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Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. 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. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog.

The Frenchie we love today They were originally bred by crossing English Bulldogs and Parisian ratters to create the ionic Frenchie that we all know and love today. Frenchies are popular Did you know that Frenchies are the 1 most popular dog breed according to the American Kennel Club?! Beagles are intelligent Beagles are extremely intelligent with an insatiable desire to please their owners. And they make wonderful family pets They are still used for hunting although they also make wonderful family pets and companion dogs who can be trusted around young children and other animals in the house. A healthy breed Compare this to the Frenchie who is notorious for their long list of health problems. Frengles are super friendly and adaptable to living in the countryside or the city. Why the Frengle was created One of the main reasons why breeders began to cross Beagles with Frenchies was to reduce the health problems that many French Bulldogs can suffer from as a result of their short, stubby noses and restrictive airways. Frengles are becoming more popular Over the years the popularity of Frengles soared and now there are breeders all over America that specialize in breeding them. Frengle Health Problems Generally speaking, Frengles are a very healthy breed that has an average life expectancy of between 12 to 15 years, although sometimes they can live to be as old as 17 or 18! Frenchies, like most purebreds, are quite susceptible to a wide range of health complaints. Frenchies live around years on average. Beagles, on the other hand, are extremely healthy dogs and so crossing the two breeds has led to a healthy, longer-living dog. This is great news for owners who want to share their lives with a dog for many happy years! They have a lifespan of years. The Frengle has its own issues though As with any breed though, there are some health conditions that Frengles are susceptible to. The most common Frengle health problems The most common minor health complaints for Frengles include ear infections, entropion, skin allergies , and cherry eye. These are all easily treated if you visit your vet and catch the symptoms early. The result was a success. In the latter decades, this dog has proved to be a good family pet, and is gradually gaining popularity among dog lovers in the West. Temperament and Behavior To talk about the characteristics of the Frengles, the first thing to mention is that, they are affectionate little dogs that are social, intelligent, alert, and playful and have a very even disposition, so much so that they get along well with all humans in general, and are always gentle and calm when it comes to interacting with them. This makes good family dogs ideal for apartment living. Occasional obstinacy is also a trait of these mini-size dogs, but they are always ready to please their owners and even other dogs, and this is one quality that is rare with other breeds. They would get along well with other pets, and with both older and small children, however, early socialization and supervision is also important. However, their attentiveness and alertness in attitude, and their instinct to bark at anything strange, weird or unusual, alerting their family members has made them good watchdogs. They are dogs that are active indoors and you would seldom find them sitting lazy in a corner, or sleeping. Care Exercise Frengles actually need daily walks or jogging, or a stroll to the dogs park for their mental stimulation, as also to consume their energy. They are very active with high levels of energy that would require ample opportunities to run and play. These are dogs that excel at dog agility training, and would cherish having a job to do. Play with them. This would not merely develop their bones of growth, but also would help build an even friendlier relation with you. If your frengle has taken more after the Beagle side of the family, it would need some space to run around and play, and for that, it would be benefited if they get a safe and small yard to play, but to mention, without its leash. Grooming Their short coat is easily maintainable, and the maintenance level is low. Brush their coat at least twice a week to keep it clean and retain the sheen. Health Problems Like most other crosses, no health problems reported that are specific to the breed. But since no dog is immune to diseases, consider meeting your vet from time to time for necessary vaccinations, as also for annual health checkups so as to ward off possibilities of genetic or generic dog diseases. Training The Frengle hounds are moderately easy to train. But, as mentioned, they might show signs of stubbornness from time to time. For this, you should be aware of the fact that, your frengle dog responds well to consistent and firm training, but that be accompanied with food rewards. As you adopt your frengle puppies from the breeders or rescue, they would be clingy. However, they would tend to loosen up with age. So, it is recommended that you start socializing them with other pets and humans right from birth, or from very tender age. It is from this age that you should begin to deliver all basic trainings like crate, housebreaking, obedience etc. Let your frengles be aware that, it is you who is the leader of its dog pack, and also, take them to new places and help them meet new people. Once training is a success with your frengle, you would be the proudest owner in your neighborhood. Since this is an active dog breed, make sure you pick the right food for your pet that would supply it with the right quantity of nutrients required through its daily meals, especially during its years of rapid growth. The choice of a long or a short tail depends on the choice of the breeders. Interestingly, unlike with many other dogs, having another pet dog in the same house would assist it in its development. Frengle Highlights Frengles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their French Bulldog or Beagle parents. Frengles have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise per day. They will enjoy a walk, trip to the dog park, or game of fetch in the backyard. The main colors of Frengles are tri, brown, cream, brindle, and spotted. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of those colors. They are generally not considered to be an ideal choice for those with allergies. Frengles are medium shedders and are easy to groom. A good daily brushing will probably do. These playful and affectionate pups make great companions for a single person as well as a wonderful addition to any family with children. Since Frengles may still have a bit of a prey drive, it is best to introduce them to any small pets while young and supervise their interactions. Obedience and potty training may come as a bit of a challenge, as the Frengle is known for their stubborn, headstrong personality. Frengle History The Frengle mixed breed may have existed naturally over the years, but the designer breeders started intentionally mixing French Bulldogs and Beagles in the United States in recent years. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to help minimize breathing issues that affect French Bulldogs because of their short snouts. They continued to create Frengles as demand for this mixed breed rose over the years. Even though the Frengle got their start as a designer breed, some end up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the right mixed breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up rescues, or check with breed specific French Bulldog or Beagle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Frengle Size As the Frengle is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between a French Bulldog and a Beagle, you can expect Frengles to be on the small side. Most weigh in at 18 to 30 pounds and range in height from eight to 15 inches at the shoulder. However, size differences can occur between males and females. A female would usually be slightly smaller than the male. Frengle Personality Many Frengle owners describe their pups as playful and social. Seeing as they are on the smaller side, they will love cuddling up in your lap just as much as running around playing fetch in your backyard. Since Frengles are part Beagle, many Frengles maintain their prey drive and can become easily distracted by scents. The Frengle is almost loyal to a fault and will even be friendly with people they may have just met. They love their family unconditionally and despite their very outgoing nature, will defend their home from strangers by barking to alert their owner of an intruder. They respond best to treats as rewards and positive reinforcement from their owners. Frengle Health The Frengle breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Beagle and French Bulldog also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Frengles suffer from include: Epilepsy. Most dogs need around calories per pound per day to maintain a healthy weight, so the average Frengle will need to get about calories a day to maintain a healthy weight. Frengles can vary in size, but around 1 or 2 cups of dry food a day should be sufficient for the average Frengle. Wet food can be added to their diet, which will also give them additional moisture. Dry kibble can help keep their teeth clean and reduce tartar build-up and dental issues. Bulldogs tend to inhale air when eating, and this can cause bloating and flatulence. They have fairly sensitive digestive systems, and this can carry on to their Frengle offspring. This trait is further exacerbated by foods like soy, beans, dairy products, and wheat, so these should all be ideally avoided. Small-sized dry kibble can help them eat more slowly and help them avoid ingesting too much air. Beagles are known for eating almost anything, so they are not picky when it comes to food. Their high energy levels mean they will benefit more from eating two small meals a day, as opposed to a single large one. Protein is essential for any dog, but both Bulldogs and Beagles will thrive from having slightly more than average. However, too much protein can quickly lead to obesity, so the amount of protein should be closely monitored and then altered according to how active your Frengle is and their age. Around 1 gram of protein per pound is ideal. Growing Frengle puppies especially need loads of exercise and play to burn off excess energy. A common rule-of-thumb is 5 minutes for every month of age, twice a day, until adulthood. The Frengle can be a fairly active breed, and they love physical activities like walking and running with their owners. A minimum of 30 minutes a day is recommended, but they should ideally get hours. Toys, balls, and stick games are bound to be a hit with Frengles and will aid in keeping them both mentally and physically stimulated. These toy games will also help keep their chewing instincts at bay. Bulldogs have a reputation for being docile but can exert a great deal of energy when excited. Beagles, on the other hand, are particularly high-energy dogs, and will need regular exercise in order to burn it off. The Frengle is usually a good mix of the two, enjoying lounging on the sofa but also benefiting greatly from physical activity. A lack of sufficient exercise with any dog breed will quickly lead to bad behavior, including barking, chewing, and aggression, and daily exercise is essential to having a well-behaved dog. Early socialization and reward-based training will help get them used to commands quicker and encourage them to enjoy and look forward to training sessions. As with most dogs, patience is key to good training, and the reward of a well-behaved Frengle is worth it. Training sessions of minutes at a time is ideal, as Frengles may lose concentration fairly quickly. They will respond well to positive reinforcement training , as it will greatly appeal to their desire to please their owners. That said, they do shed, and are not ideal for owners who suffer from allergies. Both the French Bulldog and Beagle are known to be medium shedders, and the Frengle is generally the same. Even though the Frengle has a short coat, brushing is still necessary. While the occasional brush is a good idea, bathing should be done only when they are muddy or dirty, as both the parent breeds are known to suffer from dry skin. Their short coat also makes them sensitive to cold weather, and they should have a sweater when outside in cold climates for extended periods. Regular nail clipping is recommended for all dogs, as long nails can be painful for them and even cause arthritis if left unmanaged. Due to the long droopy ears of some Frengles, there is a lack of airflow to the ear canal, and ear infections can be fairly common. It is important to keep the inside of their ear canals dry and perform regular checks for redness or discharge. If your Frengle is showing discomfort by incessantly scratching and rubbing their ears, a check-up with the vet may be necessary. That said, Frengle offspring can still develop issues relating to their parent breeds. Another common condition is epilepsy, in which your dog can experience mild to severe seizures. These seizures can be as harmless as a mild twitch or uncontrollable shaking that can last up to several minutes. Hypothyroidism is also a fairly common illness in Bulldogs and occurs when your dog is not secreting enough thyroid hormones. It is usually easily managed with appropriate medication. Bulldogs and French Bulldogs commonly have mild eye issues, mainly cherry eye and entropion. These conditions are typically genetically inherited, so there is a chance of them being handed down to your Frengle. Cherry eye is the term used for a prolapsed third eyelid in dogs and was historically remedied by surgical removal. However, it is easily remedied nowadays with an anti-inflammatory ointment. In most dogs, this is nothing more than a mild irritation, but it can cause vision problems long term. Unless you intend on breeding your Frengle, it is widely recommended to neuter males and spay females, as this has many associated health benefits. For males, it assists in prevention from testicular cancer, will make them less aggressive, and will also prevent them from wandering off looking for females. Spaying a female will help assist in the prevention of uterine infections and cancer. It is recommended to spay a female before her first heat, as this will further help prevent these complications. If you do intend to breed a female Frengle, it is far better for her health to wait until she has experienced at least one or two heats. Minor Conditions. Brown, cream, solid or mixed variations of black and spotted Suitable for families Families with children, seniors, and singles Temperament Playful, affectionate, and friendly. Despite its name, the French Bulldog was first bred in England. The small animals were created as companion dogs. During the Industrial Revolution, some French workers emigrated with these dogs, and they became lapdogs. In the s, these dogs became popular in America, where they got their current nickname, Frenchie. By the 15th century, they were used for hunting in England. But in the 18th century, they got dropped in favor of foxhounds which were much faster. They were later imported to America and bred as tiny dogs. Today, while Beagles are used as sniffer dogs and guide dogs, French Bulldogs are solely companion pets. This breed might be a bit challenging to train because it inherits the stubbornness from both parent breeds. However, when trained and socialized early, these dog breeds remain loyal to you. Physically, they resemble both parent breeds and pick varying features. Frengles are short and strong and come with short legs and a broad chest. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This is a pup that has a unique appearance and personality. Frengles usually have a short, muscular build and a short snout, similar to the French Bulldog, combined with the longer, droopy ears of the Beagle. Frengles are known to be great with children and other animals and are typically good-natured and easy-going. They are also known for their strong hunting instincts and love for adventure. Training and socialization from an early age is important to ensure that your Frengle grows up to be a well-behaved and obedient companion. Overall, the Frengle is a wonderful pet that is sure to bring joy and excitement to your life! They can also be stubborn if not socialized properly. They are calm and gentle, which is excellent if you need a companion. When indoors, they love to snuggle with their owners. These dog breeds tend to be wary around strangers until they get used to them. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Their Beagle heritage loves running around with children and playing. Therefore, if you have small kids, these playful dogs will enjoy their company. However, if your dog has a Beagle dominant side, they need to exercise and play a lot due to their hunting origins. You can incorporate the playtime with the kids. Frengles that pick dominant French Bulldog traits have low energy but will be calm and entertaining for the family. These combinations of features are perfect for even seniors and single people. It makes an excellent indoor dog. Your pet will also like being the center of attention. Because of this, you should spend a lot of time with them. Socialization is essential for Frengles. You need to plan for diet and nutrition needs, grooming, exercise, training, and watch out for any health issues. If you just got a Frengle, here are the crucial things you need to consider. Endure your dog is eating high-quality food for proper nutrition. Despite its tiny size, this dog breed can be energetic, which needs to be factored in the diet. In a day, an average-sized Frengle will need about 1 or 2 cups of dry food. You can also add some food that has moisture and dry kibble to keep their teeth clean. On average, the daily caloric intake should be about calories for your dog to maintain a healthy weight. You should have a minimum of two servings if you are dog is of healthy weight. As a descendant of the Bulldog, they tend to inhale air while eating, which affects their stomach at the end of the meal. If your Frengle has these issues, try and avoid foods such as wheat products, dairy products, soy, and beans. However, the portions must be closely monitored to avoid obesity. Your vet can help you customize the amount of protein to feed your pup according to their age and health conditions. A post shared by Charleston charlie. Regular exercise plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your dog. In addition, daily exercise keeps your dog happy. As puppies, especially ones with more Beagle traits, they need loads of exercise to burn off energy. This dog breed loves running and walking with its caretakers. You can schedule exercise sessions for about 30 minutes to 2 hours daily, depending on how active your dog is. This dog also loves mental stimulation; therefore, add some toys and balls to chew. Take them to a dog park to play with other dogs, but ensure they are on a leash. This will prevent them from running off in search of scents. The Frengle draws a mix of energy between the two parent breeds. While Bulldogs are docile, Beagles are very high-energy dogs that need exercise to burn off energy. Therefore, your Frengle will enjoy a good workout and also lounge on the sofa with you in the evening. If your pet is not getting enough exercise, it will become aggressive and start chewing items and barking. These destructive behaviors can be a lot to handle and frustrating. Also, using positive techniques and keeping your tone firm helps. The pup will appreciate treats and rewards, which encourages them to catch up with the training much quicker to please the owner. However, you should avoid scolding them, which can make them tougher to train. Frengles tend to lose their concentration quickly; therefore, training sessions should ideally be minutes at a time. Reward-based training and early socialization and reward-based training is the key to get your puppy to understand commands quicker and encourage them to look forward to training sessions. They are medium shedders, which is not ideal for people with allergies. Due to their short hair, they are also sensitive to cold weather. A Frengle should have their teeth brushed regularly to prevent dental issues. The nails should be trimmed, especially because long nails can be painful if your dog has arthritis. Their long droopy ears are highly prone to ear infections. To prevent these, regularly check for discharge or redness and keep the inside of the ears clean. If your dog is itchy or scratches the ears often, have them checked by a vet to rule out any issues. Frengle Hound Description The Frengle is not a purebred dog. It is a cross between the Beagle and the French Bulldog. 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. He loves to go for walks ; we try and do a minute walk every other day. In the summer he loves to go for a quick swim at the lake. As soon as he gets home, he turns into a couch potato. This little love bug is eager to snuggle up to you when you're watching TV or reading. He loves people and other dogs.He only has one enemy and that's our vacuum the sounds really upset him. Although he'll be 3 at the end of October, he's still looks like a puppy. He didn't get the Beagle appetite.He's 28 pounds of pure happiness and is always there to cheer you up when you're having a rough day. She is 10 months old in this picture. She is a very loving, active, fun-loving dog. She is the most popular dog in the dog run popular with the dogs and people. She has no fear and thinks life is only fun and games. She has no fear and does not know how to get mad. She will run around the park chasing other dogs and wrestling for the full hour and a half that we spend there. She weighs 23 pounds and will play with toy Pomeranians that weigh nothing and Great Danes about 8 times her size. Although she is a very active dog when we are out, at home she loves to snuggle and curl up in the bed with you. I live in New York City in a tiny apartment and she goes outside at least 3 times a day 45 minutes in the morning, 1. Abbey is a lot of joy to have; my only problem with her would be her chewing or the things she likes to chew. She seems to love to chew leather and fuzzy things. Sometimes at night or early in the morning I hear her snort in her sleep. I love the Frengle; you just have to make sure to give them enough exercise.

