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Coat Trim Cost of Veterinary Expenses You can expect to pay for the vet each year so that your dog can remain up to date with their shots. An annual visit can also make sure your dog is healthy, but you may want to take your dog in more often if they get sick or have other problems. You can get pet insurance to help cover the cost of these vet expenses. A good breeder will provide you with not only a healthy, well-socialized puppy but also support and guidance as you navigate life with your new furry friend. But with so many breeders out there, how do you know who to choose? Look for a breeder who is registered with the American Kennel Club AKC or other reputable organizations and who has experience breeding golden retrievers. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the breed and will provide you with references from past clients. A good breeder will provide support and guidance as you adjust to life with your new pet. They should be available to answer questions, offer training advice, and help you navigate any challenges that arise. Look for a Breeder with Experience Experience matters when it comes to breeding golden retrievers. A breeder with years of experience will have a wealth of knowledge about the breed and will be able to provide you with valuable insights and advice. They will know how to breed for good temperament, health, and other important traits that make golden retrievers such beloved family pets. This includes information about any genetic diseases or health issues that may be present in the bloodline. By choosing a breeder who prioritizes health and genetics, you can help ensure that your new puppy is healthy and happy. Some breeders may insist that you participate in these events if you want to purchase a puppy from them, but this is not a requirement. Choose a breeder who respects your lifestyle and preferences and who is primarily concerned with finding a good home for their puppies. The right Golden Retriever breeder depends on you as a person, but any good breeder should be able to answer any questions. You may come across the perfect puppy online, but do not commit to any dog until you can visit in person. The dog may be totally different than in their photo. In some cases, you may find that the dog does not exist. Some scammers can take photos of other dogs and collect payment for the dog. But the scammer will disappear before the buyer realizes the dog is not theirs. To avoid these puppy sales scams, always visit the dog in person before you sign a contract or make a payment. Make sure the dog looks like the pictures and that they have the temperament that you want. If you are working with a breeder, be sure to check their credentials and ask for references. You can speak to other dog owners who have gone through the breeder. Finally, do not rush into getting a dog. Conclusion While Golden Retrievers can be moderately expensive to keep over the ten to twelve years that they generally live, there are many ways that people can reduce the cost of keeping them. One of the best ways to save money while raising a Golden Retriever is to get quality pet insurance. As long as their owners are prepared to offer them financial security in the form of good food, a few well-loved toys, and some regular veterinary care, Goldens repay the devotion a hundredfold in terms of loyalty and affection for their families. Check out our list of Golden Retriever Rescue Organizations , they are listed by state. She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Read the full disclosure here. Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States! Whether you are looking to purchase a golden retriever puppy or adopt an adult or senior golden retriever, money is often one of the first things that come to mind. Due to the huge demand for this particular breed, golden retrievers tend to cost a pretty penny. Truth be told, goldens are expensive, but they are also worth every penny! If you are looking to purchase a purebred golden retriever, you should know what to expect when it comes to the price of one of these dogs. Read on to learn more! At the lower end of this price range, you can find goldens from a home breeder without AKC documentation or health certificates. Read on for the full breakdown of golden retriever puppy prices! When buying a golden retriever, like when buying just about anything else, you get what you pay for. All of these missing costs will end up being your responsibility once you bring the puppy home and will soon add to the initial cost of buying a puppy. On the other hand, breeders who charge more for their golden puppies will likely have a higher breeding standard. This brings me to… Adopting From A Shelter Or Rescue Adopting a golden retriever from a shelter or rescue organization costs significantly less than buying a puppy from a breeder. Besides being much cheaper, adopting a golden retriever is also a more humane thing to do! These dogs too make wonderful pets and companions and are no less deserving of a loving, forever home. Another factor worth mentioning is if you adopt an adult golden retriever, you can save a lot of money on various supplies only puppies need when going into their new homes, like house training pee pads and teething toys. First-Year Average Cost Of A Golden Retriever Puppy Now that you have a better idea of the average price of a purebred golden retriever puppy, you will then need to factor in all the major supplies your new pup will need during their first year of life. Basic Puppy Supplies If you previously owned a golden retriever or a similarly sized dog, you may be able to reuse some of their supplies, such as food and water bowls, a leash, or toys. This can save you some money early on. If you have never owned a dog before, though, be prepared to shell out some serious cash! Basic puppy supplies include:. Puppies cost more than adult or senior Goldens. This holds true for all dog breeds, because there is more demand for puppies than older dogs. Age affects the adoption fee, but it does not reflect the quality of the dog in most cases. This can be thousands of dollars less than a puppy, but this does not discount the love and affection an adult can offer. Surprisingly, this dog comes in more than just gold color varieties. There are also red, cream, brown, and yellow color varieties. There will, very rarely, even be a Golden Retriever that has black-tipped ears or has a black spot on its body. These puppies have cream-colored coats and are very rare. Goldens that have black markings on their coat are often cheaper. A puppy with healthy warranties and pedigree certification will be twice as much as a puppy without them. One of the top health certifications is hip dysplasia screening. Choosing A Breeder Not all breeders put a lot of time, effort, and money into their Golden Retriever puppies. Breeder associated expenses include breeding fees if the breeder does not own both a breeding male and female , breeding license, veterinary care for mom and pups, health tests and certifications, warranty, registration, insurance, whelping and food. Golden Retrievers typically have eight puppies in each litter. Puppies that are bought from pet stores can come from large-scale commercial dog breeding operations i. Commercial dog breeding facilities should be avoided. A chronic lack of space, insufficient nutrition, poor hygiene standards, and routine overbreeding of the dogs are par for the course in puppy mills. This is inhumane and causes a number of serious health issues for the puppies: matted fur; eye, ear, and throat infections, dental problems and severe genetic deformities. So, how do you make sure you adopt a dog from a trustworthy and reputable breeder? One of the first steps you can do is to check the status of a breeder. All puppies sold via this marketplace are purebred, pedigree and health certified. In the United Kingdom, the Kennel Club has a list of approved breeders. All puppies sold via this marketplace are insured, pedigree and health certified. There are a handful of additional factors that also affect a Golden Retriever price. Breeder location is one of them. Certain cities and states enforce breeding regulations and charges. Breeding licenses normally apply to professional breeders who breed more than 20 puppies each year. Home-based breeders can get exemptions. You have found what seems to be an excellent, qualified purebred breeder, but they tell you that there are no papers. Should you continue with the adoption process? Are papers even necessary? If you are wondering how to buy a Retriever without papers, you need to know the facts. This blog will investigate the necessity of papers and how you can successfully buy a great, purebred Retriever without them. Buying a Retriever without papers is not necessarily a bad thing. However, they can help a Retriever to be a show or breeding canine. Take a good look at the dogs to see if they are healthy, happy and display Retriever trademark features. From there, write up a contract, ask for health certifications, and give the dog a DNA test. What Are Papers For? Either the breeder has them, or they do not. But what exactly are these papers? Well, papers are essentially a dog registration. It acts similar to a human birth certificate. On the documents, you will find the name of the parents and the date the dog was born. These papers typically come from the AKC for a low price. Are Papers Necessary for Adoption? You also need to know whether or not papers are even necessary. Technically, there is not an actual need for papers in this circumstance. So, even if a breeder does provide papers and a pedigree for your Retriever, they might not be entirely correct. So what can a future Retriever owner do? Buying Without Papers At this point, it is fairly clear that papers are not the cure-all for buying a purebred dog with confidence. Luckily, there are some other ways to feel confident in purchasing a dog from a breeder. Here are some of the best ways to buy a Retriever without papers. What are these certifications? If your Retriever puppy comes with an OFA and CERF certification, it proves that the owners took the time to have the mother and father dogs checked for certain hereditary problems. There may also be other certifications to confirm the health of the parents. While this does not necessarily prove that your Retriever is purebred, it will give you confidence that your dog is healthy and in good standing. The certifications do not mean that there is no chance that your dog will have these issues in the future, though, especially considering how common hip dysplasia is with Retrievers. Keep this in mind when shopping around for a Retriever. Not only does this kit provide you with the type of dog you own, but it will also show over 35 different traits to expect from your pup. Thoroughly Check Out the Breeder and Puppies The best way to buy a Retriever without papers confidently is to check out the breeder and puppies thoroughly. Here are some of the top tips to add to your check-off list: Understand and seek out the appearance of the breed. Now, puppies will change dramatically from when they are brand new to adulthood. However, there are still some key features a Retriever may have as a puppy, such as short ears and a straight muzzle. Make sure the puppy has these hallmark features. You want to make sure that the puppy is not coming from a puppy mill and is bred in good conditions. Always visit the home. Never buy online or meet outside of the living area. Find out how well-known the breeders are. Breeders known for providing purebred puppies bred in a healthy, safe, and nice environment should be prominent in the community. This is especially true for show dog breeders. Try and find out as much information on the breeder to help boost your confidence in buying. Meet the parents. Check out the environment and the temperament, especially of the mother. Pay attention to the health, environment, and happiness of the puppies. Sign a contract with the breeder. Every arrangement will be different. For example, if a DNA test is done and it turns out the dog is not purebred, then the breeder will need to accept the return with a full refund. Make sure you have reliable contact info for the breeder. The breeder should have information on the health of the pup. They should have info regarding his vaccination status, spay or neuter, etc. This is entirely false. A higher price tag does not always equate to quality. A lot of puppy mills sell their offspring for thousands of dollars simply because they can. That is why it is important to do your research on the breeder and visit the location. Share this:.

Feeding your puppy a high-quality , complete and balanced puppy food helps set him up for a long and healthy life as an adult dog. This raises a lot of questions for first-time and even veteran puppy owners, though. How much should you feed your puppy and when? When should you stop feeding puppy food? Get answers to these questions and more in our complete puppy feeding guide below. Our experts answer your questions and offer advice to help set you and your puppy up for success. What to Feed a Puppy When it comes to feeding puppies, there are a lot of factors to consider. Overall nutrition, breed size and the type of food all play a role. Feeding puppies a complete and balanced puppy food ensures they get the proper nutrition to develop and grow into healthy adult dogs. Puppy foods are formulated with a balance of nutrients to help puppies grow up healthy and happy. Look for formulas rich in high-quality proteins to support their growing bodies. Fat and carbohydrates supply the energy active and playful puppies need, while calcium supports developing teeth and bones and DHA helps support healthy brain and vision development. If you have a large breed puppy, he may benefit from a large breed-specific puppy formula. Small breeds can also benefit from small breed-specific puppy formulas. Regardless of breed size, the food should be complete and balanced for growing puppies. The difference in formulas comes down to the unique needs of large and small breeds. Large dogs have a higher risk of developing joint problems, so a large breed puppy food should include proper levels of nutrients to support their healthy growth and development. Small breeds may prefer smaller kibble so they can more easily chew their food, which helps ensure they get all the nutrients they need. This results in a nutrient-dense, high-energy formula which adults and puppies need to support a healthy lifestyle. As you walk the dog food aisles, you may see both dry and wet puppy food s. This can make it harder to decide what to feed your puppy. Fortunately, as long as both the wet and dry formulas are complete and balanced for growing puppies, you can feed either one to your pup with confidence. You and your puppy may have a preference when it comes to dry versus wet. Feeding a combination of the two is also an option. Use the calories reported on the package to understand how much wet food will replace the dry and vice versa. In this scenario, you could substitute a thirteen-ounce can of wet food for one cup of the daily dry food recommendation. How Much to Feed a Puppy Now you know what to feed your puppy, but just how much food does he need each day? A Labrador Retriever will weigh more at maturity than a Russell Terrier , for example. So, the larger dog requires more food as a puppy. The chart below can help you determine how much dry food to feed your puppy. You should also review the specific feeding instructions on the back of his puppy food and consult with your veterinarian. Puppy Feeding Chart. The range of amounts is based on the activity of your Golden for the day, either low, moderate, or high level of activity. Golden Retrievers should have scheduled times to eat daily. The scheduled times will help them with their energy levels and keep them healthy. You can schedule their eating times as to what works best for your schedule. For example, feeding them before you leave for work and then when you get home. As a puppy, they will eat three times a day, so you will need to find times in those first few months to feed them more often. When they are an adult or senior, the scheduling of feeding times will be easier because they will only eat twice daily. For a Golden Retriever puppy, the best feeding schedule is once in the morning, noontime, and in the evening. For example, you could feed their first meal at am, lunch at noon, then dinner at pm. Planning their mealtimes around your mealtimes will often make it easier for you and the puppy. Make sure to give them plenty of time after eating to got to the bathroom a couple of times before heading to bed. Hopefully, this will help them sleep for a longer period. After about six months, your Golden Retriever can go down to two daily feedings. This usually occurs once in the morning and once in the evening. They can usually last about 12 hours between meals. If it goes past 12 hours, they could become nauseated. Golden Retrievers can experience food allergies often caused from proteins in dairy or meat products. If your dog experiences symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itching they may have a food allergy. They warn that feeding dogs any raw animal-source protein could cause illness because it has not gone through a process to remove harmful pathogens. However, a raw diet can be healthy if you are willing to go through the extra cleaning processes of the meat. This is a lot of work and difficult to do correctly and safely. We do not recommend it without expert veterinary help. Before starting a raw diet with your Golden, be sure to consult a veterinarian. Find one that is familiar with raw foods and can help with the proper handling of the foods. If you work hard to make sure your homemade foods are rich in the vitamins and minerals that a dog needs, then it might work for your Golden Retriever. It takes a lot more time to find recipes and make sure it has all the nutritional value of a store-bought dog food. If you are willing to research expertly formulated recipes internet is making it easier to do this , and take the time to cook for your golden then go for it! Consulting your veterinarian is a must before starting any homemade diet. A veterinary nutritionist should also review your plan before starting. Feeding your Golden Retriever table food is not the best practice but a small amount of dog healthy table food is fine. Some example table foods that are healthy for them are carrots, blueberries and plain yogurt. Just be aware that feeding them too much table food can throw their entire diet out of whack. They may not be getting enough vitamins and minerals like they do from their dog food. Conclusion Making sure your Golden Retriever is getting the right foods at the right amounts will help them live their best life. There are many choices of foods with all the right ingredients. Be sure to choose one that works best for you and your Golden. Consult with your veterinarian on which food will bring the most nutritional value to the health of your Golden Retriever. If your Golden is experiencing any health issues related to changing foods, visit your veterinarian. If this article was helpful, please consider sharing this post on Facebook with the button below! She is board certified a specialist in canine reproduction. In her day job, she is a leader in a small biotech where she and a team of veterinarians and scientists work to develop new medications for pets. She enjoys sharing her knowledge of this wonderful breed of dogs. She and her husband have 2 children, 3 dogs and one cat. They love camping and hiking and she can often be found with her head in a good book. Recent Posts. Feeding Your Golden Feeding Your Golden With the wide array of foods available today, it can be hard to make a good choice of what to feed your golden. Goldens are particularly sensitive to dietary concerns, and feeding them a high quality diet can help boost their health and immune system. Feeding a high quality food is not necessarily more expensive. Price is misleading: cheaper foods require more volume to be fed, up to several cups at each meal. With the wide array of better foods available today, you can make a smart choice of what to feed your golden. A golden will normally eat about two cups of premium food per day. It can be adjusted a little more or less based on activity level and metabolism. Goldens are prone to skin problems, and a poor quality diet will cause skin problems which translates into costly veterinarian bills. You will need to go to the pet store to purchase your food. Grocery store brands do not offer the nutrition goldens need for good health. Do not be persuaded by fancy advertising. Many commonly hyped foods are not high quality and maybe lacking the necessary nutritional value for your dog. For example, Grain Free foods may play a major part in taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers and other large breed dogs. This deficiency can cause serious heart problems for your dog see Taurine and Grain Free information on this web page. Here are some guidelines: Look for food free of chemical preservatives. Some of these additives are suspected of causing cancer. Look for food preserved with Tocopherols Vitamins C and E as well as rosemary and other herbs. Make sure you have several months before this date. Frequent stores where there is a good turnover of food so you get a fresh bag. Always store dog food in a tight airtight container in a cool, dry place. If you only have one dog, consider buying pound bags instead of pounds bags so the food is fresher. Look for a food that has some form of meat as the first ingredient — such as lamb, chicken, or turkey. Avoid foods that have grain as the first ingredient. Also look for multiple meat proteins in the first seven ingredients. Protein from multiple sources is generally viewed as being beneficial such as lamb, chicken and fish , unless your dog is allergic to certain proteins. Dog food companies sometimes list several types of grains in the first seven ingredients. Beware of this — your dog needs animal protein in his diet! These are the intestines of the animal including what is in the intestines!! Most by-products are not desirable. By-products normally contain beaks, feet, feathers, heads and other slaughterhouse wastes — not the most nutritious part of the animal. Avoid foods that have sugars or artificial colors or flavors or a lot of added salt. Semi-moist dog foods are the worst — they usually are loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Added vitamins and minerals are beneficial only when applied after the baking process, because heat destroys vitamins. The best foods are made up of ingredients that would be suitable for human consumption. Most dog foods contain meat products that are not fit for human consumption. They can include meat from diseased livestock, condemned material from slaughterhouses such as tumors cut away from meat , and as horrible as it sounds, some pet foods include euthanized pets sold to rendering plants and even road kill. Is it any wonder why so many dogs die from cancer when they are being fed meat from these sources? Grains — many dog foods will contain some grains, for example, brown rice, barley, corn, wheat, etc. We have found that some goldens in our rescue program generally do poorly on a food that contains corn