Never brush them when they are wet unless you have a rubber wet brush, as it can cause breakage and damage to the coat. Ask a groomer for help instead! What if my Doodle hates being brushed? Then, brush a small section of the coat that they can see in front of them and reward them for letting you do it. Take it slow, and if they seem comfortable, try brushing another small section, breaking for treats in between each section. If not, keep trying! If they really hate it and are trying to bite you , try using an alternatively designed brush or getting help from a professional groomer. Should I buy my dog a new brush? The bottom line Grooming is one of the most time-consuming aspects of owning a Labradoodle. Slicker brushes are by far the best brushes for Labradoodles, and if you own a Doodle, we invite you to try out one of our product recommendations. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day. For example, skin irritation, infections, bad smell, and discomfort. To keep this from happening, you should regularly brush and groom your Doodle. And the sooner you start, the better. Introduce them to brushing as soon as you bring them home. Starting out young will help your Labradoodle get used to brushing. In other words, whatever type of hair your Labradoodle has, brush them regularly. Also, make sure to read our article on dealing with Doodle hair matting. See Also: Click the image Tip: Labradoodle owners who suffer from dog allergies will very much benefit from regular brushing. Its wide base and fine, densely placed bristles help cover bigger areas of hair and work through the knots and tangles. A slicker brush is also great for deshedding. These types of brushes are also very convenient to use thanks to the handle and paddle placement. Bristle brushes are another great Labradoodle grooming tool that many owners swear by. Pin brushes look almost like your own hair brush. The pins are soft and help detangle knots. Pin brushes are great for a quick brushing after play-time outside. Combs are great for smaller knots and tangles that need special attention. Use the wide-tooth end of your comb to detangle bigger knots, and the fine-tooth end for smaller knots. Choosing the right type of brush for your Labradoodle largely depends on the type of coat your Doodle has. Labradoodles can have a wavy coat, curly coat, or anything that fits in between the two. If your Labradoodle sports longer hair, you should use a brush with longer bristles or pins to reach the hair from all lengths. Likewise, shorter hair requires a brush with shorter, more tightly placed bristles. If your Labradoodle is still a puppy, we recommend you use a brush specially designed for puppies. The best brush for Labradoodle puppy would be in an appropriate size and with very soft bristles. Typically this type of hair sheds the most and is considered the least allergy-friendly. Labradoodle with a straight coat. Usually it sheds very little. Doodle with a wavy coat. Doodle with a curly coat. A straight coat indicates that your Doodle has mostly inherited their coat type from the parent Labrador Retriever. Thanks to the wavy, silky and soft texture, Fleece Coats are usually very easy to brush. Bristle brushes work great on both wavy and straight dog hair. Slicker and pin brushes are also suitable for fleece coats. Labradoodle with a Fleece Coat Wool Coats that are inherited from the Poodle parent typically does not shed, but it is prone to knots and matting. Because of this, a wool coat tends to need more brushing than other Labradoodle coat types. Pin brushes, slicker brushes, and combs are amazing for brushing curly hair as they gently help detangle knotted hair. Naturally, choosing the correct tools might not be the easiest task. Here are the three highest rated grooming tools that Doodle owners rave about. Doodle owners say that this slicker brush gets the job done in half the time we can agree that it certainly speeds things up! Find the Best Deal:.