All breeds of Labrador Retrievers are known for being kind and gentle — and this trait runs especially strong with the chocolate-colored sweeties. While these dogs are very friendly to strangers, they have even more affection to give to their beloved families. Your Chocolate Lab puppy or adult will be happiest spending time with their favorite people. If you have young children, a lab is a great fit, as this breed is usually quite tolerant of the horseplay of small children who are still learning how to interact with pets. Just like many people, Chocolate Labs enjoy both downtime — especially if it involves being pampered by their family — and active high-energy fun. We recommend daily exercise, which can include anything from fetch, to tag, or even frisbee games. The average Chocolate Lab lifespan is between 9 and 11 years. The most common Chocolate Lab health problem is hip dysplasia, which occurs more commonly in older and overweight dogs. This is just one of the reasons to make exercise a common part of your time with a Chocolate Lab puppy or fully grown adult. Another problem that occurs in overweight labs is joint and movement issues. The other most common Chocolate Lab health problems are: Progressive Retinal Atrophy Cataracts Elbow Dysplasia As is the case with any dog, when you bring home a Chocolate Labrador, make sure that you have a good vet to handle routing vaccinations and check-ups as well as emergency health problems. Learn more about the Keystone Puppies Health Guarantee! Chocolate Lab Coat Care In general, Chocolate Lab coat care is easy compared to many other dog breeds which require weekly or daily work. Labrador Retrievers all have double coats, which includes an under layer of short hairs and a slightly longer top layer. This coat is useful for repelling water and keeping them cool in warmer temperatures — and warm in cooler ones. Their coat is also noted to be slightly dry and oily. Chocolate Lab coat care is fairly minimal and considered low maintenance. The coat should be brushed with a firm bristle brush 2 — 3 times per month to minimize shedding. In addition to that, baths are needed fairly infrequently. What is more crucial is ensuring that their toenails are well cared for throughout the year. Meet Chocolate Lab Puppies for Sale. It quickly became clear that this new dog, at the time called the St. Then, in the 19th century, visiting Englishmen took note of these incredible dogs, brought them home to England, and soon perfected and standardized the breed—which had now been dubbed the Labrador Retriever. When they began as the St. While this is still true today, the recessive colors of yellow and chocolate have become more and more coveted by those seeking Labs as pets. Thanks to years of breeding efforts, those recessive colors are not as difficult to find as they once were. Chocolate Labrador Retriever Puppies for Sale Chocolate Labs are a favorite among those looking to add a member of the breed to their family. Coat shades can range from a warm, light brown to a deeper chocolate color. Both parents must carry and pass on the recessive chocolate color gene in order for a puppy to be born with this coat. Just like their black and yellow counterparts, chocolate Labrador Retrievers are known as doting and capable dogs. You can put them to work as hunting or service dogs, but they make excellent cuddle buddies as well. Their beautiful coats and breed stature make them great show dogs too. The chocolate lab puppies we breed for sale at Hidden Pond Labradors come with their first round of shots, one-year written health guarantee, and a veterinarian health certificate. We are dedicated to breeding our puppies for premier health and pedigree, as well as raising them in our home so their personalities and happiness can blossom. Experience the love, joy, and comfort this amazing breed has to offer with a chocolate Labrador Retriever puppy of your own from Hidden Pond Labradors. Give us a call at or message us online to inquire about our available and upcoming Lab puppies! Life Span Did You Know? Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds. The Chocolate Labrador Retriever is not a distinct dog breed from other Labs, but it is a separate coat color variation that is specifically bred for. Similar to the other standard coat colors of Labrador Retrievers, Chocolate Labs are energetic dogs that get along well in a family setting. As a Retriever, they also make great hunting dogs and have also been known to fill other working dog roles including service dogs, guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and more. They are even one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units. A point of interest is that all modern Chocolate Labrador Retrievers can be traced to three specific Black Labradors that lived during the s. Chocolate Labs are industrious little pups. They were bred for retrieval and will often sniff about for something to get into. They are also one of the most affectionate dog breeds and absolutely love being with their favorite humans. Properly socialized and well-trained, Labs are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. They get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are famously even-tempered and playful. This makes them fantastic dogs for a growing family, as they tend to be gentle and patient with little ones. They can have a high prey drive. They usually do well with small pets within the family that they have been raised with or socialized around, but likely will still have the urge to chase other animals while out and about. They also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. After all, strangers are just more people to give them attention and play with them. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers may be high-energy dogs, but they are also highly adaptable. They will thrive in homes with fenced yards where they can run freely. They can adapt well to apartment living as well as long as they get plenty of daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation. Their natural urge to dig and bark when they are bored or agitated can be quelled with a little training and exercise. Although they can handle some alone time, Labs love to be with their families and thrive on attention from them, so they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Chocolate Labs also have a water-resistant double coat that makes them well-suited for most habitable climates. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat. Although they can handle some cold and will likely love to play in the snow, they are not a snow dog breed and may need to bundle up while out on walks in areas with harsher winters. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Chocolate Labrador Retriever can include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, hereditary myopathy, and heart disease. There is also a condition with a genetic link called exercise-induced collapse EIC , which can occur in young adult Labradors. Carriers of this can be identified by DNA tests and it is advised that breeders test for this and avoid practices that would produce the disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, Labrador Retrievers are at a higher risk for bloat. Bloat in dogs can be dangerous and can quickly become fatal if the stomach flips gastric torsion. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers are incredible companions and are also one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Their energy can make them a handful at times, but their intelligence, adaptability, patience with people, and eagerness to please make them easy to train. Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds , so they pick up on things easily. As long as training is consistent and focused on positive reward and praise, a Chocolate Lab will do their best to respond as expected and will often exceed expectations. Chocolate Labs have a short, water-resistant coat that will shed year-round. Brushing a few times a week, daily brushing during seasonal shedding, and the occasional bath are all that are needed to keep a Lab coat healthy and looking great. They may need baths more often if they are avid swimmers, go on a lot of outdoor adventures, and get dirty a lot. Floppy ears tend to trap dirt, moisture, and debris. Proper dental care for dogs is imperative to help prevent painful dental diseases like gum disease or tooth decay later in life. You can also supplement your dental care efforts with vet-approved dental hygiene chews. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds and need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough, but your Chocolate Labrador will likely be up for more activity if you are. One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they have an extended puppyhood and tend to maintain that puppy-like energy and maturity until they are years old. Swimming can be a great lower-impact activity and Labrador Retrievers are one of the dog breeds that tend to love water. Between that, their water-resistant coat, and webbed toes, you may have trouble getting your Chocolate Lab out of the water. Fully-grown Chocolate Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Chocolate Labs generally live for years on average. Fourteen years later, the American Kennel Club did the same in .Featured Chocolate Labrador Retriever Article. We currently have puppies available now as our mothers have hade much larger litters than expected and we had more puppies than people on our waiting list. When searching for a Retriever Breeder in Ontario it never pays to gear your search toward finding a Labrador puppy quickly, rather, focus your efforts on finding a Chocolate Lab puppy of quality, bred by a breeder with a reputation who will stand behind the Labrador Retriever puppies they breed. Please visit our Facebook site by entering luckylabspuppies in the search box on Facebook, see the pictures of our Labrador puppies and hear what our owners have to say about our commitment to quality. Look for quality puppies for sale not quick puppies. A second thing to consider is that you will want your breeder of Labrador retrievers to provide you with support after your Labrador puppy goes home with you. Lucky Labs guarantees this lifelong commitment to support for you and your Lab and we are happy to do so. We have deep discounts to Labrador puppy training websites , many articles on our blog dealing with health, behavior and other aspects of owning a Labrador puppy. We are available for you after your puppy goes home either by email or a phone call. Our availability changes at times in regards to the color of Labrador puppy we have available. As well, there are times when we get so busy and focused on our pups that we may have beautiful ckc yellow black or purebred chocolate lab puppies for sale that are not listed here. So if we are the small scale family based registered breeder for you please send us an application for a puppy in order to get the most accurate and up to date information about what our availability is. Puppies for sale Our silver lab puppies for sale are actually a faded coat chocolate lab. When both parents carry the chocolate gene, and they both carry the dilute gene then the color is diluted to a silver. If you look close you will notice that the silver lab still had brown pigment around its eyes and mouth because officially it is a chocolate lab. Silver Labradors make excellent family dogs. The Labrador Retriever breed regardless of color has been the most popular breed for over 25 years and the Silver Lab is no different. We have some Silver Labs who will be mating in the future resulting in puppies for sale. If you are interested to get on the waiting please read toward the bottom of this page to see what colors we are accepting applications for. For more information about silver Labradors click here. There is 1 male and 1 female yellow Lab puppy available to reserve who go home Oct 7th. One of these yellows will go to an Ontario Police force and the sibling will be available. Please apply below for more information. There are 2 black males available to reserve from this litter. Please apply below. Haddie and Archie Haddie had her puppies. There is 1 chocolate female available to go home Sept .Reservations are available please apply below. Ginger and Hank Ginger had her puppies Aug 5th and they will go home Sept 30th. Available for reservation are 2 black females, and 1 chocolate female. Reservations are available please apply below Chanel and Archie Chanel had her puppies. This litter will go home Oct 7th, 1 yellow male, 2 yellow females, 1 chocolate male and 4 chocolate female puppies are available for reservation. Daisy Flowers and Gus One chocolate female puppy is available for reservation to go home Oct 8. Ruby Emma and Archie Ruby has 5 chocolate males available and 1 chocolate female available to go home Oct 18th. Interested in one of our chocolate lab puppies for sale? Click here and visit the Lab Puppy Quality page for further information and price. If you are ready to apply click the button below and send us an application for one of our puppies for sale. You may want to consider being a guardian of one of our dogs, if so, click here. We are accepting applications for chocolate, silver, and black lab puppies. For chocolates we have some mothers mated who will have puppies ready for homes Sept through December. Our availability changes daily as people reserve puppies and sometimes change their minds for a puppy later on, or a different sex or color. We are expecting one litter with a few yellow puppies who will be ready to go home in Oct. We will have black lab puppies that will be born in August and Sept, reservations are available. For silver litters our next silver puppies will be ready in winter of .We are accepting applications now for our silver waiting list and first born silver puppies will be offered to those on the waiting list in the order that their deposits are received. To reserve one of our silver puppies or to get onto our waiting list for winter silvers please apply below. The earlier you place your deposit the higher up on the list you are. To check the quality of our purebred dogs click here. If you have had a family talk, everyone is on board getting a puppy, and you are ready to take that step please apply here. If you want a puppy later this fall or winter we are accepting applications for those timings as well. If an adult lab is better suited for you view availability on this page. View our Labradors There are many pictures of our Labs on the pages of our website, please click through some of the pages to view them. There is a photo gallery of our dogs here. As well, once a litter is born and we reach your position on the waiting list we will email you a picture of the puppies and the parents for you to decide if you want to move into that litter and take one of the puppies, or, you can wait for the next litter. To see many many more pictures and videos of our dogs please scroll back through our Facebook page as it goes back to .Trained Chocolate Lab Puppies.

This food is made for Pugs ages 8 weeks to 10 months. On the other hand, the ingredients list for this food leaves something to be desired. It lists brewers rice as the main ingredient with the second ingredient being chicken by-product meal. For such an expensive Pug food, they sure skimped on the quality of the ingredients! Pros Supports healthy skin, digestive health, and natural defenses Specially shaped kibble is easier for brachycephalic dogs to pick up Cons Brewers rice is the main ingredient 4. It might be expensive, but if you can afford it, it could help keep your pug pup healthy and happy for the long haul. Pros Helps support healthy brain and eye development Contains omega fatty acids for improved skin and coat Lists deboned chicken as the main ingredient Cons 5. Their Wilderness Puppy Grain-Free Dry Dog Food formula takes things even further with higher levels of protein than their original formula. The use of high-quality ingredients in high concentrations is what earns this food its rather expensive price tag. More than just healthy whole-food ingredients, this food is also fortified with healthful nutrients and supplements. Furthermore, it contains an optimal blend of essential vitamins including calcium, phosphorus, and more, to help support healthy bone growth. Pros Contains high levels of protein Uses high-quality ingredients Packed with healthful nutrients and supplements Cons More expensive than most puppy foods 6. We loved the large pound quantity you can buy it in and the relatively affordable price. Others ate the food but had difficulty digesting it. Still, dogs with sensitive stomachs, in particular, would do well to avoid this food. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Introduction Importance of choosing the right food for Pug puppies Feeding your Pug puppies the right food can significantly impact their health, growth, and overall well-being. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients and energy to support their growth and development and helps to prevent common health issues such as obesity, digestive problems, and food allergies. Factors to consider when selecting the best food for pug puppies When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, there are several factors to consider, including their age, activity level, and specific nutritional needs. Reading the ingredient list and checking the nutritional content can help you to make an informed decision about the best food for your Pug puppy. Wet Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of wet food Wet food is an excellent option for Pug puppies as it is highly palatable and provides additional moisture, which is important for their growing bodies. Wet food also contains higher levels of protein and essential nutrients, making it a great option for supporting the growth and development of your Pug puppy. Best-reviewed wet food options Royal Canin Pug Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is specifically formulated for Pug puppies, with a balanced ratio of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to meet their unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Wet Dog Food — This wet food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Dry Food for Pug Puppies Benefits of dry food Dry food is another great option for Pug puppies as it helps to clean their teeth and promote good oral health. Dry food is also a good source of essential nutrients and energy to support the growth and development of your Pug puppy. It contains a balanced protein, fats, and carbohydrates ratio to meet its unique nutritional needs. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy Small Breed Dry Dog Food — This dry food is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains wholesome brown rice, barley, and oats to provide the carbohydrates your Pug puppy needs to grow and develop. Homemade Meals and Snacks for Pug Puppies Benefits of homemade food Homemade meals and snacks are an excellent option for Pug puppies as they allow you to control the ingredients and ensure that your pup gets a healthy and balanced diet. Simple homemade meal and snack recipes for pug puppies Puppy-Friendly Meatloaf: Mix ground turkey or chicken, brown rice, carrots, and green beans for a tasty and nutritious homemade meal for your Pug puppy. Bake in the oven until fully cooked, and serve in small portions. Homemade Puppy Treats: Mix rolled oats, pumpkin puree, and a beaten egg for a simple and healthy snack for your Pug puppy. Roll out the dough, cut it into bite-sized pieces, and bake in the oven until crispy. Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, and avoid using spices and seasonings that can harm dogs. Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness. A: Wet food can provide a higher moisture content, which can benefit Pug puppies as they need to stay hydrated. Wet food also has a more appealing taste and smell, making it a great option for picky eaters. Q: What ingredients should I look for in dry food for Pug puppies? A: Look for dry food that contains high-quality proteins like chicken or fish, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy homemade meals and snacks? Q: How often should I feed my Pug puppy? A: Pug puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day until they reach six months of age. Then, they can be fed two times a day. The food they need will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. Q: What is the best food for Pug puppies with sensitive stomachs? A: Wet food with simple ingredients, like boiled chicken and rice, or dry food specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs can be helpful for Pug puppies with digestive issues. Q: Can I feed my Pug puppy adult dog food? A: No, adult dog food does not provide the appropriate nutrients for Pug puppies as they are still growing and developing. Puppy-specific food is formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. Gradual changes over a few days to a week are recommended to avoid discomfort. Conclusion Recap of the best food options When choosing the best food for your Pug puppy, several options exist. Dry food is also a good option as it helps to clean teeth and is easy to store. Final thoughts The most important thing is to choose a food specifically formulated for Pug puppies with high-quality ingredients to meet their unique nutritional needs. Choosing the best food for your Pug puppy will give them the foundation for a happy and healthy life. From pet nutrition books to online articles, a wealth of information is available on this topic. These resources will give you a deeper understanding of the nutritional needs of your Pug puppy and help you make informed decisions about the best food options for their growth and development. Although certain health issues that Pugs 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 Pugs include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Pugs. Food allergies in Pugs 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. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food 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. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. Due to their compressed noses and flat faces, Pugs are prone to breathing difficulties and an inability to cool down easily. Eye problems. Pugs are at risk for various eye health issues, such as distichiasis, cataracts, dry eye, entropion, corneal ulcers, progressive retinal atrophy, and more. Ear infections. Pugs have narrow ear canals and deep skin folds around their face, making it easier for debris and bacteria to accumulate, leading to ear infections. Skin infections. Skin fold dermatitis is common in breeds with wrinkled skin, such as Pugs. Luxating patella. Pugs are susceptible to luxating patella, where the kneecap moves out of its normal position. Mast cell tumors MCTs , a type of skin cancer, are common in middle- to senior-aged Pugs, with cancer being the leading cause of death for the breed. Pugs are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate other health issues. Pugs are also susceptible to diabetes. Pugs are prone to obesity, leading to numerous health issues and decreased activity levels. A proper diet and sufficient exercise are crucial to keeping your Pug at a healthy weight. Overfeeding or providing nutrient-poor food can contribute to weight gain, which may result in a Pug becoming less active and more lethargic. More active Pugs require more calories and nutrients to sustain their energy levels, whereas less active Pugs require fewer calories to prevent weight gain. Pug Puppies. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult Pugs. Require a diet that is lower 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. Senior Pugs. 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. Avoid common allergens. Pug often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Pugs 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. Pugs 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 Pugs. 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. Easy-to-eat kibble size and shape. Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs have shortened skulls that can cause breathing and eating difficulties. Opt for dog food with a small, flat, or round kibble shape that is easy for Pugs to pick up and chew. Balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Omega fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat, reducing the risk of skin infections around the face and ears. They also help with skin inflammation and support healthy and shiny dog coats. Foods rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lutein, and vitamins A, C, and E can help protect the eyes from oxidative damage. These nutrients are found in many fruits and vegetables. Low-glycemic carbohydrates. To help manage obesity and diabetes, choose dog food containing low glycemic carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or legumes, which release energy slowly and help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Low-calorie content. Joint support supplements. Look for dog foods containing joint support supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM, which can help maintain joint health and reduce the risk of a luxating patella. Chapter 2: The Reviews.

Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Huntsville location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands. Smart Golden Retriever puppies do great with early training. Complete Golden Retriever puppy training typically takes a few months. Dog Training Elite Huntsville offers specialized in-home training. Working with a Golden Retriever puppy and the owner directly in the home prevents puppies from being distracted and allows dog trainers to create personalized training plans for individual puppies, as well as address any unique needs or issues. Once a puppy has completed in-home training, Dog Training Elite Huntsville offers puppy group classes for further training. Beginning Golden Retriever training in the home also helps owners bond with their pup so when the dog trainer leaves, no progress is lost. Training can be great mental stimulation, so a great exercise for Golden Retrievers as they get older is progressing their training. Once your puppy has mastered sitting, for example, train them to maintain the position until released. Once your puppy is a bit older, explore other sports and activities. This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter. Empowering Owners We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times. Personalized We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis. Environment Specific We train wherever issues tend to arise i. Supportive We support owners in the off-hours when training is "not in session". Involved We work with all members of the household. Satisfaction Ratings Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors. True to their name, Golden Retrievers love retrieving things! Golden Retriever Specific Tips Weight Management Golden Retrievers can easily become overweight so owners will need to help manage their food intake. Golden Retriever Specific Tips Make it a Family Affair If you have adopted a Golden Retriever puppy to become part of a family, make sure all kids and adults are on the same page with training and all practice basic tricks with the family dog. Dog Training Elite Huntsville has developed training programs for puppies and adult dogs alike based on positive reinforcement. German Shepherd training with our in-home option is entirely possible. Read on to learn more about the Dog Training Elite Huntsville training method. Golden Retriever training can help you establish routines and learn how to be consistent about enforcing them. All Sizes. All Ages. The Dog Training Elite Difference Dog Training Elite Huntsville uses modern training methods focused on positive reinforcement and bonding between dog and dog owner. Dog Training Elite Huntsville never resorts to the use of punishment to help dogs unlearn bad behavior. The difference becomes clear when comparing a dog that is trained out of anxiety and intimidation vs a dog who truly desires to please from the inside out. The Dog Training Elite Huntsville training theory is mostly based around classical conditioning, also known as the Pavlovian method or respondent conditioning. In its simplest form after proper conditioning , when an owner says "sit," their dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Through a combination of commands and an electronic collar, dogs learn to follow commands at once. Other dog trainers use harsh static collars or spray collars which have been shown to be less effective. Ready to turn your Golden Retriever puppy into a loyal and loving companion? Find a trainer near you today! We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call! JB has been amazing. Our puppy has learned so much and now both of us feel confident with each other. Thanks so much JB for training us. There are several packages and training by options to fit multiple needs. The trainers are all great! We worked mostly with JB working on obedience and some behavior issues we were having. Highly recommend!! Share 0 Shares Everyone knows what a Golden Retriever is and how adorable they are! They are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the USA and are known to be loyal, loving, caring, and just a bundle of joy! There are three types of Golden Retrievers — English, Canadian and American with colors ranging from golden, lightly golden, and dark golden. Besides different types of Goldens and their colors, there are also some differences between how male acts and a female acts. Also, the size and temperament of the two can differ slightly. I have linked an article about the differences between a male and female Golden if you are interested in checking it out. To bring home the perfect Golden Retrieve means that you need the perfect breeder. It is important to find a breeder who focuses on the health, longevity, and temperament of their dogs. The Golden Retriever puppies should also be well socialized before going to their forever home and be screened for genetic hereditary problems including hip and elbow problems. Make sure their Goldens are also AKC registered as well! If you are interested in buying a Golden Retriever puppy in Alabama, here are the most reputable Golden Retriever breeders in this state. She first started breeding in with a very beautiful French import, Touch of Silk thus Silkspun who lived on to the ripe age of .Since then, she has been fortunate enough to be able to import, show and breed lovely examples of English-type Goldens with great temperaments. Because of this, she has some of the best Silkspun families all over the United States! Each litter is bred with great intention, with regards to health, temperament, and pedigree for healthy future bloodlines! All dogs are tested for health defects including DNA testing. She welcomes calls and home visits when set up in advance and there is a screening process to ensure proper homes for future pups that include a questionnaire, and phone calls and visits, if possible. There are loved by the community and have 5-star reviews on Facebook! One owner loves Laurie and her dogs so much that she bought two at the same time and is looking for a third puppy soon! She is very helpful and will walk you through the steps of becoming a new parent and is dedicated to making sure the puppies are well behaved and loved. Name of Owner. Things to Avoid Suggestions on how to choose a breed Visit several dogs shows locally and meet the dogs and their owners. Ask questions! Most people are willing to talk for hours about their precious pooches, after they've finished in the ring. You can find out what's involved in keeping a Bearded Collie in show coat hours and hours , whether you can keep a Samoyed white in our red mud, or whether a Silky Terrier would be a good dog with toddlers. After deciding on a breed or breeds that you are interested in, visit and talk to as many breeders as you can. Investigate health and temperament problems in the breed of choice. The library will also have information. Almost every AKC recognized breed club sponsors a rescue program. Generally the dogs available through rescue programs are housebroken, neutered or spayed adults, vet and temperament checked. Finding the right Breeder Once you have decided which breed is for you, now comes the hard part--finding the right breeder and the right puppy! Chances are, the Golden Retriever puppies offered in the local newspaper bear no resemblance to the Golden Retriever you fell in love with when watching the Westminster Kennel Club show on television. The Huntsville Kennel Club offers the following advice: Talk to and visit as many breeders as possible. Are the premises clean? Are the puppies clean and well cared for? Ask to see the parents. They should be well groomed, friendly and should resemble the dog you saw on television at Westminster or at the dog show. Generally, responsible, ethical breeders: Offer health and temperament guarantees on every puppy they sell. Carefully plan each litter to improve the breed. Test and screen all breeding stock for genetic problems. Require pet quality puppies to be spayed or neutered. Will be available to answer questions and help with problems throughout the puppy's life. Will give you the "third degree". A concerned, responsible breeder has put in a lot of time, effort and money to produce good quality dogs and wants to ensure the puppies well being. Are members of their nationally regional breed club. If not, why not? Why did you breed this litter? Why did you choose to breed this particular sire to this particular dam? Have the sire and dam been tested for all genetic problems in this breed? Can you explain the pedigree to me? What do all these letters mean? What are the terms of your sales contract? What health and temperament guarantees are in your contract? Are you keeping a puppy from this litter? May I have names and numbers of persons who have purchased puppies from you in the past? All Rights Reserved. Puppy Obedience Training Therapy Dog Training A therapy dog lends comfort and affection to people in a facility setting or specific individuals who require visitation to deal with a physical or emotional problem. There are 3 steps to getting a dog trained to be a Therapy Dog, I will teach you the exact process I used with my dog Dixie to pass the therapy dog test and get certified. Customer Testimonial Wynema - Huntsville, AL We spent alot of time searching for a dog trainer before we brought our golden retriever puppy home. We chose Top Dog Training because of the in- home training program and Dale's approach to training as well as his experience. Wow, we are so glad we went with Dale. He had a special connection with our 11 week old puppy Frosty from the moment they met. At the first training session he taught Frosty how to sit, the down command and the stay command. We were very impressed with how easily Dale accomplished the training tasks. Dale also provided instruction on how to address and prevent puppy nipping. Each week Dale worked with us to determine specific issues we might be having and taught us how to address training to avoid the bad behavior and reward the good behavior. He also taught Frosty additional obedience commands and how to do loose leash walking. He offered suggestions on which leashes work best and suggestions for treats and toys. We took advantage of Dale's podcast and his puppy training book to reinforce training segments and help us work with Frosty between training sessions. We highly recommend Dale at Top Dog Training. We will definitely be back for the advanced training once Frosty gets a little older. Being able to train your puppy in a one- on- one session in your own home is the perfect atmosphere for success. This training was well worth the cost. Thank you Dale for marking Frosty a better family puppy. Welcome Video Using positive reinforcement, we offer in-home dog training and puppy obedience training services in Huntsville, AL. In addition, we specialize in leash training and dog behavior modification to help with fear, anxiety, and aggression. Click here to learn more about us. We are serving Huntsville, Madison, and Harvest. During this conversation, we will gather information and discuss the next steps to training your dog, including an in-home consultation, training plan, and rates. Fill out the form by clicking the button below. Puppy Training in Huntsville. They often think that whatever training their dog needs, they can provide themselves. However, having your dog trained by a professional trainer early in its life is the best way to ensure that it will be obedient as it grows older. According to a study done by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, roughly 96 percent of the dogs given up to shelters haven't received any type of obedience training. This is a very telling statistic, and one that you should keep in mind when deciding whether or not you want to have your dog trained by a professional. A professional dog obedience trainer will be able to identify signs of potential behavioral problems even if they haven't become serious issues yet and will train them and provide advice accordingly to help keep potential behavioral issues from becoming actual, serious behavioral problems. However, a professional obedience trainer will be able to provide a more comprehensive plan for training your dog using more effective methods. Professional trainers have the experience and knowledge that you most likely don't have, after all. By training your dog to be obedient in public settings, research has shown that you'll not only be able to enjoy each other's companionship more often, you'll also suffer from less anxiety, get more exercise and benefit from lower blood pressure when compared to the health of non-dog owners. Training requires patience, time, consistency and positive rewards. The time that you invest training your dog will help to establish a stronger bond between you and your dog. A dog that has not been trained could not only run away never to be seen again, it could also attack an innocent bystander. Obedience training will ensure that your dog will stay by your side or return to you within a short period of time without going on the attack. If you are the proud owner of a new dog, then you should strongly consider having your dog trained by a professional for these five reasons. Puppy training Huntsville. View all adoptable dogs Our Mission Our mission is to find safe, loving, lifelong homes for Golden Retrievers. No Golden Retriever will ever be turned away, regardless of medical needs or age. Every furry friend goes through a wellness check with our experienced veterinarians. We make sure every dog is up-to-date with current vaccinations, are spayed and neutered if necessary, receive heartworm treatment and are treated for any other medical issues that are needed. We have a c 3 classification with the IRS, making your donation tax deductible. We also meet the requirements for corporate matching, employee giving, and volunteer grant programs. Help us out today! Volunteer We are always in need of kind-hearted volunteers to join our team. Check out a few of the great volunteer roles available and then fill out an application form. Our Volunteer Director will get in touch and match your time and talent to our needs. Volunteer today! Community Events These community events are vital to new volunteer recruitment as well as finding homes for our dogs. Most events are held on the weekends throughout the year. Volunteers are always needed to help set up, man our table, and help tear down. Welcome to the Alabama state page on TrustedPuppies. Known for its rich history, warm hospitality, and southern charm, Alabama is an excellent place to find and raise your new Golden Retriever companion. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Golden Retriever 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 AL breeders who specialize in raising amazing healthy puppies. Our Alabama 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 dynamic dog-friendly scene in Alabama, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Birmingham Kennel Club Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Golden Retriever canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. In the rankings of dog ownership among the states, Alabama occupies the 33rd position, boasting an estimated thousand dogs. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Golden Retriever 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 Alabama. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Golden Retriever 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 Golden Retriever puppy on TrustedPuppies.

The socket is where the femoral head fits and also articulates. In unaffected dogs, the femoral head fits tightly into properly formed sockets. In severe cases of hip dysplasia in golden retrievers, there can be partial dislocation and bone spurs present on the rims of the sockets and the femoral heads themselves. So are all golden retrievers likely to get hip dysplasia? This survey has been tracking the prevalence of hip dysplasia since and allows you to examine the severity and frequency of hip abnormalities over time. We do know that golden retrievers are among other large breeds like Great Danes, German Shepherds , and Saint Bernards as being dogs that are primarily affected by hip dysplasia due to their size and breed characteristics. But there are some environmental factors that contribute to the likelihood of a golden retriever with hip dysplasia as well. Excessive, quick growth, too much exercise, the wrong nutrition, and injuries to their joints are all factors that will determine if and how much golden retriever hip dysplasia could affect your pup. Golden Retriever Hip Dysplasia Prevention Tips Your golden retriever is your family, and no one wants to see someone they love in pain. Prevents further breakdown in the joints. Reduce pain and inflammation in their hips. Improve the lubrication of the hip joints. Adding a joint supplement also helps your golden retriever with hip dysplasia to avoid further pain, so even if your golden has already developed this condition, supplements can offer tremendous benefits. But making sure you know how to read a supplement label is important so you can pick the right joint supplement for your beloved pet. Low Strain Exercises via GIPHY That means they love to get outside when possible and are just a little extra prone to excited zoomies around the house. But you have to be careful with your pup — getting the right amount and type of exercise is important if you are looking to prevent golden retriever hip dysplasia. Giving your puppy too much hard exercise like jogging, bike riding, agility, or hiking can further increase their risk of hip dysplasia. Plus, young and clumsy puppies are more prone to injuries, and more injury to the joints may mean an increased likelihood of developing golden retriever hip dysplasia. Instead of sporadic, intense exercise, your pup needs exercise that is: Consistent and low-impact Allows them to stay on a leash Promotes the stretching of hip joints Not sure where to start? Type of Exercise. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Hip dysplasia HD is a disease of the hip coxofemoral joints. Dysplasia means abnormal development. Both hips are usually affected Brass .It is a complex disease that results from a combination of genes that predispose a dog to developing hip dysplasia interacting with environmental factors that lead to its full development and expression Riser .It is characterized by hip joint instability which, if compounded by environmental factors, then results in secondary osteoarthritis and the clinical signs of hip dysplasia which include pain, lameness and disability Zhang et al .To fully understand hip dysplasia, it is necessary to understand the structure of the hip joint. The hip joint is the joint at the top of the hind leg, where it articulates forms a joint with the pelvis. It is described as a ball and socket joint, as in normal hips the ball-shaped head of the femur the thigh bone fits perfectly into a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis, the acetabulum. The head of the femur femoral head and the acetabulum are normally covered with cartilage which produces a smooth, low friction surface. Within the joint there is also a fine layer of synovial fluid that acts as a lubricant between these cartilaginous surfaces. This thin layer of synovial fluid, along with the round ligament a ligament that runs round the edge of the acetabulum — between the acetabulum and the femur , keeps the two cartilaginous surfaces together by creating a suction-like effect. The ligaments and the joint capsule also help to hold the ball and socket closely together. In newborn puppies, because the bones are soft and not fully ossified turned into bone as they need to grow and develop, they are still deformable if abnormal movements or stresses and strains occur in them. Riser suggests that, in a normal six month old individual, ossification of the bones and soft tissue strength the strength of the surrounding ligaments, joint capsule and muscles have developed enough to prevent hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is described as a biomechanical disease. The hips appear normal at birth. However, in affected individuals, the hips develop abnormally due, at first, to joint instability sometimes called joint laxity Riser .This means that the developing femoral head and acetabulum are not held constantly, closely together, and can move into abnormal positions relative to one another. This puts abnormal stresses and strains on the joint. Riser states this is due to the soft tissues, such as ligaments and muscle, not being strong enough to maintain congruity between the articular surfaces of the femoral head and the acetabulum ie the constant contact between the surfaces of the bones is not maintained. Joint laxity the looseness of the joint, allowing abnormal movements of the parts relative to one another can lead on to joint subluxation partial dislocation of the joint on movement that in turn causes flattening of the acetabular cup and femoral head Shell and Harasen .The pathological changes seen due to the joint instability are progressive inflammation and degeneration of the tissues that together form the joint. Brass details the following changes in the joint: The joint capsule can become thickened and the round ligament can become stretched or ruptured leading to additional, excessive movements. The synovial fluid increases in volume and changes in nature, due to inflammation, this pushes the joint surfaces apart. The cartilage on the bone surfaces gets worn away exposing subchondral bone the layer of bone beneath the surface cartilage. Unlike cartilage, bone contains nerve endings and such exposure will commonly cause pain. The rim of the acetabulum becomes damaged and flattened and later new bone starts to grow here as the body tries to stabilize the joint. The femoral head becomes deformed and flattened and also grows abnormal bone called exotoses or osteophytes. This changing of the shape of the joint with new bone growing in abnormal positions, and being lost in others, is called joint remodelling. The signs that are seen with hip dysplasia can vary hugely in their severity, the age at which they first appear and their progression. In mild cases dogs can be free from clinical signs for years; however, for more severely affected individuals, signs of pain can develop whilst they are still immature less than a year old Signs include acute pain, particularly after strenuous exercise or movement. This may show as lameness or reluctance to jump, to go for walks, climb steps or move at all if really severe. The pain may be worse in cold, wet conditions Brass .These signs may start intermittently, but over time can become constant. Muscle wastage is often seen in the hind legs Brass .There appears to be little correlation between the severity of pain shown by the dog and physical abnormalities felt on examination by a vet or revealed on an x-ray Brass ie some dogs can be in severe pain but have few changes on x-rays and vice versa. This is typical of any joint disease. Controlling food intake during growth has been shown to decrease hip dysplasia in Labradors ie by reducing excessive energy intake and therefore excessive weight gain during growth Kealy et al .High calcium intake during growth has been shown to delay maturation of the skeleton and increase the risk of hip dysplasia in Great Danes Hazewinkel .It is thought that controlling the amount and form of exercise during development may also help Corr .Bennett and May suggest excessive exercise during development can lead to hip dysplasia. Treatment for hip dysplasia is complex; many surgical interventions have been developed to prevent signs appearing in young animals with high joint laxity and to treat dogs with severe osteoarthritis. All need specialist surgeons. Various medications to aid pain relief are also available, along with recommendations to reduce the effect of environmental factors. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Though some dogs may be mildly affected, for many Golden retrievers with hip dysplasia, the impact of the condition is a major and life changing. These animals suffer pain that is severe and debilitating, leading them to be in pain even with small everyday movements such as standing up. Their quality of life is severely affected so that they are unable to enjoy normal canine behaviours such as walking and running. It is not uncommon for dogs to be euthanased due to the pain and disability of arthritis associated with hip dysplasia. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Hip dysplasia is a progressive disease with signs seen from any age. For some dogs pain starts before a year of age. Signs may be intermittent to start with but often progress to be constant. Medical treatment and advice can help control pain and possibly slow progression, though a cure can only be obtained with major surgical intervention in dogs that are considered suitable candidates for such surgery. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Hip dysplasia is the most common joint problem of large dogs Smith et al .UK VetCompass data for dogs overall showed that 7. In this sample, diagnosis of conditions affecting pelvis eg hip dysplasia did not significantly differ between purebred and crossbred dogs. Figures vary greatly for how frequently Golden retrievers are affected by hip dysplasia, depending on the method by which they have been screened and the database reviewed. The frequency is likely to vary for different populations of the same breed Brass .Sturaro et al. Previous studies in the USA, using the OFA Orthopedic Foundation for Animals database, have given lower figures, but, Paster et al suggested that the OFA population was biased, as it is not compulsory for radiographed dogs to have their x-rays submitted to the OFA scheme so some vets and owners pre-screened them and only sent apparently non-dysplastic ones for consideration and scoring. Earlier studies in Europe and Canada suggested frequencies of hip dysplasia in Golden Retrievers of between .From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are golden retrievers Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around , Return to top 5. Diagnosis For a young dog suspected of hip dysplasia, a diagnosis can be made on the clinical signs shown at home and on examination of the dog, including assessment of joint laxity and joint pain plus evaluation of radiographs x-ray pictures of the hip joints Corr .Assessment of the joint laxity and radiographs may need to be performed by a specialist vet who is used to checking for this condition. For a formal diagnosis, the radiographs are usually submitted to a panel for evaluation. There are three methods of assessing joint laxity. Radiographs and assessment of joint laxity need to be performed under heavy sedation or anaesthesia Corr .Return to top 6. Genetics Hip dysplasia in dogs is a polygenic disease; many genes are thought to play a role in its development. Most of these genes probably have small additive effects quantitative, polygenes and some probably have larger effects Zhang et al .Currently, none of these genes have been identified. Wilson et al .Genes are not solely responsible for whether a dog with the genetic potential for hip dysplasia develops the condition. Environmental factors play an important part. They are discussed in the clinical and pathogenic effects section above. However, there are significant breed predispositions to this condition and the Golden retriever is one of the breeds affected. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? There are a number of breeding schemes around the world developed to decrease the incidence of hip dysplasia in dog breeds. These schemes assess potential breeding animals in somewhat different ways. All aim to give breeders and owners a strong indication of which dogs are likely to produce healthy offspring and which should not be bred. However, this is by no means straightforward for hip dysplasia as it is a polygenic condition in which the genetics are poorly understood and which is also affected by environmental factors in a major way. This lack of clarity has produced much debate over the best way to assess potential breeding dogs. A brief summary of the various schemes follows including some current evidence for their benefits. All dogs must be at least 12 months of age. There are nine radiographic features which are scored, including the Norberg angle NA - a measurement for hip laxity taken from the EHR and each dog is given a score out of 53 for each hip total of up to for both. A low score indicates healthy hip joints e. Greyhounds would score 0, as hip dysplasia is not seen in this breed and a higher score indicates worse hip dysplasia. Breeders are recommended to only breed from animals with a score lower than the breed median score e. It is also based on an extended hip radiograph EHR , which is then graded by three independent experts to give an overall grade. All dogs must be over 2 years of age to be assessed. There are seven possible grades for the radiograph: excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate or severe hip dysplasia. Dogs must be between 1 and 2 years of age and the radiograph is graded by someone appointed by each breed club — they do not have to be an expert. Grades include: A- no signs of hip dysplasia, B — near normal hip joints, C — mild hip dysplasia, D — moderate hip dysplasia, E- severe hip dysplasia. Older dogs can be assessed but the likelihood of more secondary osteoarthritic changes is taken into account. Dogs from 4 months of age can be assessed. It involves the assessment of three different radiographic views of the hip joints called the distraction view, the compression view and the EHR. The radiograph must be taken by a vet who is registered with the scheme and the radiographs are assessed by vets at the PennHIP Analysis Center. Dogs with a DI lower than 0. Dogs with increasing DI values over 0. Dogs are ranked within their breed. Vets from the PennHIP scheme recommend breeding dogs with overall scores and DIs that are better than the breed average, to continue to try to improve the hips in the breed whilst not excessively narrowing the gene pool. If only dogs with normal DI were used ie those below 0. Advocates of the PennHIP method like it because it accurately identifies individuals who have hip laxity - the primary phenotypical abnormality that predisposes dogs to hip dysplasia. The other schemes only look at the EHR and though the NA can be measured from this, the NA has been shown to be an inaccurate method to assess hip laxity Culp et al .Much of what is assessed on the EHRs are secondary arthritic changes, these are not specific to hip dysplasia and are affected by many environmental factors. Recently, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have confirmed that the Distraction Index DI is a significant risk factor for the development of hip dysplasia. In other words, DI scores give a very good indication of the likelihood of osteoarthritic changes, due to hip dysplasia, developing in the future Smith and others , , , Smith , Runge et al .These and other researchers argue that the other schemes are not as good at detecting animals that have hip dysplasia as the PennHIP method and, despite older schemes existing for over 40 years, little improvement has been seen in hip dysplasia in the general pet population Corley , Kaneene et al , Leppanen et al , Paster et al .In fact, one recent study looking at a database of over 1,, dogs found an increase in the prevalence of hip dysplasia Witsberger et al .However EHR scores were found to have a much higher heritability 0. Heritability studies are difficult to compare between different populations with different environmental influences. To improve the gene pool, phenotypic traits that can be easily detected with strong links to the genotype genetic make-up of animals have to be found. Ideally, any potential pet would have had its hip joints assessed by one of the above schemes prior to purchase, although this is often unhelpful, as most pets are purchased as young puppies. Unfortunately, this does not guarantee all their offspring will be free from hip dysplasia. .Certainly any potential breeding animal should be assessed prior to breeding using an appropriate scheme. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Hip dysplasia is a complex trait which involves multiple unknown genes and environmental factors. Eradication schemes have been running in some countries for decades and still it is commonplace. Thus prospects for its quick elimination are low. In a recent study, Zhang et al suggested that using scores from four hip traits combined to create a breeding value for each animal would help speed up elimination of the condition. They felt that information on the single joint trait EHR eg the OFA scheme gave insufficient information to provide the basis for breeding decisions. The DLS is a measurement made from an x-ray taken in a weight-bearing position to measure the subluxation of the femoral head Farese et al .In this study on two populations of dogs where environmental factors were strictly controlled, heritabilities for all these traits were found to be relatively high eg heritabilities were 0. The researchers suggested these heritabilites were higher than expected due to the controlled environmental conditions. Zhang et al suggested an improved way for selectively breeding out hip dysplasia would be if breeders could be given breeding values derived from the four traits for each potential breeding animal, plus a measurement of the inbreeding of any potential mating e. This way, they suggest, inbreeding can be avoided and only animals with phenotypes strongly indicative of healthy hip joint genes would be bred from. This scheme is a more organised form of others that have suggested using a combination of breeding values determined from pedigree information and phenotype score Ginja et al , Hou et al .As described by Bell , when breeders are prioritising raising dogs that have good hip dysplasia genotypes for future breeding the phenotype has to be used as a marker for the genotype. Although the diagnostic signs can be affected also by environmental factors such as feeding and exercise regimes. It is important that the puppies are raised in a standard and not excessively protective way. Otherwise, dogs that would normally have developed radiographic signs of hip dysplasia will have this masked and their genes will be perpetuated. Future development of genetic tests to help identify some of the hip dysplasia genes, along with more use of pedigree data that includes the health of ancestors and progeny for clinical signs of hip dysplasia and also for other inherited defects of Golden retrievers , may well help to improve methods used to eliminate this condition. Currently we have to continue to rely on choosing phenotypical traits which apparently indicate the presence of healthy genes. Return to top 9. What You Need to Know Know the signs of hip dysplasia and whether or not your dog is prone to the condition so you can treat it early on. By Sarah Mouton Dowdy Sarah Mouton Dowdy writes for both pet parents and veterinary professionals and is passionate about meeting the needs of both to the benefit of all involved—especially the pets. With a master's degree in human health communication, she's particularly interested in the ways in which human and animal health overlap. Sarah's own health has been positively impacted by adopting a dog named Agnes whose tricks include sitting, staying, and stealing pizza from the kitchen counter. Updated on April 15, Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Jenna Stregowski, RVT Jenna is a registered veterinary technician with a range of veterinary experience that includes small animal internal medicine, oncology, neurology, emergency, alternative medicine, and practice management. As the Pet Health and Behavior Editor for Daily Paws, Jenna is living the dream as she combines her veterinary knowledge and passion for animals with her love of writing and education. Learn More Hip dysplasia in dogs is a common developmental condition in large and giant breed dogs. It's caused by a hip deformity that results in joint laxity, or looseness, and can lead to pain, mobility issues, and osteoarthritis. Though the condition is present from a young age, many dogs won't show clinical signs until they're older. However, screening your pet for hip dysplasia early on can give you an opportunity to treat the deformed joint before it causes problems. What is Hip Dysplasia? Canine hip dysplasia occurs when a dog's hip joint doesn't develop as it should. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, and if the two components don't grow properly and at the same rate, it can result in a very loose, unstable joint. This may not sound like a big deal, but according to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons , hip dysplasia in dogs can cause serious problems. When a dog moves around with a loose hip joint, it can cause permanent damage to the joint's anatomy. If left untreated, dogs may develop osteoarthritis also called degenerative joint disease in the hip because the abnormal movement wears away cartilage and leads to the formation of scar tissue and bone spurs. Dogs can pass the condition to their offspring and large breed dogs are more prone to the disease. Commonly affected breeds include German shepherds , Rottweilers , golden retrievers , Saint Bernards , Labrador retrievers , and Newfoundlands. However, any breed or mixed-breed can develop hip dysplasia, and breed isn't the only risk factor. Puppies with a genetic predisposition for hip dysplasia are more at risk of developing the condition if they're given more food than they need, resulting in faster than normal weight gain and growth. Heavy exercise is another risk factor in puppies. Canine hip dysplasia can affect both young and old dogs, but not always in the same way. The Morris Animal Foundation divides the signs according to age of onset: Juvenile dogs younger than 18 months of age lameness limping in one or both of back legs bunny-like hopping dog holds its back legs together and hops instead of running normally difficulty getting up clicking sound from hips when moving or getting up shifting of weight to front legs unable to exercise for long periods Mature dogs older than 18 months of age history of lameness limping in back legs limping after exercising loss of muscle mass in one or both of back legs difficulty jumping or climbing It's important to note that while dogs can develop clinical signs as puppies, many don't show any outward symptoms until they've lived with the condition for multiple years. How is Hip Dysplasia Diagnosed? Your veterinarian may also use their hands to examine the hip and check for looseness. What is the Treatment for Hip Dysplasia? There are two common surgical options for dogs with hip dysplasia: total hip replacement, which involves implantation of an artificial hip joint, and femoral head ostectomy, in which the head and neck of the femur are removed and scar tissue forms to create a "false joint. Hip dysplasia home treatment is also often recommended for dogs with mild to moderate disease. However, it's important to note that NSAIDs like carprofen can have significant side effects and must be closely monitored. Other potential treatments include cold laser therapy, acupuncture , and physical therapy. Your veterinarian will work with you to determine the best options for you and your pet. Bear in mind that treatments often need to be adjusted over time, so be sure to follow your vet's recommendations for follow-up visits. These radiographs can help you determine how likely it is your dog will have problems in the future and whether you want to consider early surgical intervention. A veterinarian who knows your pet and can examine him in person is in the best position to offer information and advice. Was this page helpful? This breed of dog is as loyal and as loving as they come. So, in order to ensure that your new, faithful companion lives a long and healthy life, there are some common medical issues Goldens face which you should be aware of. Unfortunately, Goldens, amongst a few other dog breeds, are predisposed towards joint problems a. Should it go untreated, it could severely impact both their overall health and well-being along with the length of their life. That said, if you know the common signs of hip problems and catch it early on, there are steps you can take to manage the issue, mitigate symptoms, or all together treat the problem. Below, we will discuss golden retriever hip problems, the signs, and treatment options at your disposal. The Universities Federation for Animal Welfare had this to say in response: The primary reason for this abnormal development is hip joint laxity if the joint is too loose; leading to the two articulating parts of the joint of the pelvis — the femoral head and the acetabulum which form the ball-and-socket of the joint - moving abnormally relative to one another; the femoral head in subluxation partly dislocating from the acetabulum. This leads to abnormal stresses and strains on the joint and leads to inflammation and degeneration of the joint tissues. Hip dysplasia is a degenerative condition, which can affect any dog. Although the causes may vary, the effects are always the same: loss of mobility, increasing pain, impaired gait, and even behavioral and mood changes in your dog including snappishness and depression. Dysplasia is simply the dislocation of a bone from its proper place. Hip dysplasia or displacement is one of the best-known types of dysplasia in dogs. The degenerative process of hip dysplasia is gradual. The onset of symptoms, specifically pain, is also somewhat gradual taking place over the course of years. In simple terms, the two bones of the hip joint shift out of alignment. Perhaps because they are such hand-working structures, the ball and socket joints are prone to disease, and simple mechanical wear and damage over time. The muscles and joints become lax, and the joint capsule, a strong band of connective tissue which circled the bones for added stability, loses its elastic strength. As this happens, the articular working surfaces of the two bones lose contact with each other. The bones slowly separate as the soft tissues around the joint degenerate. The disease may affect one or both right and left hips. With the loss of protective scaffolding between the bone surfaces, the nerves in the bone endings themselves become exposed. When bone touches bone, there is acute pain. In addition, the loss of tensile strength of the supporting tendons, muscle, and cartilage means that other structures in the hip and leg must compensate in terms of weight-bearing and movement. This unnatural compensation may cause fatigue and pain. It may even cause the dog to injure itself—running to catch a Frisbee, or climbing stairs, for instance. What Causes Hip Dysplasia? Experts disagree as to the source of hip dysplasia in dogs. Too much food One theory is that feeding a young, growing dog too many calories early in its development contributes to the disorder. Too much exercise Another theory is that too much exercise, or the wrong kind of exercise, or simply too much high-impact exercise, such as fetching, jumping, and catching a ball or Frisbee on concrete, contributes to hip dysplasia. A factual observation about this condition is that hip dysplasia tends to affect large breeds more so than smaller dogs. This, too, is relative—it is possible for small dogs to become affected by hip dysplasia, too. However, we correctly associate the condition most frequently with big breeds. These breeds do carry a genetic predisposition toward the condition. It is also true that purebreds, especially large dogs, are most likely to become vulnerable to hip dysplasia, therefore calling upon informed and responsible breeding practices. Sometimes our decision-making process is clouded by emotion—guilt, fear, even panic when we see our beloved canine companion suffering. These are also common in dogs, attacking the cartilage, muscles, and membrane linings of cartilage and joints. These may offer your dog safe alternatives: calming inflammation as an immediate solution and helping to rebuild joint integrity as a long-range treatment. These trusted products can slow or even stop the degeneration of the hip joint. In many cases, hip replacement surgery which is the last resort may be prevented altogether. An X-ray examination will be recommended as a first step. If your dog becomes less active, weight gain may become a challenge. Eliminate treats, and if possible, offer your dog low-impact exercises like stretching and swimming. We Can Help. Does your dog have trouble walking, standing, or getting up? There is an excellent chance we can help your dog. According to the American Kennel Club AKC , Golden Retrievers were the third most popular breed in the United States in and have consistently been in the top 10 for the past decade. The total number of Goldens in households is difficult to assess, but approximately 50, are newly registered with the AKC each year. Based on their average lifespan of 10 years, the number of registered Goldens is , This number is estimated to represent less than 10 percent of the total breed population, as many are unregistered. In addition to their friendly, energetic, and likable dispositions, Goldens also are known for something else—hip dysplasia. Less desirable than their personality attributes, hip dysplasia is a complex, multifactorial condition that involves multiple genetic and environmental factors. This includes restricting juvenile animals from repetitive, high-impact activities. Per the statistics collected by the OFA, , radiographs for hip dysplasia have been evaluated since .Of those, the incidence of abnormal hip joints is approximately 20 percent. Again, this estimation is low, as many affected dogs do not have their radiographs submitted through the OFA. It was discovered that she has hip dysplasia through a proactive radiograph taken prior to her first visit to the Rehabilitation Service. Her owners are working closely with Dr. As her primary care veterinarian, Dr. What is hip dysplasia? Per Dr. The first is during skeletal immaturity when canines are between 6 and 14 months of age; these signs are predominantly due to loose hips. The second is when canines reach skeletal maturity 4- and years-old ; these signs are primarily due to osteoarthritis OA. Hip dysplasia diagnosis is made through a pelvic radiograph where veterinarians look at the hip socket acetabulum in relation to the head of the femur to determine if there is a proper fit or if there are any secondary arthritic changes. Once OA is present on a radiograph, dysplastic changes are irreversible and usually continue to progress over time. Kiszka leads Summer as she does figure-eights. Studies have shown that up to 76 percent of dysplastic dogs with osteoarthritic changes on radiographs are able to function and live comfortable, quality lives with conservative management. Conservative management includes exercise modification, physical rehabilitation, and anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications. For the cases in which canines do not respond to this method of management, surgery, such as a total hip replacement or femoral head and neck excision FHNE , may be recommended. Even with a prosthesis total hip replacement in place, or an FHNE, OA may still develop in the opposite hip joint and cause ongoing problems that require constant conservative or surgical management. With appropriate treatment, however, the prognosis for long-term comfort and function is good to excellent. Exercise modifications are typically tailored to avoid activities that cause limping and decrease high-impact type forces. If the dog is overweight, a weight-loss plan would be recommended as excess fat promotes OA. At-home exercises and rehabilitation help maintain muscle tone and strength while stabilizing the joint. The goals of the exercises are to help to maintain range of motion in the joint and prevent compensation, and promote body awareness, sense of proprioception, and core strength to avoid injury. Medical management involves anti-inflammatories, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and chronic pain medications. Additional medications may include injections that protect the joints. Treating the pain and inflammation in hip dysplasia patients is extremely important, as pain limits mobility, joint range of motion, and decreases quality and quantity of life. Kiszka helps Summer practice how to shift her weight on an uneven surface. Summer takes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and eats egg whites as a protein additive to her food. She starts her day with a 23—minute walk on the underwater-treadmill at 1. This speed and time equates to her walking approximately yards. The water allows Summer to bear only 70—80 percent of her body-weight, which lessens the impact on her hips, while she is walking. The water contact also increases sensation and the moving treadmill belt increases multiple-joint range of motion. After her water exercise, Summer rests before she begins therapeutic exercises. There are seven different exercises prescribed to Summer; based on her strength and mobility, her exercises vary each rehabilitation session. While exercising, she is monitored for signs of fatigue, pain, and poor posture, as the Rehab team pushes her to maximum potential to achieve the greatest therapeutic benefit. After she completes the exercises, she receives a therapeutic laser treatment of her hip and lower back region. The laser has factory presets for her weight, body type, and hair coat length and color. This type of laser therapy has proposed benefits of increased circulation and improved tissue repair with decreased pain and inflammation. How is Summer doing now? Summer walking on the underwater treadmill. Through the relationship among Dr. The early intervention allowed her to maintain mobility and quality of life for both her and her owners. Related Stories.