or soy. Many goldens are allergic to corn or wheat. So if your golden starts getting a lot of hot spots or skin problems — check his food. There is a big difference in quality of grain products. Look for whole rice or brown rice in the ingredients; white rice and ground brewers rice are much lower in nutrients than whole or brown rice. Often pet food companies take the sweepings off the mill floor and put it in pet food. Look for whole grains instead such as oatmeal, brown rice, barley, or whole oats. Grain Free foods. Grain Free foods have become increasingly available as food companies try to offer foods that are easier to digest with lower levels of complex carbohydrates and grains. One misconception is that grain free dog food is also low-carb, however, vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, green peas and tapioca often replace the grains in grain-free dog foods, especially in kibble foods, making them as high or higher in carbohydrates than grain-based dog foods. Studies have shown peas, beans, pea starch, legumes, potatoes and sweet potatoes that have replaced the grains in dog foods block the function of taurine. Taurine, a sulfuric acid, is essential for healthy cardiovascular function in Golden Retrievers. If left untreated, taurine deficiency in Golden Retrievers can cause dilated cardiomyopathy DCM , congestive heart failure and possibly death. Read all the ingredients in the food which should include taurine and check with your veterinarian before selecting or feeding any grain free food to your dog. Detailed information on dog food ingredients and taurine can be found on this web page under Taurine and Grain Free information and at: Diet Associated Heart Disease Treats — beware of many dog treats out there. They are filled with sugars, preservatives and artificial colors. Try buying biscuits at your local dog bakery or making some yourself. The dog food companies listed below have high quality treats available for your dog. Is your dog overweight? Beware of some diet dog foods, they can be loaded with fillers that provide no added nutrition. At least green beans are healthy. You can also use canned pumpkin. Typically goldens love it! DO NOT free feed your golden; instead feed a measured amount of food twice a day. Most adult goldens will eat 1 cup of premium dog food twice a day. Is your dog too fat? You should be able to feel its ribs and your dog should have a waist. We have found that we have a different view of what constitutes a fat dog than many veterinarians. They will typically allow dogs to carry more weight than is optimal. This perhaps is because they do not want to insult their clients and risk losing business. Letting your golden get too fat is like chopping years off of its life. We also see lots of hip problems with goldens, and keeping weight in check will give your dog better mobility. Fat goldens are an epidemic from our experience. We routinely get goldens into our rescue program that have to lose 30 — 40 pounds!!! Therefore we have a lot of experience at taking the weight off! It is very discouraging and upsetting when an adoptive home will let some weight creep back on. You may think you are loving your dog by giving it too much to eat, but if you really love it you will keep it at a normal weight. Remember — Ribs and Waists! Can you feel and see them on your dog? If not, break open the cans of green beans! The bottom line is read the ingredients, consult your veterinarian and research reliable resources. Making sure your dog has the best nutritional food will help to insure he has a long and healthy life. Here, from Whole Dog Journal, are some additional links for selecting best dry dog food and the best canned dog reviews. Goldens Rescued Since .Learn more » Congratulations on your new golden retriever puppy! You now have a beautiful, smart, and loyal dog who will love you for life. To make sure they grow into a healthy and happy companion, you need to feed them the right amount of food. At months old, which is usually when they are ready to leave their mother, a golden retriever puppy should be eating 3 cups of dog food divided into three meals per day. This is based on a typical large-breed puppy food. Different brands will give a feeding guide on their packaging. However, how much and how often to feed your golden retriever will keep changing during this time of rapid growth. Golden Retriever Puppy Feeding Timeline Image Credit: PxHere All puppies are different as are the foods, but some general guidelines for feeding your golden retriever during their first year are: 0—6 weeks: A golden retriever puppy can start eating solid food when they are 3—4 weeks old. Give them a total of 3 cups of dog food per day by their third month, 3 to 4 cups by the time they are 6 months old. The AKC recommends waiting until large breed puppies are at least 12 months old before switching them over to adult dog food and more likely 18 months. The amount will depend on their weight and activity level, but a rough guide is 1—2 cups per meal. Image Credit: Kinek00, Shutterstock Large breed puppies like golden retrievers should eat three to four small meals a day for the first 3—6 months of their lives. Smaller portions spread throughout the day are easier on their tummies and help prevent bloat, a serious condition that can be deadly for dogs. It also helps them maintain their energy level throughout the day. Puppy food has more calories and fat to support their growth, as well as extra vitamins and minerals for their developing immune and nervous systems and bones. The protein source matters, too. Puppies need animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb for their growing muscles. Choose a Large Breed Formula: Large breed puppies grow quickly, which means they need extra support for their bones and joints. Formulations for large breeds contain the correct calcium and phosphorus ratio for strong bones and glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. They can help you choose the right food for your puppy based on their age, weight, and activity level. But puppies need to be fed on a schedule to prevent them from overeating and becoming overweight. How do you know if your puppy is getting enough to eat? After that, their growth will start to slow down. He Has a Healthy Appetite: A healthy puppy is interested in food and eager to eat. He Has Plenty of Energy: A well-fed puppy is full of energy and ready to play. Make the most of mealtime with these tips: 1. It also helps other aspects of puppy training, such as potty training and crate training. Image Credit: Alena Marchuk, Shutterstock This means leaving food out all day for them to graze on whenever they want. Leave food down for 10 minutes and then pick up what is not eaten. If they have not eaten anything, offer it again in an hour. Slow them down by scattering their kibble around the bowl, using a puzzle feeder or snuffle mat. This will help them learn to eat slowly and enjoy their food more. If your puppy is not drinking enough water for your liking, try adding a bit of broth to their bowl to make it more appealing and help them stay hydrated. Resist the Urge to Sneak Them Table Scraps Puppies are experts at giving those big, soulful eyes that make it hard to say no. But resist the temptation to give them table scraps or human food. Aside from teaching them bad manners, it can also lead to health problems, like obesity. A lot of human foods are not safe or healthy for dogs. For instance, garlic and onions are toxic to dogs. Oily food can upset their stomach, and carbs add a lot of calories. This helps them learn that mealtime is a specific time and place and not something that happens all over the house. Let Your Puppy Eat in Peace. This includes other pets in the house and small children who might want to bother them or try to steal their food. Otherwise, meals can become a stressful experience for your puppy instead of a happy one. Conclusion Feeding your golden retriever puppy the right amount of quality dog food will establish a strong foundation for their health and happiness. In addition, make mealtimes more meaningful by turning them into lessons and bonding moments between you and your dog. The puppy phase is over before you know it, so enjoy it while it lasts! Read the full disclosure here. Being a large and energetic dog, your golden retriever has a ravenous appetite and can eat a lot. However, overfeeding is never good and could be avoided with the help of a golden retriever feeding chart. Knowing how much to feed your golden retriever is always tricky but essential for their well-being and health. Goldens are prone to obesity and joint problems, which can only be exacerbated with an inadequate feeding plan. So, stay with me to find the right feeding plan and meal schedule for your goldie. Most first-time owners think their puppies should be chubby. In truth, golden retriever puppies are supposed to look lanky and act like they are always hungry when fed the correct amount of food. To encourage proper growth and development without making your pup obese, you will have to know how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. For example, cheaper foods use fillers and have a smaller amount of calories, thus you will have to feed more than you would when using premium large breed puppy foods. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. We all want our golden retriever puppies to be healthy and happy. We envision them running through a verdant field chasing a ball. Full of energy with the beautiful, lustrous golden coat. But, just like us, eating the proper food in the proper amounts will help your golden properly grow and thrive. After all, what we eat impacts how healthy we are. How much you should feed your golden retriever puppy will vary depending on the quality of food you feed, his age, his weight, his general health, and his activity level. Your golden will be growing for up to two years. And the amount of food during that time will have to be adjusted depending on his needs. Because most people feed kibble to their pup, this article will focus on that. Kibble is convenient and cost effective. Instead, they should be lanky and full of energy. They should love to eat their food with gusto. Instead, you should be able to feel his ribs when you pet him there. There should just be a thin coating of fat under his skin. And he should have a defined waistline. Of course you should check with your veterinarian to make such adjustments. And remember a young puppy should get only so much exercise a day. Their joints and bones are developing and can be damaged if the exercise is too extreme. Assuming you have an eight-week-old puppy, he should receive three to four meals a day. From eight weeks old until about five or six months old, three meals per day are advisable. Of course, feed at the same intervals every day and split the total amount per day in half to be given at each feeding. After about six months of age through adulthood, two feedings per day are the norm. Always check with your vet regarding how much and how often to feed. These are just guidelines. Feed him at the same distraction-free location so that he focuses on eating. As much as goldens love to eat, a young golden puppy is also very easily distracted. This can lead to possible health problems, including joint and bone problems. Goldens can easily become overweight. Free feeding can also lead to a picky eater. Some puppies figure out that if their buffets are always there, and they can just go graze at will. Most foods you purchase will have guidelines on their bag or box. When you first get your puppy, feed him the same food that the breeder or rescue fed him for a few weeks. Then, if you want to change his food, do so over at least 10 days. Add more of the new food and subtract more of the old food each day. After about five days, you should be giving him approximately 50 percent of the new food and 50 percent of the old food. Switching food over such a period of time will help prevent stomach upsets and diarrhea. Overfeeding will result not only in him becoming overweight but it will also make him grow too fast. Periodically—even weekly— test whether you can still feel his ribs without them protruding. You can then increase the amount he eats. You should also feed his last meal of the day at least 90 minutes before his bed time so that he can digest his food and potty before bed. A well-balanced, high-quality food should provide all the nutrients he requires. Golden puppies require a formula made for large-breed dogs. Puppy formulas for large-breed dogs regulate their growth. Eating too quickly can lead to digestive upsets and even bloat, which can be deadly. I rescued my golden retriever Riley when he was about six months old. To say that he ate as if it were his last meal would be an understatement. He had a voracious appetite. I bought one of the maze bowls to slow him down. The kibble is placed between each section of the bowl, and he had to forage for his food. It worked! He ate at a more normal pace. Of course, dogs should be given free access to fresh water. Other Feeding Options Although I concentrated in this article on feeding kibble to your new puppy, there are other options. There are some drawbacks to them because they may not be nutritionally complete, may be cost prohibitive, or may be too time-consuming to make. Wet Food Canned food alone or mixed with kibble is an option. But wet food alone is very expensive. He may become a picky eater. Feeding raw is controversial. Dehydrated raw foods reduce some of the risks. The ratio of calcium to phosphorous is crucial to puppy development. Homemade Diet Cooking for your best friend can be very appealing. And many people do. You know what ingredients and their quality are. But it has its drawbacks. Of course, the amount you feed is important for his growth rate and general health and well-being. But there is no one-size-fits-all in determining how much to feed a golden retriever puppy. Any amounts you see are just guidelines. Adjust them as necessary regarding your own special puppy. Do you have a golden retriever puppy? How did you determine what and how much to feed him? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. There is also info on how to keep your puppy and your adult at his or her optimum weight. Scroll down to find growth charts to make sure your puppy is growing at the proper rate and is within the right weight range for his age. If you are looking for information on what to feed, go to How to Choose a Dog Food. Unlike with human children, a puppy that is overfed will grow too fast before they grow too fat. A good example is where a smaller puppy at 10 weeks was overfed and his growth was compared to a puppy that was correctly fed. The growth of your puppy needs to be controlled. General Guidelines for Puppies Below are some general guidelines on how much to feed puppies. Most dog food bags suggest feeding too much. Increase to about 3 cups a day by 5 months for boys and by 6 months for girls. Golden Retrievers at this age are supposed to look lanky and all Golden Retrievers act like they are starving when fed the correct amount. If left to eat as much as they want, they will all grow too fast. In the wild, dogs do not have unlimited access to eat as much as they want. They work for their food. Caloric Needs Greatly Decrease at About a Year When puppies reach about months, their caloric needs begin to decrease. Some males might need 4 cups if active and are fed a less expensive food. Make sure you take into consideration the number of extra calories being fed as treats. You should be able to feel their ribs, but not see them even when the dog is wet. If you can see the ribs, increase their food. Decrease the food if you cannot feel them. I always tell people that it is better to underfeed than to overfeed, especially when feeding puppies. Weight Range Charts Following are charts of how puppies should generally grow in weight. Keep in mind that very few puppies need to be at the top of these ranges and if you cannot feel ribs, your dog is overweight even if she is in this weight range. If your dog is still a puppy and she is over these weight ranges, you are feeding her too much. Female Golden Retriever Weight Chart Here is a chart of how girls should generally grow in weight: 2 Months — pounds. They are famously loving and playful family pets, always eager to jump in the pool or snuggle up with you on the lounge. They are patient and energetic dogs who are easy to train, making them excellent service animals as well as loyal companions. If you are bringing a Goldie into your family, you might also be aware of their reputation as food lovers. Your Goldie might want to eat anything and everything you put in their bowl — and maybe even anything left on an unattended plate. In this Golden Retriever feeding guide, Hypro Premium will take you through everything you need to know when it comes to food options for your pup. The best food for most young puppies is milk. If you are weaning a puppy, you can start to mix in a little dry kibble with their puppy milk to create a paste. You can feed this mix to your puppy up to four times a day, slowly reducing the amount of milk you mix in. Over time, your Goldie puppy will get more comfortable with solid foods, until you no longer need to include any milk in their diet. While chubby little puppies are cute, your Goldie should not build up too much excess fat once you start feeding them solids. Goldies go from a small 4kg puppy at 7 weeks old to an almost 30 kg adult dog in the space of only 10 months. At six months old your puppy will still be growing, but more slowly as they reach most of their body development milestones. This is why appropriate feeding in the first year of their life is vital to the overall health of your Goldie for years to come. Over time this can increase to up to 4 cups a day at 10 months old, though females should usually only need 3 cups a day. The amount you feed your puppy is often dependent on their size and sex. While they may have some growing left to do, it depends on your dog. Some Goldies will continue to experience growth spurts before their second birthday, while others will stay the same size. Large breeds can be at risk of growing too fast, which can make them more vulnerable to skeletal and weight problems when they get older. Golden retrievers are especially prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be avoided through diet control. You should feed your Goldie between 3 — 4 cups of food per day over two meals. Adult dogs and puppies have different nutritional needs. This is important to take into consideration as you are establishing a feeding schedule for a Golden Retriever puppy. Puppies require more calories to support their rapid growth than adult dogs, but they also have much smaller stomachs, which means they get fuller faster. Because of this, puppies can easily overeat, especially Golden Retrievers. You can help your puppy avoid overeating by allowing them a short amount of time to eat, and then removing their bowl. All puppies grow a lot during their first year, but large breed puppies are more likely to suffer from negative health consequences as a result. In order to provide your Golden Retriever puppy with the most appropriate food to support their rapid growth, consider choosing a large breed puppy food. Goldie puppies need lots of protein, fibre, and fatty acids to support the development of their bodies and provide them with energy. These foods also take into account the difference in nutrient digestion between small and large breeds. Too much of these nutrients can cause your large breed puppy to develop skeletal abnormalities. So how much do you feed a Golden Retriever? Your adult Goldie could need anywhere between and 1, calories per day. The amount of food you feed your dog will be determined by a few important factors. The first thing to consider is the sex of your dog. On average, your male Golden Retriever will need slightly more food than a female dog. Senior dogs will usually be less active and so will need less food. Goldies in particular can have a lot of variation in the amount of food they need on a daily basis. No matter how much you feed your dog, it is ideal that you feed your adult Golden Retriever two meals a day at evenly spaced time intervals. Feeding your dog twice, once in the morning and again in the evening, can be useful for establishing a routine and avoiding overfeeding. This routine can also include exercise, and is useful for encouraging healthy behaviour around food and toilet training. Special Considerations Your Golden Retriever could be predisposed to several health conditions that are important to consider when you make decisions about their diet. Firstly, Golden Retrievers are known for their beautiful coats, but their skin can often become infected. Goldies love swimming, but this can cause problems if water irritates their skin. They can also be susceptible to atopic dermatitis, which causes extreme itchiness, resulting in licking and biting behaviours in dogs that can cause even more damage. For dogs prone to skin and coat issues, a fish-based diet can help alleviate symptoms. Fish contains plenty of fatty acids, which support coat and skin health, and rarely triggers any allergic reaction in dogs. Goldies often benefit from healthy grains in their diet, especially as avoiding them can actually leave your dog more vulnerable to nutritional dilated cardiomyopathy, or nutritional DCM. This heart disease is common in Golden Retrievers, and can be triggered by consuming too much grain-free pet food that contains legumes like lentils and peas. You should consider feeding your Golden Retriever foods that are full of grains and proteins like chicken or fish. These are the benefits and drawbacks of the three most popular options — wet food, a raw food diet, and dry food. Wet food can be a great option for dogs that need plenty of protein and fat, like working dogs or dogs with certain health conditions. It also hydrates your dog while they eat, which can be useful for dogs suffering from any illness. For dogs with highly restrictive diets, raw food prepared by you can be a great way to avoid allergens. You can have complete control over a raw diet, which does require a lot more work on your part, but can have great results. For instance, a Golden Retriever with heart issues should eat a low salt diet, which can be easier to achieve if you are preparing their meals from scratch. However, low quality kibbles tend to be made up of a lot of low quality fillers, which can be hard for your pup to digest. Whatever option you choose for your Goldie, make sure it is suitable for large breeds and contains high quality ingredients. This will help prevent degenerative health disorders in the long run. Your Golden Retriever will probably love food, and will probably try to eat anything you put in front of them, which means you need to help them avoid the negative consequences of overeating. Golden retrievers, like other large and active breeds, need plenty of exercise. Not only is this vital to their physical health, but it also ensures they grow up well socialised and mentally stimulated. As your Goldie grows from a puppy to an adult dog, the amount of meals they need a day will reduce as their digestive systems become more developed. Your dog will need two meals a day, once in the evening and once in the morning, from the age of 6 months.

