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However, we are not huge fans of the fact that there are no fruits and vegetables from whole food sources, and that many of the meats are very generally labeled, meaning they could be made from sub-par animal parts. Overall, Victor puppy food may work as a high protein, supplemental food but we do not recommend it as a regular every-day kibble for French Bulldog puppies. Though most of these grains are healthy whole food sources, for the finicky Frenchie tummy, excessive grains can lead to gastrointestinal distress. The few wholesome fruits and vegetables in this food are way down at the very bottom of the ingredient list. Food made from mostly grains and added vitamins and minerals is a cheap way to give your dog food that is good enough, but not by a lot. Quite frankly, we do not think the price tag and possibility of digestive upset to your puppy is worth this mediocre-quality food. Pros First ingredient is chicken meal No artificial dyes or preservatives DHA and antioxidants for healthy eyes Cons Few whole food ingredients besides grains Most good oils, minerals, and vitamins are additives 7. However, the lack of quality in the rest of their ingredients leaves a lot to be desired. Plus, no fruits or vegetables means that your puppy will not get the benefit of most of those added vitamins and minerals. Can I feed my French Bulldog puppy raw meat? Yes, just remember to remove any small bones that could stick in the throat or shatter. The best meats for a French Bulldog are lean meats including chicken, turkey, duck, rabbit, quail, and a variety of fish. Meats like beef and pork are fine in smaller amounts but may contribute to obesity if they overindulge. Can I feed my French Bulldog peanut butter? Our puppy testers love the occasional peanut butter treat! What foods are safe for a French Bulldog puppy with diarrhea, constipation, or an upset stomach? If your pup has digestive upset, your best bet is to feed them super simple and easy-to-digest food. Nutritious, soothing foods for a Frenchie belly include rice brown is best! Substitute tablespoons of their kibble with one of those, cooked and unseasoned, for a fiber-rich, nutritious aid to their digestion. A good starting point for French Bulldogs aged 8 to 12 weeks is .These pups are notoriously fast eaters, which can cause all kinds of digestion issues, so smaller meals a day will help their belly do its job better. As they grow you will need to gradually increase this amount and can decrease the number of meals over which you stretch that amount. Do French Bulldog puppies need a special diet? Unfortunately, French Bulldogs are prone to developing food allergies and gastrointestinal issues. That means you need to pay extra attention to the ingredients in your choice of puppy food and, if necessary, search out brands with fewer ingredients that are higher quality. Being small dogs, they also mature faster and can become obese more easily than larger breeds. Nutrition for a French Bulldog Puppy Just like humans, dogs are omnivores and need a variety of nutrients from both animal and plant sources. Stick to lean meats for a French Bulldog, as your puppy will grow quickly and could put on extra weight if fed too much fat-rich meat. With the proper amount of fat in their diet, your French Bulldog will see benefits like flexible and resilient paw pads and nose, as well as a healthy coat and skin. The sensitive tummy of the French Bulldog often has trouble with simple carbs, like sugars and starches, which digest quickly and for a fast burst of energy. Most whole fruits, vegetables, and grains are complex carbohydrates that give your dog a steadier supply of energy. Complex carbs are much better for your French Bulldog puppy, as opposed to simple, because they are far more nutritionally dense and often fiber-rich. Common high fiber ingredients in dog food include rice, corn, oats, other grains, and a plethora of fruits and veggies. For a pup with a notoriously sensitive stomach, it is particularly important that the fiber-rich ingredients in the food be of superior quality and carefully chosen. Vitamins and Minerals Your French Bulldog puppy will also need an array of vitamins and minerals to support various important functions within their body. They are most bioavailable when your dog consumes whole foods that contain these nutrients. Major minerals for good health include phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and sulfur. Whole foods are minimally processed which makes them easier to digest and helps retain all the good and healthy nutrients they contain. That means you should be on the lookout for awesome ingredients like: Chicken or turkey Fruits, like banana and blueberries Vegetables, such as carrot and broccoli Specifically named fats from whole food sources, like salmon oil and chicken fat Organically grown foods, so no pesticides or nasty chemicals And French Bulldog puppies will benefit specifically from foods such as: Brown rice, a higher quality grain that is good for sensitive stomachs and easy to digest Sweet potato and pumpkin, which aid digestion Lean proteins like fowl, fish, and eggs Unhealthy Ingredients in French Bulldog Puppy Food Unfortunately, not all dog foods are created equal. Some brands talk big on the bag or can and regale you with mumbo jumbo about wolves or try to sell you on all the benefits of their food. Remember, dog food packaging is like the sales pitch meant to sell their food to you. Even though the information on the package cannot be technically false or misleading, it is still an advertisement. Stay skeptical and focus on the ingredients list. Wheat by-product? Hold your horses, what the heck does that even mean and why would I want to put it in my belly? Here are some common, poor quality ingredients that many companies use simply because they are cheaper: Brewers rice castoffs and fragments of processed white rice. Preparing for your French Bulldog puppy Here is the list of things you must have before your puppy comes home: The food that I start my puppies on occasionally changes as I search for the very best products. At this time my highest recommendation is to feed a raw meat diet which consists of muscle meats, bone, organ, vegetables, and supplements to ensure your new family members berst health and longevity. You fill find these in the freezer sections of boutique pet stores. You are welcome to supplement with kibble for those times when the food is not defrosted in time, for travel, and other unforeseeable circumstances. Goat milk kefir or yogurt not cows milk! I wean my puppies onto water by 8 weeks old, however I do recommend to have a quart on hand during the transition period just in case. If not used, it can be frozen for later use or your can drink it yourself. Its very easy to digest and puppies absolutely love it! Instead choose freeze dried raw meat treats. These can be ordered online through chewy. Enzymatic cleaner for tidying up potty accidents. Regular bowls work fine but if you would like to go the extra mile there are special bowls designed specifically for brachycephalic breeds which helps slow down eating and therefore swallowing less gas and creating less gas and less chances for over eating and then throwing up those can be purchased online. Raised bowls are an extra plus! Spending all that time bent over a bowl can be painful on the joints. A raised bowl will keep proper body conformation and promote correct position of joints. Choose durable toys and generally stay away from plushies as these can be easily torn apart and the fluff inside is easy to choke on. Edible chews are okay too, just no bleached rawhide as this is toxic. They make both a vitamin-mineral wafer as well as a joint support wafer. I recommend both. Please use my breeders code for a discount on your order: nuvet. Making food available during specific intervals during the day will make bowel movements more predictable, because they typically poop within 20 minutes after eating. You can start to take away food earlier each evening to have less bowel movements over night. If feeding kibble, I highly recommend taking a moment to boil and mash some carrots. This will help to keep their digestive system settled during the stressful transition between homes. If you choose to add any additional supplements, just follow the packaging instructions. If your puppy eats all of it and seems to still be hungry, mix them another portion. There is no need to measure or count calories at this point. Growing puppies need a lot of energy, just like growing children. I will always and forever recommend only raw unprocessed diets for this breed. If this is the case I highly recommend adding canned food from the same brand. I mix this thoroughly until there are no chunks left and the mixture is uniform otherwise they will pick out the chunks and leave the kibble behind. Try not to mix other cooked meat into your kibble otherwise your puppy will never eat kibble without meat. If you are okay with cooking daily for your puppy, then by all means add cooked meat and vegetables into their kibble. Please do not feed beef or chicken based products. If you elect to feed cooked meat, choose organic turkey only at this young age. I always have clean water available day and night. If your puppy is experiencing separation anxiety and not wanting to eat then you can offer goats milk kefir or yogurt as well as egg yolks. Goats milk kefir and egg yolks are hard for puppies to resist and it will provide both hydration and calories. Your French Bulldog puppy should be kept on the diet they were started on for a few months, as changes from what they are used to can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. I am enthusiastically happy to share any resources and guide you on a diet change to raw meat feeding: French Bulldog Puppy Hygiene Your puppy does not need to be bathed unless visibly dirty. DO NOT allow water to enter the ears! Frenchie ears are erect and open, so its easy to water to get in. In addition to this, ears are dark and warm perfect for bacteria or fungus. Dry the ears thoroughly after each bath and walks in the rain and avoid allowing water near the head in general. For cleaning the ears on a regular basis weekly or more frequently I like to use cotton pads soaked in a specifically formulated cleaning solution called Ph Notix. The Ph Notix does an excellent job of melting the ear wax for an easy wipe away. Though, coconut oil, colloidal silver, and any vet prescribed ear cleaner can be used as well. Clip nails monthly at a minimum. The more frequently nails are clipped, the shorter they will become. Same applies to their tail pocket. Puppies don't typically have tail pockets, but as they matures this feature can develop. The most important step is to very thoroughly dry your puppy whenever they are wet! I check this area with each bath, and completely dry the paws especially in between the toes after each bath and each time they get wet. If you notice redness between the toes, then it is likely yeast. I personally do not brush the teeth of my dogs, and have never had a dental issue. Providing large raw real bones for chewing will naturally clean the teeth and this is something that I give all of my dogs. However if you are keen on doing so, daily brushing will provide additional protection to your dogs teeth. There are special savory flavored tooth pastes just for dogs available to make this task more enjoyable for your puppy. As a preventative measure you can also add a specially formulated probiotic into their water to support dental health called TEEF. I administer these vaccines at home in a single dose containing all five strains of virus. I use the brand name Duramune Max and I special order these to be delivered to be via one-day-air on ice to ensure their viability. This initial dose is given once your Frenchie turns at least 7 weeks old. Please wait a minimum of 3 weeks to give the next booster vaccines. This is very important, I do not recommend the leptospirosis vaccine due to a high rate of adverse reactions. It is not necessary unless your French Bulldog puppy will be in frequent contact with wildlife or livestock and you live in an area where leptsospirosis is rampent. Bordetella can be given at 10 weeks old and rabies can be given once your puppy is a minimum of 3 months old. I also give my adult French Bulldogs a booster of Bordetella kennel cough as well as canine influenza vaccine once each flu season. Deworming Simply due to the nature of puppies, I recommend you submit a fecal sample during your initial vet visit. I deworm the entire litter multiple times before coming home to you. But please understand that puppies are messy creatures. Puppies also put absolutely everything in their mouths including each others paws. So please understand its likely that you may need to continue one last treatment of dewormer when your puppy comes home, even if they are having solid poops. All of my mamma dogs are dewormed before and after having their litters as well to reduce exposure to internal parasites. Additionally I deworm all of my adult dogs twice yearly with a combination of metronidazole and fenbendazole, or drontal plus. Certain parasites like giardia are extremely difficult to eradicate in our cool and wet climate. Giardia will live in the soil and water and can be spread through wild animals coming through your yard as well. Adult dogs with strong immune systems will develop antibodies to giardia and will have no symptoms. Puppies who test positive for giarida may or may not have symptoms. I personally have never had a flea or tick problem with any of my dogs in all my years of breeding and I choose not to treat my pets with pesticides. Pesticides are teratogenic and can cause birth defects as well as neurologic disorders such as seizures. Personally I would only consider one dose of oral NexGuard during the hottest month of Summer when these parasites are most active in my geological area. Each individual dog and household must weight the risks and benefits to use or not to use pesticides based on their personal circumstances and geological area. I understand you might live in an area with a known problem with these external parasites or might be living on a farm where it will be necessary to keep them under control. There are many different kinds of medications that can be used but they treat different things, some are applied topically, some given orally, some work for one month and others up to 8 months, and some medications will also treat internal parasites in addition to external. For puppies under six months old the oral medication NexGaurd can be given for fleas and ticks, as well as off-label for mites. A third kind of treatment is a Seresto collar which is a collar made from a special material that is filled with medication that is slowly released and absorbed by your dog. My brother who lives on a farm finds favor with this method and it can be used as early as 7 weeks of age. Ridgefield, Washington. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! Regardless, it is best to feed your puppy their old food for at least two weeks if you can. Then, you want to swap the proportions. After a few days, you can give your puppy only the new food. The most common is diarrhea. It might be worth a trip to the vet if your pup starts throwing up their meals, refuses to eat, or has allergic reactions to the new food. French Bulldog Puppy Diets French Bulldog puppy diets may consist of kibble, wet food, raw food , or homemade food. Each of these has pros and cons. Some pet owners go all in and make their own dog foods. This can get complex, as, with raw or homemade food, you have to be sure to give your dog all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. It is also typically more expensive than prepared meals kibble or wet food. However, the benefits might be important if done correctly. You know exactly what your dog is eating, no questions asked. Frenchies often have allergies and sensitive tummies. So you should avoid foods with too much protein but make sure meat is still the first ingredient! Also avoid or limit grains, soy, and wheat, as these are common allergens. The number of calories your puppy needs will depend on their age, weight, and exercise levels. Different types of food will also have different calorie levels. For example, they will generally need to eat more wet food than kibble for a balanced meal, because canned food has fewer calories. At the start of the day, weigh out the right amount on some scales and divide it between five bowls. Four of these will make up regular meals spread throughout the day, the final bowl is for you to put aside to use as training treats or to reward good behavior. This will help you to resist the temptation to use higher carb training treats. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy Kibble The most affordable option, when considering both your time and money, is kibble. The most time-consuming and expensive are raw and homemade diets. You can find it easily at the store, and your only prep time will be to open it and pour it into a bowl. The biggest con is that there are some low-quality brands of kibble out there. As in any business, some are just in it for the money. However, these disadvantages can be overcome by choosing a high-quality brand. Look out for formulas specifically tailored for French Bulldogs. Specialized recipes are carefully shaped to help them out. Another good thing about wet food is that it keeps your dog hydrated. However, due to the water in wet food, it has fewer calories. Your pup will need to eat more wet food than dry food, making it the more expensive of the two. Wet food is also messier than dry, especially if your pup is a messy eater. It also takes time to prepare as you will need to buy the ingredients individually, and prepare the meals. Raw food also requires more clean-up time than any other food. Feeding a French Bulldog Puppy a Homemade Diet Feeding a puppy a homemade diet has many of the same pros and cons of feeding raw. Homemade food with properly cooked meats is less risky than a raw diet. It will still be costly and time-intensive though. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings! French Bulldog Puppy Weight Chart Your French Bulldog puppy should eat more protein and less carbs The French bulldog is a breed of dogs prone to various health issues because of their genes. To help them live a better life, it is important to provide them with nutritious meals that include all the essential things that their body needs. Frenchies are classed as a brachycephalic breed of dog, which means that they have a very short muzzle and are flat-faced. This shape of the face makes it really hard for them to breathe, so they have to be fed a diet that is high in protein and low in carbs. French bulldog puppies need food that contains protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. Frenchies can potentially suffer from a condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome, or BASS. BASS can lead to a variety of health issues. Commercially prepared food seems to be the most convenient but be wary about the ingredients and chemicals that are mixed in this food. In choosing commercially prepared foods, watch out and avoid preservatives like ethozyquin, butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , and butylated hydroxytoluene BHT that are common to mass-produced food. They may also contain lots of sugar that is also not good for your Frenchie puppy. It is up to you to choose whether you go for commercially prepared food or if you want to create a healthy homemade meal for your Frenchie. Combine quality meat, vegetables and some sources of vitamins and minerals. You can prepare either a cooked dish or a raw meal for your Frenchie. Food Allergies Of Your French Bulldog Puppy Food allergies are also quite common to Frenchies so you have to be very careful with what to feed them and be very observant about the allergy symptoms. They may come from products such as beef, chicken, fish, corn, wheat, soy, lamb, and eggs. The only way to know what your Frenchie is allergic to is through trial and error. To cope with the growth spurts that the Frenchies experience, frequent feedings is best. Owners need to feed their puppies with a well-balanced meal, 3 times a day. They should also be properly hydrated to ensure continuous and healthy growth. Remember that it is not enough that your Frenchie is eating, the quality of food you feed also greatly affects their health. A great option is to feed them wet food as well as dry food. Feeding your French bulldog is essential for their health and well-being. They need a well-balanced diet to prevent health problems like obesity and diabetes, which can shorten their life expectancy. Pups do not need to eat very often; however, they should be fed at least once every 12 hours. Always have fresh water available and consider purchasing a water fountain for your dog that can also dispense tiny treats. When it comes to feeding your puppy, many people wonder what should be in their food. The answer ultimately depends on the type of puppy food you buy.

All dog foods are not created equal. Make sure that you ask your vet for the latest recommendations at every veterinarian appointment as we are continually learning about new research and best species appropriate recommendations to optimize your dogs health and longevity! We offer our recommendations and advise based on the current information and experience we have accumulated over the years. Your vet may have new recommendations based on the latest research studies which are ongoing. We have a special discount code for you too! You usually see fewer stools as well. The cost of the food may initially seem high, but usually, you are feeding less than you would if you were purchasing a grocery store food. Your dog is a loved family member and deserves to be fed a quality rich food that will keep him or her in the best possible health for a very, very long time! Recommended Puppy Food feeding schedule All stages food and what we are feeding the puppies. We recommended Royal Canin Puppy G. WATER: give the first drinking water 40 mins after food, then freshwater all day. As the puppy grows give puppy more food. Water: Make sure your puppy always has lots clean water, we do a quart or more for a puppy and change-out 5 times daily. Your pup will go potty about 15 to 20 minutes after eating. Not with mealtime, about 4 times a weekly. Better than fish oil or most supplements. You can give organic cooked sweet potato ONLY about -1 tablespoon with cooked hamburger meat meatball size 3 or 4 times a month for extra nutrition. Introducing new protein sources with different flavors is important for a good dog diet. Best to give as a treat for a week with any new food , also especially introducing rich treats always start small and gradually then add more to puppy -dogs normal foods. Our dogs love Rawbble Beef as a supercharged treat! See lots of fun photos and videos of our GorgeousDoodles families on our Pics and Vids page , and on our YouTube and Facebook accounts! Is your puppy bored? Or maybe your puppy is bored of the standard puppy toys from the store? Well, we have good news! You can get some boredom busters today! Keep reading our 10 best games, toys, and treats for Labradoodle puppies. These are tried and true. And at the end, we will give you tips on keeping your puppies entertained. We all know that Labradoodles are smart little cookies. Puzzles like the one by Nina Ottoson are an excellent introduction. And even this puzzle has two difficulty levels, so your puppy can enjoy hours of fun. It might take a few tries until your puppy understands the concept of the game. But once your pup figures it out, he will get quicker. Then you can turn the pieces around to make it more difficult. Once your puppy has mastered this puzzle, there are tons of other options to choose from. The Nina Ottoson puzzles are of excellent quality and last a lifetime. Having a few of these up your sleeve to rotate is a fantastic way to keep your Labradoodle puppy on her toes. Your puppy will love patting around the Bob-A-Lot for entertainment and treats. These toys are great to give your puppy a little mental stimulation when you are away. Your puppy will have hours of entertainment. The Bob-A-Lot also has an adjustable opening to make it more difficult. You could fill this toy with food, treats, or even raw vegetables. You hide treats throughout the mat, and your puppy uses his nose to find them. And we love that these mats are portable. Plus, they are easy to wash and reuse for years to come. You can load this ball up with food or treats, and your puppy will adore it. So you can easily persuade even the most stubborn puppy with them. The Superfood Dog Treats are the best Labradoodle puppy treats on the market. They are packed with vitamins and nutrients to keep your puppy feeling strong. And as a bonus, these snacks come in so many different flavors. Your Labradoodle puppies are brilliant and love to solve problems. When you get them puzzles like the Suwikeke Dog Puzzle, you are training their minds. These puzzles also work with relieving stress and separation anxiety. So when your puppy figures out how to use it, you can upgrade and have a puzzle rotation. These puzzles work by placing a treat inside the compartment, and your Labradoodle shifts the pieces to reveal them. Keep them guessing and using their noses by leaving some empty. These treats are healthy, low calorie, and smell great. These treats are even great for training! They get anxious and become destructive. Nothing is wrong with Labradoodle puppies. They just have a little separation anxiety sometimes. And as your puppy grows, so can their Tug-A-Jug. This toy comes in sizes ranging from extra-small to large. So your Labradoodle will always have their favorite activity. This toy is a tough chewer treat and meal dispenser. You can use it to slow down fast eaters or as a busy toy. And it might just become one of his new favorites. You will love the entertainment it gives and that you can easily toss it in the dishwasher. Are Labradoodles High Maintenance? You might be looking at this list and think that Labradoodle puppies are too much work. But in reality, taking care of a puppy of any breed is just like caring for a toddler. You have to train them, exercise them, and teach them wrong from right. Every puppy could benefit from a toy rotation with boredom busters mentioned above. Labradoodles are intelligent dogs who need lots of mental stimulation throughout the day. So the best way to combat boredom is to have a variety of toys that you switch out once a week. We love getting plastic shoe boxes to make this easier, one box for every week of the month. Each box has toys in it that your puppy only plays with when they are alone. And every week, they get a new variety of toys. Keeping to toys only for occasions when you are gone makes the toys unique. And since they only get those toys for a week a month, they are like new again when the next month comes around. So it also saves you money and time. Of course, Labradoodles like to play fetch! Your Labradoodle puppies would be just as happy with a tennis ball as with any other toy on this list. You can use just about any toy as a fetch toy as well. Stuffed animals, teethers, and balls alike are some favorites. Fetch is an excellent Labradoodle puppy game to bond with your dog. It also burns energy and releases tension. And you have to remember that Labradoodles are hunting dogs by nature. So chasing a toy down the yard is a great way to express their natural abilities. Are Labradoodles Big Chewers? Labradoodle puppies love to chew most of the day. They love toys with different flavors and textures to help with their teething process. But some Labradoodles continue with this chewing into adulthood. So you should always keep a few chew toys on hand as well. This answer varies depending on what size Labradoodle you have. Smaller breeds tend to mature by months old. But larger breeds might take months to calm down. But your Labradoodle puppies will still retain that high energy for years to come. So these toys are suitable for a Labradoodle of any age. Giving your dog plenty of attention and things to do will keep your Labradoodle puppies happy and healthy. With our 10 best games, toys and treats for Labradoodle puppies, you will feel better too. At the end of the day, they will want nothing more than to show love. How do Labradoodles show affection? Simple things like following you around the house, cuddling, and sitting right next to you. The simple things that make their lives complete. Below is a Pinterest friendly photo…. Sharing is caring! They are soft and fluffy, and everyone wants to hold them and play with them. During our Open House we answer many questions that our families have. We discuss potential issues that they may encounter once they bring their puppy home. To ensure a great puppy start, we give our families tips on puppy training and how to intervene and redirect when their puppy starts to chew inappropriate objects, whether it is your finger or your remote control. We use substitution, a simple behavior modification technique to teach the puppy to chew on an appropriate object instead of inappropriate object. To do this, we share with our families some of our favorite healthy and appropriate chew toys for teething puppies. It is high in Collagen, Glucosamine and Chondroitin that support healthy joints with a unique aroma and taste that is very desirable by puppies and grown dogs. These easy to digest but are safer than rawhide and will not cause digestive distress that rawhides can cause. Lamb Tripe Sticks Organic lamb tripe are a great source of probiotics, Omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals and support digestive, dental, immune, and musculoskeletal systems. These treats are from grass fed lamb, free of antibiotics or hormones and are perfect for sensitive stomachs that aid digestion and relieve constipation. Untouched, untreated, unbleached tripe with no preservatives, hormones, or artificial ingredients will keep your puppy busy for hours at a time. These sticks are highly nutritious and are excellent alternative to rawhide and other chew treats like antlers that may be hard on the GI tract or the teeth. Larger treats are sufficient to keep your puppy busy for hours enjoying the treat. Sweet Potato Dog Treats- Dehydrated All-natural sweet potato skins are gluten and grain free and are loaded with fiber, antioxidants and natural vitamins and minerals. These healthy treats help complete your puppy meet their nutritional needs without supplements without fat or added sugar. Natural Bully Sticks All-natural beef bully sticks are made from high-quality, free-range, grass-fed beef that are high in protein and other essential vitamins to support a healthy diet. They promote dental health through scraping away tartar and plaque through you Australian Labradoodle puppy chewing action. Free of any additives, hormones or unhealthy chemicals. Bully sticks are fully digestible and an excellent alternative to rawhide and will not splinter. Goughnuts Although this is not an organic product, we have found it helpful as it is virtually indestructible chew toy designed by mechanical and polymer engineers. In addition, this chew toy floats and is perfect an excellent fetching toy. GoughNuts are safe for your Australian Labradoodle and even if your teething puppy chews through the outside layer to expose the red layer puppy should not chew on the red , the manufacturer will replace it. Ensure that it is soft enough to provide relief from sore gums, yet tough enough to last. Many of the snacks that claim they are healthy are not. Additives and preservatives can be found in almost all dog and puppy snacks available. Texas Australian Labradoodles have tried hundreds of commercially available snacks and treats. Some of the snacks our dogs had refused to eat, and others did not look or smell naturally. Our journey took us to SugarBay Creations and we found that we shared their frustration of providing wholesome, healthy and natural products for our four-legged babies. What makes SugarBay Creations different? Lets start with their motto. Simple ingredients for healthy and happy pups. We found that our dogs and puppies loved their snacks and training treats and that they contain no preservatives or artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. We find that these two categories are sufficient for any Australian Labradoodles owner. Training Treats: Oatmeal Liver Bites is a bite sized snack that is perfect for training. These little morsels are packed with natural flavors and elicits great motivation even from stubborn pets. These training treats do not contain unnecessary growth hormones, antibiotics, or vaccines. This wholesome snack contains only three simple ingredients, including liver, organic oats and a touch of organically grown pitted green olives, these provide the optimum nutritional value to your pets. Snack Treats: Tuna Wafers are great and nutritious. These snack treats are made with organic oats and eggs from free range chickens. This treat is made from Non GMO wild caught Albacore Tuna packed in water with no added salt, which provides a healthy, protein packed choice with all the taste and none of the smell of regular canned tuna. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Bones offer not only great taste but also many health benefits that pumpkin offer. These Pumpkin Peanut Butter Bones are simply made of just that! Organically grown pumpkins, all-natural peanut butter with no artificial flavors or sweeteners, free range eggs, organic coconut oil, and organic oats. Texas Australian Labradoodles have personally met and spoken with the devoted Weimaraner owner and creator of SugarBay Creations. She informed me that she was very frustrated with the expensive treats she was buying for her dogs only to have them refuse to eat them a couple of weeks after they were opened. Also, she was done spending money on snacks that smelled of chemicals after opening a sealed bag. She therefore was forced to look to other sources for natural snacks that contained no preservatives and no artificial flavorings. After a long journey researching health-benefits of common ingredients for pets, she created these training tidbits and snacks that are highly desired by all kinds of pets. May not be ideal for pups who like crunchy treats Why We Like It This treat is made with meat as the first ingredient in all of their meat recipes, they have cheddar. They are sourced and manufactured in the USA. Click here if your pup is in need of a chewy and tricky training treat! Think small. You should consider something bite-sized when you are looking for a training treat for a Labradoodle puppy. Smaller treats are usually safer for small puppies because the dog will be able to trap them in their mouth without needing to struggle to break the treat into pieces. You should make sure your pup can easily consume the treat and keep giving you their attention and focusing on the training commands you are saying. Another thing to consider is treats that you can easily tear into smaller pieces. Avoid treats high in fat, preservatives, or salt. If you are able, search for all-natural dog food. Fat can contribute to weight gain and a variety of diseases, including pancreatitis. Also, an excess of salt is not ideal for dogs. Look for nutritional balance. You will want to ensure that your dog has a healthy diet, their treats are included in this as well. Letting them try a variety of treats with different ingredients can help. What does your puppy like? This is meant to be a perfect treat, after all! These are a few tips that you may want to follow when finding the best treats for Labradoodle puppies, but you should still ask for a qualified veterinarian opinion as well. What Not To Feed Labradoodles? These apply to all dogs and the list might surprise you: grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, nutmeg, alcohol, almonds, avocado, cinnamon, coffee, macadamia nuts, green tomatoes, and chocolate are no-goes for all dog regardless of allergies or breed. The reaction your dog can have from these foods can range from an upset stomach and vomiting to death. Even food that is considered safe can be contaminated by things on this list that can go unnoticed like the spices. It is important to read ingredients and be careful about what human-food you allow your dog to eat. We recommend this product above the others because it is made and sourced in the USA. It is also low in sodium which is important for growing pups. These little guys are perfectly bite-sized and chewy for your labradoodle puppy in training. The best part for you? No greasy residue on your fingers. Just kidding, the best part for you is that your puppy is likely to respond well during training with these in your palm. Conclusion We hope you enjoyed reading this post about the best treats for Labradoodle puppies. If you loved this post, then we are sure you would love these amazing posts about labradoodles:. Low calorie but be careful not to overfeed Verdict If you want to train your Labradoodle puppy , go with Bixbi Pocket Trainers. These small treats are specially made for training young pups. It is grain-free, gluten-free, and made from natural ingredients. These treats are low in calories, so you can easily use them for training your puppy. These grain-free dog treats are made in the USA with premium natural ingredients. They contain no wheat, corn, or wheat gluten. There are also no artificial colors or flavors, which is great for sensitive digestive systems. The beef jerky bits in Wellness Core Marrow Roasts are delicious and healthy. They are a healthy option for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. These biscuits are packed with protein and vitamins. They are completely grain-free and made in the USA. Unlike other puppy treats, these ones are crunchy. Your puppy will love munching on them. Natural and Protein-Rich: In these treats, the meat is cooked in the marrow, which is infused with antioxidants to keep your dog healthy and supple. The flavor is enticing, and the ingredients are premium and wholesome. It is a natural and protein-rich treat. Grain-Free: It is one of the best grain-free treats for puppies. Besides being grain-free, these treats contain beef and chicken fat. They are made in the USA. These treats are also great for sensitive digestive systems. These treats are grain-free and contain premium natural ingredients without artificial colors or flavors. The recipe is based on the nutritional philosophy that dogs thrive on meat-based diets and is created by top nutritionists. Pros Perfect for puppies who prefer crunchy treats All-natural grain-free recipe Perfect for all breeds of dogs Best for puppies with a sensitive stomach Comes with The Wellness guarantee Cons Ingredients are sourced from around the world Verdict If your Labradoodle puppy is allergic to grain and has a sensitive stomach, you can buy The Wellness CORE Marrow Roasts Treats. These are grain-free treats made from natural ingredients. The recipe is created by nutritionists to offer better nutrition to puppies. It is rich in protein and good for your puppy. Puppies love to try new things, so make sure to give them a variety of different types. Your pup will love to eat these delicious morsels. Puppies love tasty snacks, and treats are no exception. Some of the best brands are available online, so you can save a lot of money. Most of the treats are made of natural ingredients and provide added nutrition to your puppy. Puppies need plenty of protein, and they need these nutrients. A high-quality chew will not only keep your pup satisfied but will make him feel happy and healthy. Some brands also contain other beneficial ingredients, including vitamins and antioxidants. These products will help your pup get the nutrients it needs and help him develop a healthy body. Another you should buy puppy treats for your Labradoodle puppy is because it works as positive reinforcement. You can use these treats to train your puppy from a young age. It will help you to easily teach them commands and make them obey you. It will help you in socialization as well as potty training. Treats work as a reward and naturally make the puppy do good things to impress you. When it comes to feeding your puppy, you must be aware of how many calories your dog needs on a daily basis. Generally, dogs need about to calories per day. The number of calories that your puppy consumes in one day should not exceed ten percent of their daily calorie requirement. It is important to note that these treats do not constitute a meal and do not replace it. When determining how many treats your puppy should eat, always remember that the amount of calories is dependent on several factors, including the size of your puppy and the level of activity your dog is engaged in. As a rule of thumb, the number of treats your puppy should consume should not exceed 10 percent of the total calorie intake. A ten-pound puppy, for example, needs calories per day and should only receive 40 calories from treats per day. You can also opt for low-calorie treats. When you are choosing puppy treats for your Labradoodle, make sure you consider these important factors to help you make the right buying decision. Ingredients: Before buying any treats, it is important to research the ingredients. Avoid candies with sugar because they can be harmful to a Labradoodle. Also, stay away from products with caffeine or other stimulants. Look for meat- or fish-based first ingredient. A byproduct or filler ingredient is not recommended. Make sure the treat contains natural and nutritional ingredients. Instead, look for a healthy treat with ingredients that your pup can digest and benefit from. The caloric content of the treatment is one of the most important factors to consider. Check the ingredient label to see how much protein is contained in each piece. Size: When you are choosing puppy treats for your Labradoodle, be sure to use bite-sized treats for training purposes. The smaller the treat, the more easily it will focus on your commands, and the less likely it is to tear it into pieces. For this reason, you should choose treats that your dog can easily swallow. Texture: When buying dog treats, you should pay special attention to the ingredients and texture. If your puppy is really small, you need to choose soft and chewy treats as they are easier to eat. Once the puppy develops proper teeth , you can go for crunchy treats. Taste: You also need to consider the taste of the treatment because if it is not tasty, your puppy will not eat. Puppies love tasty treats, so make sure it contains ingredients that your puppy-like. You can go for chicken, beef, or fish flavour treats. This is important because many types of dog treats are perishable. They should be bought as soon as they are on sale to ensure a long shelf-life. Frequently Asked Questions What kind of treat do Labradoodles like? There are many different types of dog treats to choose from, but the key is finding one that works for your Labradoodle puppy. Your dog is an individual, so you should try a wide variety to see which ones they enjoy. Before buying your dog any kind of treat, consider the ingredients in it. A little bit of chicken may not be bad, but it is best to avoid it if you have sensitive dogs. For optimal health and taste, try choosing a treat that contains natural meat. Labradoodles love treats that are made from duck, turkey, salmon, or chicken. Make sure the treat is low in calories and made from natural products. Can too many treats hurt my puppy? Too many treats can result in stomach upset, bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea. Overfeeding can lead to further health problems. Also, too many treats can lead to obesity, which will make them more likely to suffer from other diseases. As with humans, too much treatment every day can cause a large impact. Some treats can be high in calories and can lead to obesity. Too much of a sweet treat can even cause your dog to have abdominal problems. Are all treats good for puppies? Look for artificial sweeteners and potential allergens. You need to avoid treats that are high in calories. Some treats can be too hard for your puppy to eat, so you need to consider various factors when buying treats for them. Bottom Line Treats are important for Labradoodle puppies as it speeds up their training and helps you to form a bond with them. However, you need to give them the right type of treatment in adequate quantity. It should be beneficial for them and help them grow. To help you make the right buying decision, we have reviewed the four best treats for Labradoodle puppies. Our team has taken important factors into consideration like size, ingredients, taste, nutritional value, and texture to select the best treats. We plan to update this page regularly as better products are launched. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. They contain no by-products, corn, soy, or wheat. Just chicken, vegetable glycerin, and salt go into these delicious, high-protein treats. The portions are large and can be cut in half or enjoyed whole to give your dog a healthy reward. Check the price now! Your vet can help you determine this. Once you have that number, consider what your dog eats in a day. We have to be careful not to let them overindulge though, because too many treats can cause weight gain. If you have a very active Labradoodle, they will burn more calories than couch potatoes. Your vet can help you determine the right amount of calories for your dog based on their age, weight , and activity level. Just remember to keep track of them! If your dog is going through training and needs a high number of treats each session, you can choose low-calorie treats or small pieces of carrots and apples instead. Choosing the Right Treats When browsing dog treats, choose ones that are specially formulated for dogs without a lot of ingredients. These could potentially cause allergic reactions or upset stomachs. Treats should be an after-meal snack, not before. If your dog is allergic to a certain protein, there are plenty of options available with protein of all kinds. You can easily find one that will work for them. If your dog is missing teeth or has trouble chewing, soft treats are a good solution for them. Puppies should always be introduced to new treats gradually. Their stomachs can get upset if they eat too much of a new food at once. If you have any doubt about a certain type of treat, always ask your vet before introducing anything new to your dog. They are high-quality treats with natural ingredients and have only five calories each. Adjusting their food intake to give them the proper number of calories will keep them healthy and happy. There are so many treats to choose from and some may not be a hit with your Labradoodle. After all, they have their own opinions and preferences. It may take some trial and error, but you can find a delicious treat that your dog will love. Fortunately, Labradoodles are not generally picky eaters and pretty low-maintenance when it comes to what treats they enjoy. We hope this list has given you some good options to try and that your Labradoodle is enjoying their new healthy, delicious snacks soon! She has lived with dogs for over 30 years and spends her days writing, caring for various animals, and enjoying her backyard that has become an oasis for wild creatures. Her passion for animals began at a young age when she would bring home the lost dog or cat. As she got older, she went on to bring home an injured bird or raccoon. This love and desire to help all creatures led to her work as an adult with various animal rescues, where she saved the lives of many domestic and wild animals while learning the necessary skills to care for them. Owning and operating a professional pet care service in Chicago for the past twelve years, Jessica cares for dogs in her home while writing full-time. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. He made the long trip to Maryland with no complaints. He is such a happy and confident pup. He has acclimated beautifully to his new kingdom. He has his own room with all the amenities that two empty nesters can give. My friends know how much I have been looking forward to having a pug in the house again and have basically given me a "puppy shower. She has had him on a training schedule and he is adapting beautifully. He has not had any accidents and has plenty of playtime vs nap time. I have to share my FaceTime moments with my 4 year old Georgia twins. They get on the phone saying, "We love you GramTam, can we see Moses? Thank you again. We truly feel blessed to have a pug in our home again. As soon as he has finished his shots, he will be visiting my father's nursing home. My Dad is the one that started me on my lifelong love of pugs and he is looking forward to meeting Moses. Peace to you and your family, Tammy D. Frank is settling in quite nicely here. He is eating and drinking well. His favorite thing to do is follow people around the house. If someone is moving then he want to be moving too. He and Laverne have also developed a bit of a friendship. Laverne enjoys playing with him and helping herself to all the chew toys that arrived with him. Thank you so much for creating this adorable pup! A long journey home and they were so good. They are adjusting really well! They love their new toys and their new big brother Gatsby. He is taking his time interacting in small doses and observing them from outside the pen as they try to nurse on him lol. They have a 90 percent accuracy rate on potty pads too! I just wanted to thank you once again for bringing Pearl into the world! She did great today! Thank you so much puppy. I love him so much. He is very comfortable at home. He plays with my dogs and is not scared of anything. Thank you for the snacks and everything you give. Thank you so much! My recommendation of your program could not be more glowing. Check Wesley is all settled in at his new place and is doing really well! He's slept through the night, has been peeing and pooping mostly on the pee pad and is really playful and snuggly. Hi Tammie and Anthony, I wanted to let you know that Charlie is doing great and settling in well. We gave him quiet time and a dark room last night when we got home, and he ate and drank and has been using the pee pad. He whimpered a couple of times but mostly slept great through the night! He's been more active today--lots of snuggles and licks, a really happy guy. We've been giving him lots of rest time too, though--we know it's a big transition. Quick update on Gizmo. He is doing great and is loved by everyone. He is the healthiest and happiest little guy ever. Everything you said to do when I got him worked. He never, ever whined at night when I put him in the Dark to go to bed! Thank you! Good morning! We have decided to name him Angus and we think it suits him so well! He is a perfect fit for our family and everyone adores him. He is fitting in so well and is eating regularly! He weighed in at 9. Here are some fun pics of him! Victoria Adams Izzy is the most beautiful, sweet and silly little girl! We put her in her room for 2 hours yesterday and she seemed very calm when we introduced her to her new family! Such a little love! She has been eating and drinking! She is pure perfection! They are all ready laying next to each other: So sweet! Kelly K. Just wanted to send some pics! Gus is such a love bug and is such a fun play mate for our girls. They call him Gussy. Just wanted to give you an update. We decided to name him Bean! He plays so well with my daughter and loves to follow her around the whole house. I just wanted to thank you so much for everything. She ate some wet food and potty outside right after! Wanted to thank you! You made this awesome and we already love this girl! Below are pictures of pugs that are examples of our past baby pugs and adult pugs. Pictures are either taken by us or sent to us from adopters. They are some of our favorite pictures we wanted to share with you! This page is a work in progress so check back for updates. His personality is warm and very friendly. He is intensely loyal and very protective of his people. His antics are clownish and frequent; he is constantly "protecting" us from the other Pugs Buzz is a water dog! In the summer time when it's hot out, he loves swimming in his pool. He even loves drinking straight from the water hose. Buzz is a very special dog and we have received many reports that his puppies are every bit as sweet and funny as he is. Trinity's Zorro Zorro is bred from a very distinguished bloodline. His first-rate looks are the result of a well planned, devoted selection process to produce puppies that conform very well to the AKC breed standard. He has some unique talents not normally seen in Pug behavior. He has incredibly good balance and can stand on his two rear feet with his paws in the air for extended periods of time. He loves the attention that he receives when he performs this trick, so as you would expect he is constantly doing it! All trademarks and copyrights on this page are owned by their respective owners.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. You need the best exercise for German Shepherd puppies to keep them healthy, fit, and, more importantly… Out of mischief! Quite the opposite is true for your fast-growing breed! German Shepherd puppies should stick to only five minutes of continuous, on-leash leisurely walking at a time, based on their age in months. So, an 8-week-old puppy can walk for 10 minutes at a time on a leash, while a 6-month-old can walk on a leash for 30 minutes at a time. However, your puppy can enjoy low-impact, gentle exercises for longer periods of time. You can play games that work on sustained growth multiple times per day safely. Instead, exercise on soft surfaces, for example: Grass Sand Dirt paths or trails Stretching of soft ligaments at too early an age, strains on young, growing joints, and carrying too much weight on their overall framework can and will harm your young puppy. This leads to problems in adulthood, which you could avoid! Remember to watch for: Panting heavily with rapid breath Lagging on their walks for longer than usual Stopping on walks and standing Lying down on their belly or side If your dog is hyperactive and displays excessive chewing and destructive behavior, they may need engaging brain stimulation to help them use their brains to engage in their environments constructively. Ideally, you also need to teach them basic commands and house manners. Start now with basic obedience training to avoid later behavioral issues. Eventually, your active, adult GSD will need at least 2 walks of 45 minutes each source. Other great ways to exercise your German Shepherd puppy include working on their balance, enjoying mental stimulation, and playing gently with toys they love. Until your vet clears your dog as having their bones fully fused this is around 12 to 18 months of age , activity should be cautious and slow-paced. Up to twelve months of age, natural free running is the best way to exercise German Shepherds. With free running, your dog is off-leash and can stop or slow as they wish. Limit and monitor on-leash walks and activity while your German Shepherd is growing. When walking on a leash, allow them to Walk at their own pace Stop and start as they please Sniff around leisurely to explore the grass, flowers, and trees Lay down, roll around, and dig in approved digging places Use a no-pull harness with a design that allows for natural shoulder movement to avoid unnatural gait development. Try this padded no-pull harness on your German Shepherd to avoid any neck injuries to her while she is young. This design also limits pulling and helps teach nice leash walking manners. The handle on the back of the no-pull harness makes it easy to grab your pup to stop them from running into a hazard or just to catch them! Read more helpful information on the benefits and disadvantages of using a harness or a collar to help you choose the right equipment for walking your new puppy. There are plenty of other ideas to try with your new baby German Shepherd. Even better? You can find so many ways to learn what your new German Shepherd puppy likes to play with for their fun and games! Keep reading for a German Shepherd puppy exercise chart and specific, step-by-step fun games to keep your new pup happy and healthy. Exercising puppies heavily too early in life may lead to joint damage. This is especially likely in large breeds with rapidly growing and heavily loaded joints, such as your GSD. High-Impact Activity to Avoid Jumping, especially from couches, furniture, or cars Twisting such as chasing a toy that wildly moves in many directions Exercising over hard or uneven ground especially sidewalks and asphalt Keep exercise short and frequent, as this is more beneficial than long, infrequent periods of activity. A daily German Shepherd exercise routine is a must for your high-energy breed! A daily exercise routine not only keeps them fit and healthy but also helps them develop better behavior. And you know how important it is to have a well-mannered dog! This guide has everything you need to start and keep your dog on the right track for a healthy life. So be sure to follow the right guide and advice for your German Shepherd. This information is for German Shepherds over one year of age who are healthy and without any known diseases or medical conditions. If you own an adult German Shepherd, his exercise tolerance will be almost limitless! This breed suits very active families and prefers lots of exercise daily source. They can become bored easily without a suitable daily routine. Exercises for German Shepherds The best exercises for German Shepherds move their bodies in a variety of ways while letting them explore their environment. They love to run, jump, sprint, swim, chase ball toys, fetch, tug, and catch. Walk your German Shepherd daily for the right amount of time. Walks are easy on most German Shepherds and are essential for dogs who spend much of their day indoors. Walking a German Shepherd is the most popular form of exercise for fitness and health. Walk your German Shepherd at least twice for 90 minutes Preferably split into 2 sessions in the morning and evening time Avoid extreme cold and heat to keep both of you safe Vary the surface you walk on to avoid damage to their joints from repetitive motions. Try this no-pull harness to have more control on your walks. The harness has 2 points to clip, in the front and on the back, which puts you in greater control of a wild-walking German Shepherd. The comfortable padding on the harness also helps prevent sore spots on your dog, avoiding any skin issues or fur loss. Walking Exercise Routine Two walks of 45 minutes to one hour each for an adult, healthy German Shepherd are a good start for an exercise routine to meet their needs. Remember, they require gentler exercises to avoid bone and joint damage. Jogging and running to increase endurance. German Shepherds love to run off-leash. Many German Shepherds love to run for fun with their owners. Your breed is built to move long distances over grassy, rocky, hilly terrain, and this shows in their desire for running. Look for softer surfaces to include with your daily exercise routine. Vary your surfaces for maximum health benefits. Also, running and jogging at a set pace is very repetitive on joints. Once your dog is more conditioned you can increase both the time and distance they run with you. Check their paws daily after each run to look for any sores, abrasions, or cuts. Tug-of-war game for strength and power training. German Shepherds are powerful and athletic, and they love to play games with their owners. Include simple strength training exercises at home to increase muscle mass and overall power by playing tug with your German Shepherd daily. And playing tug-of-war goes a long way in helping your Shepherd develop fuller, stronger muscles and more energy and vitality. The knots allow you to grip the rope and maintain control better while the cotton rope provides a soft surface for your German Shepherd to grip. Worried playing tug might make your German Shepherd more aggressive? German Shepherds are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to include at least 10 to 15 minutes of tug before work. Ideally, aim for tug daily if your dog enjoys the exercise. A flirt pole increases endurance. A flirt pole helps exercise your German Shepherd in small spaces. The flirt pole is a gift to worn-out German Shepherd owners! It not only helps your dog improve their basic manners and impulse control, but it also gives them a workout. And in just a few minutes of play! Look for a pole with an enticing lure to excite and interest your dog. How to Use a Flirt Pole with Your German Shepherd Lure your dog to play by dragging the toy on the ground in a large arching half-circle pattern. They chase the lure while you move the toy in different ways to keep them moving. They catch the lure and tug. You give their release or drop command and start the exercise game again. Avoid playing this game by moving the lure in tight circles or making your dog jump high in the air for it. If your dog is slipping frequently, definitely find another surface to play on. It can become damaged if left alone with your GSD or if they are allowed to tug on it excessively. Only use large arches on the ground to avoid sharp turns, especially for puppies. Include doggy squats for healthy hips. Have you heard of doggie squats for exercise? Dog squats help build strength in the large leg muscles. They also can help an aging Shepherd maintain their strength to keep them more mobile and prevent hip issues later in life. And in younger Shepherds that help give your dog the power to take on physical challenges. Dog squats are like human squats. Then, have them stand. Use treats to entice them to keep repeating the action. After two weeks, increase the reps in healthy dogs not puppies or seniors. Have your dog start with 2 sets of 5 squats and add on more squats gradually from there. Use a variety of tasty treats to keep them interested and motivated. You can increase the number of sets and reps as your dog looks more comfortable with the exercise and builds up strength in their hips. Running uphill improves muscle power and cardio health. Gently sloping hills are perfect for an exercise routine for your athletic