Articles Have you wondered what results from breeding a Labrador and an Akita? What about how they look and their personality? This breed is called the Akita Lab Mix. These parent breeds are known for their devotion and protective instincts towards their family. Despite these positive traits, the Labrakita has a naturally aggressive nature whose popularity is called into question. Have plans to buy an Akita Lab Mix or search for reliable information about this dog breed? You are in the right place. These include health issues, care, temperament, and grooming tips. The height and weight of a male Akita Lab Mix fall between 24 to 27 inches and 80 to lbs, respectively. That of females falls between 22 to 25 inches and 70 to lbs, respectively. Physical Appearance Labrakitas are beautiful doggies and have a good appearance. There are several reasons for this. First, they have amber, hazel, or brown eyes. Also, their nose is either brown or black, and their muzzles are long. This doggie has an intelligent expression, which often gives them a smiling face. Labrakitas have a light chest and mast with a large, square-shaped head. Its thighs are stocky and muscular, and its long tail is slightly curved. With its square and upright appearance, long legs, well-shaped paws, and great bone structure, the Akita Lab Mix surely has a great physical appearance. If the Lab genes of the mix are strong, then the possible coat colors are black, yellow, or chocolate. However, if the mix possesses more of Akita genes, then you will get the following colors: Fawn, brown brindle, black, red, white, silver with black overlay, red with black overlay, fawn with black overlay, and brown with black overlay. Labrakitas have dense coats which are either short or medium. As dogs age, they may develop some health problems. Mixed breeds like the Akita Labs are not left out. They will inherit those health problems their parents are susceptible to. Below are some of the common health issues of the Labrakita. Elbow And Hip Dysplasia This is a condition where the elbow and hip joints grow abnormally. For hip dysplasia, it leads to unsteady joints, while for elbow dysplasia, the cartilage and bone loosen, irritating the joint tissues. Epilepsy This happens when your four-legged furry friend is shaking uncontrollably and incessantly. It occurs within a fraction of a minute or can continue for several minutes. These seizures in the Akita Lab Mix are caused by kidney or liver disease, Encephalitis, high or low blood sugar, eating poison, head injury, anemia, strokes, or brain cancer. Gastric Torsion This is also known as bloat. Surgery is the best treatment for this. Another disorder is pemphigus , which causes antibodies to attack the skin and result in painful boils, blisters, and ulcers. There is also another disorder worth mentioning, namely sebaceous adenitis , which is a skin condition leading to hair loss and dried-out skin patches. Taking care of your Akita Lab Mix requires a lot of effort. This includes using dental water additives and giving your canine buddy a good exercise routine and a high-quality diet. This is why this breed naturally possesses great stamina and energy. Your Akita Lab Mix needs about 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily. Make sure you take your pooch for hikes and long walks. You could also play fetch, go swimming and running. As a very active dog breed, an adult Akita Lab Mix requires a large amount of food to maintain its activity level. The Akita Lab Mix is prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. This is why you must feed your doggie with foods supplemented with chondroitin, glucosamine, and fish oil. Doing this will only worsen health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia. This helps in digestion, increased immunity, better joint functioning, and healing. Make sure multivitamins are always in the meal plans of your canine friend. These recipes are designed by vets and are manufactured using human-grade ingredients. Also, these foods are made in the USDA kitchen with safety standards used in human food production. This is why the use of dental water additives is necessary. Are Akita Lab Mixes Aggressive? They are often found to be territorial around other dogs. This ranges from playful and super-exuberant to reserved and headstrong. It can also possess traits from both parents. This is why their temperament is difficult to predict. Also, avoid housing another dog. Also, if you have toddlers, you must be careful. Even when your dog is well-socialized, annoying kids can trigger a negative reaction. Intelligent Training an intelligent dog like the Akita Lab Mixes is easy. However, the process could be daunting because Labrakitas are stubborn. Fortunately, this dog breed responds well to positive reinforcement. They love to please and love physical challenges. Just ensure that you are consistent with your training. Also, offer them special gifts and treats during training to encourage them. Image from Instagram: jessdupuis97 Protective Labrakitas are known to be territorial and very protective of their homes. They are excellent guard dogs and can be hostile, especially against strangers. You will need to train them well to avoid attacks on guests. This is why the Labrakita is not a great option for families having other pets, most especially cats. With a proper introduction, your furry friend will enjoy the company of other dogs. Unfortunately, the case may be different if your Akita Lab Mix takes after its Akita parent. They will be fiercer. Do Labrakitas Shed? Both the Labrador Retriever and Akita are shedders. Therefore, expect your Labrakita to be a heavy shedder. However, grooming these canines is easy. All you need is a special routine to follow. Coat Care Labrakitas have double coats. This coat sheds heavily several times yearly, most especially during the spring months and in the summer. To make things easy for you, you must engage in weekly brushing. It comes with a handle for comfortable use. Also, its fur release mechanism ensures a better experience compared to comb use. Also, just like cats, they can cleanse themselves. Frequent shampooing could cause dry skin problems. It eliminates the wet dog smell, and it is great for dogs with itchy, sensitive, dry skin. 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. Check for wax buildup, possible irritations, and ear mites in your Labrakita, and take proper care when necessary. This can affect their health negatively. Brush their teeth 2 to 3 times weekly. This will prevent cavities and possible dental problems. This prevents unintentional scratches to your skin when they jump at you. This is because Akita Labs are rare. Therefore their price is higher compared to other dogs. At times, due to their high demand, they may even be more expensive. Akitas may not get along with Labradors even though they are friendly and devoted to the family. They could be domineering. Therefore, you must discover the characteristics and personality of the Labrakita when bringing in one to live with your Labrador. You should also introduce the Labrador properly to avoid any negative occurrence. Do Labrakitas Swim? Labrakitas can swim. Their swimming ability also depends on if they have more traits belonging to the Labrador parent. If a Labrakita prefers to be on land or snow, then they possess more traits of the Akita parent. You may like: Akita saint bernard mix Akita. Akita dog breed comes from Northern Honshu in the Akita prefecture, where the climate is colder than in other parts of Japan. The area is also mountainous, with many streams and rivers flowing through it. These factors likely influenced the development of the Akita Inu breed, which is known for its thick fur coat. Historical records indicate that Akitas were used as hunting dogs as early as the 17th century and later used for bear and boar hunting. Today, Akitas are still used for hunting in their native country, but they are also kept as companion animals worldwide. The Akita is a loyal and devoted companion, but they can also be strong-willed and stubborn. They are quick to learn commands but may only obey them if they see the point in doing so. Akitas are reserved around strangers but affectionate with their family and friends. They are loyal and protective of their home and family and make excellent guard dogs. Akitas require firm training and socialization from an early age to prevent them from becoming aggressive. Today, the breed is a popular companion animal in the United States and Japan. The Akita dog is also used for hunting, tracking, and as a working dog in many other countries worldwide. Black Lab. The black Labrador is a beloved breed among dog lovers. Moreover, Labrador Retrievers are a variety of black Lab dogs. There are three colors available: black, chocolate and yellow. Some people believe that Labs behave differently in chocolate and black. However, there is very little evidence to support this claim. The black Lab temperament is, for the most part, like other Labrador Retrievers, incredibly friendly, energetic, athletic and social. Black Lab dogs are energetic, friendly, active, and one of the most loved pet dogs in America. There are pros and cons to adopting a black Lab puppy. Buying, caring for and adopting a black Lab puppy. As a puppy parent or new dog owner, a black Lab can be your best choice. Consider what type of lifestyle and family is best for a black Lab. The Akita Black Lab mix is a loyal and protective dog breed. They are excellent family pets and are very easy to train. A Black Akita Lab Mix can be one of two personality types depending on its lineage. Or it could have both. The size of the Black Labrador or Akita will determine how powerful he will be. A Black Lab and Akita standard heights and weights indicate that an Akita Lab mix could reach between .Origin and History The Labrador Retriever During the s in Newfoundland, Canada, the Labrador Retrievers' oldest doggie ancestors were trained as waterfowl retrievers. After a long crossing with Newfoundlands, breeders got the magnificent Labrador Retriever we know today. In , the American Kennel Club recognized the new sports breed once it arrived in the United States. It is the all-time most popular dog in the United States. Crossbreeding with huge breeds like the Great Dane helped them pursue and kill wild boar, deer, and even bears. In the s, Japan began a massive reform to bring back Akitas after they nearly went extinct. Appearance The eyes of these designer dogs might be brown, hazel, or amber, while the nose can be black or brown. They have a long snout and a contemplative face, and they often appear to be smiling. They have triangular-shaped ears situated high on the head; however, the ears could be floppy based on the dominant parents. A purebred Akita has pointy ears, while a purebred Labrador Retriever has floppy ears, so hybrid dogs could either be a combination or a replica of the parent dogs. Color An Akita lab mix has a thick coat consisting of straight hairs that can be black, grey, brown, red, cream, fawn, white, pied, or brindle, and with short to medium in length. The Akita lab mix may wear a light or pale-colored mask on their face and have a light or white chest. The Labrakita has a big, square head, a stout frame with powerful legs, and a long tail that may curl somewhat over the back or coil all the way around like an Akita Inu tail. Size and Weight The size of a Labrador varies based on the dog's age and gender. Its normal height is 22 to 25 inches 56—.Depending on sex and age, an Akita Inu can weigh anywhere from 70 to pounds 32 to 59 kg. The height ranges from 26 to 28 inches 66 to 71 cm. The typical Labrakita mix stands between .It weighs between 65 and pounds .Temperament and Personality Unlike the Akita parent, the Lab and Akita mix is not a self-sufficient creature. This devoted, family-oriented dog likes to be with its owner. If you allow it to be alone for too long, it may develop anxiety, grow disruptive, and begin biting or demonstrating aggressive behavior. Because the Akita Labrador mixed breed is a cross between two complex temperaments, you're likely to get a one-of-a-kind dog. Also, be aware that predicting Labrakita puppies' future behavior may be difficult while selecting your new companion. When it comes to outsiders, this protective dog might be violent, yet it is gentle with its family. The Labrador Akita's thick double coat sheds heavily once every six months. Giving your Akita lab cross weekly brushing is the only way to avoid excessive shedding. Because this dog is unlikely to have a strong doggy odor, it won't need to be bathed on a regular basis unless it gets really dirty. If you bathe this designer breed too often or use too much shampoo, the dog may get a dry skin condition. Nail clipping must be done on a monthly basis, and examining the dog's ears for infections and ear mites should be done regularly as well. Training Because an Akita parent is a stubborn and independent dog , your Labrakita mix will initially require consistent and firm training as a puppy. Fortunately, the Labrador-Akita mix is an intelligent dog that is usually fairly easy to train thanks to its Labrador DNA. That means they can make an excellent guard dog when it comes to strangers, yet a cuddly, friendly dog behind closed doors that can potentially get along well with small children. With that being said, if you really want a good family dog or if you have very young children or other animals, it may be best to go for a pure Labrador Retriever instead of a Lab mix. This is because the Akita Lab mix can be quite large dogs and it can be difficult to predict their temperament due to the significant difference in personality between the Labrakita's parent breeds. One thing that can cause an issue with the Labrakita dog is their stubbornness, so you'll need to come up with the proper mix of persistence, compassion, and positive reinforcement. Plus, if you give your Labrakita more stimulation through physical challenges and exercise, it will be more receptive to training. Socialization When it comes to socializing your Labrakita, you'll have to devote time to training your companion to welcome visitors and relatives. Regrettably, it may not be a simple process. Having visitors or outsiders in its territory may irritate this dog, especially if they have more prominent Akita genes than Lab genes. But we should mention that some Akita Lab mixes can certainly learn to be a cherished family pet that will be exceptionally loyal and loving. Because this breed has natural predatory instincts, it is not recommended for households with different pets, particularly cats. We don't want their instinctive prey drive kicking in with the family's beloved guinea pig. Following slow and steady socialization with other dogs, however, could help your new friend enjoy the company of other canines. Exercise To keep fit, healthy, and content, the Lab Akita mix needs a lot of activity. If these dogs do not receive enough exercise, they can grow obese and agitated; thus, they should have at least 60 to 90 minutes of intense movement per day. Playing at the dog park, trekking, swimming, playing at the beach, brisk walks, or a jog around the neighborhood once or twice each day are just a few of their favorite activities, and they are particularly thrilled to be out and about. Akita Labs may develop negative behaviors such as nibbling on items and damaging property if they do not receive adequate exercise. Food and Diet The exact nutrition will be determined by the size, age, gender, and level of daily physical activity of the dog. The majority of these characteristics are determined by inherited parental genes. To put it another way, you should give your dog food based on its appearance and needs to avoid autoimmune disorders or other health issues. We advise consulting your vet as well, just to be sure. Health Problems As holds true for other dogs as well, a Labrakita is most likely to receive genetic health problems their parents passed on to them. A few common health issues for the Labrakita are: Progressive retinal atrophy — A common eye illness in the Labrakita is progressive retinal degeneration, which damages the retinal nerves and can lead to blindness that comes with old age. Glaucoma and cataracts are other eye problems that can develop. Hip and elbow dysplasia — This is a bone condition that develops when a dog's joints do not develop properly. As a consequence, the joints may become irritated and unstable. Cranial cruciate disease — This condition causes discomfort and immobility in dogs when the cranial cruciate ligament in their knee ruptures. Bloat — Gastric dilatation-volvulus is an unpleasant gut swelling and twisting that occurs suddenly when the dog's stomach flips. It's a life-threatening condition that must be treated immediately if detected. Life Expectancy A Labrakita's average life expectancy is around 10 to 13 years. The price may be influenced by lineage, parent bloodlines, birth order, gender, show vs pet quality, color, size, and other characteristics. Remember to ask the breeder to give you the findings from the parents' health tests. Final Thoughts The Labrakita designer cross-breed is a great blend of two completely different breeds. This clever and obedient dog is well-suited to active owners and households without other pets. If you socialize your Labrakita puppy well enough, you could end up with a much friendlier dog in the long run. Regardless of which parent's DNA is more dominant in your Labrador-Akita mix, you will have a beautiful and unique best friend with this canine. Our team of authors seeks to answer the questions that you frequently ask yourselves. Similar Posts. However, by taking a closer look at its parents, we can get a good idea of what our puppy will look like. They have a square appearance with good bone structure and an upright stance. Akita Lab mix lifespan The average Akita Labrador mix lifespan is between 10 and 13 years. Three main factors that affect the longevity of this breed include: Genetic information they inherit from parents. Events like illnesses, injuries, and accidents happen to them during their life. Their nutrition and lifestyle. If our four-legged friends receive immense love and proper care, they can live longer and be with us for many years. Akita Lab mix temperament Akita Lab mix temperament is intelligent, loyal, and stubborn. They tend to be independent and aggressive with strangers. These dogs can also be territorial around