english bulldog puppies hampton roads - Articles In the world of designer doggies, we hear about unusual mixes every day. One of the unlikeliest of pairings that actually works really well is that Bulldog Shih Tzu mix. The fact that these two purebred parents are so physically different creates many different options of what the resulting mix will end up looking like. The differing personalities also make it difficult to always accurately predict the temperament of the Bulldog Shih Tzu mix. However, in the sections below we shall go through some of these likely outcomes in terms of personality traits, physical appearance, and care needs for a Bulldog Shih Tzu mix. That way, you will at least have an idea of what you are in for with these doggies. The combination of Bulldogs and Shih Tzus makes for a very unpredictable mixed doggy. This is because the two dogs are very different in terms of their physical characteristics. The Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is sometimes referred to as a Bull Shih and will usually result in a dog that takes dominant traits from either parent. Here is a look at some of these possible physical features that your Bull Shih mix may have. In terms of height, the Bull Shih also falls between both parents averaging 10 to 14 inches in height. The colors vary greatly with some of the common being red, white, fawn, brown, and black. These are often in pairs with a combination of white and a dark color. However, the Bulldog has a more exaggeratedly flat face which the Bull Shih may or may not end up inheriting. Both purebred parents have droopy ears which may either be short in the case of the Bulldog or a bit larger and longer for the Shih Tzu. The Bull Shih could inherit either of these ear types. On average, a Bulldog Shih Tzu can live for 10 to 18 years. For some perspective, Bulldogs usually live for 8 to 10 years while Shih Tzus can live for up to 18 years as they are generally healthier. As a mixed-breed dog, the Bulldog Shih Tzu is typically healthier than either purebred parent. However, there are some common health issues that you may have to look out for. Here are 5 of the most important of these. Airway Obstruction Airway obstruction is common in Bulldog Shih Tzus that inherit the brachycephalic features of the Bulldog breed. The obstruction and difficulty breathing are worst when the dog is active and in hot weather. Obesity The Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is prone to developing obesity. This is as a result of a combination of genetics, their exercise restrictions imposed for their safety, and their very large appetite. A healthy and balanced diet is the best way to prevent this condition. This exposes them to trauma as well as dryness and irritation of the cornea. Furthermore, the Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is also likely to develop eye conditions like cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy that are both marked by progressive worsening of vision. Intervertebral Disc Disease Intervertebral disc disease is a degenerative condition that affects the cartilaginous discs in the spinal column. Their progressive wearing down results in compression of nerves which could have all sorts of consequences from chronic pain to reduced limb functionality. Image from Instagram: lady. Frankly speaking, Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes are somewhat high maintenance. This is largely due to the fact that their build and potential features like the brachycephalic head structure makes them prone to several health issues. This means that you have your work cut out for you as far as taking good care of these doggies goes. Fortunately, taking care of a Bulldog Shih Tzu mix can be relatively easy especially if you know what you are doing. Here are a few pointers to get you on the right track when it comes to basic care of a Bulldog Shih Tzu mixed breed dog. However, too much exercise is bad for the dogs as they easily run out of breath and are not always efficient when it comes to dealing with heat. This means feeding your pooch high quality dog food in appropriate amounts of about 1 to 2 cups every day. For quality and balance, we recommend Pet Plate as they use vet approved recipes with real ingredients. Finally, top this diet off with some multivitamin supplements to ensure that your Bulldog Shih Tzu doggy has a truly balanced diet. Regular Grooming Regular grooming will not only help keep your Bulldog Shih Tzu looking clean and smelling fresh but it will also help prevent health issues like skin, dental, and ear infections. Also make sure to clean their eyes every day and their ears every week or two. Shih Tzus on the other hand are spunky little doggies that love attention and affection. The Bulldog Shih Tzu mix takes after the best and some of the not-so-desirable personality traits from both parents. Calm Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes take after their Bulldog parents in terms of their docile and laid-back nature. They are also very gentle which makes them great dogs for homes with children. Playful Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes love to have fun and can be very goofy. They are fantastic companions and will ensure that you never feel bored or lonely. Loyal The kind of bond that Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes have with their owners and other human friends is unlike anything that you will see with most dogs out there. They remain loyal for life which is probably why they are so