Look at the beautiful colors of the Golden Retriever. Since its s origin, the color of this breed has varied a lot. There are now wide varieties of Golden Retrievers. Your puppy might blossom into a beautiful flower, depending on how old it is. How many different colors are there for Golden Retrievers? Only shades of Gold are available for Golden Retrievers. The official colors are not the only colors that Golden Retrievers can be recognized as being different colors. I agree with them. As the dog ages, these restrictions begin to relax a little. They start to see whiter, grayer, and darker spots around their eyes. It is a beautiful shade of Gold, so people often think of it when they think about gorgeous dog coats. You may like: Can dogs eat Grits? Dark Gold As dog breeders have begun to pay more attention to them, dark golden retrievers are gaining in popularity. My knowledge has not shown any correlation between the color of a golden retriever and its physical abilities. They have appeared in many TV and movies. They are just light shades of Golden. You may like: Can Dogs Eat Hummus? A red Golden Retriever is an excellent choice if you want to participate in Canine athletics alongside your dog. White The coat color of the white Golden Retriever is not pure white. It is a very pale cream color that can look pure white in the light. Like all other pure-breed dogs, the white Golden Retriever is a mature dog. The tail is the first place your puppy will grow into their adult coat. This signals the beginning of feathering. The feathers of Golden Retrievers are on the tails, legs, and stomachs. It will likely be darker than his puppy fur. How do you know the color of a golden retriever puppy? Why do senior dogs change their fur color? It is normal for gray and white areas to appear around their eyes or on their snout. Also, they are simply growing older, and this change is normal. These changes are beautiful and permanent. It gives them a kind, gentle look that melts hearts. This is a normal part of aging. It usually happens when your Golden is between 5 and 7. There are some Goldens that turn their faces whiter sooner than others. This can be due to stress or genetics. The fur around your eyes and muzzle will become lighter. This is due to the slower production of melanin. As they age, Golden Retrievers change their colors naturally. Golden Retriever puppies reach their first color change at around months of age. As they grow older, their fur becomes darker. This happens between 5 and 7 years of age. This is usually when he is still young. As they age, Golden Retrievers can change their color. Your Golden Retriever puppy will likely become darker as he grows his adult coat. Also, the adult coat will match closely. Another color change will take place when your Golden reaches senior age. His face will turn white. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. Yes, Golden Retrievers will change colour as they get older. The colour of the coat will change, from a very light puppy coat to a darker adult coat. As your Golden Retriever ages and becomes a senior, the fur around his eyes and muzzle will turn white. Another colour change that may occur, is the colour of the nose, turning from black to pink. The puppy coat is soft and fluffy, and actually gets pushed aside once the adult coat starts to grow. Around 3 to 4 months of age, you may notice longer and darker fur starting to grow. The outer coat is darker in colour and consists of guard hairs. Golden Retrievers have feathers on their tails, legs, and stomachs. This is a natural part of aging and usually occurs when your Golden is between the ages of 5 to 7. However, there are some Goldens who turn white on their faces prematurely, and it can be caused by genetics or stress. It is simply because of a slow down of melanin production. Instead, it has turned brown or pink. Yup, you guessed it, it happens during the winter. Sounds confusing right? While this change in nose colour may be alarming, it is completely normal and harmless. It is quite common in light-coloured dogs, as well as certain breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and a few others. If the ears are dark, the coat colour will be dark as well. Light-coloured ears indicate a lighter coat colour. If both parents are dark golden, then your puppy will be as well. The same goes for light-coloured. Or, if one parent is dark golden and the other is light? Golden Retrievers naturally change colours as they get older. The first colour change occurs in Golden Retriever puppies around the age of 3 to 4 months. Their fur gets darker as their adult coat starts to grow. Your adult Golden Retriever will show signs of aging beginning with his fur turning white around his eyes and muzzle. This occurs around the age of 5 to 7 years old. Golden Retrievers do come in a variety of shades that range from cream white to dark red. This short video gives a brief overview of the different shades of Golden: However, despite the many shades, there are only 3 colours that are recognized by the American Kennel Club. Light Golden, Golden, and Dark Golden. The other colours are just varying shades of gold. American, English and Canadian. They frown upon any shade of extremely light or extremely dark body colour. They do not recognize darker colours such as red or mahogany. You can expect your Golden Retriever puppy to get darker as he starts to grow his adult coat. To predict the future colour of your Golden Retriever, you can check the colour of his ears. The adult coat will be a close match. Once your Golden starts to mature and become a senior, another colour change will occur. His face will start to turn white. The third colour change that may or may not happen is that of the nose. Regardless of what colour your Golden Retriever is, one thing remains the same, the pure love and joy that they give! Did you notice a significant colour change in your Golden Retriever? Is colour a deciding factor for you when choosing a Golden Retriever? Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you! Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love. Some of the changes will be expected, others will be a bit surprising to their owners. For example, your golden retrievers color will definitely change as they grow. So, to answer your question of do Golden Retrievers fur get darker? A Guide to Golden Retrievers Fur Color To gain a better understanding, think of their fur color as you think of the colors of human skin. There is no specific number for the exact colors of human skins because this is just unrealistic. The human skin exists in a wide spectrum of colors, and our labels are simply sections of this spectrum. So, how many colors of Golden Retrievers are there? Golden Retrievers exist only in shades of Gold. Other colors of Golden Retrievers are merely lighter or darker shades of the officially recognized colors. Still, the American Kennel Club officially recognizes only three colors of the Golden Retriever, and I tend to agree with them on this. However, their restrictions tend to ease up a bit as the dog gets older and start getting white, gray, and dark batches in places like around their eyes. Golden The Standard Golden Retriever. Dark Golden Code: Dark Golden Retrievers have been gaining popularity lately as dog breeders started to focus more on them. Some dog breeders also claim that the darker golden retrievers are more athletic than lighter ones, but there is no science that can back up this evidence. Lighter Golden Retrievers are also more favored by people in the movie industry and have starred in so many movies and TV shows to even count. What about the Red Golden Retriever? The color of your golden may change to be a really dark shade of Gold that may appear golden, especially under some lighting conditions. The image below shows such perfect conditions for the color of the dark golden retriever that really do appear as red: Golden Retrievers Colors in Other Kennel Clubs The American Kennel Club tends to be the strictest kennel club when it comes to the colors of the Golden Retrievers and they only accept the three golden retrievers as explained above. This means they are more accepting of lighter and darker shades of Golden Retrievers in competitions than both the UK and American Kennel Clubs. Your Golden Retriever puppy will change colors gradually into their permanent color as they grow old. Their fur usually gets darker and their true color start to show once they are about 12 weeks of age. Other things also happen as your golden retriever grows old, such as getting calmer. Find out when exactly do golden retrievers calm dow n and how you can train them to chill here. How can you tell what color a golden retriever puppy will be? The best indicator of the permanent color of your golden retriever is the color of their parents. This change is completely normal and is just caused by them growing old. Some golden retrievers experience what is called depigmentation, or loss of pigment, on the nose with age. Rarely, it can be caused by allergies or an infection — or in some extreme cases can be caused by a more serious issue such as Cancer. In most cases, this change is temporary. If the change is accompanied by other symptoms that indicate a health problem, call up your vet and check if you should bring in your pup to find out the root cause. Hair everywhere will be the new slogan for your house, and it will become a fact of life. There is another approach to this; wear really dark clothes so you can easily spot all the hair and remove it. This is why I always wear some shades of yellow, gold, white, and orange. Related Questions Is there a black golden retriever? No, there is no such thing as Black Golden Retriever. What you may think of as black golden retrievers may be really dark golden retrievers or another breed completely, such as Labradors or even Flat-Coated Retrievers. What do you call a black golden retriever? The black golden retriever may be a really dark shade of Golden Retriever or in some extreme cases, the dark color may be caused by a recessive gene. Do golden puppies darken with age? Although Golden Retrievers with different coat colours can be found, their names have never been accurately determined. The strength of pigmentation by pheomelanin can be influenced gradually by the careful selection of breeding partners. To the inexperienced, however, it might seem that colour breeding should not play a significant role in cases of dogs of this breed. So that there is no misunderstanding - the colour of the coat does not in any way affect the temperament of the dog; white and dark gold Golden Retrievers can be equally friendly. However, the fact is that among this breed, there is a division into show and working lines, which differ in conformation, coat colour, and temperament. Golden Retrievers also continue to be very popular as family dogs, and here, too, visual aspects are high on the list of priorities. It is currently fashionable for Goldens to be very bright, even white. And what colours of coat does the Golden Retriever have? This, however, applies only to coat colour. The nose, lips, pads, and eyelids pigment is black in all Golden Retrievers. Typical for recessive yellow dogs are white vibrissae so-called moustache and the so-called variable nose that appears seasonally. It is also worth mentioning that the Golden Retriever's coat colour is not the same shade all over the body. Appearance The secret of the Golden Retriever's popularity lies in its charming disposition and the breed's attractive appearance. This medium-sized dog is characterized by a highly proportional body structure. Its shapely skull with a pronounced foot and dark eyes give it a typically gentle and friendly appearance. Strong musculature and strong bones make Goldens agile and physically active animals. The golden retriever's silhouette inspires a sense of satisfaction. Everything in the appearance of this breed is harmonious and perfectly balanced. Strong build that gives the impression of being robust and gentle in expression. Golden moves energetically have a free and long stride. The head is strong and broad, ending with a dark nose. Medium-sized ears are set at about the height of the dark eyes. The height of males is cm kg in weight , and females are considerably shorter: cm at the withers kg in weight. Golden Retrievers belong to medium-sized breeds. Males reach 56 to 61cm in height at the withers, females 51 to 56cm. The weight of these dogs varies between 30 and 40 kg, depending on size and sex. The medium-length Golden coat is smooth or slightly wavy but never curly. The fur on the back adheres flat, while the backs of the paws, chest, and belly are heavily feathered. The coat's colouration can be intensely golden, from a pale shade of yellow to cream. In some individuals, white tufts sometimes appear on the chest. Thanks to its dense undercoat, even the most extreme winter frosts won't hurt Goldens. The undisputed pride of the golden retriever is its coat. Smooth or wavy hair that hides a waterproof undercoat underneath. Any shades of cream and gold are allowed. Lightness is added by numerous feathers longer hair , especially on the tail, which is worn flush with the back. However, this beauty must be properly cared for. There is no fooling - it moults profusely. However, the long hair can be removed from carpets quite easily. Proper feeding, a set of brushes, and patience will help tame this element. The breeder will certainly suggest which brushes and cosmetics will be best. Golden retriever white The coat's light colours are most popular, despite the fact that according to breed standards, the pigmentation of Golden Retrievers should not be so light. Golden retriever cream. Light cream is currently one of the most popular colours in dogs of this breed. Golden retriever light gold. The light golden colour is defined by shades ranging from light cream to yellow. Golden Retriever golden. If a Golden Retriever is said to be golden, it means that the colour of its coat is an intense yellow. Golden Retriever dark golden. The dark golden colour is an intense yellow-orange colour, which does not yet turn red. The dark gold dog of this breed is more popular in the US. Golden Retriever black or brown? As for the Golden retriever breed dog, black or brown is not present in the FCI standard and does not correspond to the breed standard. On the other hand, these two colours are present in the dog coat of another breed, namely the Labrador retriever. And as we can read in the breed standard of this retriever, he can be completely black, yellow, liver-coloured, colloquially brown, and in shades of red like a fox. And by these colours, we can distinguish it from the Golden retriever. Why is the colour of the Golden Retriever cream or dark gold? Golden Retrievers are well known precisely because of their beautiful coat and because of their friendly disposition. The question, however, is where did the cream colour of Goldens come from? Well, all dogs of this breed are simply homozygous for one trait: a recessive yellow. Therefore, Golden Retriever pigment cells can only produce a light pigment pheomelanin , while they will never produce a dark pigment eumelanin. The light pigment mentioned pheomelanin is a yellow pigment that can give the coat a colour ranging from creamy white to dark red. In contrast, eumelanin's dark pigment is found in black and chocolate-brown hair. Unlike Labradors, which can also have a brown or black coat, Golden Retrievers only come in variants with light pigment all over the body. Although the recessive yellow obscures all colours and patterns that are genetically present, Goldens can pass on a dark or brindle coat to their offspring in mixed litters. Since dark shades are usually inherited dominantly over light shades, sometimes two dark-golden dogs can give birth to lighter puppies. This does not work the other way around. However - two creamy-white dogs cannot beget a dark-red puppy. The exact shade of yellow pigment is controlled by modifying genes as intensity locus; a densely distributed pigment can result in an intense red or mahogany colour, while a less densely distributed one results in a dog with a blonde or creamy white coat. The yellow colour of dogs is hereditary but can gradually be changed by breeding selection. For some dog breeds, a tiny range of shades is accepted, while for other breeds, the range of shades allowed is wide, such as: Irish Setter: rich chestnut brown with no trace of black Labrador Retriever: yellow, light cream, brown, fox red, or black Maltese: pure white is most desirable, although light ivory and bright orange are also possible, although not desirable and a certain imperfection Samoyed: pure white, cream, or biscuit white basic colour - white, with a few biscuit markings. It should never appear pale brown. Routine checks required In addition to the coat, your Golden's ears, eyes, paws, and dentition must also be groomed regularly. With routine checks, you can not only identify and prevent possible diseases in advance but also prevent dangerous infections. By performing the checks regularly, you will quickly get your pet used to them so that he will react calmly to them. Start regular grooming and health processes, preferably as early as puppy age. Do brown puppies get brighter? Puppies often don't get their adult colouration until they reach maturity, so if you adopt a puppy, you may notice changes in its colouration as it approaches adulthood. In addition, dogs' coats tend to lighten with age, so mature and older dogs tend to have a lighter coat than they did as young dogs. At what age do puppies change colour? Puppies begin to change colour between 6 and .Our final colour is Our final colour is from light silver to dark blue. Our puppy coat also had a different texture than our adult coat. Can puppies become darker? The undercoat can cause a different colour at birth. If your dog's coat appears darker, it may be due to the development of its natural coat. Their shade may transition to darker or lighter shades. And after this transition, you will be able to predict the adult colour of your puppy. Do white puppies get darker? Don't expect your white puppy to suddenly turn completely brown or black. However, depending on your puppy's age, you probably won't see any more significant changes. Yes, Golden Retrievers' furs change as they age. In adulthood, Golden Retriever furs usually darken with age. Along with this darkening, there are also certain areas of their body where the Golden Retriever may lighten or go grey. These areas, which include the eyes and nose, are a normal part of the ageing process. More Dog's World. However, this could be different in your case. Nothing to worry about. Unfortunately, no one can know for sure. It depends on many variables, among them: what shade your Golden baby currently is. The Golden Retrievers dog breed comes in 4 different shades: dark golden, cream, light golden, and golden. Puppies are usually born in lighter coat colors than their adult parents. Generally speaking, all Retrieves get darker as they grow in age. Changing color is part of their growth. Theoretically, all Golden Retrievers change color as they grow to match that of their ears. Are they darker than the rest of the coat? If yes, then the coat most likely gonna be as dark. If the parents are both light-colored, the puppy is more likely to develop a light color. And vice versa. If they are mixed, then this method, unfortunately, not gonna help much. The breeder, a good one, will eagerly answer your questions and provide information about the puppy. Most breeders keep track of every dog they owned. If their offsprings tend to get darker, then there is a big chance your puppy will be darker as well. Some Golden Retriever parents report that their dogs started to changes the coat color after the 2nd birthday. Others later on. In others, the dog got even darker. Again, this is not as common as puppies changing their color. In Short: Yes, all Golden Retrievers do change coat color as they grow. The general role, the adult coat color will fit that of the ear. As they grow, the coat changes to match the ears. As I always repeat, No matter what color or breed, all dogs deserve your unconditional love and care! I have lived with dogs since I was a kid. I love reading, wine, and writing about dogs. Related Articles.

We are KUSA registered and our Frenchies are microchipped and vaccinated before being handed over to you. Our process of finding suitable homes for our puppies is not just about selling. We aim to match the right families to the right dogs, and this can only be done via a face-to-face interaction. Visits to our farm are by appointment only. Over the years, family and friends requested dogs such as the ones who were part of our family, so we decided to embark on a breeding programme to produce the best Puppies in South Africa. While relatively new in breeding circles, we have ensured our dogs are of the highest calibre, and are treated with the respect they deserve. Why French Bulldogs? Apart from being loyal, cute and absolutely adorable lap dogs, they are lively, playful, athletic, alert, easygoing, bright, keen, patient, affectionate and sociable. French Bulldogs date back to the in the s, they are a small breed of domestic dog and are a result of a cross between their Bulldog ancestors from England and original Ratters from Paris, France. For more resources and dog care tips, click here… Our Farm A few pictures of our farm where our French Bulldog Puppies are born, and cared for before being adopted. Share this page with other Frenchie enthusiasts: Our Puppies. Our Bulldogs have free range on our hectare farm, where they have ample space to thoroughly enjoy their daily walks and swimming in the dams. In the heat of a summer, our dogs have a much needed escape from the sun in our Wattlegrove forest. The only enclosure we use are is a huge comfortable area for any females in season. Click here for more information… Click to view our latest puppies. About our dogs and other animals. All our English Bulldog puppies are microchipped and vaccinated before being handed over to their new owners. We encourage and nurture a pack environment where all dogs interact with each other so that their socialising skills and confidence are in balance. Socialising also includes the interaction between the other farm animals, including our cats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, Alpacas, horses and our herd of specialist indigenous veld goats. We understand that it is impossible to breed a perfect dog, however, our methods ensure our dogs are healthy and happy as possible and are raised in a loving and calm environment. Please feel free to contact Ross if you wish to meet us and our animals. Share this page with your friends: About Bulldogs.

We are very excited! Puppies are expected at Kelston! Go to the "puppies" page for more information. Welcome, and thank you for visiting! We are located in the beautiful rural area of Lexington, Kentucky, where my dogs have lots of room to play and swim in the lake. Kelston is small hobby kennel dedicated to producing golden retrievers that are the very best in health, temperament, and structure. All of our dogs used for breeding have their hip and elbow certifications by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA , eyes cleared by a board certified opthamologist, and hearts cleared by a board certified cardiologist. About Me Golden retrievers have been a part of my life since I was a little girl. They were considered the "family" dog, but I took on the responsibility of training and caring for each one. It wasn't until I was fourteen that I asked for a golden retriever of my own.He was not a show dog, however it was because of him that the next golden I purchased, Riley, was a young show prospect. Although I can't imagine a time in my life without a golden, I have only been showing and breeding for about 12 years. The Lord has blessed me immensely with a large family 10 of us total! I would never be able to do any of this without them. Why "Kelston"? Off and on for about four years, my family and I had the wonderful opportunity to live in New Zealand. My time living in that beautiful country is filled with all kinds of memories, one of which was owning my first golden. I wouldn't change any of it. The name of the tranquil road we lived on was Kelston Way which seemed very fitting for my kennel prefix. Puppy Reservation Process If you are interested in a Kelston golden, please contact Jane either by phone or e-mail. I do not breed very often, but I do keep a waiting list and I am always happy to refer to other breeders who may have puppies available. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Lexington Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Lexington? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Lexington? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