other dogs. Akita and Lab mix is an excellent guard dog. They are very protective of their family and will not hesitate to make their presence known when they sense you are in danger. Health Like any hybrids, there is a risk that Akita Labrador mix will develop hereditary health issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and excessive weight gain. On that basis, buying Akita Lab mix puppies from a reputable breeder is now more favorable as you can avoid a potentially sick dog. Furthermore, it is crucial to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups to detect any health issues early and keep your dog healthy. Exercise Labrakitas naturally have a lot of energy because both of their parents were excellent hunters. The recommended amount of exercise for an Aktia mixed with Lab is 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous activity every day. They like playing fetch, going for long hikes or walks, swimming, and other water activities. They will respond best to positive reinforcement like all other dogs. You can use high value rewards to keep your dog motivated. It can come from praise, belly rubs, favorite food, treats, and so on. Keep each training session short, fun, and consistent. Any dog will benefit from early socialization! Akita Lab also needs it to prevent and lessen their aggressive instinct. Although Labrakitas can groom themselves like a cat, they still need regular brushing and bathing monthly to control shedding and keep their coat shiny. Trim their nails when you hear the clicking sounds on the floor. Also, brush their teeth at least once a week to maintain good dental health. All ingredients need to be easy to digest. Additionally, their food must be high in protein and free of artificial additions or fillers. It is crucial to avoid overfeeding your dog because it only makes their health problems worse. Therefore, you should follow a regular feeding schedule and avoid leaving food out all day. Akita and Lab mix does best in a family with older children who can learn to interact with a dog appropriately. They tend to be aggressive toward other canines, especially those of the same sex. A good rule of thumb is never to leave two males or females alone together. Furthermore, with their hunting background, Labrakitas also have a tendency to chase small animals, including cats. But keep in mind that early socialization can help! Lab Akita mix puppies for sale Akita cross Labrador puppies will be a bit pricey. The price depends on their parents, the number of available puppies, and medical attention received. A reputable breeder will provide you with the results of breed-specific health examinations as required. Conclusion Akita mixed with Lab, commonly called Labrakita, is a cross between a purebred Akita with a purebred Labrador Retriever. And if you ever see one in the market, chances are, it will be pretty expensive. The price is indicative of the value of the parents, the number of available puppies, and medical attention received. Another way to acquire an Akita Lab Cross would be through shelters and rescues whose primary focus is to find prospective homes for rescued puppies. A convenient way to start your search is Adopt-a-Pet. This hybrid can cleanse itself just like the cat, but remember to brush the coat several times a week. Bathe your Lab Akita Cross only when needed because their skin tends to dry out if you bathe and shampoo them so often. You should trim the toenails about once a month, check ears for mites and wax buildup and brush teeth regularly to prevent cavities and other dental conditions. We listed some grooming essentials below: Safari Wire Pin Brush — A pin brush that works marvelously in grooming large dogs. It is useful in removing loose, lifeless hair and debris, leaving a healthy shine. It is bendable and conforms to the contours of your pet, effectively removing loose and lifeless hair. It works to reduce shedding and prevent matting for a healthier and shinier coat. These clippers have a built-in safety stop and an ergonomic grip for a more relaxed and comfortable trimming session with your Akita Lab Mix. It effectively kills insects like ticks and ear mites and even works to eradicate the eggs. It features a soothing lavender scent for clean and fresh-smelling hair. It is also formulated with ketoconazole to combat fungal infections and chlorhexidine gluconate to fight bacteria while promoting a soft and lustrous coat. The triple-headed toothbrush offers a unique design that conforms around the teeth makes brushing from all angles effortless. On that premise, buying from a reputable breeder is more favorable now than before because you can avoid a potentially sick dog. A breeder with a good reputation should offer a health guarantee on puppies. A Clearance is a proof that a dog has been examined for and cleared from a particular health condition. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — Hip and elbow dysplasia is a skeletal condition in which the joints for both hip and elbow have grown unusually. The unusual shapes restrict the sockets and joints from the meeting, resulting in grinding instead of gliding smoothly. The major complication with hip dysplasia is unsteady joints, whereas, in elbow dysplasia, the bone and cartilage loosen and irritates the joint tissues. The continuous rubbing can cause an assortment of pain problems. Surgery can be done to remedy the joint if diagnosed early on. Gastric Dilation-Volvulus or Gastric Torsion — Also known as bloat, this condition is characterized by a sudden, painful swelling and twisting of the abdomen. If your pet is showing signs of bloat, it is best to bring him to the Vet for immediate treatment as this condition might kill him. Surgery is done to decompress the stomach. Epilepsy — Dog Seizure happens when your pet is shaking incessantly and uncontrollably for a fraction of a minute to several minutes. With generalized seizure or grand mal seizure, the dog will convulse and can lose consciousness. The irregular electrical activity is happening throughout the brain. With the focal seizure, the dog will show involuntary movements in one appendage or one part of the body. Seizures may have an underlying cause — Liver or Kidney disease, Brain Cancer, Strokes, Anemia, Encephalitis, Head injury, Low or high blood sugar, Electrolyte problems or eating poison. Cranial Cruciate Disease — The cranial cruciate ligament, which is a vital knee joint stabilizer, is ruptured causing pain, arthritis, and lameness of the hind leg. Surgery is recommended to keep the tear from advancing to more severe problems in the joints. Eye problems — Glaucoma, extreme pressure injures the optic nerve and ultimately leads to blindness; Entropion, a genetic eye defect where one or both eyelids are inverted and rub on the eye surface; Cataracts, a common eye problem that causes cloudiness and obstructs vision; and Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA , a degenerative disease radically affecting the retina and eventually leads to blindness, are major eye concerns in the Lab Akita Cross. Autoimmune Disorders — Akita Labs experience many autoimmune disorders such as Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia, the immune system destroys his red blood cells; Pemphigus, antibodies attack the skin and cause painful ulcers, blisters, and boils; Sebaceous Adenitis, a genetic skin condition that causes scaly dried out skin and hair loss; and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada, the body attacks the skin cells that generate pigment melanin in the skin, eyes, and hair. Others — Renal cortical hypoplasia, a genetic condition that causes unusual development of the kidneys which may lead to renal failure; Hypothyroidism, a thyroid abnormality resulting to low and inadequate hormone production and may cause obesity, low energy levels, and an inelastic coat; Cancers have also been observed Akita Labrador Mix Food Requirements Each dog is unique and therefore will require a specific diet. Since the Akita Lab Cross is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, give him food fortified with fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin. It is imperative to avoid overfeeding your dog as it can only aggravate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia. Your most important goal should be to nourish your pet friend properly. The best way, to begin with, is to make sure you avoid feeding the Akita Lab the worst dry dog food around and instead choose among best dry dog food out there to make sure you provide all nutrients to your furry pal—or choose between Wellness Core Dog Food or Dog For Dog Food. Supplements should also be taken into consideration if you fear your doggy is not getting enough nutrients. Before buying one of these, learn more about nutrition boosters by reading our review of Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. If you adopted a pup just recently, hop over to our best puppy food brands list, and if you own a wise, old doggo, maintain their health with the perfect ratio of nutrients for older dogs by offering them a cup of best senior dry dog food. The Akita Lab mix is usually a big dog, so going for best large breed dry dog food may be the right choice. If, against all odds, your dog turned out small, test one of these best dry dog food for small dogs and see if they like it! Remember that some of the smallest breeds have the most refined taste. Take them for long walks or hikes, engage in play or fetch, go running or swimming. About s60 to 90 minutes of vigorous activity every day will satisfy their exercise requirements. Because of their aggressive behavior, exercises should be done in a fenced-in yard. Cool Pup Insect Shield Dog Bandana treated with an odorless formula of permethrin to shield your Lab Akita Cross effectively from mosquitoes, flies, fleas, and ticks. The innovative harness features built-in insect protection with state-of-the-art cooling technology to protect your dog in extreme temperatures. The adjustable strap provides a snug and comfortable fit while the reflective trim offers safety. The rubber-coated frames feature a flexible nose-bridge for comfort and perfect fit. It also has an adjustable strap to ensure the glasses stay on even when your pet companion is up and about. If you enjoy the sun, the sea, and the sand and want to bring your Akita Lab Mix along for a swim, the Frisco Dog Life Jacket is a must-have! With safety in mind, this life jacket features three adjustable straps that allow for a perfect fit, so your pet to move comfortably in the water. It also has a grab handle so you can effortlessly pull your pet friend out of the water in case of emergency. Akita and Labrador Combination Training It is easy to train an intelligent dog, but it can also be daunting because the Akita Lab Cross is stubborn. But like all other dogs, they will respond best to positive reinforcement. This mix aims to please and will love a physical challenge. Behavior Training — Potty Training can be annoying, but cleaning up is just as exasperating. The artificial turf also emits an organic scent that lures dogs to use it. This mat is odor resistant and antimicrobial to help keep your space clean and fresh-smelling. It has three layers and works by sitting the carpet above the plastic insert and drain the liquid into the tray inclusion for easy cleanup. Start by introducing the names of different objects in your house such as a ball, a toy, and his favorite bowl. Once he recognizes the names, training your dog to bring something to you will be easy peasy. The molded bumpers prevent pets from eating or drinking too fast thus avoiding problems with digestion or vomiting. Fun Training — Catch a Treat is an effective way to help keep his mind active. This trick relies on food being hurled at your pet so giving him praise is also essential. What better way to help him dispense some of his energy? Akita Lab Mix And Families A cross between the Labrador and Akita Inu which are both family-oriented dogs, this hybrid also makes a perfect family pet. Keep in mind though that strict supervision is necessary for households with very young children. They will delight in the company of new friends or other dogs provided that they are introduced first. The Lab Akita combination is also an excellent guard dog because of their protective nature. They can become very hostile and may attack strangers aggressively. Keep in mind that early socialization helps take care of any bad habits that could develop. This hybrid combines two working breeds, one of which is a waterfowl retriever and the other a hunter of large game and devout protector. As such, Akita Lab mixes may be all about business, with an extremely loyal disposition toward their family, or they may be overflowing with friendliness toward most people, with only a slight affinity for sniffing after wild things. What Is an Akita Lab Mix? The Labrakita dog is the result of crossing a purebred Labrador retriever with a purebred Akita. The cross produces a large and big-boned dog with a thick double coat. These dogs were continuously bred with larger breeds, like the Great Dane, to enable them to track and hunt intimidating game such as wild boar, bears and deer. Over the years, the Akita became a treasured and loyal companion, often used as a guard dog and protector of land and master. Unfortunately, the breed almost went extinct, with caused Japan to launch an extensive reformation in the early s. Labradors The Labrador retriever hails from much further away, in Newfoundland, Canada. Eventually, the Lab as we know it today came to America, where the AKC accepted the breed as a member of its sporting group in .Make no mistake, Labradors are still prized hunting dogs, but they are most commonly used now as beloved family pets. Labrakita Temperament Due to its lineage, an Akita Lab mix can have one of two very different personality types, or it may have traits from each type. Akitas have a tendency to be standoffish and potentially aggressive toward unfamiliar people, and they can also be territorial around other dogs. They are very protective of their family and will not hesitate to make their presence known if they feel that their home is threatened. Furthermore, with their hunting background, Akitas also tend to chase after small animals, including other household pets like cats. If you entertain lots of guests in your house, then this will not be a good dog for that environment, either. They are usually fine with other dogs in the house, but they may also want to chase after smaller animals. They thrive on time spent with their owners and become anxious when left alone for too long. When left to their own devices, Labs can be rather destructive. Similarly to Akitas, Labs may be tempted to chase after anything that they get a whiff of while out in the yard or in public. If a Labrakita has English Lab breeding, though, then they may not have as strong of a prey drive. With all of the above being said, this will not be a dog that can spend much time off the leash, regardless of which parent they more closely resemble. If the mix has strong Lab genes, then he may be one of the following colors: Akita black Lab mix Yellow Lab Akita mix Chocolate Lab Akita mix Labs also come in dilute color formations, but these are far more rare. If a mix has strong Akita genes, then he may be one of the following colors: Black. Akita Lab mix puppies A Labrakita is likely to have aspects of each parent dog, but which traits transfer to which puppies can feel more like gambling than science in first generation crosses. Although second generations onwards have a bit more practictability when it comes to looks and personality. This hunting class dog works in packs and can bring down surprisingly large, fierce prey. Today, the Akita is a permanent part of Japanese history and culture. The Labrador Retriever hails from Newfoundland, which today is a part of Canada. This breed arose from a lineage of water dogs and has a wonderful swimming ability and natural love for water. Size, Height And Weight This mixed breed tends to be fairly large in adulthood. They can range anywhere from 21 to 28 inches tall, and weigh from 55 to lbs. This is because of certain differences in the personality and temperament of the Akita versus the Labrador. The Akita is a truly ancient dog breed that has evolved to hunt in packs of other equally large and intelligent dogs. They are intensely loyal to the point of being considered an excellent guard dog. In contrast, the Labrador is a dog that rarely meets a stranger — everyone is a friend! The Akita can be very independent and willful and so will need a positive, firm, steady, and consistent training regimen to integrate successfully into the social life of a family. The Lab also needs early and ongoing positive yet firm training to do well as part of a family and community. From this, you can already see that your Akita cross Lab puppy will need continuous socialization plus lots of positive reinforcement and training to do well as a pet dog. Both the Akita dog and the Labrador Retriever have short, thick, double-layer, water-repellent coats. The Akita has less doggy odor than the Lab, although both can benefit from an occasional bath. So you can expect at least weekly brushing and monthly bathing duties for your Labrakita, as well as a certain level of ongoing shedding and a twice-annual big coat shed. Despite being a mix, any reputable Akita Lab mix breeder will willingly volunteer results of all required and recommended breed-specific health tests. An Akita Lab mix with good socialization, from friendly parents, and positively trained has the potential to make an excellent family pet. However, there are risks of guarding behaviors, and intolerance towards rough handling by small kids. An Akita Lab mix can be a good family dog in a family with older children who can learn to handle the puppy appropriately. It is not a great dog choice if you have other vulnerable family pets. Both the Akita and the Lab have a strong prey drive from their shared background as hunting and working dogs. But try to focus more on health and personality than price, if you can. Make sure that you meet both parents. Decide whether you think either one of them or a combination of the two would fit into your lifestyle. Choose a breeder that is motivated by something more than money. Both parents should know their names, and be attached to their owner. They need to look bright, healthy, relaxed and well exercised.