popular. Affectionate Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes are very good at showing their love for their human companions. These affectionate dogs will cuddle all your worries away and love nothing more than playing the lapdog role. Active For the most part, Bulldog Shih Tzus are not the most athletic of dog breeds. However, they are quite active and lively which is a part of their goofy charm. They also have a lazy, couch potato side which you should discourage to avoid health issues like obesity. The outcome depends on which coat type they take after. Those that take after the long and silky coat of a Shih Tzu are hypoallergenic and shed very little. Here are the 3 most important steps in coat care for these mixed doggies. Brush 2 To 3 Times A Week Whether or not your Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is hypoallergenic, you have to brush their fur regularly to get rid of any loose fur. This practice also helps with detangling especially with long-haired Bulldog Shih Tzu mixed dogs. We recommend you try the Furminator Undercoat Tool that will work on any of the two coat type options on a Bulldog Shih Tzu mix. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. This shampoo is particularly useful for Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes that are prone to skin irritation as the oatmeal helps soothe the skin and promote healing. Trimming helps to keep the coat manageable both for you and the pooch. It also helps minimize infections both on the skin and especially in the ears. In addition to the rarity of the Shih Tzu, the Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is sometimes expensive due to their popularity as companion pets and family dogs. If the Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is more like the Shih Tzu, they will love swimming and will be instinctively comfortable in water. Purebred Bulldogs and Shih Tzus tend to get along. Both are even-tempered and tolerant dog breeds that generally coexist peacefully with other pets. However, to be on the safe side, it is best to start socialization training for both dogs at an early age to make sure that they are truly comfortable around other dogs. An ideal companion dog The French Bull Tzu is an ideal choice for people who live in a city apartment or elderly owners who want a loving lap dog. Great around children— wonderful family dogs French Bull Tzus can be trusted around young children which makes them a popular choice for a family pet. The cutest features from both breeds Their shaggy coats, slightly flattened faces, and playful temperament all perfectly complement their clownishly adorable antics. Loved by the royals These companion dogs soon became a favorite pet among the royal families which gave them a very special place in Chinese culture. In fact, Shih Tzus were considered to be so precious that the Chinese refused to trade or sell them with traders from abroad for generations! Came to Europe in the s However, eventually, the breed was exported and they made their first appearance in Europe in the s. Bred to be a mild-mannered companion dog, the French Bulldog was hugely popular with the wealthy and elite of France. They come in a variety of colors Their coats are usually black, white, red, brown, or mixes of these colors. Some look more like a Frenchie— others more like a Shih Tzu Sometimes they can look just like a French Bulldog but with longer fur whereas in other cases they are much slimmer with a more pronounced muzzle. However, in spite of their hybrid vigor, French Bull Tzus can still be susceptible to some of the health conditions that are prevalent in their parental genetic heritage. Test for Health Issues. They are loving and loyal dogs and like to be with humans who match their energy, which is why the Bulldog Shih Tzu is the perfect companion for a child. If this dog breed is not trained properly on how to act around people or children, it has been known to nip or playbite at times, which must be corrected. Bulldogs are aggressive but can learn to be loving and friendlier with proper training. This dog is an ideal family pet and will suit families with small children. It also suits older people as it does not require much maintenance. A loyal breed will always want to be by your side. However, the Bullshih can have separation anxiety tendencies which is something to keep in mind. Shih Tzu Bulldog Size The Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is considered a toy dog and does not grow to be big, weighing lbs with an average height of about inches. Bulldog Shih Tzu Health Problems There are no known health conditions of the Bulldog Shih Tzu mix; however, both the Bulldog and the Shih Tzu are short-nosed dogs and are prone to breathing difficulties, which could also be passed on to the mixed breed. Brachycephalic Syndrome — I talked about this above as both of these parent breeds do struggle with the difficulty of breathing sometimes. This is the narrowing of the breathing passageways. Most likely, your dog will inherit this condition. Eye Issues — Sometimes, this breed has protruding eyes, which can cause vision issues or even eye disease in long-term health cases. Obesity — Another issue this breed faces is obesity. This breed could eat and eat if you allow them, so it is very important to feed your dog the recommended daily food limit. Dental Issues — The Shih Tzu can develop dental issues. Allergies — Allergies can be very common with a variety of dog breeds. The Bulldog can have sensitive skin, leading to certain product