Besides a nutritious diet, Boxer owners must know the right time to feed their pups. Boxer puppy feeding schedule is made easy with this Boxer feeding chart. Larger and stronger Boxer pups push their weaker siblings aside to get the most food. This is why many Boxer breeders and owners make sure that all puppies get enough food. Two week old tiny Boxer puppies are new to this world and rely completely on the Boxer mother. They should always stay with their mother because her breast milk is their main and only source of nutritious food. During this period, two week old Boxer puppies open their eyes for the first time. However, they are still dependent on the Boxer mommy. Even though they are double the size at three weeks of age, Boxer pups are still nursing. During the period between four to six weeks, their teeth grow bigger and the Boxer mommy will wean them off soon. At four weeks of age, the Boxer mother starts weaning her puppies. To help the Boxer puppy transition from milk to store-bought puppy food, it is time that you try making puppy mush. Try offering your Boxer pup this mixture up to four times per day but make sure not to overfeed it. Too much puppy mush can cause your Boxer pup loose stools and diarrhea. However, most Boxer puppies will need some time to fully get used to their new diet. That said, you will need to soften the puppy food that your seven week old Boxer puppy is eating. You should give your Boxer puppies high-quality food three to four times a day. Boxer puppies at this age love to eat, so make sure not to overfeed them two cups per day. This means that your Boxer puppy is totally ready for proper mealtime! The feeding schedule should include: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They will also have more energy, which may necessitate consuming more calories or eating larger portions. Its little body needs all the nutrients from high quality food it can get. At this point, your Boxer puppy eats twice the amount of food an adult Boxer dog would eat. Even though your eleven week old Boxer puppy has an enormous appetite, you must not leave food to its own will. So, every time it is done eating, you should pick up the leftover dog food. Make sure to separate the amount of food in 3 to 4 smaller portions through the day. At six months of age, the Boxer puppy is growing rapidly and you might want to consider home-cooked dog food or introducing it to a raw diet. High-quality commercial dog food is packed with necessary nutrients, but nothing can replace a good home-cooked meal! The period between seven to twelve months of age is when you will want to give your Boxer puppy less food than you would feed a 5 month old Boxer. At twelve months of age, Boxer puppies will do well with two meals per day. However, this depends on the health state and development of your Boxer puppy. If the Boxer pup is more on the skinny side, then you should feed it more food than described in feeding charts. Just make sure to ask your vet to help you develop a balanced diet for your Boxer pup. Fully grown male adult Boxer dogs reach between 65 to 80 pounds, whereas adult female Boxer dogs weigh a bit less, reaching anywhere from 50 to 65 pounds. Adult Boxer dogs should be fed two meals per day — breakfast and dinner. The most important thing is to take away leftover dog food when your Boxer dog is done eating. Due to the fact that the Boxer dog breed is prone to bloating a life-threatening condition , owners and breeders should be cautious around feeding them too much food. If you have owned Boxers or if you are currently a proud owner of the Boxer, then you know how highly energetic these pooches are. Well, due to their high energy levels, Boxers require a lot of exercise. With frequent exercise comes heavy calorie burning after which your Boxer dog needs more food! Besides high energy levels, Boxer dogs are medium breed dogs that inherit faster metabolism than an average medium-sized dog. That said, Boxer dogs require food that is rich in calories and nutrients to make up for the energy that they use during the day. The best Boxer food will be one that is made for active dogs and includes all the vitamins and minerals they require to stay healthy and fit. Young Boxer puppies should eat more than a cup per day, while older Boxer puppies can consume up to three cups daily because their nutritional needs are higher. Adult Boxers require about 40 fewer calories per pound of body weight than puppies. That said, daily food intake for adult Boxer dogs typically ranges from 3 to 5 cups, depending on their weight. Adult Boxer dogs should be fed twice a day, while Boxer puppies must be fed 3 to 4 meals per day. All dog breeds require basic ingredients in dog food such as protein, carbs, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. But the Boxer dog breed is a bit different. Because Boxers are hyper dogs with insane energy levels! So, a good diet for a Boxer pup must consist of basic ingredients, but you may also want to boost it with home-cooked food and supplements. This is why you have to choose the best source of protein for your Boxer dog. Poultry, beef, and seafood are excellent sources of animal protein for Boxer dogs because they are easy on their digestive system. Fatty acids like omega-6 and omega-3 are great for your Boxer dog because they give its coat extra shine and make its skin healthier. With a proper diet that is packed with vitamins and fatty acids, Boxer coat colors become more vivid and its coat sheds less! Fruit and veggies are also great for Boxer dogs because they are packed with vitamins and minerals which are essential for a healthy metabolism. Dairy products like whipped cream and blue cheese should either not be given at all or given in very small amounts. Grain-Free Diet What makes the Boxer dog breed different from other medium-sized dogs is that they are prone to developing Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus bloat. This means that the majority of Boxer dogs will have to go on a special diet. Grain-free diets are usually recommended for adult Boxer dogs in order to avoid bloat and other digestive system issues. We can say that Boxer dogs have more sensitive stomachs than other dog breeds. Not only can these ingredients trigger canine bloat, but they can also cause food allergies. Supplements Sometimes a simple diet for your Boxer dog is simply not enough. Due to their rapid growth and high activity levels, Boxer dogs need to keep their joints in tip-top condition. So, you want to search for food supplements that contain glucosamine chondroitin — compounds that are essential to joint health. Moreover, Boxers are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia which is why these supplements are of utmost importance. But, the Boxer dog breed is a bit different than the rest. Now, I know that this is an ongoing dilemma to the majority of Boxer owners, as there is no correct answer. Dry Dog Food Despite the fact that many Boxers dogs may prefer wet over dry dog food, dry kibble is preferable to keep their teeth and gums healthy, and their jaw strong. The crunch of a hard kibble will help to some extent to remove plaque, but you will still need to provide some at-home dental care. Pure kibble diets are perfectly acceptable to give to your Boxer dog. Additionally, you can boil some chicken or give your Boxer dog some raw meat. Boxers love those! It is perfectly fine to feed your Boxer dog a pure kibble diet. But, you will want to make it a bit more interesting by adding some dog food toppers, cooked or raw meat, fish, and vegetables. Wet Dog Food Wet food has more water, which keeps Boxer dogs hydrated throughout the day. Compared to dry dog food, wet food has higher fat content which is a no-no for Boxers that are prone to canine obesity. For most Boxer dogs that are prone to heart disease like cardiomyopathy, wet food with high fat content may be too much. Different Boxer dog life stages require different food amounts. Besides the life stage your Boxer dog is in, we should take into consideration that Boxers are medium-sized dogs, which means that they require a healthy diet that is specially designed for medium breed dogs. Age Earlier in this article we have mentioned that Boxer puppies need a special diet that consists of a higher percentage of protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. This is perfectly understandable because Boxer puppies need a healthy diet to grow. Additionally, Boxer puppies are always on the go and their bodies burn calories like crazy! In contrast to young Boxer puppies, old Boxers need to be fed a healthy diet that has a lower content of protein and fat. Naturally, the metabolism of a Boxer dog slows with age. So, due to the fact that many senior Boxer dogs are less energetic and more on the lazy side, they burn fewer calories. A slower metabolism is one of the main reasons why older Boxer dogs become obese because excess calories from high-calorie dog food are converted into fat. Failure to feed a diet designed for the unique requirements of medium to large-breed puppies like the Boxer can lead to health issues such as canine arthritis , hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, and obesity. This is why you have to choose Boxer food that is designed to control the amount of calories and calcium consumed in order to reduce the risk of these health issues. Gender Regardless of the gender, all Boxer dogs need the right nutrients that will help them stay healthy and strong as they grow. However, the nutritional needs of male Boxer dogs greatly differ from those of female Boxers. Research shows that intact male Boxer dogs eat more than their neutered counterparts. Which is pretty obvious due to the fact that intact male Boxer dogs go crazy when they show signs that they want to mate. In fact, intact male Boxer dogs are known to roam and jump fences in order to get to their ladies. Roaming and chasing those female Boxer beauties burns away all the calories! So, intact male Boxer dogs are always hungry! Neutered Male Boxer Dog Upon reaching sexual maturity, intact male Boxer dogs often become restless and impossible to handle. This is the period when you can see signs that your male dog needs to be neutered. Neutered male Boxer dogs have lower energy needs than their intact counterparts. After having your Boxer dog neutered, you have to put it on a special diet to ensure a fast recovery. In fact, you will need to cut the food portion in half because neutered Boxer dogs require fewer calories. If your neutered male Boxer dog starts to lose weight, you can reintroduce a gradual increase in food. Intact Female Boxer Dog Intact female Boxer dogs typically need fewer calories than both intact and neutered male dogs. Intact female Boxers that are fed the same diet as intact male Boxer dogs are more prone to obesity and heart problems. Spayed Female Boxer Dog Boxer dogs that have been spayed or neutered have lower levels of estrogens and androgens, which, just like in neutered male Boxer dogs, lowers their metabolic rate. Therefore, the spayed female Boxer dog requires less energy. After surgery, the appetite of a female Boxer dog might increase because estrogen has been shown to suppress hunger. To ensure that your spayed female Boxer maintains a healthy body constitution and condition, the amount and type of food must be changed. Pregnant Female Boxer Dog Once your female dog starts showing signs of pregnancy , get ready to learn more about what a feeding schedule for a pregnant pooch looks like. Start by offering your pregnant Boxer dog smaller and more frequent meals rather than large portions. Pregnant Boxers will have less space in their tummy for large amounts of food so make sure to keep the balance between small meals. Additionally, her diet should consist of a lot of soluble carbohydrates along with a little fiber. One of the most crucial minerals for pregnant Boxer dogs are calcium and phosphorus. These minerals support healthy bone development of unborn Boxer puppies. Activity Levels Boxer puppies, adolescents, and young adult dogs that are in perfect heath have insane energy levels! This means that their activity levels are high and they need regular exercise. When your Boxer pup runs all over the place, it needs a lot of nutritious food to feed those muscles! Boxer dogs that receive these optimal levels of dietary protein are more likely to perform to their full potential. Besides healthy protein intake, active Boxer dogs need a bit of carbohydrates. If you notice that your Boxer dog is gaining more weight , simply feed it less, and if they are becoming underweight, feed more. Lazy Boxer Dogs Adult Boxer dogs differ from one to another and have different activity levels. While active adult Boxer dogs normally active require 30 calories per pound of body weight, lazy Boxer dogs require less calories per day to maintain their overall health and avoid becoming obese. Senior Boxer Dogs The majority of senior Boxer dogs frequently prefer canned or raw food over dry dog food. Maybe it is because their teeth are not as strong as before, or simply because of the added moisture found in canned dog food. Even though senior Boxer dogs tend to eat less because they are less active and have slower metabolisms, they require dog food that is high in energy, antioxidants, and fatty acids. This is why senior dog food for Boxers features a healthy balance of antioxidants and fatty acids. Senior Boxer dogs typically prefer smaller portions that are given more frequently throughout the day rather than two fully loaded bowls a day. What Foods Should Boxers Avoid? As we mentioned in the grain-free diet part, Boxer dogs should avoid any dog food that contains wheat, corn, or soy. These ingredients are merely fillers for your Boxer dog, offering little to no nutritional value. In fact, the majority of food allergies in dogs are triggered by grains such as wheat and corn. Besides these common dog food ingredients, Boxer dogs should avoid human food like chocolate, macadamia nuts, milk, avocado, candy, and spicy food. Cooked bones should never be given to Boxer dogs. So, when cooking bone broth for your Boxer dog, make sure to get rid of all cooked bones. Boxer dogs are known to have sensitive stomachs. If your Boxer dog ingests food that is toxic to its digestive system, chances are that it will throw up yellow or develop diarrhea. It is best to consult with your veterinarian and go over any worries you have about what foods your Boxer dog should avoid. While many Boxer dogs simply have an insane desire for food, an increased appetite also known as polyphagia can also indicate a number of health problems. For example, Boxers with diabetes often show signs of polyphagia or an insatiable appetite. These can be signs that your senior dog with diabetes is dying. Besides health issues and all that serious stuff, Boxer dogs can simply inherit a faster metabolism which makes them always hungry. Owners are understandably worried when their Boxer pup abruptly stops eating or gradually loses interest in food. In the absence of other symptoms of health issues, a Boxer not eating is typically not a cause for concern. Normally, stress, reaction to medication, and changes in their environment, can all cause a Boxer pup to stop eating. Boxer puppies that are in their teething period like to nibble on people or objects, rather than consuming their puppy food. Some Boxer pups experience severe discomfort and pain while teething which reduces their will to eat. A Boxer puppy may frequently stop eating due to intestinal parasitic infestation or infections that cause upset stomach. The lack of appetite in Boxer puppies could be a sign of a serious issue like a blockage or poisoning. In other cases, Boxer dogs can lose their appetite due to internal obstructions, pain, and dental issues. The best food for your Boxer dog is usually food that is made for active dogs. While most Boxer owners prefer the Royal Canin brand, there are other commercial dog foods across the U. The majority of Boxer dogs inherit a sensitive stomach, so it is best to avoid bad food brands and to consult your veterinarian about the best dog food that you can find. Conclusion Give your hungry Boxer pooch all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and live a long life! The best way to keep a Boxer pup happy is by giving it nutritious food and lots of exercise. This Boxer feeding chart explains how much food a Boxer needs based on its activity levels. So, I believe that you have gotten the hang of this feeding guide! Make sure to ask your Boxer breeder for additional tips and tricks. Even though this Boxer feeding chart answers the most common questions about Boxer diet and feeding schedule, in case your Boxer puppy is showing signs of health issues, call your veterinarian for a check-up. Related Content. Yet underneath that strong and active exterior is a lot of labor and commitment to protecting their loved ones. When it comes to maintaining their health, you need to understand how much to feed a Boxer puppy. We have included a Boxer puppy feeding chart to help you take care of this breed. The daily food intake for a Boxer may range from one cup to four cups. Meal sizes for Boxers depend not just on weight but also on the sort of food they eat. Due to their medium size, boxer puppies need three daily meals and around four cups of food every day. Keep in mind that RER is only a rough estimate of how many calories your dog requires per day; other variables, including their age and activity level, will need to be included in as well. Keeping the puppy clean and warm is essential during this time, as is giving it enough milk or formula to help it thrive. Choose a premium puppy food that has been developed with their unique nutritional requirements in mind. Provide modest, regular meals three to four times a day. At the beginning, feed the puppy just a quarter to a half cup every day, and gradually increase the quantity as it grows. Always have clean water available, and keep an eye out for any symptoms of food intolerance or gastrointestinal distress. To keep them healthy, give them high-quality puppy food in many little meals throughout the day. Exercise, socializing, and the introduction of obedience training should all be high priorities. Keep a close eye on their eating habits and weight gain, and alter their food intake accordingly. This is a pivotal time for training and socializing, so be sure you provide lots of both. It is important to keep feeding them three times a day, and to stick with a high-quality puppy food. Provide around 2 and a half cups of food daily, split between three meals. Starting now is a great opportunity to introduce more advanced training methods like obedience or agility programs. Throughout a day, give them around 2 and a half cups of food. This is a pivotal time for further education and integration into society. Feed them around two and a half to three cups each day. Throughout this phase, they are still learning new skills and interacting with others, making it an essential part of their development. Provide two meals daily, adjusting the quantity of food based on their weight. Maintain a program of regular exercise and training, and watch out for any signs of age-related health decline. Boxer pups need a high-protein, moderate-fat diet for optimal growth and energy. Bone health may be supported by making sure the meal has enough calcium and phosphorus. Depending on its age and degree of activity, the calorie requirements of a Boxer puppy may range from around to 1, per day. A Boxer puppy requires between — calories per day when they are 8 weeks old, and — calories per day when they are 6 months old. Authentic meats and seafood, whole grains, and produce should all be included as ingredients on the label. Puppies of different ages have different dietary needs and feeding schedules. A Boxer puppy of 6 weeks old has to be fed times a day, with each meal consisting of only a few bites. Puppies need to be fed three times a day until they are three months old, then twice a day until they are 12 months old. Training and housebreaking are aided by establishing a consistent eating pattern. Yet, the two are not identical. Dry kibble offers the advantages of being portable, simple to store, and lasting for a long time. Crunchy kibble is good for your teeth because it encourages chewing, which may reduce plaque. Yet, some pups may prefer wet food because to its increased moisture content and inherent tastiness. In addition, it may help you stay hydrated, which is crucial to your health. The preference and dietary requirements of each puppy are unique, thus the choice between kibble and wet food must be made carefully. An animal hospital is the best place to get advice on what to feed a Boxer adult dog. Many factors might be at play if a Boxer puppy suddenly stops eating. Illness, stress, dental issues, and even just a change in habit may all cause lack of appetite in Boxer pups. Sometimes getting a puppy to eat may be as simple as presenting a more appetizing food, feeding it by hand, or making mealtime less of a stressful experience. Leaving food available for a puppy to graze on all day is considered free feeding, which is not advised for Boxer pups. Since free-feeding might induce overeating and weight gain, it is not recommended for Boxer pups. High-quality protein from genuine chicken initially supports muscular growth. This natural dog food has all the nutrition your puppy needs with whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruit. Pros Real chicken first ingredient for protein Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function Wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit A blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals No chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy 2. Real chicken is the first ingredient in this tasty, nutritious puppy chow, delivering protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart. It also has a SmartBlend of high-quality, readily digested omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a lustrous coat and healthy skin. Four antioxidant sources for strong immune system High-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Delicious crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels. Cons Contains some corn and wheat 3. This high-quality kibble for pups under 1 year old has actual chicken as the first ingredient and no chicken by-product meal, maize, wheat, or soy. Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA help brain and ocular development and deliver protein. Pros High-quality protein for muscle development and growth No GMO, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. Brain and eye growth from omega-3 fatty acids like DHA. This formula contains high-quality protein from lamb and omegarich fish oil to create lean muscles and enhance brain and eyesight development. Pros Protein-rich lamb is the first component. Omega-3 fish oil DHA for puppy brain and visual development. Calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals for bones and teeth, Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat Cons Lamb, may not suit all pups 5. Pros Flaxseed and salmon oil contain omega-3 fatty acids Grain-free Created by vets with protein, fat, and minerals Cons Not for ingredient-allergic pets. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy is a contentious issue with no clear consensus on whether or not it is healthy for the dog. Yet, some owners and vets are worried about the potential for bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances in a raw diet, despite the fact that others feel it might give advantages including better digestion and coat health. Also, choose a reliable raw food supplier. The typical growth rate for a Boxer puppy is pounds per week for the first several months of life. A Boxer puppy, depending on its size and gender, may gain pounds by the time it is 6 months old. To make sure your Boxer puppy is developing normally, keep an eye on his or her size and weight. A constant supply of cool, fresh water is essential for the health of a Boxer puppy. Puppy development necessitates that they consume more water than an adult dog would. Puppies need half an ounce to an ounce of water per pound of body weight every day. A Boxer puppy weighing 20 pounds, for instance, should need 10 to 20 ounces of water each day. Puppy water consumption should be closely monitored to prevent dehydration. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. And, I'll go out on a limb to say I bet those early Boxers ate dog food with less additives and fillers than found in today's formulas. That is of course, unless you're armed with information on sourcing the best possible modern foods for feeding Boxer dogs! Adult Boxer dogs require 1, to 2, calories of good quality dog food per day depending on age and activity, with an averagely active adult dog somewhere midrange. Being a muscular breed that is highly active, Boxers require quality protein in food at a slightly higher level than many less active breeds. Credence should be given to invest in a quality kibble dog food with high protein and caloric value or go with a Raw Dog Diet , especially for active Boxers. Bloat Concerns This breed is prone to bloat, Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus , so grain free kibble and raw diets are a great option for feeding Boxer dogs. Carbohydrate and fat levels are less a concern when feeding Boxer dogs, yet Boxers are know to put on extra weight rather easily. Low carbohydrate diets should be fed to overweight dogs and the breed ideally should be slim, stocky and muscular. To learn how we choose quality kibble formulas, or for help selecting your own, visit our Feeding Dry Dog Food section. For a great alternative to kibble and food we highly recommend for Boxer dogs, visit our Raw Feeding Dogs section. Supplements As with any medium to large breed dog, providing a food that includes supplements adds additional insurance towards good health. To maintain your Boxer's joint health, foods containing chondroitin and glucosamine are awesome. If your kibble doesn't include these compounds, they can be supplemented separately with a product such a Cosequin. For a shiny coat and to promote skin health, foods with Omega-6 fatty acids are wonderful. For control of inflammation or arthritis pain in older Boxer dogs, support the heart, kidneys and stabilize overall mood, Omega-3 fatty acids are great to see on an ingredients panel. Just like Cosequin however, Omegas can be fed separately and as needed by simply squeezing a gel capsule over your Boxer's meal. In summary, feeding Boxer dogs about 2. Amount fed may go up or down based on your dog's size, weight, age and overall daily activity. Feeding Boxer Dog Puppies Quality formulated all life stages food and several small meals a day for a Boxer dog puppy. Your Boxer puppy will grow rapidly through the first six to eight months. Similar to any medium or large breed puppy that is susceptible to bone growth issues like hip dysplasia, feeding a quality all life stages, large breed puppy formula, or Raw Dog Food diet will help regulate growth. Boxer puppies can eat! Two to three regulated servings per day is recommended, do not free freed. There's an unwritten rule in among Boxer enthusiasts to feed at least twice as much food daily that your puppy would eat as an adult, In multiple regulated servings. Begin by following feeding guidelines per the label provided on your chosen Kibble Dog Food Formula. Increase or decrease the amount fed by assessing your Boxer's body weight and energy as he or she grows. From age 6 to 8 months on, the rapid growth phase should cease and while still technically a puppy, your Boxer can be transitioned to an adult diet. This includes higher protein foods yet many who were already feeing an all life stages formula can continue with the same. As always with both puppies and adult Boxers, keep an eye on your dog's weight. You should always see a trace of the last rib with this breed and they should appear slim, yet muscular. Adjust amount fed per serving accordingly to maintain that perfect Boxer appearance. And lastly, with all dog breeds that are prone to bloat, feeding Boxer dogs several small meals a day is a safer bet than free feeding, or one HUGE serving! Don't forget to check out our Feeding Dry Dog Food articles which focus on selecting a quality kibble for your Boxer dog. And, if there's another mid-size dog in your pack, Feeding Medium Size Dogs provides access to a library of breed specific feeding guides. For help choosing kibble dog food for your Boxer Dog plus additional info about raw feeding, visit our Homepage for quick banner access to the major sections of our website! Your dog may suffer from indigestion if they are fed too late at night. A Boxer may struggle to acquire weight at times. Having three meals each day, including snacks, can help during this time. Adult Boxers should be fed in the morning, noon, and evening. Scheduled feeding times should be established early on to prevent weight-related diseases. Adult Boxers on a two-meal diet should eat in the morning and evening. Never let your dog exercise vigorously after a large meal, especially if they eat rapidly. This prevents bloating , intestinal obstruction, and other serious digestive problems. Introduce fewer carbs and consider nourishing their intestines and giving them micronutrients that help fight off disease-causing microorganisms. The following is a top-notch selection of Boxer food: Dry Food: Your best bet is to feed your Boxer dog grain-free kibble or dry kibble. Some even advocate dog food with human-grade ingredients. High-quality kibble containing animal protein formulated specifically for the growth and development of lean muscle mass in Boxers. Wet Food: Wet food is another commercial dog food option. If you want raw feeding for your Boxer, be sure to consult a veterinarian first, as raw diets can be tricky to prepare. Home-Cooked Diet: Aside from raw food, you can feed your Boxer home-cooked food as well. Always get your meat and other ingredients from reputable butchers and merchants to avoid potential problems. There are benefits and drawbacks to each of these dog food options mentioned above. But, for the most part, these are the best food options for the Boxer. If you are in doubt, seek the advice of an animal nutritionist or veterinarian. However, Boxers are susceptible to skin allergies caused by these products. To have a grain-free diet for your dog, you should look out for ingredients like brown rice, wheat, corn, and barley. Chocolate: While chocolate is a delicious treat for us humans, it can be harmful to your Boxer. The stimulants in chocolates, known as methylxanthines , make them toxic for dogs. It could be fatal if your dog has consumed cocoa powder, cocoa butter, or cooking chocolate. Fatty Meals: Pancreatitis outbreaks in dogs can be blamed on fatty meals. A veterinarian should always be consulted before feeding a dog a new diet. Call a veterinarian immediately if you believe that your Boxer dog has consumed something hazardous. Some dogs may have stomach upset and even appetite loss if you suddenly switch to a new high-quality food or diet. This shift should occur within a five- to seven-day time window. American Kennel Club AKC advocates starting with 25 percent of the new food for your Boxer and gradually increasing it until all of the old food has been replaced with fresh food, based on the same ratio. Below is a table showing what the AKC recommends as a standard diet transition plan for most dog breeds, including Boxers: Day. Your vet can run the necessary tests and examine your puppy to determine the cause. Male Adult male Boxers are slightly larger than females. Males weigh an average of 60 to 70 pounds, requiring 3 to 5 cups of food. This weight range requires 2 to 4 cups of food per day. On top of a caloric increase, an active Boxer will also need a protein-rich diet to feed their muscles. A protein-friendly, calorie-dense dry kibble should be offered, and you should follow the instructions based on their weight. Image Credit: boxerdogmadness, Pixabay Sedentary Boxers tend to become overweight quickly if you overfeed them—blame their voracious appetites and love for snacking. This food offers a low-calorie alternative without skipping out on necessary nutrition. However, what really happens is that it decreases their metabolism rate, slowing their energy. This slowing process can cause weight gain if you continue to feed them the same amount of food. The puppies always get the nutrients first. So, if you have a food that is lacking in certain areas, the mother will suffer. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Boxer Feeding Guide for Seniors Just like puppyhood has special dietary requirements when dogs reach a certain age, so does old age. Seniors need to eat foods that cater to their life stage to keep them capable, happy, and healthy for their remaining years. A Boxer transitions into the senior category, usually around 6—9 years of age. If you have your dog on dog food for all life stages, it might be appropriate to continue this diet. A lower-calorie food will also help to prevent your dog from becoming overweight. If your senior has specific health issues, it might be best to feed them a specific diet that helps with their condition. As time goes on, you can work with your vet to accommodate their special dietary needs. It is formulated specifically for later years. Some dogs have voracious appetites that are never satisfied. It seems like you barely get it into the bowl before they suck it up like a vacuum cleaner. Free-Feeding—this practice involves making food available to your dog at all times. The danger with this method is that large dogs like Boxers are susceptible to bloat, or gastric dilation-volvulus GDV. Bloat happens when the dog eats too quickly, causing gas to fill the abdomen. It can be fatal. This method can also make overeating seem like the norm, which causes bad manners. Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals is a better alternative to free-feeding. Slow-Feeder Bowls—a great way to slow your pooch down, allowing them to digest their food properly, is to give them food in a slow feeder. It gives your Boxer unique designs to eat around, stimulating their mental curiosity while slowing them down. What Foods Are Bad for Boxers? Some things to look out for are: Corn. Male boxer puppies would be around 17 inches or more during their 6th month while females will be slightly smaller at around 16 inches. Birth to 3 weeks old When your boxer pup is still very young, they should be with their mom and be nursed properly. Keep in mind that your boxer should get equal amounts of milk, especially if they belong to a large litter. Observe the litter for any signs of bullying or some puppies being overpowered. This is also the case if the mother is too thin to supply milk to all of her pups. When your puppy reaches 3 weeks of age, you might start to notice rapid growth. That is normal for boxer puppies since the breed tends to grow faster than most dogs. Boxer pups of this age still need to be nursed. To do this mix 1 part puppy food with 3 parts water in a bowl and offer it to them. It also helps to train your pups to only eat when they are hungry. A good rule of thumb in terms of scheduling for the water and puppy food mixture would be 3 to 4 times a day. You want the process to be a pleasant one for your boxer pup. This is when the weaning process becomes slightly visible. The mother dog will slightly let go of her little ones for them to be independent. Keep them away from dangerous objects and supervise them as much as possible. Ensure that their food is easy to chew to avoid eating problems. If your vet allows for it, you can add some veggies or other food ingredients that are deemed safe for pups as advised. Your puppy will need more nutrition by this time so they need to learn to eat solid puppy food. After all, 6 weeks old is a time for exploration, playtime, and energy bursts whether indoors or outdoors. You may also want to feed them more if they spend a lot more time playing or running around. Once your puppy reaches 7 weeks old, they should already know how to eat their solid food. Give them the serving somewhere between 3 and 4 times a day depending on your available time and their hunger pangs. Your boxer pups will also get nursed less often during this time, as the mother will likely just stand up while giving milk reluctantly to her little ones. She might even run away from them at some point, allowing them to become more independent. Keep their meals served at 3 to 4 times a day, with at least 2 or more cups per day, divided equally. You can also follow the chart that we mentioned above, especially if your boxer pup is quite the active fellow. Having more cups a day is important for puppies that have far less weight than others. You can also ask your vet about how many calories they need depending on their energy levels. Know the activity levels of your puppy and adjust accordingly. If your boxer pup is always on the go, they might need more calories than usual. Moreover, a 9-week-old boxer pup might also roam around and pick various objects to ensure that their surroundings are kept puppy-proofed. Bloating comes from excessively gobbling food so make sure they only get equal portions for their daily meal schedules. While we did say that boxer pups during this period are likely to eat twice as much as a regular adult boxer, always observe if your puppy is getting overweight by checking their waist. Talk to your vet if you suspect your pup might be gaining too many pounds. Always keep in mind to avoid bloating problems with your pup by ensuring the schedule gets followed. Continue with the usual puppy food or as instructed by your vet. Recommended Food Now that your boxer puppy has a set schedule, what should you feed them? Here are some suggestions: 1. Quality Kibble Like most active breeds, dry kibble is the way to go if you want affordable and easy-to-store food for your boxer puppy. Worry not — there are grain-free options in the market. Wet or canned food If you want added calories for an active boxer puppy, consider wet food. After all, canned puppy food is tasty to most dogs, especially during their puppy years, since the smell is enough to get them eating. Omega fatty acid foods Boxers are prone to cardiomyopathy, which can be lessened if they take foods and supplements rich in omega fatty acids, such as fish. Talk to your vet for a diet plan that will help lessen the likelihood of such eye problems. Glucosamine foods Hip dysplasia is common in boxers so we recommend foods that are rich in glucosamine, such as chicken feet and seafood. Consider looking for either kibble or canned puppy food that has glucosamine to help prevent hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Look for primarily meat-based puppy food rather than cheap commercial brands. Commercial brands out there may have more corn and wheat than protein from meat. Instead, look for slightly pricier yet more quality brands of puppy food for your boxer. And, as usual, you should also stay away from human foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and the like. FAQs on Feeding a Boxer Puppy Boxer pups need extra care when it comes to their diet — here are some frequently asked questions with regards to feeding them properly: When do I switch to adult food for my Boxer puppy? By this time, you can slowly transition your puppy to adult food in portions. Should I give my Boxer puppy supplements? As a workaholic dog breed, boxer pups need protein and other nutrients, which are fortunately already in most quality dog food brands. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy A raw diet is okay for boxer puppies provided that you get expert advice from your vet about it. Raw feeding is no walk in the park since you need to do the math on calories and nutrients as compared to commercial food. Also, take note of food handling to avoid bacterial infection, especially if you live in areas where humidity is high. If you need help, talk to a breeder or someone you know tried raw feeding before — especially for puppies. Conclusion A healthy and energetic boxer puppy will be a satisfied life companion if you feed them properly. All you need to know is that boxers are typically workaholics so they need to have a balanced diet with sufficient calories based on their activities. We hope this helped you figure out how much to feed your boxer puppy! Every bite of food will be detrimental or beneficial to this breed's health. Overview Food is fuel both for a growing Boxer pup and large strong adult Boxer dogs. The type of food that you offer for both meals and snacks has a direct affect on your Boxer's health both now and in the future. Also of importance is a feeding schedule and making sure that you offer the proper amounts. This section will cover everything you need to know in order to provide a well-balanced, nutritious diet for your Boxer puppy, adult, or senior. How Often to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog Let's look at a summary and then the details: Puppies under 12 weeks: free-fed Puppies and up to the 2-year mark: 3 meals per day Adults 2 years and up: 1 to 2 meals per day Young pups 8 to 12 weeks old: Very young pups, and particularly those that are a bit underweight, should be free-fed for at least the first month at their new home. This is the method of having fresh food accessible at all times. For a pup still trying to gain their bearings, you may need to lead them to their bowl throughout the day. Note that food should be thrown out and the bowl washed and then refilled several times per day as opposed to just topping off the food since pups may not be interested in stale food. Growing pup to 2 year mark: It's best to get a Boxer onto a feeding schedule as soon as possible. Schedules of anything feeding, exercise, sleep time, etc. Young Boxers often struggle a bit to fill out and during the 1 to 2-year mark Boxers can go through a 'skinny phase', so 3 meals per day, plus snacks, can work well during this time. Adults 2 years and up: Most adult Boxers that have reached their final adult weight and height do well with 2 meals per day, plus snacks. If snacks are regular and of substance, a Boxer may be perfectly content with 1 main meal per day. Note that this breed is prone to bloat, so you want to avoid letting a Boxer get so hungry that he rapidly gulps his food down. If that is the case, increase the frequency of meals or use a slow-feed bowl; stainless-steel is best, something like Mr. How Much to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog The exact serving size that is appropriate for each Boxer varies and depends mainly on age and current weight but also is affected by activity level, health status, type of food wet vs dry , and individual metabolism. This said, there are general guidelines: Puppies usually require about 55 calories for each pound of body weight. Young pups might eat a bit over a cup a day, older pups can eat up to 3 cups a day. Adults need fewer calories per pound of body weight than their younger counterparts, about .Depending on an adult Boxer dog's size, food is usually in the 3 to 5 cup per day range. To know exactly how much to give your Boxer, know your dog's weight. Don't guess since that can be wildly off. Then, look at the feeding guidelines on the bag of kibble; these are listed by age and weight and are usually pretty spot on. Dry Kibble vs Wet Canned Though many Boxers may prefer wet canned food, dry kibble is better to maintain healthy teeth and gum and a strong jaw. You'll still have to provide some level of at-home dental care , but the crunch of a hard kibble will work to some extent to remove plaque. Additionally, dry food seems to keep the stools firmer and healthier. If your Boxer is a finicky eater and balks at dry food, try mixing in just a bit of canned stick with the same brand or add just a bit of water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Grain vs Grain-free It's wasn't that long ago that putting a dog on a grain-free diet wasn't much of a big deal. Some grains, especially those with gluten, can cause excessive gas , upset stomach, and other issues. And, some dogs are allergic to wheat or gluten which can manifest as itching and other skin problems. But recently, a suspected link between certain grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM, a canine heart disease caused veterinary experts to take pause. And, since Boxers are one of the breeds prone to DCM, it's important to understand where things are on this. Though it was first thought that any grain-free diet may be the cause, the current thought is that it is a BEG diet, meaning boutique small specialty brands that have exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, kangaroo, bison, venison, etc. Many more studies need to be done for conclusive answers to be found. For now, it is recommended to offer healthy grains and this can be done while avoiding gluten if your Boxer has an issue with it. Navigating the Many Choices of Dog Foods What to Avoid: Many brands are guilty of having at least one of these elements that you do not want your Boxer's food to have: No grains at all. Until conclusive studies are complete, play it safe and offer a kibble with some level of healthy grains unless the veterinarian recommends otherwise Boxer needs to be on a specific grain-free diet, etc. Synthetic preservatives. These can be toxic. Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , butylated hydroxytoluene BHT , and ethoxyquin, just to name a few, are linked to behavioral issues, organ damage, and some forms of cancer. Artificial coloring. Common dyes like Yellow 5 and 6 and Blue 2 are linked to behavioral and health issues. Artificial flavor enhancers. MSG is one of the worst, it is linked to anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and breathing issues. Generic animal digest, meats, oils, or fats. When anything is listed as 'animal', it is derived from a 4-D animal: dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals and can literally be any meat from any animal at all: minks from mink farms, roadkill, zoo animals, expired meats from supermarkets and butcher shops, etc. Fillers are cheap ingredients that are put into dog food to bulk it up but they have little to no nutritional value. The 'food' goes right through their system; a dog will eat but be hungry again soon afterward and this is one cause of coprophagia eating feces. These are the animal parts that are not fit for human consumption and includes such things as spinal tissue, lungs, spleens, hooves, tails, undeveloped eggs, etc. Made outside North America since meats from overseas can be questionable. The kibble will be preserved using a vitamin blend often listed as mixed tocopherals and will be naturally flavored and colored. Some level of grains. Grains that are generally well-tolerated include rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. Wholesome real meats, veggies, and fruits. Some ingredients sourced from Norway are fine; this country has very strict guidelines. If you are not sure what is in your Boxer's food, investigate it. Know about grain content and the presence or lack of additives and subpar ingredients. Recommended Dog Food for Boxers Please note that the following recommendations are formulas with some level of healthy grains; if you did not read the previous ' Grain vs Grain-free ' you may wish to do so before continuing on. This meets all of the requirements of what you're looking for. There are no synthetic preservatives; vitamins are used instead shown as mixed tocopherals. The grains in this formula are generally very well tolerated: quinoa technically a seed , oatmeal, and barley. There are 3 different recipes to choose from: beef, chicken, or lamb. Other ingredients include peas, salmon, carrots, apples, blueberries, and flaxseed. There are good levels of glucosamine chondroitin vital for joint health , antioxidants, and omega fatty acids important for skin and coat health. There are no by-products, fillers, or generic meats or oils and this is sourced and made in the USA. For this one, the base is chicken a very classic tasty protein that most dogs love , along with oatmeal, brown rice, ground barley, peas, flaxseed, carrots, tomato pomace, spinach, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. All other ingredients shown on the label are either vitamins and minerals or natural preservatives. This has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and this is made in the USA. This brand offers a top-quality formula that is gluten-free. There is no wheat, corn, soy, by-products, artificial flavors, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives. The base is chicken and brown rice and other ingredients include white rice, oatmeal, rice bran, avocado, flax seed, herring, and kelp. It has good levels of omega fatty acids and antioxidants. The one trade-off for having it be gluten-free is that it does not contain any fruit; however, it does have all required vitamins and minerals and you can always offers a small amount of fresh fruit as snacks. Homemade Vs Commercial Commercial dog food is convenient and, if you choose a superior brand, it will ensure that your Boxer receives all needed nutrients and is on a well-rounded and well-balanced diet. And, home cooked food gives you complete control over what your Boxer eats and does not eat and can be tweaked to satisfy a finicky eater. So, there are pros and cons to each. Whether you opt for a top-quality kibble or you use good cuts of meat and fish and fresh produce in homemade meals, neither option is super-cheap. Because, of course, you get what you pay for. But, if you buy in bulk and lean toward frozen vegetables and fruits, home cooking may be a bit less expensive. That said, when you prepare meals at home, you'll need to offer a good daily vitamin and mineral supplement even good brands of kibble need to add this in because it's nearly impossible for a dog to receive all nutrients just from food alone. Some of the foods that can be incorporated into meals include: Proteins: Chicken, turkey, veal, beef, fish mackeral, haddock, salmon, whitefish, cod, and others , eggs, and certain beans kidney, lima Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli in moderation , potato, sweet potato, sugar snap peas, green beans, spinach Fruits: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, pumpkin Grains: Quinoa, oatmeal, rice Related Articles: Best Snacks, Chews, and Treats for a Boxer - A great rundown of the difference between these 3 things and top recommendations. How many calories does a Boxer dog need - Requirements based on age, size and activity level. Recommendations to lower or raise intake. Boxer dog weight issues - This breed can become overweight, usually due to a combination of eating too much and being sedentary. Boxer begging behavior - Boxers are pretty good at playing their humans and it's easy to fall into the trap of giving in to begging. Read how to stop the cycle. Choosing the Best Bowl for a Boxer - Size, height, material and design are all important. How much food to feed a boxer puppy How much food to feed a boxer puppy May 15, Let Everyone know For decades the Boxer dogs have been loved and cherished all over the world. Their imposing build along with their gentle and playful personalities captured the hearts of many dog lovers. This broad and muscular breed burns a massive amount of energy in their day-to-day life course, and thereby their diet and feeding formulas are subject to additional requirements. So the food to feed a boxer puppy must be taken in to consideration. To provide the boxer with quality and meaningful life, it is rather important to know how much food they should be fed, what and how often they should be fed. Concerns when feeding a Boxer puppy Boxers are a medium to large dog breed of German descent. Bred to bait bulls in the 19th century, they were fed a lot healthier than they are today, and their dietary habits were managed better. They are, by nature, lovely and enthusiastic, not to mention, far more involved when they are puppies. Their dietary requirements are a little different from other dog races due to certain anatomical variations. What food to Feed a Boxer Puppy Although it is undoubtedly not a fact that boxers are picky eaters, they may have special nutrition requirements when it comes to their feeding. Puppies typically need a nutritious feeding formula with a minimum of .Also, calcium and phosphorus are needed to maximize bone growth for your boxing puppy with ratios of at least or even .However, more is not always better. This will keep your Boxer pup from developing joint problems like osteochondritis or hip dysplasia. Boxers are also vulnerable to food-related allergies that can occur as food intolerances such as itching and inflammation. So choosing the right feed for your Boxer Pup might necessitate some experimentation. And indefinitely the feeding rate varies with the growth of your boxer. Boxer puppies, however, demand about 55 calories of food per pound of body weight, from a general viewpoint. A Boxer puppy is likely to become a medium to large muscle and a lean dog between 50 and 70 pounds if it feeds the correct food type and amounts. Since they are a highly active muscle species, they need high-quality protein foods to feed their energy slightly more than other less active breeds. Many dog food brands have just 25 percent protein formulas, which could prove to be inadequate for a Boxer puppy. It is therefore critical that you do your research and invests in a feeding formula of good quality. There is a common misconception that Boxer puppies should be fed twice as much food as they can consume as adults. It is still a good idea, however, to weigh your puppy every week or every two weeks and change the food intake accordingly. Some puppies may be susceptible to elevated protein, in which case food with moderate protein and fat content is recommended. Besides, Boxers will require a Calcium-to-Phosphorous ratio as near as possible to .In the first 6 to 8 months, your puppy can develop steadily in size and maturity. When your puppy grows older, you should decrease food consumption progressively as it can go longer without food. Kibble specifically intended for Boxer puppies is what is widely recommended as a choice of food as it helps preserve both intestinal and oral health and is nutritious. Some Boxer puppies tend to be a bit sensitive to food, in which case you may have to try a few options before you settle on your favorite puppy. Food with Omega-6 fatty acids is great for a sparkling coat and to support skin health. During their development, Boxer puppies need the recommended quantities of high-quality food and feeding formulas in different ranges. They can be fed up to 4 times a day between 2 and 4 months. Individual pups can still be eaten 3 times daily between 4 and 6 months. The frequency is reduced 2 to 3 times daily over 6 months. It is also possible to maintain this level of food in adulthood. This is the stage where you can teach your pup some food or sleep or exercise discipline and whatnot. In these cases, three meals a day can be considered. However, 2 meals per day are the preferred feeding schedule for your dog to train. You can feel some pressure from its ribcage or spine as you place your hands on the chest or back of your puppy. And you can encounter several problems by over-feeding your puppy. Bloating Bloating is a problem that is particularly common among boxer puppies. It can happen if you feed your puppy too much or too little. Constant bloating may contribute to other more severe gastrointestinal problems that could prove fatal to your dog. For this reason, boxer puppies are often recommended eating kibble-free foods and raw diets as they use more plant-based protein and carbohydrate formulas. Other food sources containing items such as grain, wheat, rice, and oats are frequently discouraged and may trigger excess gas in boxer puppies, which in turn causes bloating problems. Obesity As previously described, boxers are ideally supposed to have a slim, muscular build. They are not specifically susceptible to gaining too much weight, which is why the level of carbohydrates and fats in their food formulations is less of concern. However, boxer puppies or any dog are considered to be opportunistic when it comes to feeding. They will also continue to eat as long as they have food at their mercy. Boxer puppies may end up overeating for these reasons, which could cause them to become obese and overweight. This, in essence, will make their joints weak and cause arthritis, heart disease, liver disease, and kidney problems. There may be a variety of reasons why your puppy does not eat enough. Very frequently, loss of appetite is also one of the first symptoms of a more severe illness. This can also occur due to various reasons, such as; Anorexia Anorexia is indeed a problem for dogs, just as it is for human beings. Symptoms of anorexia include fever, pain, shortness of breath, and tiredness. In certain cases, it can also induce changes in the size of the organ and the weak lungs. If left untreated, it can end up being fatal to your dog. Lack of exercise may also be a source of anorexia, which is why exercise has become so crucial to your puppy. They will likely burn calories at the same amount of consumption to maintain balance. Short Life Span If you consistently underfed your Boxer puppy during its stage of growth, it will most likely grow into an undernourished and extremely unhealthy boxer, with far less engagement and energy than most other boxers. This could also affect his life span. Since Boxers are muscular dogs with a reasonable level of activity, they do need a constant supply of nutrients as described above, otherwise, they will not accompany you for a long time. Recap Boxer puppies need great care and consideration when it comes to their diet since they have some particular and unique dietary needs compared to other dogs with the same level of activity. What to Avoid when feeding your Boxer Puppy? There are no grains at all. Until ultimate research has been completed, play it safe and offer kibble with some level of healthy grain unless otherwise recommended by the veterinarian Boxer Pup must be on a specific grain-free diet, etc. Another one is synthetic preservatives, which could certainly be toxic. Artificial Coloring Ingredients, Blue 02, Yellow 05, and 06 are the most common types of dyes that we can find in feeding formulas that cause behavioral problems in puppies. Additional taste enhancers like MSG, which is one of the worst taste enhancers, are linked to anxiety, stress, rapid heartbeat, and respiratory problems. Fillers are inexpensive additives that are mixed into dog food to pump it up but have little or no nutrient properties. A dog could eat a massive amount of food and yet still be hungry again shortly after. Because of that fast metabolism function, this has become one of the major causes of Coprophagies eating feces. By-products — There are animal parts such as some intestines that are not suitable even for a boxer. Consumption and feeding formulas that involve such food might cause troubles with spinal tissue, lung failure, spleen removal, issues in hooves and tails and undeveloped ovum, etc.