GSD. Having your dog run uphill gives a great, free strength training workout. As your dog pushes themselves uphill, they must engage their rear leg muscles intensely. This is a great all-over bodybuilding exercise, but especially for their back end. Instead, look for a moderate rolling hill and encourage your dog by calling them up and down to you. This is also a cardio workout for you, too! Repeat this hill run a few times. Then, give your dog rest and repeat. Hill Running with Your German Shepherd Begin by exploring hill running only 2 times a week with plenty of rest in between hill runs to recover. You can gradually increase their routine to 3 to 4 times a week with longer sprints to keep their hearts in tip-top shape. A balancing disc helps improve reflexes and coordination. This is a balancing discs but only wobbles slightly on the top to avoid major falls or tumbles. The goal of balance activity is to enhance body awareness, encourage stable weight shifts, and promote stability and motor function. In a nutshell, balance exercises help teach your dog the way their body moves and how to alter their movements to adjust more easily. This means that your dog is less prone to injuries since their bodies are agile. Balancing discs are a very popular piece of exercise equipment for dogs and fitness professionals. It works by having your dog stand on the disc and using its muscles to stay balanced and stable. These are great for strengthening all muscle groups as a complete body workout. The Instability Challenge On the FitPaws balance disc, there are three basic ways to create a challenge for your dog. Have your dog place one paw on the platform and offer them a treat. Next, ask for both front paws on the board to increase difficulty. Finally, move into harder positions such as all four paws on the disc, sitting on the disk, or even backing up onto the disk with only the back paws. Balancing is also a great way to bond with your dog since they need to trust your commands and the support you provide to them. Balance Disc Exercise Routine 3 to 4 times a week start with an easy pose for your dog on the disc. As they improve their balance, increase the time slowly as you ask them to hold other poses, for example, front paws on disk, back paws on disk, and stepping on and off slowly. Sprints build muscle and cardio fitness. If you want to save your shoulder, try a dog ball launcher with your German Shepherd. And your German Shepherd naturally excels at speed because of its herding history. While excessive and sharp turns on the ground can injure your dog due to the stress of stopping, you can still play a game of catch in moderation. Instead of seeing how far you can throw the ball and having your GSD slide into the ground, aim for shooting the ball in the air a short distance in front to allow your dog to catch the ball and avoid harsh slides. You can launch tennis balls up to 50 feet in the air without exhausting your arms! Short sprints are great for burning away energy that would otherwise become pent-up anxiety in your dog. Sprints also increase lung and heart health, challenge muscles and balance, improve coordination, and make your German Shepherd happy! Instead, 3 to 4 times a week with rests during your sprints so they can catch their breath, aim for them to catch the ball from the air. Looking for the pawfect playtime for your German Shepherd? Weave poles for speed and agility. Your herding dog loves to learn to pole weave! Did you know that the German Shepherd holds the record for completing the fastest weave pole source? Nature made your breed for pole weaving! Weave poles are easy to teach by luring your dog through with a treat. Like this durable, adjustable weave pole that is easy to set up and store away, or can be adjusted quickly for beginners to learn the exercise. Set up your weave poles in your yard. Begin at one end of the weave poles and slowly lure your GSD through the poles. Reinforce their efforts with tasty rewards regularly. Once your German Shepherd has the hand of it, start narrowing the poles gradually together. This gives your dog a harder challenge. Many Shepherds love the weave and will readily enjoy it when you increase the difficulty with more poles. But some dogs, especially puppies, need extra practice to learn the weaving exercise motion. Stick with it for a great way to exercise your German Shepherd in a small area! Start slowly as they gain confidence in their new agility. Increase the challenge by adding in more poles or shortening the distance between poles. Encourage your dog to repeat the weave once they come through the end by running with them to the start of the weave poles and giving your command to weave again. Find a schedule that works for you and stick to an activity routine for the best health benefits for your companion. This means: You keep their mind active and out of trouble using puzzle games for your German Shepherd. You allow them to have a balanced social life where they interact with other dogs and people positively. Without a complete fitness and health program, your dog is likely to experience problems. And the worst part of it all? Some owners forget about starting at the most obvious foundation and neglect to give their German Shepherds the right diet. These negative behaviors can cause issues for your family that disrupts your lives. Start with a solid foundation to keep your German Shepherd healthy to avoid the fallout of poor fitness. Behavior and Mental Problems. Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? Making sure your German Shepherd gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation is really important for keeping them healthy and happy. Regular exercise can not only keep them in good shape, but it can also help improve their behaviour and well-being. How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds are highly active dogs , originally bred for working and guarding flocks of sheep, and more recently used by military and police forces. All this means that German Shepherds are among the most high-energy dogs out there. Of course, their exercise needs can vary based on a number of factors including age, fitness level, general health, food intake and more. That said, most German Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing. To get an exercise goal tailored to your dog, simply download the free PitPat app and enter their details. How much exercise does a German Shepherd puppy need? This is especially true for this breed since they are prone to conditions like hip dysplasia. As a rule of thumb, puppies will need five minutes of formal exercise such as walkies for every month of their age. These walks should be opportunities to explore their environment, work on training and good behaviour outdoors, and socialise with other people and dogs in a controlled manner. How much exercise does a senior German Shepherd need? You can also set your own goals manually in case they have higher or lower exercise needs. What types of exercise are best for German Shepherds? German Shepherds excel at all sorts of exercise and canine sports thanks to their working background. In addition to their daily walks, you could try:. Sep 06, Puppies need exercise to develop healthy bones, muscles and hearts. Exercise goes a long way to help curb anxiety and behavior issues related to boredom. But you may have heard that too much exercise can be harmful. How much exercise is necessary, how much is too much, and what kinds of exercise should you be doing? As a general rule, your puppy knows best. Normal puppy play is okay, and you should never feel as though you should stop your puppy from playing on its own accord. Short walks are also okay, as long as your idea of a short walk isn't 3 miles every morning! Short games of fetch and tug are also okay. Fetch is especially hard on the body because most dogs rapidly accelerate to go after the ball and rapidly decelerate once they get to it, so good throws is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises. Tug is also hard on the body, so minutes is plenty in conjunction with other acceptable exercises as well. Swimming is a great, low-impact exercise. Just make sure your puppy doesn't ingest too much water while swimming. It's also recommended that you not play fetch in the water because dogs can accidentally ingest a lot of water when retrieving toys thrown into bodies of water. Examples of exercises that are too rigorous for puppies are long hikes, running steps, long games of fetch, long walks, running, jogging, weight pull and pulling carts of any kind, wearing vests with anything over a few ounces in it for anything other than a short stroll, flyball, and inappropriate amounts of agility training. All of these things are stressful on soft, growing bones and joints and can result in hip and elbow dysplasia and musculoskeletal deformities, diseases and injuries. As a rule of thumb, don't exceed 5 minutes for each month of the puppy's age of acceptable exercise no more than twice a day. For instance, 15 minutes of exercise twice a day is ideal for a 3-month-old puppy, while 20 minutes twice a day is ideal for a 4-month-old puppy. As a general rule, you can start building up puppies to adult levels of exercise once they turn 9 months of age if they're not expected to grow over 25lbs. By a year they can be exercised as an adult as long as you properly build up their stamina. For medium and large breeds, you can begin to build them up to adult levels of exercise by 15 months and it's safe to exercise them as adults once they turn 18 months old. German Shepherd dogs will naturally travel in a cantering-lope rather than a slow walk. That means that it is imperative that you train your puppy early on how to walk on a leash by your side without pulling. German Shepherds are a powerful breed and are capable of dragging handlers who aren't strong enough to hold them back. Eliminate the possibility of a physical tug of war by relying on solid training instead. Remember, exercise is also great for keeping hip and elbow joints stabilized in German Shepherd Dogs. Many large breeds are known to suffer from hip and elbow problems later in life, but dysplasia seems to unfairly target the German Shepherd. Regular exercise can help to build muscle around joints to protect them. The more muscle, the less stress on the joint. Make sure you keep your puppies lean, well hydrated, and wait an hour or two after your puppy eats before exercise. If you stick by these rules, you lessen the chances of hip and elbow dysplasia, panosteitis, strains, sprains, ligament injuries, bloat, obesity, heart disease and arthritis. Also keep the temperature in mind and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Stop exercise if your puppy no longer wants to play or stops to rest and everything should be fine. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. For the most part, you let the puppy decide his own activities at this stage. Your puppy, at this tender age, does not need exercise; he needs activity. Indoor play consists of informal activities in which you educate your German Shepherd to avoid dangerous behavior while satisfying his need to be active. At this stage, it is more about mental activity games and basic training as opposed to physical activity. This nifty little toy is excellent for young pups. Here are some low-impact games that are appropriate for a German Shepherd puppy at 8 weeks of age: Puppy the Explorer Let your GSD explore the indoors while keeping a close eye on him. This also presents an excellent opportunity to teach him to follow you. You must do this organically. Wait for him to get in his explorer mode and start walking beside him. Remember not to exceed a period of 10 minutes of exercise in the second month and stop whenever your pup shows signs of being tired. The minute mark is the maximum duration, not the minimum. Initially, your puppy will get tired after a few minutes of walking around and exploring. In each subsequent week, he will be engaged for a few more minutes. You might need to use jazz hands to get his curiosity. Once your pup starts following your palm with his head, simply tap his nose and hug him. At this point, you might be tempted to start moving your arm out of his reach to prolong the game. Follow the Wiggling Toy This is the ideal transition exercise that I would start around the tenth week of indoor play. For this, I recommend the Pacific Pups Rope Toys Set from Amazon, not just because it is budget-friendly but because you can use toys of different sizes as your German Shepherd puppy continues to grow. Once you have him sitting close to you, introduce the rope toy and place it on the floor with your hand holding onto one end. Your job then is to make sure he takes at least four steps before he catches the rope toy. Again, this is a high-engagement, low-impact exercise that builds up the foundation for medium-impact activities later on. Jaw and Bodyweight Exercises Recommended age: 3 — 4 months Maximum duration: minutes per day, twice a day Risk factor: low Things to avoid: sprints Your German Shepherd puppy is now three months old; he is building on his training according to the standard puppy training methods, and you can start to interact with him more physically. Still, his growth plates remain open, and you still need to avoid exercises that strain the joints, especially ones located around long bones like limbs. At the same time, your German Shepherd has more energy and may want to exercise more than is good for him. As a result, your role has shifted. Here, instead of letting your puppy have the toy once he follows it and grabs hold of it, you play a small tug of war with him. If your GSD is used to getting the toy after following it, he may get too defensive when you tug it. I recommended the toy set for this reason precisely. The final thing worth remembering about this game is that you always lose! You place the rope toy on the ground and let your German Shepherd puppy follow it as you move it around. Once he grabs hold of it, you use your arm strength to keep it in place. Do not try to pull it too hard. It is also essential that you gradually move up the tug of war in time and position. Gradually you can move the tug toy slightly above the ground. Throughout this, make sure your dog is on a leash because you do not want to encourage grabbing and dashing. Ultimately, you have to let your puppy win! As soon as you release the toy, he gets to have it for a while. This is also the best stage to train him to release objects on command. Make sure your GSD is on a long leash before you start this activity. Associating running with playtime is risky. A long loose leash allows you to bring him back to you gently. Be prepared to spend a lot of time negotiating with your GSD. I suggest playing tug before this because it builds trust. When you roll the ball on the floor, your puppy will get it. You cannot expect him to bring the toy to you. You simply tug the leash gently and bring him close to you. Then, you hold the ball in place. You should not pull it away. That will only cause your German Shepherd to bite down on it harder. When you have it firmly in place, your dog will try to wrestle it free but will eventually let the ball go. You can encourage this by just talking to him in a reassuring tone and using training treats. As soon as he lets go of the ball, put it on the ground and roll it. As GSDs take pleasure in high-engagement activities, the activity itself becomes a reward. In my experience, this will always be a mixed bag. Some dogs never stop giving pushback at the retrieval stage, while others let go of the ball the moment you extend your arm toward it.