allergies. You can ask any of the concerning questions you may have. When they are combined together, your dog will have a good range life span between 10 to 18 years. Of course, you can always ask your veterinarian for guidance if needed. Living Conditions This is an ideal dog for an apartment as it is small and clean. This dog does not do very well with extreme heat, and if owners live in a hot country, keeping the dog in a place where the temperature is favorable is recommended. This goes hand in hand with the weather as well. Bulldog Shih Tzu Exercise Even though this is a small dog, it does need to be exercised daily. It enjoys running , and because it learns quickly, you could exercise it by playing a game of fetch. These dogs are prone to putting on weight easily as the Bulldog is known to eat non-stop. That is why you need to get your dog outside for at least thirty minutes to get moving. As mentioned above, watch out for extreme heat or cold when exercising. This can exert your dog and cause breathing issues. There are a lot of great playtimes and exercises your Bulldog Shih Tzu mix can do without getting too tired. Shih Tzu Bulldog Mix Feeding Since the Shih Tzu Bulldog mix tends to have flat faces, it can be difficult for your dog to pick up its food when eating. However, triangle-shaped dog food is much easier for your dog to pick up. This mixed dog breed is also prone to obesity, so you must ensure you are only feeding your dog the required amount and not overfeeding your dog. The best way to know how much your dog needs to eat is based on its weight. For example, the Shih Tzu Bulldog mix is estimated to need one cup of high-quality dog food broken up into smaller meals throughout the day. It is also very important to feed your dog a great balance of protein , carbs, fats, fruits, and vegetables. Many owners make their own homemade dog food, and many more holistic dog food brands out there strive to make extremely healthy foods for dogs. Shih Tzu Bulldog Mix Grooming This medium-haired dog is easy to maintain and must be brushed thrice weekly to keep its coat shiny and tangy-free. It is also recommended to feed this dog a hard-boiled egg once every two weeks as it is said to help keep their coat healthy. If your dog takes on more traits of the Shih Tzu parent, you will need some sort of dog detangler to help get out mats, knots, and tangles easier. It will need to be brushed more often if it is longer. As always, check out for signs of skin irritation when bathing your dog. The Bulldog dog breed is known for having sensitive skin. Only use dog safety-approved shampoos and watch out for skin irritation. Periodically check over the ear to ensure they are infection free and clip the nails when needed. Bulldog Shih Tzu Training When you are training any dog breed, you need to start when your dog is a puppy. Start with simple things such as potty training, socialization, and being friendly with people and other animals. Remember, when you are training your dog, you reward your dog with treats and positive praise. Training may take some time, so be patient with your dog. Your dog may be quite stubborn if it has more traits from the Shih Tzu parent. Training may take some time, but it is important to continue. Try not to get discouraged and have patience when training. You can always take your Bullshih to a professional trainer if it becomes overwhelming. Shih Tzu Bulldog Mix Puppies When you are first looking for a Shih Tzu Bulldog Mix puppy, it can be challenging to find a reputable and responsible breeder that breeds these two together. Stay away from puppy mills that sell puppies that may not have the best health as you would get from a breeder. Since this mixed dog breed is known as a designer dog breed and quite rare to acquire, you will most likely pay a lot for a puppy. Remember, if you cannot afford that route, you can always go the adoption route and get an older dog for a much lower price. Shih Tzu Bulldog Mix Litter Size When a breeder produces this type of puppy, it requires a lot of work, which is why the price tag is so high. In addition, this dog breed has to be artificially inseminated because these two dog breeds would not have puppies naturally. Usually, the puppies must be delivered by a cesarean section, which again reflects the price. Breeders will typically yield between 2 to 9 puppies. Key Takeaways In this section, you will find the important details that you should know about the Shih Tzu Bulldog breed. This mixed dog breed will combine traits from both parent breeds. As a result, each Bullshih can look different from the others based on which traits each dog takes. The coat can be short and smooth like the Bulldog or long and silky like the Shih Tzu. You can get a combination of both breeds, and ensure you know you must do some basic grooming. You will find that this is a very loving and playing mixed breed. The size of the parent breeds will impact how big your Shih Tzu Bulldog mix will be. There are some minor health conditions to beware of that your mix could inherit from its parent dog breeds. Twenty to thirty minutes of exercise will be all this dog needs daily as it can have a breathing condition that can make exercise difficult. Feeding your Shih Tzu Bulldog mix based on size is the best way to prevent overfeeding and obesity. Ensure you do all the basic grooming you would do for any dog breed. If the coat is longer, it must be brushed more often to prevent tangles and knots. Always purchase a puppy from a reputable breeder and avoid puppy mills and pet stores. Some people also refer to it as the Shih Tzu Bulldog mix, which is acceptable when discussing this mixed breed dog. Yes, but most likely, this is not done naturally, and the mix has to be created through artificial insemination. This is known as a designer dog breed that was created with a purpose. How big does a bulldog Shih Tzu mix get? The size of a bulldog Shih Tzu mix can vary, but they usually stand between 9 to 13 inches tall and weigh between 9 to 16 pounds. What is the temperament of a bulldog Shih Tzu mix? A bulldog Shih Tzu mix is known to be friendly, playful, and affectionate. They are loyal and make great companions. Are bulldog Shih Tzu mixes easily trained? Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes can be stubborn and require consistent and patient training. Positive reinforcement training methods are recommended. Do bulldog Shih Tzu mixes require a lot of grooming? They also need their facial wrinkles cleaned regularly to prevent infections. What are the common health issues for bulldog Shih Tzu mixes? Common health issues for bulldog Shih Tzu mixes include allergies, hip dysplasia, respiratory issues, and eye problems. What is the lifespan of a bulldog Shih Tzu mix? The lifespan of a bulldog Shih Tzu mix is typically between 10 to 18 years. Are bulldog Shih Tzu mixes good with children and other pets? Yes, bulldog Shih Tzu mixes are known to be good with children and other pets. However, like any dog, they should be socialized early to ensure they behave appropriately around others. Close relatives of the Bulldog Shih Tzu Mix Here we have a few breeds that make up this designer breed and are also similar if you want to consider a few breeds: Bulldog. She loves to retrieve balls and toys that we throw for her. When she is wound up and excited with fetch she demands our attention with a high-pitched bark and a nudge if she wants us to throw her ball or toy. Annoying and cute at the same time. She is a happy dog and likes to cuddle with us on the sofa. She is friendly towards people and other dogs. Mia is definitely part of our family and likes to always be around us. She is a good "alert" dog, and monitors the backyard perimeter for critters on the fence or in trees. It is a cross between the French Bulldog and the Shih Tzu. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. The first picture is her at 8 weeks. In the second one, she's around 3 years old. She's a funny, playful, sweet and smart dog. It was love at first sight. I'm not sure if the litter was an accident or intentional, but it has proven to be a beautiful combination of traits. Her mama was a purebred French Bulldog weighing in at about 17 pounds. She had the typical Frenchie birthing difficulties, and required cesarean to deliver her 3 pups. Yoji's brother apparently looks nearly identical to her, because his owners saw me walking her one day, and they stopped me and asked why I had their dog. They really took a double-take at her, and we finally figured out that they were littermates. Yoji is now about 22 pounds and 4 years old. She's a very happy, healthy girl. Just the best dog ever! They look very different at first glance, and there can be a lot of variation among Bulldog Shih Tzu mix puppies. The qualities a mixed breed dog inherits from each parent might only become apparent when they are grown up. As a result, it can be tricky to predict exactly how one of these puppies might turn out. The best thing to do is to find out more about both the Bulldogs and the Shih Tzu as separate breeds. For many centuries, no one outside of China knew that this little breed of dog existed. By the s, the Shih Tzu became known outside of China, and by they had been included in the stud book of the American Kennel Club. Bulldog History As the name of this breed implies, the Bulldog was bred to bait bulls. This was once thought of as a sport in 13th Century Britain. When this practice was banned in , the breed was in danger of dying out. Bulldog enthusiasts worked to create a dog more suited to a family environment. The Bulldogs appearance has changed significantly since then. For example their muzzles became far shorter. They were accepted into the American Kennel Club in .Purebred or mixed breed? These dogs are the result of breeding two different pedigree dogs together. Designer dogs tend to provoke reactions. This refers to the fact that mixing the gene pools of different pedigree breeds usually results in an increase in the health of any resulting puppies. However, there are supporters of pedigree dogs whose opinions differ. The best thing to do is to become familiar with the average size, weight, and height of both the parent breeds. This will give an idea of what you can expect with your mixed breed pup. They have a high head-carriage, and sturdy body. They usually weigh between 9 — 16 pounds, and stand at a height of 9 — .Their double coat is thick, long, and often reaches all the way to the ground if allowed to grow! In terms of color, there is a huge variation within this breed. In fact, the breed standard mentions that all colors are permissible. Bulldog Appearance Bulldogs belong to the non-sporting group, and are medium sized, but super chunky. Males weigh up to 50 pounds, and females slightly lighter at 40 pounds. Both males and females stand at 14 — 15 inches high. Bulldog Coat The coat of a Bulldog is short and fine. Again, there are many permissible colors, although not unlimited like the Shih Tzu. Colors mentioned in the Bulldog breed standard are: Fallow.