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Remember Original breed is Original because only original breed should have Good Temperament and Qualities which the Original Labrador breeds should have and Labrador cost in Hyderabad depends on that originality only. We will share some below important information here related to Labrador puppy such as: 1. What thing you have to take care while adopting Labrador puppy or Labrador Baby? Information of Labrador dog in Hindi such as height, weight, age etc. Name of some Pet shops in Hyderabad along with their addresses. Important things you should take care while Adopting Labrador Dog in Hyderabad: 1. Dog should be vaccinated with required vaccination. Vaccination card should be given by the seller. Labrador puppy or Dog health should be good and he should not be aggressive and most important puppy should be happy. Mother and Father of Labrador Puppy or Labrador baby should not be same blood line. Surety of Better breed and for puppies future health 5. Government guidelines has to be following while purchasing and doing sale of Labrador baby in Hyderabad with proper documentation. Basic Information of Labrador Dog: Labrador retriever is one of most popular breed in India and America and it is superb social breed and if you want to become first time pet parent then Labrador retriever is one of the best breed for you. Labrador retriever has short and dense fur. These dogs do not like to be alone for a long time. The life span of Labrador dogs is around 10 years. The height of Labrador adult dog can reach up-to inches and their weight can be up-to kilograms. Labrador dogs are very intelligent and have gentle, even tempered and kind temperament. Labrador retriever is one of the best companion dog for a individual or a family. For Original Labrador breed in various colors such as black, golden white or yellow, chocolate. You can directly contact us. We ensure you and will make sure that you will not disappointed and you will get the dog which you want. No one can compete us with the given Labrador puppy price in Hyderabad or Labrador baby Price in Hyderabad and the services provided by us. We only deal with best, original and genuine breed. Please make sure while adopting a Labrador dog in Hyderabad or any other pet animal either from us or from any other pet shop in Hyderabad that the government guidelines should be followed and well documented. Because buying a documented pet animal following government guideline ensures that you will receive the original breed, healthy breed and whatever age of the pet animal was told by the seller would be correct. If you are looking to adopt the Labrador puppy in Hyderabad from the pet suppliers or dog breeders. Then there are lots of pet supplies shops and dog breeders in Hyderabad where you will find Labrador for sale. G4, H. Ann's High School Road, Vijaynagar Colony, Hyderabad, Telangana We hope the above details and the information given about Labrador puppy price in Hyderabad and place where you will get Labrador puppy sale in Hyderabad will be useful to you and will help you to adopt healthier, happier, vaccinated and original breed Labrador dog in Hyderabad. We have told above that what all factors you have to be taken care while adopting a dog from anyone. Please do consider all the things as Labrador cost in Hyderabad will depend on all those fact or points. After all the adopted dog is the one who make our family smile especially our Kids and believe us when you return from your work your dog will do all the thing which makes you happy and to remove all your tensions. Feel free to contact us for any information required on pet animals. Be Happy with Your Pet and give them lots of love.

Although it is a rare mixed breed, but they exist. You might think that it is only possible if the mother is Boxer, but nope. There are some mixed which the mother is Pomeranian. Pomoxer usually has more dominant Boxer personality which is calmer yet playful. The good thing about this breed is it is prone to genetic disorders often found in purebred dog. Pomsky is THAT cute, you might not see any on local shelter like many other mixed breed dogs or mutts. Yes, although it is not an established mix, which may vary a lot in physical appearances, but most of Corgi Pomeranian Mix looks like fox with erected ears, wedge face, and fluffy fur. As cute as it is, Corganian tends to be extremely energetic and… bark! Therefore, it will suit owner who loves to take this little furry ball to exercise daily to drain its energy in house. Some breeders also call it Pomapoo. This is another popular designer dog, mixed of Pomeranian and Toy Poodle. This cute toy dog tends to be very active and requires more investment for grooming as well. Brushing daily and haircut every few months will help you from fur and shedding saga. It is also more popular as single family member and needs supervision around children. It has very little chance to see one at shelters. You may not find one easily at breeders as well, and will cost a lot, if any. It is also very hard to see how this German Pomeranian, its alter name, physical appearance and personality. But one thing that is obvious, this furry friend will require grooming more than German Shepherd and shed. Be prepared for it. It is one of those common mixed breed dogs that you can even find it at shelters. This Beagle Pomeranian is a very loyal, intelligent dog and good as a show dog. However, since it may inherit stubborn personality from Beagle, you may need to be a little bit more patient to train it. It also is better to be with the owner a lot since separation anxiety might be an issue which can affect health and lifespan. The expected life span of Beaganian is around years, a common life span for smaller size dogs. This mixed breed is more a family dog. It does not do well of being left outside alone like a guard dog since Labanian likes to be with its pack. Labrador Pomeranian Mix tends to have a moderate energy which is suitable for seniors that has more time and can put their energy for taking care of the dog and giving it their full attention. Chihuahua Pomeranian Mix, often called Pomahua or Chipom, are mixed of two small dogs. As a toy dog, it is cute that people often treat it so gently, too protective, and this is a recipe of disaster. Chihuahua Pomeranian Mix needs to socialize since early and treated just like other dog to prevent it to become anxious all the time, barking, and biting. It also requires close attention to grooming as Pomahua tends to have sensitive skin. Its fur needs brushing but the owner needs to watch carefully which brush to use and either it causes skin irritation or not. Its characteristic tends to be the alpha, which requires more effort to train them to obey. Chowanian also needs to be brush often since it inherits long hair genes from both parents. Owner still needs to give it baths but also watch out for dry skin issue. It might be wise to buy shampoo specifically for dry skin. This super fluffy and huggable fur friend needs regular exercise, long ones, to drain their energy and prevent them of being destructive at home. It will not be happy to be lying around the whole day. A lot of outdoor activity such as long walk or run is needed. A family that can bring its dog in most of their activity will suit this mixed breed at best. These Australian Shepherd genes tend to play a big role to give unique, distinctive colors of the dog. This dog is not suitable for apartment like Pomeranian, unless the owner gives it a lot of exercise. Australian Pomeranian loves large yard to run around and play. However, a regular inspection and brushing are needed especially after a long day outside. Any kind of debris may latch on its precious fur. It is popular because, of course, its cuteness. The size is small to medium, about 8 to 25 pounds, depends on its dominant genes from parents. Some breeders also call it Dameranian, and it is a great fit for owner who lives in apartment because of its size. A consistent training is needed to prevent barking as this Dachshund Pomeranian Mix has tendency to be a guard dog. Do not forget to check the ears for possible infection as well. It has an affectionate and calm temperament, which are great for being around children and other pets. Although having a moderate energy and like to chill in house, daily exercise will be great to keep them content and tired. As many experts point out: a tired dog is a happy dog. Feeding them is also simple; half to one cup dried food and they are full. Be careful to over feed your dog because obesity leads to many health issues. It suits you who has time and wants to invest a lot for a dog, considering it needs to be brush often and go to professional at least every other month. This will make shedding bearable, although owner needs to have vacuum handy. However, this dog prefers warm temperature and gets cold easily despite of long fur. Cocker Spaniel mixed Pomeranian dog is very agile, and playful. If owner lives in an apartment, daily exercise and playtime is important to keep them content and calm. This hybrid is likely from an artificial insemination due to very different natures of both parents. This mix, which also called American Pomeranian, may result in a moderate energy dog that is suitable for apartment living although requires moderate exercise daily. A raw food diet can be good option to be considered. Be prepared to take it for a long walk as exercise to keep their energy level low, unless it might be destructive in your house. Akita mixed Pomeranian is usually results in an intelligent dog which likes to be the alpha. Therefore, owner needs to be assertive and firm to train and handle it. An accident when someone owns a Blue Heeler and a Pomeranian and they somehow mated successfully. The positive side is, as a hybrid from a very different kind of parents, Bluanian, as it is called, will have better immune system for genetic diseases which are usually suffered by purebred dogs. It is also believed that mixed dog will bring the best characters out from each parents. One thing for sure, a mixed of Pomeranian and Blue Heeler will definitely have erected ears. It is also very intelligent and able to enjoy their lone time although in a very busy situation. However, daily exercise is needed to release its energy and keeps it low in house. It also needs proper training and socialization especially if you see the tendency of being alpha, which is not accepted and can be dangerous for children and other people. A Golden Pomeranian is also very intelligent and tends to have high level of energy. It will enjoy playing outside with you, running around and fetching balls. Well, thanks to the Retriever ancestor. This dog likely has a good manner and easy to train. However, it will shed quite a lot. It sheds more than Golden Retriever although will probably less than Pomeranian. If you want to own one, make sure you have a vacuum handy. This is a very rare hybrid due to very different natures of both parents. Although having a pocket Pitbull or a Pitpom might be a cool idea, but its personality is hard to guess. Therefore, it is recommended for a first time owner not to adopt or buy a mixed Pitbull and Pomeranian. This might take a firm owner with experience to train this dog since early to get a sociable and well-mannered dog. As the result, French Bulldog Pomeranian Mix is a relative easy to find. French Pomeranian is a good family dog. It is an extremely friendly dog. Grooming is also simpler comparing to other Pomeranian Mix. Although it sheds, its shorter hair will make cleaning much easier and faster. French Pomeranian will also need bath but not so often to avoid dry skin. A raw diet might be good for consideration. They are warm, friendly, and prefer licks than barks. Shih Pomeranian is also very witty. It knows how to get attention from its human pack. It is also really good with strangers that the owner needs to watch it extra from being hurt or kidnapped. However, a mixed of Shih Tzu and Pomeranian tends to get jealous easily if you pet another animal. Therefore, it will be best if you only have one dog or train them to socialize with other pets since early. Pomeranian Mix Food Requirements Depending on the other parent of your Pomeranian mix doggo, they can turn out rather big or super small. Than means that you would have to choose their meals accordingly — go only for the or the best large breed dry dog food , as needed. Whatever the size of your gorgeous crossbred pooch, make sure not to cut corners on their nutrition. Cheap dog food means low nutritional value that is associated with the worst dry dog food. If you need ideas on the best dry dog food , take a look at our top suggestions:. Final Thoughts 45 Pomeranian Mixes As popular dog breeds, Pomeranians are favored by many dog lovers not just because of their fluffy coats but also because they are perfect lapdogs. Their puffy appearance and small stature make them instant head-turners. Check out this list of 45 Pomeranian mixed breed dogs that will help you choose the right companion dog for you. This combination produces a dog with a tough streak due to its Terrier roots but also with a sweet, gentle side from its Pomeranian parent. Pomerats are also friendly and affectionate dogs that love being around humans. They are most suited for families with older children. Although already small in size, this Pom mix can even be smaller if they have a toy Rat Terrier parent. Despite their tiny stature, Pomerats are quite bold and fearless. Since they usually try to establish dominance in the household, they need a firm handler that can control this tendency. This hybrid combines the hardworking and fun-loving personalities of its parent breeds. The appearance of an Aussie Pom can vary greatly depending on the more dominant parent gene. They can exhibit solid colors like black or tri-color combinations. The merle pattern is also common to this mix because of its Australian Shepherd traits. They may have blue or red merle patterns over their long or short-haired coats. In terms of temperament, they are generally sociable but wary of strangers. They can get along well with other dogs , given proper socialization. This adorable mix is also called a Beaganian or Beagle Pom. This curious and intelligent dog is always ready for adventures. Although highly adaptable, their high prey drive makes them unfit for households with cats and small animals. Due to their loyal nature, Pomeagles get pretty attached to their owners and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. As for appearance, they may inherit the more common white coat or, the rarer lavender color of the Pomeranian. Meanwhile, they can also have the iconic tri-color Beagle color or the unique lemon or blue tick coat pattern. The Bichon-A-Ranian, or simply Bichonaranian, is also known for its friendliness and sweet disposition. However, this cross is considered a high-maintenance dog since they require frequent grooming. Despite this, you can expect minimal shedding due to its Bichon Frise parent. They also have a hypoallergenic coat which is favorable for those with pet allergies. Bichonaranians usually exhibit a white coat color but can also have other Pomeranian and Bichon Frise colors. Overall, these designer dogs are great family pets that can adapt well to apartment living and any house setting. They also engage well with children of all ages. This lovable mix between a male or female Havanese and a Pomeranian will surely melt hearts with its charming appearance and sweet personality. As tiny dogs, Ewokians are preferred by apartment dwellers. They are quite sociable and enjoy the company of humans. By giving them sufficient quality time and attention, they make the perfect house pets. Whether you like going outside, playing games, or watching movies, this pup is sure to enjoy these activities. Much like their Havanese parent, an Ewokian has a lengthy lifespan. This means you can enjoy over 16 years of companionship with this little pup. Compared to the other Pomeranian mixes mentioned, Sheltie Poms have an independent streak. This means that they are less likely to suffer from separation anxiety. Despite their preference for alone time, they can still make good lapdogs. A Poshie has a small to medium-sized build with a shiny, fluffy coat to match. They may have an even fluffier coat if they have a teddy bear Pomeranian parent. An Elongated muzzle is also a distinct feature of this active pup. But aside from their attractive appearance, Poshies make excellent watchdogs for the family. They are relatively easy to train, but their herding instincts may require owners to supervise their kids and other pets, especially smaller ones. This hybrid brings the mischievous temperament of the Pug and the extroverted qualities of the Pomeranian in one package. Pug-A-Poms are highly likely to sport the short snout of their Pug parent but may not be as defined. This makes them less prone to breathing difficulties common to their brachycephalic Pug parent. Aside from being fun-loving dogs, you can expect them to be smart and highly adaptable to their environment. They are also good companions for children and other dogs, although they can be a bit wary of strangers and may have barking tendencies. Despite their authoritative attitude, they also have a warm and affectionate side. They are even considered velcro dogs. Due to their bold disposition, Pom-Silks might not be the best choice for first-time owners. They need experienced handlers that can show firmness and consistency during training. Overpampering a Pom-Silk will only result in spoiled behavior that may be harder to handle in the long run. Thus, obedience training must start as early as puppyhood. As for looks, these mixed dog breeds have long, fluffy coats that require frequent trips to the grooming salon. As another velcro dog, the Weeranian is a very clingy fur companion. They can become very attached to their owners, but they can still manage being left alone. Moreover, this tiny dog stands no more than 12 inches tall and weighs around 15 pounds. This makes the Westie Pom an excellent lap dog and cuddle buddy. However, this also makes them susceptible to gaining weight, which can lead to obesity. Regardless of what you call them, these crossbreeds are expected to be warm and friendly like their parent breeds. Since they need constant love and attention, they are best suited for families that can prioritize their well-being and spend a lot of time at home. They are also considered minimal shedders like their Shih Tzu parents. Sometimes referred to as a Jack Pom or Pom-A-Jack, this mix is known for its active and playful nature. Unlike other breeds, the Jack-A-Ranian lives for excitement and energy. They need a lot of physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. Training might be challenging and may require the utmost patience. Furthermore, they are not the best playmates for children since they are fond of engaging in rough play. As small dogs, they only weigh between 6 and 14 pounds. They may inherit the rough, long-haired coat of a Jack Russel Terrier or the thick, fluffy coat of a Pomeranian. This cross showcases the monkey-like facial features of a Brussels Griffon and the fluffy body of the Pomeranian. Even as small dogs, Brusselranians are energetic and require lots of physical activity. They have bright and loving personalities, making them excellent family companions. Despite their independent side, they are surprisingly easy to train. Although they can be left unattended at home, they also need quality time with their owners. Coming from both toy breeds, this little dog can be carried around everywhere and can work well in an apartment setting. Having the sassy personality of the Chihuahua and the cheerfulness of the Pomeranian is an interesting combination indeed. This mix easily gets along with children. However, because of their fragile size , supervision is still needed. Early human interaction and socialization with other pets, such as cats, are also important for a Pom Chi. This will prevent aggressive tendencies such as barking and biting. Since Chi-Poms tend to have sensitive skin, owners should pay close attention when grooming them. Brushing regularly and looking for signs of skin irritation is important, especially if they have a long-haired Chihuahua parent. This hybrid dog comes from a Chinese Crested Dog and a Chihuahua. The Chinese Crested Dog is an intriguing breed mostly due to its appearance. This pup features long and flowy hair around its ears, which is passed on to the Chinaranian. The Chinese Crested Dog also comes in two varieties — hairless and powderpuff. However, the Chinaranian rarely turns out to be hairless. Generally, the Chinaranian mix is a delightful pet. Owners will have very little trouble when training them. However, they should be careful when giving treats as a reward. Chihuahuas are prone to get fat easily, and the same can be said for Chinaranians. Their price and expenses might also be comparable to the Chinese Crested costs. Keeshonds are known as fierce hunters while Pomeranians were initially bred to pull sleds. Despite their historical differences, their offspring share the same gentle disposition they possess. They are also very courageous and agile dogs. Having a fenced yard at home can keep them from running off. Aside from their fluffiness and short stature, Pom-Kees can come in different coat colors such as brown, cream, fawn, black, blue, brindle, grey, red, sable, and white. This mix is sure to inherit the cotton-like coat of the Coton De Tulear and the minuscule size of its Chihuahua parent. Grooming might be challenging but usually manageable. Going to a professional will help future owners ease this burden. This relatively new hybrid is a sweet and friendly dog. You will also be amazed at how intelligent they are. Since they are natural people pleasers, Pom-Cotons are easily trainable. These admirable traits make them sought-after companions despite their rarity. Having one at home will give you an instant soft cuddle buddy. It was developed in the s in the United States by breeders who wished to combine the best traits of the famous Dachshund and Pomeranian breeds. The Dameranian, which is also named Pom-Dach and Pomaweenie, might be small in size but has a brave personality. It can be territorial and oftentimes stubborn. Dameranians can be quite friendly and may attach to one person. This often leads to them being jealous , much like their Dachshund parent. Their appearance is simply irresistible to many dog lovers. Pomaweenies have an innocent expression and shiny coats that can be long-haired , short-haired, or wire-haired. Here is a video of a Dameranian with long hair: Sergeant The Pomeranian X Dachshund Blend They also come in several coat colors and patterns , even dapple and cream , that may be exhibited because of their Dachshund genes. The brave and alert nature of this mix makes it a great watchdog for families. Some La Poms are more laid-back while others may be more headstrong. However, it is evident that they are very trainable due to their eagerness to please their owners. This excellent family dog generally weighs between 7 and 15 pounds and may sport a double coat that needs regular grooming. Your mood will instantly be lifted just by looking at this mix of a Maltese and a Pomeranian. The Maltipom is well-loved for its gentle and sweet nature, along with its devotion to its owners. However, they may have barking tendencies, much like their parents. Without proper training, Maltipoms may exhibit signs of small dog syndrome , a behavioral problem common in tiny dogs. Small dog syndrome can manifest as aggression, growling, whining, and biting. Early socialization with other dogs is advised so that they can be used to being around them. Potty training is also recommended to be taught while they are still puppies. As toy dogs, Maltipoms should be kept away from younger children that may engage in rough play. However, Pineranians will have no problems getting along with other pets in the household. They also respond to training very well and will need a good amount of exercise every day despite their small size. This can be done once the dog reaches 8 to 12 weeks old. Both were also bred for hunting purposes, so you can expect a Pom-A-Nauze or Pomanauzer to share similar traits. This lively crossbreed, which also goes by the names Scheranian and Schnauzeranian, is a perfect addition to families without children. Pomanauzers can also be very feisty and may bark at strangers. This is one of the few mixes that is known to be less attached to its owners. Peek-A-Poms or Pominese dogs are calmer and more balanced, although they still display a jovial demeanor. These mixes are less active and will mostly enjoy staying indoors. As for socialization, you might want to limit their boundaries since they can be too friendly, even with strangers. Small kids should be supervised around them since they are prone to be stepped on or even sat on. Aside from its cute face, one of the best features of the Peek-A-Pom is its hypoallergenic coat. This mix is the best choice for allergy sufferers. This mix is recognized for its outgoing nature and is always up for water adventures at the beach or walks at the dog park. Training a Pomapoo will come as a breeze due to its high intelligence and curiosity. Moreover, their friendliness towards children is another plus factor on why you should get this mix. Its parents, the Schipperke and the Pomeranian, both share the same curious personalities. However, owners should be aware that this mix can be very vocal. This makes them less favored for an apartment setting. Pomerkes can also be a bit mischievous, but overall, they are friendly and outgoing pups. Leash training is important to prevent them from running around freely. They love going on walks and playing fetch, so make sure to set a schedule for these activities. Since both parent breeds have long coats, the Schip-A-Pom