Coarse coat texture Chronic skin and ear infections Hypothyroidism is treated with lifelong oral medication, and dogs with this condition often live normally with proper treatment. Patellar Luxation A luxating patella is when a kneecap slips out of place. Patellar luxation is a common condition in small dogs, including Miniature Poodles. If you see your Miniature Poodle holding a leg up, limping, or having problems walking, they may be experiencing patellar luxation. Veterinarians can treat this condition by moving the patellar ligament to the correct location through surgery. In minor cases, this condition can be managed with anti-inflammatory and pain medications, but it will result in arthritis. Veterinarians may also suggest weight loss or joint supplements. Eye Problems Miniature Poodles can develop a few different eye conditions as they age. This condition is not curable and will lead to blindness. Cataracts are a hereditary condition that affects Miniature Poodles. Cloudy eyes are a telltale sign of cataracts, and you might notice your dog bumping into things and having issues navigating their environment, especially at night. But unlike PRA, cataracts can be corrected with surgery before your dog loses sight. Their food must be appropriate for their current life stage puppy, adult, or senior. Your veterinarian can recommend specific brands and help you make sure your Mini Poodle is getting the nutrients they need. How To Feed a Miniature Poodle Miniature Poodle puppies need to eat three or four times every day, adhering to a consistent schedule. Once they reach their first birthday, you can reduce their meals to twice a day. The best way to know how much to feed your dog is to talk to your veterinarian. You can also turn to your dog food packaging for guidance, as it will give you an amount to feed your pup based on their ideal weight. But because Miniature Poodles can have problems with their hips and knees, your veterinarian might prescribe supplements to improve joint health. Like all dogs, Miniature Poodles need obedience training and socialization, but they are fast learners and eager to please their people. Because of this, Miniature Poodles can do well in many types of homes. Miniature Poodle Personality and Temperament Miniature Poodles usually get along well with other pets. They need lots of exercise and playtime to burn off energy and keep their sharp brain engaged. Miniature Poodles can become anxious in new situations, however, so early socialization and training is important for having a confident pup. Miniature Poodle Behavior Miniature Poodles like to keep their little legs moving. Miniature Poodles also love swimming. Make time for play, and stimulate their mind with interactive toys and puzzle games. Once they have the basics down, you can teach your Miniature Poodle more complex tricks. Fun Activities for Miniature Poodles. Although they are occasionally characterized as a finicky breed, miniature poodles are actually wonderful family dogs thanks to their smarts, their eager-to-please attitude, and their gentle demeanor with kids and other pets. They're an easy breed to train , low-allergen, and low-odor, so they fit in well with most homes and families. Though their low-shedding curly coats have the benefit of being nearly hypoallergenic , they do require lots of care and grooming. If you have the time and resources to dedicate to these peaceful pups, they make loving and loyal companions. Miniatures fall into the middle of the pack; standard poodles are the largest and toy poodles are the smallest. Some breed enthusiasts argue that there are actually five poodle classes, though the Klein or medium poodle and the teacup poodle have yet to be recognized by the AKC. Like their standard and toy-size cousins, miniature poodles have athletic, muscly bodies thanks to their origins as water retrieval dogs for duck hunters. Like their breed siblings, mini poodles have curly coats, lively faces, and dark eyes. While the elaborate continental hairdo, with its curling pom-poms carefully shaped and clipped around the joints and chest, is popular with show poodles, most miniature poodle owners prefer the low-key sporting clip, a short, one-length cut that looks a bit less like a topiary. No problem. The miniature poodle comes in an array of hues, including black, white, apricot, grey, silver, and brown. The breed tends to shed only minimally, so you won't need to stock up on lint rollers with a mini poodle around. And, while no dog is truly hypoallergenic , poodles of all sizes can be a good fit for people with allergies. Temperament When compared to their breed siblings, miniature poodles fall in the middle of the pack in terms of temperament, too. Tiny toy poodles tend to be a little more hyper, while the standard is the calmest of the three. All poodle types can be anxious and timid at times and do best in a peaceful living arrangement with lots of attention and care. Miniature poodles are smart, active, and playful. They love to romp and play nearly non-stop as puppies and young dogs. Their activity levels do change with maturity, but you can expect your miniature poodle to stay pretty active even as an adult dog. When they meet someone new, their reactions can range from friendly and polite to shy and timid. Their sensitive nature sometimes results in hypersensitivity and anxiety; help your mini out by socializing them early and providing them a stable, conflict-free living arrangement. That can actually be a reflection of a number of things, but the most prominent variable is socialization, either the implementation of it or lack thereof," Silverman says. Living Needs These little athletes love space to run and burn off their extra energy, so a big fenced-in yard or frequent trips to the dog park is a plus. Their small size means they can live well in an apartment as long as they get their exercise needs met, says Chyrle Bonk, DVM at Pet Keen. Miniature poodles are peaceful dogs who know how to play nice with children, Bonk says. And, with proper socialization, poodles can be friendly with other pets. But because they can be anxious, a poodle might not thrive if you have a revolving door of visitors or a noisy, chaotic living situation. Early socialization will keep your miniature poodle from being overly watchful and timid. Spending time with their owners is important to minis—they can become lonely or experience separation anxiety if left alone too often. As Bonk says, poodles "require a lot of attention and mental stimulation to fill their hours. They aren't going to like being left alone without something to do. But lack of shedding doesn't mean it's a no-maintenance coat. Bonk says your mini needs daily brushing to prevent matting. Even when they're given a simple one-length-all-over sporting clip, miniature poodles require regular grooming appointments—or an owner who is seriously skilled with clippers. Miniature poodles are active, athletic dogs who need plenty of daily exercise and long daily strolls. They're up for adventure and love to stay busy, so it won't be hard to keep them moving. Miniature poodles love to swim , and swimming can be an excellent workout for these curly cuties. Minis also love playing fetch and can burn off some of their abundant energy chasing after balls and sticks in the backyard. These tiny athletes also excel in obedience training and agility. Because of this, I would recommend starting by teaching them to jump up on something elevated, like a low chair, couch or bed," Silverman says. Bonk recommends keeping training upbeat, fun, and not repetitive. Encouraging your pup with lots of praise and consistency will get your eager-to-please mini in his zone. Thanks to their people-pleasing nature, miniature poodles are typically easy to potty train. Just make sure they have a healthy diet of high-quality dog food and plenty of fresh, clean water available. Your veterinarian should be able to recommend a food with the right nutrients for your dog's age and nutritional needs. Health Miniature poodles usually live long lives of 10—18 years and are generally healthy dogs. Reputable poodle breeders routinely test their dogs for health conditions miniature poodles are prone to, including hip dysplasia , eye problems , and orthopedic issues such as luxating patella. Miniature poodles are also prone to dental disease. Tartar build up can lead to more serious issues including infection, tooth loss, and organ damage, so regular teeth cleanings —either at home or through your veterinarian —are a must. Keeping regularly scheduled veterinary appointments will help you stay up-to-date on your individual miniature poodle's health and well-being. History Poodles originated in Germany as duck-hunting dogs—the name poodle coming from the word pudelin, a German-language reference to the breed's fondness for water, the AKC says. Their intelligence, swimming abilities, and protective coat made them ideal workers for water retrieval. While standard poodles were historically the dominant breed size used for hunting, many sporting clubs now use their smaller kin to assist with flushing fowl from brush. The intricate continental clip most people associate the poodle with is for more than just a style choice. The distinctive cut was originally designed to keep dogs being used for water retrieval comfortable and buoyant in icy waters. By cutting the hair short on the limbs, they gave the dogs the freedom of movement they needed to swim while protecting their organs and joints by leaving the hair longer in those areas, according to the AKC. The poodle's natural elegance and trainability made poodles of all sizes the stars of many European circus acts. It's believed that the standard poodle was the first of the breed and that miniature and toy varieties were developed later. The French are largely believed to have evolved the original continental cut into the style it is today, making the remaining hair more round and adding the distinctive tail pom. Miniature poodles appear in many movies including Jaws, Bingo! That is one of the biggest myths in dogdom. First, ignore the silly show-ring clips. Poodles can be clipped to look like normal dogs. Look at the Miniature Poodle in the photo. That's my girl, Buffy. It takes me 30 minutes every six weeks to bathe her and run over her coat with a handheld clipper 5 blade , turning her into a shorthaired, normal-looking dog. Second, Miniature Poodles are miniature athletes. They excel in advanced obedience competition, where retrieving and jumping skills are required. They excel in agility obstacle course competition, where they dash over and under and through the obstacles with a strength and grace that is breathtaking to watch. The correct build is "square", which means their legs are long enough that their height is approximately equal to their length. Buffy has this build. These Miniature Poodles are both elegant and athletic, moving with a light, springy gait. Other Miniature Poodles are built lower to the ground, with short legs and a long back. These dogs have inherited a physical deformity called chondrodysplasia. It means they don't have the same elegance or agility as a properly square Miniature Poodle. Worse still, it means they're more susceptible to disk disease though square poodles can develop this disease, too. But whatever the build, a good Miniature Poodle is one of the smartest and most trainable of all breeds. This is a "thinking" dog who pays rapt attention to you, learns quickly, and responds well to training. Indeed, Miniature Poodles NEED some sort of mental stimulation in order to be happy, even if it's just challenging games such as hide 'n seek, or fetching a variety of named toys. This intelligent breed should never be relegated to the backyard and ignored. Most Miniature Poodles make great watchdogs, which simply means they will bark when they hear someone at the door. Most individuals tend to be reserved though polite and non-aggressive with strangers. But there are also individuals — like my dog Buffy — "who never met a stranger. With other dogs and cats, Miniature Poodles are peaceful and accepting. Poodles also have the advantage of being the lightest-shedding, most hypoallergenic of all coated breeds. Hairless breeds have no hair at all to shed. So do Miniature Poodles sound like a dream dog? Well, no breed is perfect! Besides the frequent clipping, Poodles do need daily exercise and playtime, as they're typically lively dogs. And Poodles need a great deal of companionship throughout the day. This makes them a great choice for shut-ins or people who work from home. But if everyone is gone for many hours, a Poodle will be unhappy. They're dependent dogs, and if they get lonely, they may bark, or chew destructively. Poodles are also "pattern-oriented" dogs who prefer their routines to always be the same. They can get flustered and anxious if you change things too much. Poodles are soft-tempered, sensitive dogs, sometimes hypersensitive. If you touch them unexpectedly or startle them with a sudden loud sound, they tend to flinch. The most sensitive individuals are unhappy around small children. Similarly, Miniature Poodles can get emotionally upset if there's too much activity or conflict or roughhousing in your household. These gentle dogs prefer peace and harmony. You do have to watch your lines.But how a Poodle turns out also depends on socialization and training. When taken out to experience the world and treated like an intelligent and capable dog, a Miniature Poodle is likely to live up to those expectations. If you want a dog who.Is conveniently-sized — neither too small or too large Is graceful, yet also athletic Has a short curly coat that is virtually non-shedding the best coated breed for allergy sufferers Comes in a variety of colors Is lively and playful Is one of the brightest and most attentive of all breeds Is easy to train and housebreak Is usually polite with strangers and sociable with other animals A Miniature Poodle may be right for you. If you don't want to deal with.Clipping the curly coat every six weeks, without fail A careful search to avoid high-strung, neurotic lines Timidity when not socialized enough Emotional sensitivity to stress, tension, and loud voices Potential barking A Miniature Poodle may not be right for you. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Poodles have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Books by Michele Welton "Respect Training for Puppies" or "Respect Training for Adult Dogs" is a step by step guide to help you bring out the best in your pup so you can enjoy a calm and well-behaved dog, no matter what his age. Get your book today. A healthy dog is a happy dog, so buy your copy today. Avoiding neurotic temperaments. Whenever a breed is common, many people breed them just to make some money, without having enough knowledge of how to produce healthy, stable dogs. As a result, obedience instructors and behavioral consultants, like myself, see lots of Mini Poodles with neurotic behaviors, including hyperactivity, senseless barking, and hyperactivity. Obviously you want to avoid these dogs! A lot of people are attracted to Poodles because they're so light-shedding and hypoallergenic. But light shedding always comes with a trade-off. In the Poodle's case, it's the amount of clipping they require. To keep their curly coat short and free of mats, Miniature Poodles require clipping every 4 to 6 weeks. Without fail. Professional groomers will try to sculpture your poodle with a shaved face, a topknot on his head, and a pom pom on his tail. That's the frou-frou look that keeps so many people from choosing a poodle. Now, if you like that look, fine. But if you don't like it, take control of how the groomer clips your dog. Or learn how to do it yourself — it's really easy. See photos of my girl Buffy, at the top of the page, and just below. Short coat, whiskery face, short ears, nothing shaved, no topknot or pompoms. Many people are surprised to find out that she's a Poodle. Works for me! Emotional sensitivity. Be honest.Are people loud or emotional? Miniature Poodles are extremely sensitive to stress. They can end up literally sick to their stomachs, with digestive upsets and neurotic behaviors, if the people in their home are having family problems. Miniature Poodles are peaceful, sensitive dogs who need a peaceful, harmonious home. Providing enough socialization. Some Mini Poodles are quite friendly, but most are a little standoffish with strangers. To avoid timidity or suspiciousness, it's important to take your dog out into the world as a young puppy and indeed all through his life. Read more about socializing your Miniature Poodle. Poodles are very observant. Even Poodles who love everyone will bark when they see or hear something unusual. In fact, they're often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound. You have to be equally quick to stop them. You can only do that if you have the right relationship with your dog, where you are the leader and he is the follower. In other words, your Miniature Poodle must respect you. Fortunately this is very easy to do with Poodles. Read more about Miniature Poodle Training. Health problems. Miniature Poodles can live to 15 or 16 years old, but they're not always healthy during all those years. Chronic problems in Poodles include allergies, heart or bronchial diseases, joint disorders, and eye diseases. Read more about Miniature Poodle Health. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy. Overall, they are amusing, eager to please and a lot of fun to be around. Poodles are generally active and agile. They are happiest with daily walks and lots of outdoor play. Without enough attention and activity, they can get bored, agitated, restless and sometimes destructive. Also, if you can give your Poodle the opportunity to frolic in water, by all means do. Poodles do not like to be left alone for hours on end. They love being around people and are able to form bonds with each member of the family, as opposed to bonding with just one person. Poodles are ideal family dogs, being both patient and playful with children—though Miniature Poodles can be slightly less patient with small children. They also make superb watchdogs, barking zealously when strangers approach the home. Things You Should Know Poodles may look dainty and demur, but in truth, these are high-stamina dogs with a stellar range of skills, including agility and obedience. Your pretty Poodle could be a sporty competitor in addition to a beautiful show dog. As a Miniature Poodle owner, you must be ready to groom: They need to be clipped and bathed regularly. Miniature Poodles can live as long as 15 years. Though a relatively healthy breed, common issues can include hip dysplasia, allergies, skin conditions, ear infections and cataracts. Miniature Poodle History Though Poodles have lived in Europe for centuries, no one knows for sure where they originated. Some claim Germany, but the consensus seems to be France, where they are considered a beloved national breed. Poodles were prized for their intelligence and good manners, eventually being used in circuses and dog shows and, of course, as companions. The Standard Poodle is believed to be the oldest of the three Poodle versions. Miniature Poodles and Toy Poodles were most likely bred from the larger Standard Poodles, but all three are judged in the same categories. Dogster Dogster is a dog magazine and dog website where dog lovers come together to get the latest expert advice about dog behavior, dog health, dog news and dog entertainment, plus a whole lot of adorable dog pics. Currently edited by Melissa Kauffman. Your browser does not support the audio tag. It is approximately the same length as the height at the withers. The skull is moderately rounded with a slight but definite stop. It has a long, straight muzzle. The dark, oval-shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and are black or brown. The ears hang close to the head and are long and flat. Both the front and back legs are in proportion with the size of the dog. The topline is level. The tail is set and carried high. It is sometimes docked to half its length or less to make the dog look more balanced. Note: Docking tails is illegal in most European countries. Dewclaws may be removed. The oval-shaped feet are rather small and the toes are arched. The coat is either curly or corded. While it does not make the written show standard, some breeders are breeding parti-colored Poodles. See grooming for different types of Poodle clips. Temperament The Miniature Poodle is an intelligent, joyful companion dog. It can be trained to a high degree and is very willing and happy to please its handler. Comical and clever, it is often used as a circus dog. The more intelligent a dog is, the more it needs its mind occupied. This breed cannot live outside in a kennel. It needs to be part of the family. It can be high-strung if not given the proper type and amount of exercise. Do not allow this dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome , where the dog is led to believe it is alpha over humans. It can cause the dog to become sensitive and nervous , and not very trustworthy with children and possibly strangers, along with many other behavior issues. Socialize your dog well. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. Dogs may start to bark a lot without proper human to canine communication , rules to follow and limits to what they are allowed to do. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. Height, Weight Height: 11 - 15 inches 28 - 38 cm Weight: 15 - 17 pounds 7 - 8 kg The sizes of the official AKC-recognized Poodle breeds are determined by height, not by weight. The Miniature Poodle must be over 10 inches and 15 inches or less at the highest point of the shoulder. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or is less than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulder cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Miniature Poodle. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Living Conditions The Miniature Poodle is good for apartment life. It will be calm indoors if it receives enough exercise. It will do okay without a yard. Exercise Miniature Poodles need a daily walk. While out on the walk make sure the dog heels beside or behind the person holding the lead, never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. As with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. They adore water and love sessions of play. They are a very versatile breed with a hunting and retrieving beginning, although they excel in any performance event you offer them, including agility, obedience, rally and conformation showing, and often one will leave one ring and go directly to another to compete again. Since they love water they are great dock diving dogs and love water retrieving. Life Expectancy. Nutrition and Feeding Small dogs have a fast metabolism, meaning they burn energy at a high rate, although their small stomachs mean that they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. Grooming Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles do not shed and are often though not always tolerated by allergic people. Their coats do take a great deal of care, though, generally requiring professional grooming, as well as regular combing and brushing at home. The poodle should be taken to a groomer about every six weeks to be clipped, or you can learn how to do it yourself. A groomer will also advise on ear care. Training Miniature Poodles Poodles are a joy to train as they are clever, quick to learn and love working with their owner. They can turn their paw to dog sports such as mini agility, heelwork to music and even obedience with no problems whatsoever - and in fact training and working with their owner will keep this often busy dog happy and relaxed. Best Family Dog Breeds Being a little more robust than the smaller Toys - and not as big and bouncy as the Standards, the Miniature Poodle can make a fantastic family dog. While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them. Poodles - especially the ones you see in the show ring - seem to have all kinds of crazy hairdos but these often flamboyant-looking styles all started off with a purpose. Poodles were originally water-retrieving dogs but their coats could easily get water-logged and pull them down. The answer was to clip off all their hair but leave some around their vital organs to keep them warm, and around any vulnerable joints to protect from injury. The breed is currently one of the most popular dogs in the show ring. Similar Breeds:. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. What we do know is that there are depictions of a Poodle or the likes of found in artifacts that date as far back as Egyptian times. The Miniature Poodle, however, is thought to have come into existence in the 15th century. A common misbelief is that the breed spurred from Poodles mating with smaller dogs when really it was just the runts that were mated with each other. A miniature poodle dog smaller than 11 inches is called a Toy Poodle, and a dog even smaller than that is a Teacup Poodle. It was a dog breed specifically woven and in some ways still is into nobility. They were glamorized for their posh elegance and proud demeanors. But across the board, French Poodles were used as show dogs, hunting dogs, and home dogs for centuries. They came to America with the colonists, and the AKC recognized the breed at the end of the 19th century, in .The breed was registered as one, meaning within the Poodle registration was both the Standard and Miniature Poodle. Similar dog breeds that you can learn more about are the Yorkie-Poo and Rat Terrier. These dogs are often unaware of their small size, and they carry themselves like a regal prince or princess. They love to be the center of attention and love to give in return. The Miniature Poodle characteristics are said to be the most anxious of the line. If bred and raised improperly, the poodle can be tireless and aggressive. This is a topic up for debate—and of course when you factor in their upbringing the subject matter changes completely—but often the difference is quite apparent in poorly trained Mini Poodles. All-in-all, the Miniature Poodle behavior is spunky, loving, incredibly intelligent which makes them very trainable , and playful. These dogs have been trained for various different utilities—especially taking into consideration their hunting history—and are still trained with the same versatility today. They love the stimulation they receive from their training in class and know to bring the lessons home. At home, be soft but consistent with them. Barking can be an issue with this breed, but positive reinforcement is the best tactic in their home training and in mitigating this particular issue. Sometimes, these dogs can find a spot on the couch and never want to leave, and thus in their later years the owner needs to take on the role as motivator and ensure that their Mini Poodle is still working those muscles. Are Miniature Poodles a Popular Breed? Miniature Poodle Feeding Requirements The recommended amount to feed a Miniature Poodle is around 1 cup of dry food per day, broken into two equal meals. Be sure to buy the highest-quality food, and to monitor their diet carefully. They can be fickle about their food choice oh such an appropriate characteristic when taking their history into consideration , and it might take time to find a product that works indefinitely. Age, weight, metabolism, and activity level are all important factors to consider when administering a balanced diet to these little canines. For two, these coats bristle with elegance, and if well kept truly signify why they were chosen by the French aristocracy so many years ago. Thing is, their hair grows incredibly fast and has a propensity to tangle. Some owners simply shave their dogs on their own, but even that requires a fair amount of time, and then the proper bathing and cleansing that comes afterward. Aside from their coats, hygiene upkeep is a weekly process to prevent dental disease. Examine their ears, eyes, nose, mouths, and bodies for anything suspicious. This includes inflammation, redness, rashes, infection, and parasites. These thickly-haired little canines can harbor a lot in their coats, and that needs to be accounted for. Are Miniature Poodles Good with Children? The Miniature Poodle is generally well-tempered with children. That said, the Miniature Poodle is a healthy breed with a long life expectancy something more common in smaller dogs. Common Miniature Poodle health issues are as follows: Cushings Disease: this occurs when there is an overabundance of cortisol in the body of a Miniature Poodle. It usually spurs from a faulty adrenal gland, and the symptoms show themselves through excessive urination, a never quenched thirst, and a difficulty digesting food. There are treatments, medicine, and surgery available for this condition. The symptoms include heavy vomiting, a loss of appetite and energy, and longer than usual sleep cycles. Epilepsy: similar to humans, Epilepsy causes seizures. Although Miniature Poodle seizures can signify something other than epilepsy, this disorder is still the most common proponent. It can cause severe pain when walking, an abnormal gait, lameness in the leg s , and at worse immobility. There are treatments and surgery available for this condition, depending on its severity. This happens when the femoral head loses its blood supply and breaks down inside the hip joint. Watch for signs and symptoms like hip pain and uneven leg length. Heart Disease: Mini poodles are susceptible to heart disease or heart valve disease. Your mini poodle may develop a heart murmur from a leaking mitral valve as they get older. Other Resources. You have to consider your activity level, living space, available time, and more to determine the right dog breed for you. If a smaller dog breed is a better fit for you, the Mini Poodle is one dog breed to consider. Here are a few facts about Miniature Poodles to help you decide: 1. They tend to get along well with children as well as other dogs. They are often ecstatic about the extra attention and will enjoy having another person available to play with them. It is recommended that any playtime with younger children is closely supervised as a small dog like the Mini Poodle can be easily hurt by accidental falls or rough play. Just make sure you bring along plenty of extra water to make sure you both stay hydrated during your activities! They Are Sensitive and People-Oriented This small dog breed has a sensitive nature and is very people-oriented. This means that they thrive on social interaction with people and do not tend to do well with long periods of alone time. At the same time, their sensitive nature means they respond intuitively to moods and tones of voice. This, paired with their high intelligence and eagerness to please, makes them easy to train with praise and positive rewards and makes them a good fit for first-time dog owners. Although they are small, they are not intimidated by spaces much larger than they are, so they will also adapt to larger homes with or without yards. They also do well in most climates, but may need a coat or sweater to help them stay warm while out on walks in cold winter weather. You will also need to keep an eye on them during outdoor activities in the summer because they can be sensitive to heat. Their Low-Shedding Coat Still Requires Grooming A Mini Poodle may have a low-shedding coat and be hypoallergenic for some allergy-sufferers, but their coat still requires a lot of care. In addition to brushing, a Mini Poodle should also be professionally groomed about every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coat healthy and looking great. A Miniature Poodle puppy can light up your life with plenty of loyal companionship, cuddles, and fun playtime. These are just a few facts about Miniature Poodles. If you think this dog breed might be the one for you, learn more about them and also check out the available Miniature Poodle puppies! Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement PDS to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing or choosing to continue with the product. Testimonials and customer experience may vary depending on individual circumstances. Claims are assessed subject to policy terms and conditions. The discount will be spread over the course of the first year and deducted from the standard monthly payment. This offer only applies to new policies for eligible pets under the age of 12 months and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. We may revoke this offer at any time without notice to you. Limit of one 1 Pet ID Tag per policy year. Cover is subject to the terms and conditions of the policy for each renewal period. For further details, refer to your PDS. Whether that is the case will depend on the nature and experience of the condition, and some conditions are eligible for review after an month period — refer to your Policy Booklet for more information, terms and conditions. To do so, your Vet will need to certify and provide veterinary records verifying that the Condition remains a Temporary Condition and has not existed, occurred or shown noticeable signs, symptoms or an abnormality for a period of 18 months. The Pre-existing Condition exclusion s shall not be deemed to have been lifted unless agreed to by us in writing. For more details refer to the Product Disclosure Statement , or download the form here. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for further details. 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They are moderately active, but highly social which makes them well suited to life as a family pet or companion. This is a guide to taking care of them through their early months, from birth to puppyhood. Neonatal During the first 4 weeks of your French Bulldog's life, they should spend most of their time with their mother and litter-mates. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your French Bulldog puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks introduce a few dry kibbles soaked in warm water. Health During this time it is important to monitor your French Bulldog for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach Behaviour During most of this time your French Bulldog will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. Weaning When you take your French Bulldog home usually at around 8 weeks you should shower them with love and attention. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. Make the most of this time and treat every interaction with your Frenchie as a learning opportunity to develop their fun, playful personality. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Frenchie's small size and young age. French Bulldogs are notoriously food-driven, but if they develop a taste for human food, they will likely become fussy eaters and cause headaches later in life by refusing dog food. Be sure to familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. Colostrum, rich in natural antibodies, proven to enhance immune response 2. DHA from omega-rich fish oil helps nourish brain and vision development 3. Colostrum proven to balance intestinal micro flora, helps protect your puppy from common intestinal upsets 4. Highly digestible quality ingredients for superior nutrient absorption 5. Easy rehydration of kibble for weaning 6. Scientifically proven antioxidants to boost immune defence 7. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health During this time you should provide your puppy with a small, shallow bowl of clean water and refresh the contents frequently. Your puppy will also need to be toilet trained during this time so that they don't make a mess of your home. Your Frenchie will soon be a fun and loyal friend, but for now you will have to clean up if they have particularly unpleasant bowel movements. You can combat this by not changing their diet suddenly as this will stress their digestive system. Behaviour Due to changes in diet and environment, your Frenchie will likely be under a significant amount of stress. As a social breed, it is important that you are affectionate and supportive during this time so they feel at home in their new surroundings. Yelling at your puppy during this will only alienate your Frenchie as they are particularly sensitive to human voice — being too aggressive with them may cause fear and distrust. Puppy By the time your French Bulldog reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed. Show them love by appealing to their intelligent and often funny personality by playing with them regularly, exercising daily and introducing them to new friends from an early age. Nutrition Your French Bulldog puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Keep snacks such as dog treats and table scraps to a minimum during puppyhood and familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid. No added artificial colours, flavours and preservatives Know more Health French Bulldogs have a fair amount of energy and should be walked regularly to avoid excessive weight gain. Be aware that later in life, many French Bulldogs develop breathing difficulties due to their unusually flat face. While mostly up to genetics, you can reduce the symptoms of problems by keeping your puppy fit and not allowing them to exert themselves on hot or humid days. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters. Behaviour French Bulldog puppies are generally very friendly and well-suited to spending time around other animals and children. However, it's very important to proactively introduce them to the outside world including other people, dogs, places and children to avoid development of aggressive behaviours based on fear later in life. It is highly recommended that you take your French Bulldog to puppy training classes. Recommended Articles. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! The French Bulldog is prone to some health issues such as brachycephalic upper airway syndrome BUAS , allergies , and obesity. Feeding them appropriate nutrition is important in keeping our Frenchies healthy. Read further to learn how to choose the best food out there for your canine friend. French Bulldogs have similar nutritional needs to other dogs. They need to be fed high quality protein and a good source of vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids. Protein is the building block for muscle and gives your dog energy. Feeding Puppy French Bulldogs Puppies need regular feeding, usually, three times a day as their stomachs are small. French Bulldog puppies grow rapidly in the first 6 months of their life and need the appropriate diet in order to grow properly. They need regular feeding, usually, three times a day as their stomachs are small. As puppies do a LOT of growing, their diets should be high in calories to give them fuel for this. Their diets should have high quality proteins with no high carb fillers or preservatives. It should be an easy-to-digest food with human-grade ingredients. Check the back of the food bag to see how much your puppy should be eating and ask your vet for advice on feeding when they get their vaccinations. Your French Bulldog puppy can start eating adult food from months of age. There are so many foods out there on the market that it can be really confusing trying to pick a food for your dog. We have some pointers when it comes to picking good quality food for your dog. First of all, look at the ingredient list. The ingredient list should be easy to read with recognizable whole food ingredients. The list should be relatively short as long lists can indicate unnecessary high carb filler ingredients. The ingredients should be high quality and clearly stated e. The diet should be free from preservatives and high carb filler ingredients like potato, rice, oats, barley, pasta, corn, or wheat. Dog foods are available in many forms such as dry food, wet canned food, dehydrated food, raw food, and lightly cooked human-grade diets. Some ingredients in certain foods can be harmful to our pooches, including excessive carbohydrates, preservatives, and poor-quality ingredients. These include excessive carbohydrates, preservatives, and poor-quality ingredients. Along with those, some human foods are harmful to our dogs too. You should avoid feeding your Frenchie these foods; Onions. Regardless, it is best to feed your puppy their old food for at least two weeks if you can. Then, you want to swap the proportions. After a few days, you can give your puppy only the new food. The most common is diarrhea. It might be worth a trip to the vet if your pup starts throwing up their meals, refuses to eat, or has allergic reactions to the new food. French Bulldog Puppy Diets French Bulldog puppy diets may consist of kibble, wet food, raw food , or homemade food. Each of these has pros and cons. Some pet owners go all in and make their own dog foods. This can get complex, as, with raw or homemade food, you have to be sure to give your dog all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. It is also typically more expensive than prepared meals kibble or wet food. However, the benefits might be important if done correctly. You know exactly what your dog is eating, no questions asked. Frenchies often have allergies and sensitive tummies. So you should avoid foods with too much protein but make sure meat is still the first ingredient! Also avoid or limit grains, soy, and wheat, as these are common allergens. The number of calories your puppy needs will depend on their age, weight, and exercise levels. Different types of food will also have different calorie levels. For example, they will generally need to eat more wet food than kibble for a balanced meal, because canned food has fewer calories. At the start of the day, weigh out the right amount on some scales and divide it between five bowls. Four of these will make up regular meals spread throughout the day, the final bowl is for you to put aside to use as training treats or to reward good behavior. This will help you to resist the temptation to use higher carb training treats. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy Kibble The most affordable option, when considering both your time and money, is kibble. The most time-consuming and expensive are raw and homemade diets. You can find it easily at the store, and your only prep time will be to open it and pour it into a bowl. The biggest con is that there are some low-quality brands of kibble out there. As in any business, some are just in it for the money. However, these disadvantages can be overcome by choosing a high-quality brand. Look out for formulas specifically tailored for French Bulldogs. Specialized recipes are carefully shaped to help them out. Another good thing about wet food is that it keeps your dog hydrated. However, due to the water in wet food, it has fewer calories. Your pup will need to eat more wet food than dry food, making it the more expensive of the two. Wet food is also messier than dry, especially if your pup is a messy eater. It also takes time to prepare as you will need to buy the ingredients individually, and prepare the meals. Raw food also requires more clean-up time than any other food. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy a Homemade Diet Feeding a puppy a homemade diet has many of the same pros and cons of feeding raw. Homemade food with properly cooked meats is less risky than a raw diet. It will still be costly and time-intensive though. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings! French Bulldog Puppy Weight Chart Your French Bulldog puppy should eat more protein and less carbs The French bulldog is a breed of dogs prone to various health issues because of their genes. To help them live a better life, it is important to provide them with nutritious meals that include all the essential things that their body needs. Frenchies are classed as a brachycephalic breed of dog, which means that they have a very short muzzle and are flat-faced. This shape of the face makes it really hard for them to breathe, so they have to be fed a diet that is high in protein and low in carbs. French bulldog puppies need food that contains protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Frenchies can potentially suffer from a condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome, or BASS. BASS can lead to a variety of health issues. Commercially prepared food seems to be the most convenient but be wary about the ingredients and chemicals that are mixed in this food. In choosing commercially prepared foods, watch out and avoid preservatives like ethozyquin, butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , and butylated hydroxytoluene BHT that are common to mass-produced food. They may also contain lots of sugar that is also not good for your Frenchie puppy. It is up to you to choose whether you go for commercially prepared food or if you want to create a healthy homemade meal for your Frenchie. Combine quality meat, vegetables and some sources of vitamins and minerals. You can prepare either a cooked dish or a raw meal for your Frenchie. Food Allergies Of Your French Bulldog Puppy Food allergies are also quite common to Frenchies so you have to be very careful with what to feed them and be very observant about the allergy symptoms. They may come from products such as beef, chicken, fish, corn, wheat, soy, lamb, and eggs. The only way to know what your Frenchie is allergic to is through trial and error. To cope with the growth spurts that the Frenchies experience, frequent feedings is best. Owners need to feed their puppies with a well-balanced meal, 3 times a day. They should also be properly hydrated to ensure continuous and healthy growth. Remember that it is not enough that your Frenchie is eating, the quality of food you feed also greatly affects their health. A great option is to feed them wet food as well as dry food. Feeding your French bulldog is essential for their health and well-being. They need a well-balanced diet to prevent health problems like obesity and diabetes, which can shorten their life expectancy. Pups do not need to eat very often; however, they should be fed at least once every 12 hours. Always have fresh water available and consider purchasing a water fountain for your dog that can also dispense tiny treats. When it comes to feeding your puppy, many people wonder what should be in their food. The answer ultimately depends on the type of puppy food you buy.