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english bulldog puppies hampton roads - Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Despite the fact that play biting, or mouthing, is normal dog behavior and may be cute at 8 weeks, if not curbed, as the dog grows, it can become downright painful and a nuisance to get under control. The correction is very simple-the puppy on the receiving end of the painful bite will yelp and stop paying with the offending puppy. After a beat or two, the play resumes but this lesson eventually teaches the pups how to control the intensity of their bites on each other. Controlling mouthing, along with house training, is usually one of the first lessons puppies learn and it takes time, consistency, and patience to get past this phase of life. There are usually two types of dog owners, those that allow some play biting and those that allow none. Teaching a dog not to bite human skin is the purpose of this article and has many benefits to the dog and owner. How to teach your dog to stop mouthing: Very young puppies explore their worlds with their mouths and will need continuous training and reminders. When a young puppy bites hard, let out a loud yelp and allow your hand to go limp. That sends the message that the game is over for the moment. You can expect your puppy to resume play and each time he bites too hard, you will repeat the yelp to get his attention and praise the moment he stops biting. If this is not effective for the young puppy, when the puppy bites hard, yelp and when he lets go remove your hand for 15 seconds. This will teach the puppy that rough play ends the fun but gentle play continues it. As the puppy grows, training him to stop biting skin can begin. How to teach a puppy to stop biting skin: Substitute a chew toy when the puppy gets too rough or bites fingers and toes. When the puppies is overexcited and play bites when being handled or petted, feed treats or distract with a toy while you handle him. Encourage age appropriate play, chase the ball or tug rather than biting your hands. If the puppy bites your pant legs, shoes, ankles, and feet, offer a tug as an alternative. Carry the tug with you during puppy training or play times. Provide a variety of toys and textures for the puppy to explore. If possible, allow the puppy to play with other puppies or friendly dogs. As the puppy grows, if he bites our skin, continue to yelp and stop the play. As he matures, you can also turn your back on the puppy to stop play. Never entice your puppy to bite by smacking his face or waving your fingers in front of him. Never use your hand as a tug toy or allow him to pull on your body parts. Your goal is to startle your dog so he stops playing and mouthing for 10 to 20 seconds. Once your dog has learned to control his bite pressure the next step is to teach him to stop mouthing completely. When your dog gently mouths you, begin yelping and redirecting him to a chew toy whenever he touches your skin. If he continues to put his mouth on your skin then yelp and walk away from him for 30 to 60 seconds. Continue playing games and redirecting him with toys until he stops mouthing. If your dog is still mouthing you after you've tried all of these training options then you may want to try redirecting him by putting dog repellent sprays or bad tasting mouth wash on your hands. The last thing you want to happen is to frustrate your dog and have him become aggressive or fearful of you. If you find it cute that your little German Shepherd puppy is biting your hand, think again! GSDs grow-up to become strong and muscular dogs. However, once a GSD pup grows , its biting habits are not cute at all. Trust me on this one. Little pups that bite on hands or chew on toys are doing so because they are developing teeth. Recently, we got a new addition to our GSD family, a cute male named Bobby, and surely Bobbly likes to bite everything. We did order a set of tug ropes for him and it is working. Here is the model that we ordered from Chewy. They chew on toys because their gums feel irritated and to make the pain go away, they bite and chew on things. This behavior during the teething period is very normal and not much of a problem. Another reason that GSDs bite a lot is that they did not receive proper training as pups. When people start to appreciate or encourage GS biting or nipping, they are making it develop this into a habit. Your dog will start to bite at visitors and household items. This is a problem that needs to be controlled right away or else someone will end up getting hurt. If you let your GSD bite and nip, you are letting it take over. Biting and nipping is also a play game for GSD pups. They like to bite other pups in the litter, and this is usually harmless. However, when a pup gets hurt unintentionally, it makes a loud sound. This sound is an indication for the pup that it is hurt, and it is time to stop. There are several ways you can train your pup not to bite or nip. If your pup is biting because of teething, it is not a problem. The first step is to tell your dog that biting is not acceptable. You will do this with the help of voice commands , body language, and hand signals. When you stop playing with your pup the moment it bites, it will associate no play with biting. Repeat this practice whenever your GSD bites or nips. It will help your GSD learn that biting and nipping is not appreciated. Put your other finger lightly beneath its chin. Your pup will not be able to bite you and in this uncomfortable situation, it will try to get your fingers out of its mouth. This is an effective technique that will make the puppy feel uncomfortable and it will avoid biting you. Remember, you will have to repeat this technique several times until your pup completely hates taking your hand in its mouth. Pull your hand backward and pinch your pup in the neck. Do not pinch too tightly. This will make the pup associate pinching with No, and it will soon stop biting you. Be Consistent in what You Teach If you are trying to train your dog to behave and stop biting and nipping, make sure you are doing it with consistency and repetition. While training a GSD, you will need to repeat your technique several times until it starts to learn. Your GSD needs to know that biting and nipping is not acceptable and will upset you. You will also need to become the leader of your dog, not a friend of the same level. When the dog accepts you as a leader, it starts to follow the rules you set and the commands you give. Do not let your puppy bite on your hands during the training process. Reward Good Behavior If your dog is doing well and following your orders, do not forget to offer it a treat. Food treats are a kind of reward that you offer your dog only when it learns something. Make sure you have enough treats with you when you are training your pup. This way your GSD will learn that no biting means a yummy treat. You can also sign-up for our newsletter to get an expert opinion on GSD behaviors. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.