will also sport a long, fluffy coat, usually in a beautiful black shade. Despite its tiny stature, this hybrid is surprisingly sturdy and can withstand rough play with kids. Since the Yorkie Pom comes from two hunting breeds, they may have the instincts to chase small animals. Despite this, they make excellent family dogs due to the close bond they form with their owners. However, Yoranians can become overprotective of their owners due to their boldness and may snap back at strangers. This can also help in avoiding spoiled and dominant behavior. If you want this fluffy mix as your next pet, check out our top rescue picks for Yorkshire Terriers and Pomeranians that may offer Yorkie Poms. However, when a Shiba Inu and a Pomeranian are combined, no one can deny the charm of the resulting offspring. Although these breeds have contrasting personalities, the Pom Shi is believed to have the perfect balance of their traits. This makes them great watchdogs and family companions. Mental stimulation and physical activity should be a priority for those wanting a Pom Shi. Without these, they will easily get bored and resort to destructive actions and behavior. With a firm handler, these dogs can become more affectionate and positive dogs. However, this mix between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Pomeranian can be as lively as it gets! Their moderate to high energy levels will always keep owners on the edge of their seats. This also means that they need to match their activeness by coming up with games and setting playtimes every day. Owners should keep an eye on them during walks since they might be inclined to chase birds and other small creatures. Their offspring, the Pom Terrier, is a cheerful mix with a bit of a spunky attitude. Because of this, they may also develop small dog syndrome if untrained. However, you should still balance it out with love and affection to get the best out of your Pom Terrier. With enough patience, these pups will make the best companion for any household. If you seek an energetic playmate, this dog is perfect for you! However, their playful temperament may be a lot to handle sometimes. Consistent training paired with positive reinforcement should help tone down their high energy levels. The Cocker Pom is also not lacking in the appearance department. This cross has the stunning physical attributes of both its parents, sporting the double coat of the Pomeranian and the feathered ears of the Cocker Spaniel. Due to their coats and shedding tendencies, the Cockeranian is a high-maintenance dog, so one must consider this before taking this pup home. However, purchasing one is surely worth every penny. Pomskies are medium-sized dogs that weigh between 20 and 30 pounds which makes them suitable for apartment living. If you want an even smaller variety, you can get a teacup Pomsky which is produced from a teacup Siberian Husky and Pomeranian. This fluffy dog may exhibit a wooly coat texture and exhibit common Siberian Husky colors like black, gray, and sable or rarer ones like agouti and brown. As for temperament, Pomskies are lively and talkative dogs. This means that they tend to bark a lot. From this mix, you can expect a clever pup that loves to have fun! As lapdogs, Paperanians are very affectionate towards their owners, making them good family companions. These dogs will never run short of love to give. Unfortunately, the Paperanian is quite uncommon so getting one might be difficult. This small, delicate pup is also very sociable and gets along well with other dogs and even cats. Moreover, they do not bark as often as other Pomeranian mixes which is great for those who want a quieter dog. Small as they are, Pomimos make effective watchdogs due to their alert and protective nature. Given proper socialization, their vigilant character and barking tendencies can be controlled. Moreover, as much as they want to stay on your lap, Pomimos crave doing outdoor activities. They love running around and playing with other dogs and humans. This makes the Pomimo perfect for owners who also love being outside and doing physical activities. This comical dog is best paired with an owner that can match their goofy energy. They love entertaining humans and are usually very friendly around them. However, despite their fun side, Pomstons may also show a fiery attitude that owners should work on through training. Since this mix is small like most Pom mixes, it is perfect for apartment living. A Pomston can only grow between 7 and 15 pounds. Although usually black in color, Pomstons may inherit the blue and red coats of their Boston Terrier parent. These mixes also shed minimally which is great news for potential owners. This hybrid possesses the favorable temperaments of both breeds. Despite not being as popular as others, the Cairanian has a lot to offer. This mix is smart but also has a lively disposition. They love to play, but they may not be too tolerant of small children. Cairanians also have a long lifespan which is favorable if you want a dog that can be by your side for a long time. Normally, they live for up to 15 years. Due to their compact size, they do well in both apartments and large homes. Both breeds have very contrasting personalities so this mix is not so popular in the designer dog community. Early training coupled with positive reinforcement methods is the way to go for this hybrid. This will help them be properly socialized and become well-mannered. Overall, Pitbull Pomeranian mixes are confident and loyal companions with equally admirable appearances. They have sturdy, compact bodies and cone-shaped heads that resemble that of a fox. Their short, glossy coats come in various colors such as black, fawn, tan, brindle , and champagne. This results in a small, low-maintenance pup called the French Pomeranian or the French Pomerdog. Having this mix as a pet means having a loyal companion for life! However, owning a French Pomerdog comes with great responsibility. It requires patience and consistency in training. Barking is also very common for this mix due to its innate desire to protect. This makes French Pomerdogs decent watchdogs. A smaller variation of the French Pomerdog is also possible by breeding a teacup French Bulldog and teacup Pomeranian. It may also come in beautiful color variations, including black, white, tan, brown, and gray. Merle patterns from the French Bulldog parent are also possible. Much like its Golden Retriever parent, this intelligent mixed breed enjoys fetching balls and playing with children. They are also highly alert, making them great guard dogs for the family. For future owners, you should know that barking and even howling can be expected from the Golden Pomeranian. Meanwhile, one of the most consistent features of this mix is its long and fluffy golden coat. Because it has a double coat, it sheds more than Golden Retriever but probably less than its Pomeranian parent. Despite having very different parent breeds, this mix is expected to bring out the best characteristics of each parent dog. A Bluanian is usually intelligent, hardworking, protective, alert, and at the same time, very affectionate. Because of these traits, many owners regard them as great watchdogs for the family or even singles. Bluanians also inherit the compact body of the blue Heeler along with its short coat. They may sport its iconic blue color, but they can also exhibit Pomeranian colors. This designer dog is also as playful as its name. While the Akita is a quiet and aloof dog, the Pomeranian is quite the opposite. This mesh of personalities makes the Pomkita a great family dog. Even as an intelligent pup, it may be challenging to train. Therefore, an assertive owner with experience in handling such dogs should be the perfect match for the Pomkita. Chasing small animals is also a common habit of this hybrid. Due to the size difference between its parents — the Akita being the larger breed — Akita Pomeranian mixes typically stand at around 24 to 28 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 70 and pounds. Daily exercise in the form of running or walking is simply a must for Border Pomeranians. Dog sports such as agility and flyball are also good physical activities for these dogs. However, they will equally enjoy lying around the house with their owners all day. If left untrained, this pup can be a prolific barker. Since both parent breeds boast soft, double coats, Border Pomeranians are expected to exhibit the same trait. They also come in different colors, common to both Border Collies and Pomeranians. Some may even have a miniature Border Collie parent, which yields an even smaller version of this lovable mix. In most cases, the genetic material of the male Pomeranian is inserted into a female Labrador through artificial insemination. This Pomeranian mix loves being around people and may not do well being left outside. They are easy-going dogs that love nothing more than to be in the company of humans. With this, you can expect that there will be little to no barking in the household. Labrador Pomeranian mixes are loyal and intelligent pups with stunning looks. They may inherit thick, double coats with the colors of their Labrador parents. These include yellow, black, and chocolate. However, as cute as they are, this hybrid of a purebred blue-tongued Chow Chow and a Pomeranian tends to display alpha behavior. This means that owners should put more effort into training them to follow commands. With proper obedience training, they can easily become well-mannered dogs. In terms of maintenance, Chowpoms are considered high-maintenance since they inherit the long-haired genes from both parents. Regular brushing and bathing are necessary. Along with grooming requirements, these fluffy pups need a considerable amount of exercise each day to prevent destructive tendencies. The German Pomeranian is an excellent family companion, especially for those with children. However, they can be less friendly with other dogs. Early socialization is required for them to get along well with other pets and lessen barking tendencies. As for size, GSDs are known to be large breeds, while Pomeranians are toy dogs. With this, you can expect a German Pomeranian to be 14 to 19 inches tall and weigh between 26 to 49 pounds. This Pomeranian and Corgi mix is sure to captivate you with its looks and larger-than-life personalities! Most Corganians sport erect ears, wedge faces, and fluffy fur. They need daily exercise to release their pent-up energy. Trips to the dog park or walks around the neighborhood should be enough to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Corgi Poms are suited for families with older children. Due to their herding instincts, smaller kids may be rounded up by them, which can cause unwanted accidents. On most days, you may find them doing the famous sploot like its Corgi parent. Pomoxers usually showcase the calm yet playful demeanor of the Boxer. They may show dominant behavior , but this can easily be managed with disciplined training. Due to their big appetite, these dogs might also be prone to weight-related issues such as obesity. Make sure to feed them the correct food proportions every day. These dogs tend to be much smaller than Boxers with the facial features of their Pomeranian parent. As for coat color, they may inherit standard Boxer colors , including fawn, brindle , white , and black or other Pom colors. The table below shows a breakdown of the initial expenses of owning a Pomeranian mix puppy: Type of Expense. Both of these dogs can be friendly but personalities differ, so you never know. The Boxer is known for being intelligent, friendly, and devoted. All dogs need proper socialization and that will be a big factor in how they interact with others. What does this mixed breed look and act like? Is it more like the Boxer or the Pomeranian? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Boxer Pomeranian Mix. While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Boxer Pomeranian Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Boxer Pomeranian Mix puppies for sale. If you are interested in helping animal rescues raise money, please play our quiz. Each correct answer donates to help feed shelter animals. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. If you have a few minutes, please sign our petition to stop puppy mills. Boxer History Boxers are large, muscular, square-headed dogs that are extremely playful and have a lot of energy. The typical Boxer is intelligent, alert, and fearless, yet friendly. He's loyal to his family and loves to play with them, but he's also headstrong, especially if you try to use harsh training methods with him. They are extremely patient and gentle, especially with children. They are high energy dogs and need a lot of exercise. Because of their strength and courage, Boxers have a wide use in the military and the police, as well as search-and-rescue work. When specifically trained for guard work, Boxers are excellent watchdogs and will restrain an intruder in the same manner as a Mastiff. Boxers also excel in obedience, agility, and schutzhund a demanding three-phase competition event that tests the dog's tracking, obedience, and protection abilities. Boxers should not be left outdoors for extended periods of time. Their short nose doesn't cool hot air efficiently in the summer, and their short coat doesn't keep them warm in the winter. The Bullenbeisser had been used as a hunting dog for centuries to hunt bear, wild boar, and deer. They were trained to catch the prey and hold onto it until the hunters arrived. The Boxer we know today was developed in the late 19th century. Lehman of New York. Unfortunately, there weren't many female Boxers in the U. When Word War I broke out, Boxers were enlisted into the military, serving as messenger dogs, carrying packs, and acting as attack and guard dogs. Boxers started becoming popular in the U. Pomeranian History While it might not appear to be the cause, the Pomeranian breed has descended from large working dogs from the Arctic regions. The Pomeranian is considered to be descended from the German Spitz. The breed is thought to have acquired its name by association with the area known as Pomerania which is located in northern Poland and Germany along the Baltic Sea. Although not the origin of the breed, this area is credited with the breeding which led to the original Pomeranian type of dog. Proper documentation was lacking until the breed's introduction into the United Kingdom. A Pomeranian called "Lady", owned by Miss Margaret Hays, escaped with her owner in lifeboat number seven, while Elizabeth Barrett Rothschild took her pet to safety with her in lifeboat number six. Because a mix can inherit any combination fo traits from their parents, you do want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. If a Pomeranian Mix takes after their Pom parent, you can expect a small, fluffy companion that is affectionate, playful, and has a big personality. Poms tend to be active little dogs that love their families and are affectionate with them. They tend to do well with children, other pets, and other dogs. They can be suspicious of strangers, but they love attention so will warm up quickly as long as they have been properly socialized. Pomeranians are alert dogs that are prone to barking. If left unchecked, it can become an issue. By training your dog to stop barking early on, you can keep this from becoming a nuisance issue at home and also when out interacting with other people and dogs. If the other parent breed is known for having a similar temperament, then you can expect something similar from a Pom Mix. You do want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed as they will likely have their own quirks. Although the breeder should have started some socialization and training, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home to help them grow into a well-rounded dog. Pomeranians tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do well in most climates, but are very sensitive to heat. They adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes and do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Pomeranian Mix. However, you do still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed as they are likely to introduce their own set of quirks and traits. Good, reputable breeding practices matter. And, just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Pomeranian side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Pom Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, eye problems, hypothyroidism , epilepsy, and heart issues. They can also be prone to having allergies. As a small dog breed, they are also prone to developing dental disease. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests, clearances, or evaluations that have been done. Pomeranians are intelligent and generally easy to train. Even though this also makes it easy to train them into bad habits and housetraining can be difficult, they tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, you can expect something similar from a Pomeranian Mix. However, if the other parent breed has traits that make them more difficult to train, then you will need to be prepared for that possibility in a Pom Mix puppy. A mixed-breed can end up with a coat that is just like one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. If a Pom Mix ends up with a Pom coat, they will be fluffy, shed a bit year-round, shed more as the seasons change, need daily brushing, and need a monthly bath. Professional grooming is also recommended every weeks for a Pomeranian. Cutting nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. Daily brushing or daily use of an enzyme toothpaste paired with cleanings at the vet as needed are ideal dental care for dogs. Poms may be energetic little dogs, but they sit in a more moderate activity level. Daily walks plus some playtime are enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. If the other parent breed has a similar activity level, then you can expect the same from a Pom Mix. If the other parent breed has a higher or lower activity level, then you will want to make sure you are prepared for that potential range. Pomeranians are usually inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. So, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them. A Pomeranian generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in a Pom Mix. 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Gundog expert Jayne Coley summarises the early training routine that she followed with her own young labrador, Trade. Register for our newsletter To continue reading this content please register for our newsletter. You have to adapt your training to suit the type of puppy you have. The steps below summarise the training routine that I have followed with my young dog, Trade, who has an easy-going temperament. I began to train him properly in the New Year when he was 9 — 10 months old, though I usually wait until the shooting season is over when I have time to do a little each day on a regular basis. Step 1: Foundations By the age of 9 — 10 months, Trade had been toilet trained, knew his name and came back when I called him. He had been well socialised and behaved in company on a lead, was used to going out in my vehicle and had learned to swim. Trade has never been chastised for carrying something he should not, e. I then place the item out of reach. Crucially, by this age we had built up a good bond before formal training began. Step 2: Heelwork It was so wet and muddy at home so I started training on the patio and in our yard where the pup is restricted to a certain area and there are no distractions. We began with heelwork on the lead. To keep the exercise interesting, I walked in straight lines, did figures of eight, included the occasional tight turn and altered my pace. This all helped to keep Trade focused on what we were doing. If he didn't sit immediately, I repeated the command whilst pushing his bottom down with my left hand. Once confident with this routine, I put a lightweight collar on him and progressed to walking to heel off the lead, using my hands to encourage him to keep his head up and concentrate on me, when necessary. If he did move, I calmly walked up to him and, holding his collar, took him back to the exact spot he moved from in a quiet but positive manner. I slowly built up the distance until I could walk around him in a huge circle. Once he did this perfectly, I introduced the recall. Instead of always walking back to him, I would call him back to me, encouraging him to come straight to my hands which were cupped gently in front of my hips. Once I was happy with this, I began to mix up heelwork with sit and stay, and recall. When he didn't move, I quietly picked the dummy up myself. Gradually — over several days — I built on this until I could throw a couple of dummies, one at a time, over and around him and he remained steady. It is always important to lift the pup's top lip out of the way when you put a dummy in his mouth. Trade was reluctant to do this at first, but with patience and perseverance over several days, he accepted it. Slowly, I built on this until I could walk away backwards the length of the lead and call him to me, concentrating on perfecting a good delivery, using my hands to encourage him to bring the dummy right to me with his head held nice and high. Step 6: Retrieving Next, we worked on being sent for a retrieve. I then bent down and pointed my right hand towards the dummy whilst looking at the top of his head to make sure he was looking past my hand at it, before saying his name positively and at the same time letting go of one end of the lead so that he instinctively ran forward and picked the dummy. Initially, I sat back on my heels, which encouraged him to run straight back to me. Slowly we built on this until the lead was no longer needed. Sometimes I would send him for the dummy, sometimes I'd pick it up myself, or I'd walk him to heel in the opposite direction before sending him. On other occasions, I would stand well back from Trade and throw a dummy over his head, call him to me and then send him for the dummy from my position. I like to vary things as this keeps him interested and wondering what I am going to do next. He was at first a little unsure, so I repeated it in a lighter tone, to which he responded. In return, I praised him quietly. Always remember, training a dog is like building a house — it is imperative that the foundations are put down properly, otherwise, sooner or later, cracks will appear. Keep it light and encouraging when you praise, and low and gruff when you scold, so your puppy knows the difference. Especially if you have a boisterous puppy. Keep everything calm and relaxed, and do things in your time. What is the best age to start training a Lab puppy to work? This guide will answer all of your questions regarding when to start training a Lab puppy. It will combine my personal experience with that of other experts in the field, along with information from behavioral research, to guide you with your decision of when to start training a Labrador puppy of your own. Congratulations on your fluffy new bundle of joy. Labs gained their well-deserved place among favorite breeds for so many reasons. Enthusiastic companions, fast learners, loyal and brave, Labrador Retrievers are fantastic pets. How Puppies Learn In the natural canine world, mother dogs teach their pups everything they need to know about their world, survival and living together happily in various stages of development. Most professional trainers try to mimic the natural canine learning process in their puppy training phases. In fact, we only recommend positive training techniques. Rewards can include food, special treats, praise and petting, playing with a favorite toy, etc. Basic Training Concepts Every Puppy Should Learn The first two components of your puppy training should be thorough socialization and potty training. Here are a few tips with each of those early behaviors. Socialization actually refers to exposure to a wide range of situations and individuals. This goes for being around lots of different people, including children. While your pup is still impressionable and inquisitive, introduce her to friends, neighbors and strangers. Introduce her to children with careful instructions to stay quiet, move slowly and pet gently. They could end up grabbing her tightly, and scaring or hurting her. Being handled by other people will be very key in socializing your puppy. Your dog should be properly socialized to gentle and careful handling, teeth brushing, touching ears and paws and tail. This will make trips to the vet and groomer easier. Make sure to also check out our guide to taking puppies outside for more help with socialization. Crate Training for Dogs Crate training is the process of teaching your dog to love spending time secure in their cosy den. Some puppies basically crate train themselves, loving their crate from day one. Others need a more gradual introduction to this safe space. The trick is to not turn crating into a punishment , but instead make it a wonderful place to have a short undisturbed rest. Most puppies will go through a play biting phase, so if you need help training your lab not to nip, you can follow this guide. It will be important for your dog to sit quietly in the field or duck stand. Self-control should be incorporated throughout daily routines and all training phases. Finally, learning how to walk politely on a leash in public is important. In addition to the behaviors listed above, there are a few extra considerations for training a gundog. As early as 8 weeks old, professional gundog trainers begin introducing lab puppies to various scenarios. The core behavioral requirements for a gundog that can be started in puppies this young are: Thorough socialization and desensitization to various environments and sounds. Be sure to start with quieter sounds and build to louder sounds, especially when introducing the sound of gunfire, to avoid creating a frantic dog. Calmness and steadiness amidst distraction. The earliest introduction to this is teaching your pup to sit for his meals, which can be captured as early as six weeks. There are, however, two important considerations to your Lab puppy training. Before their leg bones are fully developed, Labs can develop joint issues if they run too hard and long. Second, resist the urge to play fetch and retrieve every day with your Lab puppy. They overdo it with tossing a ball or dummy to try to encourage the pup to retrieve. The retrieving instinct typically kicks in quite strong around puberty between five to 10 months. Instead, we suggest focusing on sit, stay and waiting quietly with self control. Those are the more difficult behaviors for a lab to learn once adolescent hormones kick in. Start with socialization and household manners as early as 8 weeks old. Then move to sit, stay, steadiness training, and walking on a leash between 12 and 18 weeks. Training is an ongoing life skill, rather than something you do once and consider done. For a hunting Lab, adding various distractions and practicing perfect recall in different environments will be the two biggest training techniques to work on throughout life. Enjoy your training! And yet, many new owners get so caught up in the cuteness of these bundles of fur that they disregard any training until the dog is much older. Sometimes new owners are just overwhelmed with taking care of their new puppy. Others lack the information needed to make good decisions regarding training for their new family member. Unfortunately, though, some bad behaviors or missed socialization and exposure opportunities are difficult to address with an older dog. So, if your goal is for you new retriever to eventually grow into an excellent duck dog, here is a guide to raising your Lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog. Picking up the puppy The journey with your new retriever pup starts the day you pick him or her up from the breeder. Hopefully you have done your homework and selected a litter of puppies with parents who have proven trainability. If you have a pick from the litter, you will want to take some time to observe the puppies. Even so, most trainers will tell you that picking a puppy is a complete crapshoot, meaning there really is no way to know how good the dog will be while looking at them as a puppy. Genetics and a proven pedigree are the best way to stack the odds in your favor from the start. Beyond that, if you have a good breeder, they are the next best source for information regarding the pups. A good breeder will give you a recommendation based on what you plan to use the pup for and your family situation. Check out this post on searching for a great retriever puppy and what to look for in breeders. If possible, bring someone with you to pick up the puppy. While you can put a puppy in a crate to transport them home, leaving the litter is a traumatic time for most puppies. Being held on the way home is a good way to start bonding with the puppy. Learn what to buy for your new Lab puppy. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. The first week raising your Labrador Retriever puppy There is very little training needed the first week you have your puppy home. Use this time to hold, pet and play with your new puppy. Bonding with the puppy is important and this is a good time to do that. You will likely be exhausted this week from getting up multiple times each night to let your puppy outside. Learn more in What should I do the first week with my new Lab puppy? Socialization is key for retriever gun dog puppies While socialization is important for all dogs, it is essential for retriever puppies destined to hunt. Socialization is the act of putting your retriever puppy in new situations and allowing the puppy to figure it out. Your puppy may handle new situations well, or she might show timid or frightened behaviors. This is not the time to coddle your future gun dog. Dogs are very aware of their owners and if you act or acknowledge your puppies fear, they will likely think you are scared too. This is the opposite of what we are trying to achieve with socialization. We want puppies to learn to adjust quickly to new situations. We want them to learn how to figure out new conditions and handle them without fear or hesitation. Puppies need to be socialized to people also. Let your puppy interact with people of all ages, including children. In addition, it can be helpful if they are also socialized to other dogs and cats. And yet we see too many retrievers with little to no retrieving desire. Sometimes this is just the result of bad breeding, but it can also be the result of poor introduction to retrieving or using the wrong items for retrieving. Many people like to play fetch with their puppy using a ball or Frisbee. But if your puppy is destined to be a hunting partner, this is going to make some retrieving problems down the line. We may use a ball to encourage a very young week old puppy to retrieve, IF, and only IF, the puppy is struggling with retrieving desire. Otherwise, we strongly discourage ongoing use of these items. Gun dogs and duck dogs are working dogs and they need to retrieve birds that fall to the ground. The rolling action of the ball or frisbee will create an excitement and energy that will make retrieving birds seem boring. We have found that dogs that have only retrieved balls or Frisbee often struggle when they need to retrieve a bumper or bird. We have an entire post on this subject, see How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Expose your Labrador puppy to common hunting elements A retriever that is going to be expected to hunt, should be introduced to hunting equipment and elements at an early age. Hills and mounds, flat areas and shallow divots are terrain that a hunting retriever should learn to traverse with ease. In addition to land, different water is also an important factor. Lakes are good, but you should also try to expose your puppy to dirty water. Water with lily pads, cat tails and algae are all things a duck dog will need to handle to work. Hunting equipment Labrador retriever puppies need to learn all about the equipment you use when hunting. Doing this when they are young and continuing the exposure as they grow, will make this second nature to them. Boats and blinds If you hunt out of a boat or blind, introduce your puppy to it. For boats, start on land. Get your puppy comfortable getting in and out of the boat. Throw retrieves from the boat. Similarly, introduce your dog to the blind as a good thing. If you are using a dog blind or hut, make sure your spend lots of time getting your pup comfortable going into and out of it. Make it a fun place to go to get retrieves. Duck or goose decoys If you will use decoys when hunting, take time to expose your puppy to them. Many times over the next few months, put some out on your lawn and let your puppy learn what they are. Eventually, move them to water and again allow your pup to explore them. Throw retrieves through them and teach the dog that he can ignore the decoys. Guns This is one of the most important things that you need to exposure your new puppy to. And it really needs to be done right. The last thing you want to do is create a gun-shy dog. That is very difficult to fix and the dog may never be able to hunt if the damage is too deep. Learn more about how to do this correctly in Introduction to gunfire. Basic obedience for your gun dog puppy Your puppy is ready to learn obedience early on, and you will find that if you start when they are only a couple months old, they will learn quicker and be more obedient as they age. This will make a huge difference as they get older. Teaching HERE to young pups will require a long lead. Squat down a few feet from your puppy and say HERE as you gently pull them to you. Praise is essential with young pups, but the praise should be given when the puppy does something right. For instance, you say SIT and push his bottom down. You can use treats to teach your puppy obedience and reward him or her for obeying commands. But treats should only be used for very young puppies under 4 months. Many Labs will soon learn to only obey when given a treat, that is not the lesson you want your dog to learn. It can be difficult to discipline a cute little puppy, but it is essential. Here at Otter Tail Kennels, we get more than our share of calls from people whose puppies are out of control and causing problems in the home. The pups are causing friction in the family relationships. Small issues often become much larger issues if they remain uncorrected. If you see your puppy doing something wrong, you need to take action to let him know that the behavior is not acceptable. Final thoughts on raising a lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog The time to start training your Labrador puppy to be a duck or gun dog is now. Right away. Even if you plan to send your retriever puppy to a professional trainer in the future, you still want to take the time to socialize, expose, teach and discipline your dog now. Each week your puppy is growing and learning, and those first five months are the perfect time to get him or her off on the right foot. The socialization, exposure, and obedience are all steppingstones they need to advance in their role as a hunting partner. Do not skimp or disregard this time. You can give your ultimate duck dog some essential skills — the ability to adjust to every and all situations with ease. Nothing could be more important. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. Raising a lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog. Obedience First The most common deficiency in the average hunter's gundog training program is a lack of emphasis on obedience and steadiness. If I could persuade the average gundog owner to do one thing better as a trainer, it would be to spotlight obedience and emphasize the non-retrieve. The non-retrieve is when the pup sees a bird or dummy fall but doesn't get to retrieve it. The trainer or another dog retrieves it while the pup watches. We took a wrong turn somewhere in the evolution of training and now go about the retrieving and steadying processes in a totally illogical manner. We take a young dog and give him hundreds of retrieves with no restraint. For the first thousand retrieves, we encourage the dog to take off at will after the falling dummy. Then, after we have him well trained to break, we change the rules and decide to make him steady-which requires a certain amount of punishment to counteract the breaking behavior we have just trained. The sequence should be reversed. Train the pup on obedience first, and train him to be steady by teaching him to expect to be steady. This is done with non-retrieves. As soon as the pup is proficient at basic obedience, the "stay" drill should include some falling dummies. While he's sitting, toss out a dummy or two. Then go and pick up the dummies while he watches. If you are picking up 75 percent of what the pup sees fall, then he doesn't expect to retrieve everything that drops from the sky. He becomes steady, with little effort and no punishment. Additionally, he develops into a calm, pleasant hunting companion. The same principle applies to the older dog in hunting situations. If you send the dog immediately every time a bird falls, then you are training him to break. Make his life easier by making him wait. When duck hunting, wait until you have several ducks on the water before you send your pup to retrieve. Unless wind or current is carrying off the ducks, it won't hurt them to float for a half hour. If you are shooting doves, pick up the short, easy ones yourself. Let your pup sit for minutes before he is sent for the difficult retrieves. The exception, of course, is the crippled bird, for which you must send the pup quickly to reduce the odds of escape. The practice of delayed retrieving also pays dividends by making it easier for your pup to learn hand signals and blind retrieves. If you have four or five dead ducks on the water that have been there a while, your pup is not going to remember exactly where they are. He knows they are there and will eagerly cast off in their general direction, but his certainty will waver and he will be prone to seeking help from you. Conversely, when you engage in the practice of immediately sending your pup on every fall, you are training him in self-reliance. When he's launched on the splash, he knows exactly where that bird is and will quickly pick it up. After he's found several hundred birds all by himself, it is going to become difficult to convince him that he needs help from you in the form of hand signals. Coming on Command One of the most common obedience problems is failure to come on command. This is as prevalent in young, green dogs as breaking is in older hunting dogs. Both problems stem from a lack of obedience. If a dog is well trained to heel, sit, stay and come, he'll do nearly anything you want. The problem lies in the definition of "well trained. That means he will respond properly when the neighbor's cat walks by, when another dog is playing next to him and even when shotguns are going off and ducks are falling. Too Much Dog The average hunter appears to be "overdogged," or to have a dog that is too hot for him to handle. I place the blame for this on our field-trial system. Our retriever field trials were brought over from England in the early s, along with the golden and Labrador retrievers. The trials were small and very representative of a day's shooting, and the skills judged were those that had value to the hunting dog and hunter. The trials emphasized game-finding ability, softness of mouth and calmness of demeanor. The typical Labrador retriever of 30 or 40 years ago was a gentle, calm dog. Today, an unfortunately large number of Labradors are hyperactive and difficult to train. The basic reason for this shift in breeding selection appears to be our field-trial system. Unfortunately, our field trials-mainly because of increasing entries-have evolved over the years into elimination contests that evaluate skills that are of little importance in a hunting dog. These behaviors include lining, angle entries into water, pinpoint marking and precise handling at long distances. Gone by the wayside are line manners and obedience, as well as game-finding initiative. Moreover, training precision lining and long-distance handling require a great deal of repetition and some degree of punishment. The dog that excels at these skills tends to be hyperactive, with a high pain threshold, which is exactly the type of dog we are breeding today. Electric Collars The electric collar, which can create as many problems as it solves, is becoming far too predominant a training tool. The electric collar is a great training tool in the hands of a good trainer. However, there is an astronomically greater number of electric collars than there are good trainers. The truth is, in order to train a dog with the electric collar, you must be able to train him without it. The collar does not magically impart the knowledge and skills of dog training to the guy holding the transmitter. Most folks buy an electric collar to solve a basic obedience problem, and they generally end up abusing the dog and not solving the problem, or trading one problem for an even bigger one. Proper training can solve nearly all problems in basic obedience, and you don't need an electric collar to do so. Selective Breeding We have forgotten the basic goals of breeding selection and have embarked on a course of producing better dogs by training rather than breeding. The Labrador is the breed I most commonly work with, and I am alarmed at the trends I see. It has become the general custom to force-fetch train every dog. This corrects any tendency to drop birds, mouth birds or run off to the bushes with birds. It also masks the genetic tendencies toward those behaviors. We are now masking with training the major trait that we spent a hundred years developing through selective breeding-namely, delivery to hand with a soft mouth. If we take a hard-mouthed dog and put him through the force-fetch program so that he delivers gently to hand, then he will behave like a great dog. We may even make him a field champion through superior training. However, his puppies will still have that genetic tendency toward hard mouth, and we will be going backwards in the selective-breeding process. Two other examples of behaviors that have a very significant genetic component that we mask with training are: Hyperactivity We train the hyperactive dog to be under control and be a gentleman. The electric collar is quite popular for this. Put a hyperactive dog in the hands of a good trainer with an electric collar and that dog will make an excellent gun dog or field-trial dog, but his puppies probably will inherit the same hyperactivity. His puppies will be just as difficult to train as the sire was. Cooperative Nature We generally characterize these dogs as "soft" and tend to give them away as pets when they flunk the electric-collar program. Thus we are tending to remove from the breeding pool dogs that exhibit this valuable trait. This trait of "cooperative nature" is of extreme importance to the average hunter, because the average hunter is usually quite unfamiliar with dog training. The gist of all this is that the average hunter is low in dog-training skills, which is as it should be. The community of dog experts should be promoting the selective breeding of a dog that the average hunter can train and enjoy. We should not be breeding a dog with a bundle of genetically transmitted behavioral tendencies that make him difficult to train into a good working dog. The average hunter should not have to get a Ph. We probably need to look back to England for solutions. They still have the same field trials they had 80 years ago, still selectively breed for major traits and still get rid of dogs that lack a cooperative nature and predisposition toward trainability. I, for one, get my personal dogs from England. They are calm, cooperative and pleasant to live with, and they find all the birds I shoot. I've gotten lazy and prefer a dog that has gotten most of the required talents through selective breeding. Continue Reading. Selecting Your Retriever Puppy I usually suggest you turn your back to the litter of pups, back up, reach down and grab a pup, to choose a Labrador puppy to train as a gun dog. I look for tail position. A dog with its tail sticking straight out vertically or just slightly vertical is more than likely in the middle spectrum of attitude and will be trained easily. Also, from seven-weeks old to six-months old is when a puppy develops his personality. The primary reason a puppy or a dog becomes gun-shy is improper training. I train a puppy to not be gun-shy like this: I have a. When I fire the pistol, the blast from the pistol shoots the dummy up in the air. This part of the drill teaches the puppy how to look for a bird and watch it fall. So, with this little simple drill, the dog has learned that when it hears gunfire and looks up in the air, the puppy will see something flying or falling. It has also learned that when the dummy hits the ground out in front of it, if the dog retrieves that dummy, the dog will be praised and petted. That puppy will learn to be steady and sit calmly, until I give it the command to release it to pick up the dummy and bring it to me. Everything about training a retriever is built on the foundation of obedience training, which is the first course in training a retriever. This training teaches the young dog that everything he sees up in the air when a shot goes off, and everything that falls to the ground is not his to go and retrieve. Once again, every step of training a retriever is built on the obedience training that dog has learned. Can you help my dog not be gun-shy? When I walked him around the block, one of my neighbors was having a new roof put on - using those air-gun type staplers to staple the shingles to the roof. When he saw and heard that racket - bang, bang, bang, bang, bang! We had the gun-shy dog sit 50 yards from the dummy launcher and launched a dummy. So, I kept him here at the house. Next, I had him sit beside me, got the pistol we used for a dummy launcher - without a shell in the pistol - and cocked the hammer, pulled the trigger and dry-fired the dummy launcher. Then while I stayed with the dog, my assistant fired the pistol that launched the dummy toward us. The dog would go pick up the dummy and bring it to me. More than a month was required for us to go through this process of getting the dog to where he was steady when a gun was fired near him, and we could send him out to retrieve the dummy. I tell all the people I train for to not do that. The best way to introduce a dog to working with a hunter and to the loud sounds of shooting is not to take your dog with numbers of other hunters - especially the first time you take your dog to a duck blind. Work your dog, and let your friend do the shooting. That way, your dog knows that someone he loves his handler is sitting right beside him when the gun goes off, and that nothing bad will happen to him. If he sees a duck fall, send him to retrieve it, and then praise him and pet him. I think training a retriever mainly requires using common sense. If you begin throwing a dummy, sending the young dog to get it, taking the dummy out of its mouth when the dog brings it back to you and keep throwing that dummy, your dog will tire out. A better way to start teaching a pup to retrieve is: go to a hallway in your house, shut all the doors leading into any rooms along the hallway, and then sit the puppy between your legs. Then, release the pup. He should run down the hall and pick up the rolled-up sock. When you take the sock from the pup, make the pup sit between your legs, put your left hand on it, throw the sock, and let the pup retrieve it. One or two of those exercises per day with a young dog will get that young pup started on the right road to being a retriever. Obedience training is the foundation for all the other skills that the dog needs to learn. We begin with food bowl training. Usually a good pup will learn this first step of obedience training within days of practice. In our outside kennels at this writing in October, , we have 10 dogs. This sit command not only teaches the dog to sit when the command is given, but it also is communicating to the dog that we want him to sit and be steady - not be moving and not fidgeting. Each of the commands we teach in basic training has connections to the rest of the commands that the dog will need to learn to be a fully-trained retriever. Then, you can walk anywhere without your dog running off or having to be called back. I truly enjoy retriever training, because I can watch a dog go from a pup to a well-trained working dog in a relatively short time. Or call Bill Gibson at or email him at bgibson mossyoak. It's important to keep your new hunting buddy safe. You've invested time, money, and your heart into your partner, so keep him or her safe in the car with a Gunner Kennel. We don't leave home without it. This guarantees that their pup will be admitted into our program on the first day of the month after the pup turns six months of age. All pups from other kennels are considered "outside pups". Because demand for training pups that were purchased from Mossy Oak Gamekeeper Kennels is extremely high, our kennel space is very limited. Since assurance is given to our clients that their pups will be given priority for training slots, we will only take "outside" pups when we can reasonably assure ourselves that kennel space will be available for a sufficient length of time to properly train the pup. Our hunting dog training program is designed to encompass four levels of training. Once the pup has been introduced to real-life hunting situations, we would then classify a pup as a true "started gun dog" ready for the next two levels of training. At the end of this phase, the dog will walk at heel on lead, sit on the whistle, stay on command, recall on the "here" command, and will make single retrieves out to and beyond thirty 30 yards on both land and water. The dog will remain steady until sent for the training dummy and deliver to hand. The dog will also be properly introduced to gunfire. Gunfire will be the norm for marks and the dog will be steady to wing and shot. Also, the pup will begin the first steps of stopping on the whistle, leading to remote handling in more advanced levels of training. Again, the heel, sit, stay, place, and here commands continue to be reinforced. The dog will be worked out to seventy-five 75 yards on marks, trailing memories, and blinds. In addition, the dog will be reinforced to stop on the whistle, recall on the whistle and introduced to basic hand signals. All training at this level is done off lead and steadiness is the norm. Emphasis will have been on reinforcement of basic obedience and hand signals to the point that they have become conditioned habits. Many factors impact these estimates, many of which are owner induced. These issues can take from a few days to several weeks or more to address and correct. That is why we highly recommend that the new owners stick to our guidelines in dealing with the puppy during the interval between go home day and six months to bring the pup up to its maximum potential without creating issues. Must be micro-chipped. Must be current on Bordetella vaccination. Must be current on Rabies vaccination. Must test negative for intestinal coccidia, giardia, whip worms, round worms, and tape worms. Must test negative for ticks and fleas and be on a regular monthly preventative. Must test negative for heartworms and be on a regular monthly preventative. Must test negative for Lyme disease and be vaccinated for the same. Dogs not meeting these criteria will not be accepted into the training program.