Select Page puppies There are several important factors to consider before getting a golden retriever. Determine whether buying a pedigree puppy or adopting from a breed rescue is the right choice for you. Are You ready to Own a Golden Retriever Puppies can be irresistible bundles of fun, but they also require plenty of attention and a structured routine. This can be particularly challenging if you lead a busy life. Our website is here to provide you with valuable resources and guidance on golden retrievers. It requires a lifelong commitment and careful consideration. We encourage you to be patient throughout the process, as the average wait time for a golden retriever puppy typically ranges from 12 to 18 months. Now What? It provides all the information you need to care for your puppy and set them up for a lifetime of happiness. Additionally, we invite you to join our Drop In Training Classes, where our experienced trainers can assist you with all your training needs. Learn More Responsible Breeding Responsible dog breeders work hard to produce healthy, socialised puppies, interview potential buyers, health test the parents and remain resources for buyers for the lives of those dogs. Learn what to look for when searching for your next golden retriever puppy. Advice before making contact Tips and advice when contacting a breeder While we make every effort to ensure that the breeders listed on Perfect Pets are registered, responsible, and maintain high ethical standards, please take 5 minutes to read the advice below and also see our detailed information on finding a reputable breeder. Our recommendation is that you purchase pets locally and in person. For many reasons, it is always preferable that you meet and get to know the breeder and vice versa. While many reputable breeders send animals interstate safely and without issue, we do not encourage this. When you contact a breeder, keep in mind that responsible breeders will want some information about things like - the type of home you will offer, how much time you have for your new pet, if you have experience with the breed and if not, if you've researched the breed. Responsible breeders don't want to receive emails and messages that simply ask 'how much for a puppy? Please make sure the breed you are interested in suits your family and lifestyle, and that you can give it the type of home it needs to be happy. Above all - use common sense and don't be impulsive. Please ask the breeder these important questions: 1. Can you meet the mother and father, and how old are they? Have the mother and father had any health issues? What health checks and tests were done on the parents and grandparents, are they appropriate for the breed, and can this be verified with documentation? Specifically, what vaccines have been given? Are they microchipped and registered? Have they been treated for parasites fleas and worms , and what treatments were used? Have they been checked by a vet, and is there evidence of this? How much socialisation has the puppy or kitten had? If answered positively and appropriately the answers to these questions should reassure you that the puppy or kitten you're interested in will grow to be a happy healthy animal. Please note that information regarding breed specific health checks can at times be difficult to understand and interpret. Common genetic disorders are a serious and growing concern. It's not a bad idea to write down the information you've been given and seek advice from your vet for confirmation. Breed clubs are also great sources of information on health testing. A responsible and caring breeder will also want to make sure you are going to provide a loving and safe forever home, and will ask you lots of questions. They will also provide extensive advice regarding feeding, health, ongoing socialisation, and the long term needs of your pet. Please note that because Perfect Pets cannot be directly involved in interactions we cannot accept responsibility for any agreement entered into by a breeder and a pet buyer. Please follow the advice provided. Perfect Pets has no powers of enforcement and cannot guarantee the reputation of any breeder, or the soundness or suitability of the pet you choose. You must satisfy yourself that any pet you decide on is fit and healthy, and will fit with your family and lifestyle. These malformations can present as a range of different eye conditions, ranging from poor vision to blindness in one or both eyes. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying the affected gene. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Degenerative Myelopathy DM Genetic Test This is a disease affecting the spinal cord of older dogs, initially causing wobbliness and eventually hindlimb paralysis. It can affect a wide range of breeds. There is now a DNA test that can indicated if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. Ichthyosis Genetic Test This is a serious genetic skin disease that causes flaky dry skin and footpad problems. It can occur in many breeds but is fairly common in Golden Retrievers. There is a DNA test to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this disease and could pass it on to their puppies. There are DNA tests for each type, to identify whether a breeding dog might be carrying this condition. As it is a genetic disease, breeding parents can be tested to ensure it is not passed onto their puppies. There are a variety of sub-types of PRA, which can occur in various breeds. There are various DNA tests available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Skeletal Dysplasia Genetic Test Skeletal Dysplasia is an inherited form of dwarfism which causes the leg bones to grow much shorter than is proportional for the body. Affected legs will be short and slightly bowed outwards. Often the forelimbs are more affected than the hindlimbs, which can make the condition more difficult to spot in subtle cases. In person puppy pick up Meet the breeder in person for puppy pick ups Domestic air travel by plane Supportive of domestic air transport by plane Ground transport service Supportive of on-the-road pet transport by car or van RightPaw Achievements About the Breeder A little about us Fell in love with the Scottish working line when we got our 2nd golden, Daisy, from Jean from Mhadaidh. She supported me in starting our kennel lines. Why we got involved in breeding I work from home so have the time to nurture and supervise a litter of puppies. Our children have grown up with all our puppies. Our special touch Time and love for these beautiful pups. Connect with us.

How much your French Bulldog should eat depends on their size when they are at a healthy weight and how energetic they are. That means that you won't feed your French Bulldog as much as you would feed more energetic small dogs of the same healthy weight, such as a Jack Russell Terrier. Of course, if you have an unusually energetic French Bulldog, you may need to feed them more. However, a number of factors go into this formula: Fixed vs. An intact French Bulldog requires slightly more calories than one that is fixed. Underweight vs. An underweight French Bulldog needs more than a healthy French Bulldog, whereas an overweight Frenchie needs less food. Activity level. Very active Frenchies need more calories every day than those that tend to be couch potatoes. French bulldog puppies need more calories than older dogs. A puppy that is under four months needs considerably more, while a puppy that is four months to an adult needs slightly more. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Just how many cups of food your French Bulldog actually needs depends on how many calories are in the food. Because French Bulldogs have a fairly low body weight and low energy level, it is best to choose a food without many calories per cup. Lower than calories per cup is a good idea. This way, your 22 pound French Bulldog will be able to eat at least a cup of food a day. Any less than that, and your French Bulldog may still feel hungry even when they have had as many calories per pound as they are supposed to. How to stretch out French Bulldog feeding? Most French Bulldogs have a seemingly natural hunger that is almost insatiable. Here are a few tips to help keep your Frenchie satisfied: Divide meals up. Your French Bulldog is much more likely to be satisfied if they get multiple meals a day. About half a cup twice a day will be a more satisfying eating routine than one cup in the morning or evening. Three meals is even better for most French Bulldogs. Include healthy treats. A few treats can really impact your dog's overall calorie consumption if you are using high-calorie commercially available treats. However, by giving your French Bulldog green beans and other low-calorie vegetables, you can fill their bellies without exceeding their calorie limitations. Provide food for training treats. Choose dry dog food. Dry dog food will seem to go much further than raw food or wet food. Give your French Bulldog a healthy amount of food It can be very tempting to give your French Bulldog as much food as they want. After all, this breed is a master of the mournful puppy eyes. However, feeding your dog too much can result in serious consequences for their health, so it is very important to stick to the rules and only give your French Bulldog as much as they should have. Remember that healthy and filling treats like green beans are a great way to round out their diet. Coral Dawn My experience as the liaison of integrative medicine, neurology, and zoo medicine at UF Small Animal Hospital gave me valuable insight into the challenges faced by pet owners with animals who have medical conditions. My time there also gave me the opportunity to care for a disabled dog and write a book about the experience. As manager of a dog daycare, I learned about how dogs play and interact, warning signs for aggression, and how to rehabilitate dog-reactive dogs. During my time there I was under the mentorship of two groomers, from whom I learned grooming essentials. I currently work with high-risk shelter dogs and manage a blog to help other volunteers and foster families. I have two dogs of my own, a Maltese and a Standard Poodle. Three to four times a day 4 — 5 months 6 months and above Two times a day Pregnant or breastfeeding French Bulldogs may eat up to three times a day within eight hours. Meanwhile, puppies require more frequent feedings than adult dogs due to their rapid metabolism. In general, a French Bulldog puppy should be fed three times daily between two and six months. Once the French Bulldog puppy reaches the age of six months, the feeding frequency can be reduced to two meals each day. As developing puppies, your Frenchie requires a consistent daily feeding plan. The feeding plan should incorporate at least three measured meals per day. Its dinner schedule is vital, as it allows ample time to digest the food and go pee or potty before bedtime. Between 14 and 18 weeks, you can begin accustoming your French Bulldog puppy to two meals each day. If your veterinarian advises you to keep your French Bulldog on a three-meals-a-day diet, this must be properly followed. Senior dogs can be fed on the same schedule when given three meals a day. Since elderly dogs do not move as much, they may develop too much weight. Consequently, you should ensure that the food contains fewer calories, more fiber, and an appropriate balance of fat and protein. Your veterinarian should have a recommended amount of treats you should give your dog. Again, it will vary according to its weight and level of activity. If you must frequently use treats for training, use tiny bits or give them a licking mat. Best Dog Foods for French Bulldog A feeding guide for Frenchie dog lovers would be incomplete without the information on the best dog food for their furry companion. There are numerous food options available for French Bulldogs. The best pet food varies from one Frenchie to another. Perhaps your French Bulldog is a fussy eater or suffers from food allergies. It is feasible to provide a balanced diet for your French Bulldogs if you use the best store-bought or homemade dog food that contains all the nutrition needed by your dog and as prescribed by your veterinarian. The list below shows the best dog food options you can provide your French Bulldog: Dry Food: Dry dog food is commercially available kibble. This can be an excellent alternative for French Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs. French Bulldog puppies require high-quality dry food that is high in animal protein to aid in growth and muscular development. Wet Food: Wet food is contained in a can; it is primarily composed of water and is considered highly mushy food. However, wet food expires more quickly than dry food, making it the least practical alternative. Home-Cooked Diet: A home-cooked, protein-rich diet like a chicken meal is excellent for French Bulldogs. Unlike ordinary kibble, it contains no additives or preservatives. It supports healthy digestion and may help avoid various problems related to a bad diet, including obesity, dry skin and coat, pancreatitis, diabetes, and a low immune system. French Bulldogs are prone to developing a variety of joint and back issues. Along with other joint problems, they may develop luxating patella or hip dysplasia. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are critical components of a high-quality French Bulldog dog diet. These essential vitamins assist your French in developing the connective tissue necessary for healthy joints and spine support. Omega-3 fatty acids can assist your Frenchie to keep muscle mass and strength by reducing inflammation and soreness. Also, this can promote healthy skin by preventing itchy and flaky skin. Whether wet and dry food, raw food, or a homemade diet, each dog food offers several benefits and drawbacks. Consult a veterinarian before deciding to know exactly what food option suits your Frenchie. Any French Bulldog owner will attest that vomiting is far more common in this breed than in other dogs. While it cannot be totally prevented, you should know what human foods are toxic to French Bulldogs. Some of the foods to avoid are not only bad for Frenchie; many of them can be fatal. They may result in poisoning and, in the worst-case scenario, death. This section enumerates some of the most dangerous foods for French Bulldogs. I will discuss why these foods are poisonous and when you should contact a veterinarian. The first and most prevalent is chocolate. It contains a toxin called theobromine , which can cause a variety of health problems when consumed in large amounts. This can cause irregular heartbeats, seizures, and sudden death. Garlic and onions should also never be included in the diet of your Frenchie puppy or adult dog. Even a trace of these vegetables can result in anemia and red blood cell failure in your pup. Poisoning symptoms include lethargy, fatigue, vomiting, rapid breathing, and an increased heart rate. However, remember that you may not immediately notice poisoning symptoms because the toxic consequences may take a few days to manifest. Additionally, grapes are one of the most toxic foods for your Frenchie. A dog that has consumed grapes may exhibit stomach bloating and diarrhea. They need to be taken to a veterinarian immediately. In severe cases, gastric lavage is the best course of action. Candy, artificial sweeteners, corn on the cob, roasted bones, avocado, raisins, almonds, cherry, peach, plum, coconut oil, mustard seeds, alcohol, coffee, blue cheese, and tomatoes are also regarded to be unsafe for French Bulldogs. Furthermore, there are certain foods that you should avoid giving your Pitbull owing to the negative side effects they may cause. While they are not considered dangerous, they can cause nausea, diarrhea, and weight gain. Numerous dogs wind up at veterinarian clinics due to improper food intake. While prevention is always the best course of action, it is critical to understand emergency care and medication expenses. Read our article on French Bulldog costs to learn more about the medical expenditures associated with a French Bulldog. These adjustments should ideally take place over 5 to 7 days. Consult a veterinarian in this scenario, especially if you intend to switch to a raw or homemade diet. Feeding an Overweight French Bulldog French Bulldogs can quickly gain weight, resulting in various health problems. Thus, dog owners need to notice when their Frenchie gets overweight to assist the dog in maintaining a healthy weight and living a healthy life. Average adult French Bulldogs should have a body weight between 19 and 29 pounds for males, while 18 to 28 pounds for females. The most common indications that your Frenchie is overweight include lack of muscle definition and difficulty breathing during brief exercises. In terms of visual indicators, a Frenchie within their healthy weight will have a thin layer of fat covering their ribs. Meanwhile, those with excess fat have noticeable deposits in the chest and stomach area. Also, you should be able to see and feel their spine as they bend and curl into a sleeping position. Furthermore, Frenchies have an hourglass form, with a visible waistline that is smaller than their chest when they are not overweight. Regardless of these symptoms, it is always advisable to seek confirmation from a professional veterinarian. Feeding an obese Frenchie means maintaining a consistent food plan throughout the day to aid in weight loss. Additionally, this stops your dog from eating more than it requires. Apart from planned feeding times, serving the correct meal proportions is essential. If your Frenchie is overweight, owners should focus on how much food is offered to them. Reducing their daily kibble intake by half a cup can help them significantly reduce weight. Moreover, you should offer them foods with fewer calories, more fiber, and more protein. As a result, your Frenchie will burn more calories and lose weight more quickly. It is preferable to give your dog treats that contain only one ingredient, are low in calories, and contain no added sugar, such as sweet potato and blueberry bites. Alternatively, you can treat your dog with items that are already in your refrigerator, such as tiny portions of sweet potatoes, apples, and bananas. Regularly weigh your dog, monitor how many calories they intake, and establish a target body weight for them. Also, pain can make a Frenchie nervous and unable to eat, so keep an eye out for evident signs of injury. Another common reason for your French Bulldog not to eat is discomfort in the mouth caused by dental issues. Furthermore, gastrointestinal conditions, certain medicines, vaccination, overfeeding, or other serious health problems can cause a French Bulldog not to eat. As a result, you must keep an eye on your Frenchie and contact your veterinarian if the condition persists for weeks. Do French Bulldogs Eat a Lot? French Bulldogs are opportunistic feeders by nature. Thus, they will continue to eat as long as you provide pet food. They may begin to require more than is necessary to fulfill their appetite due to this behavior. Also, when a French Bulldog is agitated, it may begin to overeat. The most effective strategy to combat stress-related overeating is to thrive in a calm environment. At times, your dog may become bored and eat more than usual to keep itself occupied somehow. Thus, you must keep a watch on any of these factors. Can French Bulldogs Eat Bones? Dogs should not consume cooked bones of any kind. The bones may splinter, resulting in deadly shards that might cause injury due to choking hazards. Thus, if you wish to offer your Frenchie a bone, vets recommend raw meat bones, preferably from farm-raised chicken. These are best given after a meal to prevent them from eating too much. Remove it after around ten minutes and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for tomorrow. To avoid bacterial contamination, it is recommended to discard it after a few days and keep it separate from other raw meat and food. Can French Bulldogs Be Vegetarians? Each Frenchie is one-of-a-kind. Simply because your French Bulldog likes veggies does not mean it can go full-on vegetarian. Also, bear in mind that many veggies are dangerous and toxic to your French Bulldog. Certain vegetables are acceptable to be fed to a French Bulldog, but only in small portions. Final Thoughts French Bulldogs are, without a doubt, playful, intelligent, and compassionate dogs. On the other hand, Frenchies are greedy eaters, and food serves as their primary motivator. Thus, a critical component of owning this breed is understanding how much, how frequently, and what food to feed a French Bulldog. You can supply dry food, wet food, raw food diets, or a homemade diet for your pet. Since Frenchie pups and adults may have food sensitivities, providing or making the best dog food for their age and nutritional requirements is critical. By doing so, you can help your Frenchie prevent undesirable health problems. This can help guarantee that your Frenchie receives the safest and healthiest diet as much as possible. Let us know in the comments below about your experience with feeding your French Bulldog! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. They are a loving and sensitive breed. One of the most common questions asked by new French Bulldog owners is how much food they require, and how often should they be fed. French Bulldogs typically will eat as much food as you give them. The amount of food required depends on their age, weight, and activity level. Source Feeding French Bulldog puppies When puppies are born they get all of their nutritional needs by drinking milk produced by their mothers. Breeders typically start to wean the puppies off their mother's milk by weeks and by six weeks they are eating kibble 1. When your puppy is home with you at 8 weeks old they will typically require 1. I recommend splitting this up between meals over the day. When our puppy was at a very young age we would mix the kibble with a little bit of water to soften the food for them. As your puppy is at a stage of rapid growth over the following year we recommend feeding your dog the best nutritional food you can afford. Active Frenchbuilldogs based on a weight of 15kg 33lb requires caloiuries a day. This can be split over several meals and would be approximately 3cups of kibble. How much should I feed my elderly French Bulldog? As your French Bulldog ages and activity levels decrease they will require less food. Typically they will require calories per g 1lb of body weight. However, if your dog is showing they are still hungry and underweight feed them. How much should I feed my underweight Frenchie? Increase the amount of food you are feeding your dog up to between calouries per g 1lb of body weight until they are at their ideal weight. What can you feed your dog? Kibble Dry food is very accessible and can be purchased at most supermarkets. Nutritional values provided by kibble differ by product sold. We recommend doing some research to provide good quality kibble to your dog. Some of the benefits listed for kibble are: Increased dental health Reduced risk of bacteria Raw diet Raw food can be homemade, and or store-bought. Meticulous care and planning need to be done to ensure your dog does not get sick. Some studies have found many benefits of raw diets: Healthier coat and fur Increased longevity Fresh diet Cooking for your dog at home allows you to provide nutritionally valuable ingredients of your own choice. The downside is that it does take up time and requires planning to make. If you decide to feed your dog fresh food we highly recommend that you consult an animal nutritionist. Some of the benefits of feeding your dog fresh food are below. Avoids fillers Allows a variety of food Food quality To learn more about your dogs microbiomme and gut health visit our blog post here. If you are after dog shirts, or cooling shirts for your French Bulldog visit our shop here. How often should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? Home » How often should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? Your puppy has been on unlimited food all of the time. If on the smaller side 5lbs , we recommend four times per day. If a little bit stouter, you can start with three times a day. We recommend giving them as much as they want at each setting while they are growing babies. As they age and grow you can take it down to times per day. Two feedings per day seems to be the amount of times most people end up feeding their Frenchies. When you place your puppy on a feeding schedule it helps with the potty training as well. After eating, take them outside to potty. Make sure to tell your little one how good he is for doing his duty outside. Basically you just fill the water up to the level of the dogfood. If they continue to turn their nose up at the kibble, try adding a bit of canned dogfood to the kibble. Puppies are like humans. Some overeat when stressed and some undereat. Changing to a new home is an environmental stressor even though we are sure your Frenchie is enjoying being the center of your world. Each Frenchie is different and each human family is different. Do your best at scheduling for you and your Frenchie to live your best lives. In this article, I will cover some key information about feeding your French Bulldog puppy, including how much you should feed them and a suggested outline for a feeding schedule that you can adapt as they grow. Keep reading to find out more. Typically speaking, the breeder that you have bought your French Bulldog puppy from should provide you with all of the information that you need on feeding your puppy. This includes what food your new puppy has been eating as well as how often your puppy has been fed throughout the day. French Bulldog puppies have high caloric and nutrient needs. Generally speaking, French Bulldog puppies aged anywhere from weeks of age need a total of 1. That being said, you will need to bear in mind that the quantity your dog eats depends on a number of factors, including their size, metabolism, and activity levels. Spreading out the meals is the key to a healthy, happy puppy, as it minimizes the peaks of energy your French Bulldog will experience due to dramatic rises and decreases in blood sugar levels between meals. Ensuring you feed them in these intervals will allow your puppy to maintain a healthy amount of energy and nutrients throughout their day. Once your French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the number of times that you feed them down to 2 meals a day. Puppies can have sensitive stomachs. You will need to feed a puppy the same type of food, the same amount of food, and feed them at the same times of the day to ensure that their stomach can cope. To come up with a feeding plan for your specific puppy, you should consult with your veterinarian and come up with a suitable feeding schedule in conjunction with their advice. Age You will need to consider when feeding your French Bulldog puppy is their age. As a result, your puppy may initially be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. In this circumstance, you will need to ensure that you remain patient and consistent when it comes to meal times. Alternatively, you could try adding a dash of water to the dry kibble to make a type of gravy. Not only will the meaty aromas tempt them to the bowl and encourage them to eat their food, but it will also soften the dry kibble slightly and make it easier for them to chew. French Bulldog puppies are allowed to be separated from their mothers at 8 weeks, at which point they will weigh somewhere between 7 to 12lbs. How much your French Bulldog puppy weighs will depend on their gender, as male French Bulldogs typically weigh more than their female counterparts. They are considered fully grown around 12 to 14 months old, but may continue to put on muscle until they are two years old. They are a greedy breed by nature, and you need to be wary of overfeeding your French Bulldog as this can lead to a variety of health conditions if they become overweight. When assessing whether your Frenchie puppy is overweight, you should be able to see a little rib and they should have a defined waistline. When it comes to choosing to give your dog treats, fewer high quality treats on special occasions are much better than feeding them many lower quality ones more often to train them. When it comes to training your puppy, positive reinforcement in the form of praise also works. Calories As your French Bulldog puppy gets older, the number of calories they are eating should increase according to their weight. You should feed your puppy 12 to 30 calories per pound of their body weight. However, if you are not sure how much to feed your French Bulldog puppy, consult your vet. Nutrition One of the most important factors to consider when feeding your French Bulldog puppy is nutrition, as a healthy, well-balanced diet is essential for their growth and development. This simply comes down to the fact that puppies have higher energy requirements and are actively developing muscle and other tissues. Energy comes from the breakdown of protein fats and carbohydrates. Health Conditions When feeding your French Bulldog puppy, you will also need to bear in mind any health conditions that your Frenchie could be prone to developing. Diarrhea Stomach upsets are very common in Frenchies, so monitoring their diet is absolutely essential. Signs of a digestion problem include wet, runny, and loose stools. If a food allergy is suspected, the only treatment is an elimination diet. As a result, you will need to watch out for any food sensitivities your dog has. Reflux Flat-faced breeds such as Frenchies can suffer from reflux or struggle to swallow their food. You will need to monitor this when it comes to giving them their food. Dental Problems Flat-faced dogs often have crowded teeth which, in turn, can cause dental problems when it comes to chewing. While some French Bulldogs are hyperactive, others are lazy and love nothing more than lying on the couch all day. As your French Bulldog edges closer to adolescence, the amount of exercise they need will increase. Around 60 minutes of daily exercise split into two walks is plenty for your fully grown French Bulldog. As a result, too much exercise can even be bad for French Bulldogs. As a flat-faced breed, French Bulldogs can overheat and struggle to breathe and pant, especially in warmer weather. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS is a condition that can cause severe breathing problems and is caused by their shorter faces. As a result, you should make sure that you take precautions to keep your dog cool and make sure that you understand the signs of heatstroke in dogs. Consult With Your Vet Above all else, consulting with your vet should be your first port of call when bringing home your new puppy. Invest In A Slow Feed Dog Bowl A slow feeding bowl is a useful dog bowl to have as they are designed with ridges or grooves which are designed to slow your dog down when they are eating. However, some treats contain high amounts of sugar, colourings, milk products and fat. As a result, you will need to make sure that you choose your treats carefully and use them wisely, as failure to do so can quickly result in your puppy becoming overweight. The moisture in wet food reduces the risk of urinary infections and other related issues while your puppy is still getting used to drinking water. As a result, it costs more to feed your dog, even if you are buying the product in bulk for a cheaper price. Wet dog food cannot be left in a bowl for hours on end, and it can be messier. As a result, people often consider wet dog food less convenient to feed their dog and store. Dry Dog Food Benefits Cheaper Dry dog foods are affordable and are incredibly easy to store for longer periods of time, meaning that they have a longer shelf life than wet foods. Dry kibble is excellent for getting rid of plaque build-up in the process of your dog chewing crunchy, dry kibble. However, despite the lack of hydration this dog food provides. Your French Bulldog puppy requires high-quality dog food that provides everything it needs to meet its requirements and ensure healthy development. In Summary Generally speaking, you should be feeding your French Bulldog puppy 1. Before coming up with a consistent feeding schedule for your French Bulldog puppy, you should consult with your veterinarian. Following their advice, you will be able to make a feeding schedule that suits your dog and you. Good luck and enjoy welcoming your new French Bulldog puppy into your family! Post navigation. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! We do not claim to be veterinarians. French Bulldogs can easily become overweight or underweight , especially the lazy ones. Some french bulldogs are hyperactive while others are couch potatoes. It is also critical that you maintain a consistent feeding schedule and never slack off on feeding your French Bulldog. Even more important than that is feeding your Frenchie the proper amount of food daily. Young Frenchies have high caloric and nutrient needs. French Bulldogs aged anywhere from weeks of age need a total of 1. Spreading out the meals minimizes the peaks of energy your French Bulldog will experience due to dramatic rises and decreases in blood sugar levels between meals. Feeding only twice daily can sometimes lead to gastric dilatation volvulus. By this stage, your French Bulldog is ready to get into an eating routine that they will continue on for the rest of their happy, little chubby lives, barring no serious medical ailments later on in life. From around 6 months to 1 year of age, you can start feeding your French Bulldog a very high quality adult doggy food. It is important to maintain a strict routine for your French Bulldog. You can always supplement a few treats in between. Wink wink. A half a cup at a time will make sure your Frenchie is pleasantly tubby and happy. Some days, it seems like a French Bulldog can never get enough food. This seemingly natural hunger is relative to the breed and you should be weary of overfeeding your French Bulldog. Monitor your Frenchie as she eats and make sure she only eats her own food, especially if you feed your French Bulldog near other pets. Note that non-neutered males may grow into the low 30lb range. Always consult a vet. Ideally, 2. This sort of consult is always quick and cheap sometimes free and you owe it to your companion to get the opinion of an expert veterinarian. Overweight Frenchies can suffer from some very severe health problems, including heart disease just like humans , labored breathing, and lack of physical exercise. Never take a French Bulldog out to play in sweltering heat, they can die. Generally, older French Bulldogs will require slightly less food than their young counterparts. However, do not restrict food from your French Bulldog if they appear to be underweight or hungry. A reader pointed out in the comments below that these calculations would put french bulldogs in the 40lbs range somewhere around calories per day. This is obviously an outlier situation and no french bulldog needs that many calories. This means feeding your french bulldog less food as they age. If they look thinner than usual, you can move up by 5 calories per pound of weight until you find a magic number. No french bulldog is identical and our suggestions are based on average weights computed to a mean average calorie intake suggestion. Read: I use this calculator and a pad of paper. See this guide in order to determine the appropriate weight for your Frenchie. Subject: How much should I feed my French Bulldog? How often and how much do I feed my Frenchie puppy? Because we feed more than one puppy at the same time the rest of their litter mates , we put a large bowl full of their puppy food in their kennel and let them eat until they are satisfied. Once all of them walk away from the bowl we know they are done, and we take it away. Puppies are changing and growing rapidly, and they need to eat more frequently at least 3 times a day to provide all the proper nourishment and nutrition for their rapidly growing bodies. Make sure your Frenchie always has access to fresh water through out the day. There is a guide on the food bag that tells you how much to feed your puppy at a given weight. This is only a rough guide depending on activity level, etc. We believe PawTree has wonderful products and we recommend that you keep your puppy on one or more of their excellent products for life. These are all-life-stages products so there is no need to start with a puppy chow and then transition over to an adult chow. However, if you would like to use another high-quality chow, the transition should be made gradually so as not to upset your puppies digestive system which could cause loose stool or diarrhea. For an adult chow, you can get by with a percentage or two less on the protein and fat content, but unless you have a weight problem with your dog, generally the higher the protein and fat content the better. However, we love the grain free chows form PawTree which use sweet potato. All of the various meats are good, although if you have a very food sensitive Frenchie, turkey or duck are generally better than chicken, and fish can sometimes cause issues. If you are feeding your Frenchie a high quality chow, you can probably get by without special supplements. Our Frenchies love them like they are treats. NuVet has made a noticeable improvement in our kennel, especially with our pregnant and whelping females. We were told about this supplement by a breeder friend of ours who obtained fantastic results in her kennel by using this supplement every day with each of her dogs. She said she solved several problems from skin rashes to low milk production in mothers, along with several other nagging health issues when she started giving each dog in her kennel one of these supplements daily. When you use the number provided you can purchase these supplements at a significantly discounted rate versus the retail cost. Have More Questions?

Our goal is to breed Labs that can be the perfect hunting retriever that excels when trained and will also be the perfect companion for the entire family. We strive to produce Labradors with excellent pedigrees that promote brains, good looks and animals that are free from health problems and genetic defects such as hip dysplasia. The dogs pictured in the gallery above are not available for sale. These are some of our favorite pictures from the Bayou Labrador collection. Our puppies are socialized extensively by adults as well as children. This socialization, along with good breeding, gives our puppies an even temperament and loving, playful personalities. By the time our puppies go to their new homes, they will have their dewclaws removed, first set of shots, wormed and introduced to swimming and retrieving. Our puppies also come with written health, hip and eye guarantees and we stand by them. We know that you will appreciate the time and attention we put into our breeding program. Bayou Labradors is committed to every pup - throughout its entire life. If a problem ever arises, please contact us immediately. A Bayou Labradors dog should never end up in a shelter. We will make every attempt to find it a loving and caring home. Visit our Litters-n-Pups area to learn about our upcoming litters Bayou Labradors pedigrees sport the finest, proven chocolate bloodlines in the field spanning decades. Simply stated: what could give a puppy a better start? We invite you to join us frequently to watch the puppies "grow up" on our web site - and meet their new families as they go home. Thank you for visiting. We look forward to hearing from you! Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. There is a reason that they are one of the most popular family dogs in the United States. Due to their popularity, you can find breeders spread throughout much of Louisiana. Here, we listed a few of the most popular Labrador Retriever breeders in the state. Pet Keen advocates for adopting before shopping. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. The 4 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Louisiana 1. Their puppies are introduced to water at a relatively young age, making them great for families looking for retrieving dogs. They occasionally have puppies for sale, though this is not their primary purpose. They have been in operation since .Their litters are generally quite expensive compared to many others. Much of this is due to the training that they provide their puppies. Open More pics of the Tuesday Ball Pit tail-waggers yfarmsdaycamp funonthefarmdaycamp yfarmskennels yfarms yfarmsfunplaytimes dogsjustwannahavefun zacharylouisiana.Our day camp kids are making the most of Monday with yummy pup cups! Fun times on the farm! We wuv weekend wiggles yfarmskennels yfarmsdogboarding yfarmsfunplaytimes dogsjustwannahavefun yfarmskennelsboarding doggydaycamp yfarmsdaycamp zacharyla We wuv weekend wiggles yfarmskennels yfarmsdogboarding yfarmsfunplaytimes dogsjustwannahavefun yfarmskennelsboarding doggydaycamp yfarmsdaycamp zacharyla.We had Furtastic FriYAY on the Farm, the proof is in the pics funonthefarmdaycamp yfarmsfunplaytimes yfarmsdaycamp yfarmskennels zacharylouisiana We had Furtastic FriYAY on the Farm, the proof is in the pics funonthefarmdaycamp yfarmsfunplaytimes yfarmsdaycamp yfarmskennels zacharylouisiana.Take a look at the precious paw print flower art from our Day Camp doggies. We are looking forward to so many more fun activities with the dogs! Let us know if you would like for your dog to join in the fun! Spots are limited! For more info www. Playtime is about to get a whole lot bigger and better! Day Camp is now available Mon- Fri am - 6 pm. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for almost forty years. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we deliver our world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily deliver our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Lafayette. For details, call Woody or Judi at .Labrador Retriever Puppies and Children In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: Dogs are better than popping pills or drinking elixers. Children with dogs for pets have been found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and fewer overall physical complaints than those without dogs. In fact, there are several diseases where dogs have been used to help those who have the disease. Two of these are: rheumatoid arthritis and emotional disturbance stemming from cases of severe abuse. Samuel B. Be sure to read the rest of her article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! They are short coupled, not overly tall, have otter tail, block heads, low key, a since of watch ability. To demystify things on the internet. We thought buying Pure English Labradors working they would be mellow but they were more hyper than the Americans. His Daddy's sire AKC pedigree didn't have any recognized to very few field title or show titles in 5 generations back which a lot of times is much better than dogs that is ate up with titles. These FT Field Trial Labrador breeders are breeding a very hyper dog confusing hyperiness with drive. This is cause they way they are breed. We bought Moses 5 weeks old, Angel Bear 1year old, Amos 3 months old. As For Color We do not breed for color! It was breed for color. A pretty lil chocolate one too. That is what the "show" politics did to the German shepherd Dogs. That's why we have the white German Shepherds. Back to the Labradors. The working Labradors American, English or British are very healthy. Meaning they don't know when to chill. They don't make good house pets, they will destroy your house and if you try to crate them they will get anxiety. As early as I can think back all my Labradors were yellow. Old stock or old school Labradors. They just wanted a good smart working dog! I also bought dogs off Candlewood out of W. Typically, they say, "The English is smaller than the Americans. The biggest one I ever had was a big fox red an import straight from the U. No how can a titled dog not even retrieve? So, since we didn't care about what color rather they were red, white or blue. Like a perfect Gentleman's dog. Our yellows- go from a snow white to a fox red. As far as size Moses is a good size dog not small by any means yet not big like the big dee looking Labradors you see. Moses hunt is a 10 Trainabliity 10 Manners.

May 17, They're all good dogs. But those good looks come with a cost. The compact architecture of their skull results in deformation, which make their nostrils or soft palate too small, obstructing airflow and leaving the pups gasping for breath. Researchers long thought that the main cause was their shortened faces. But genes found in another breed suggest that the shortness of breath might be in their DNA, according to a new study published in the journal PLOS Genetics. Ed Cara at Gizmodo reports that veterinarians began to notice that another small breed of dog, the Norwich terrier, was increasingly coming down with similar respiratory symptoms, a disease called upper airway obstructive syndrome. Unlike flat-faced pugs and bulldogs, however, the Norwich—bred for chasing rodents—has a nice, proportional skull. That got study author Jeffrey Schoenebeck, a veterinary scientist at the University of Edinburgh, wondering if the breathing problems in all the small dogs were genetic. The team assessed Norwich terriers for signs of the airway syndrome and also examined their genomes. Dogs with two copies of the mutation showed signs of fluid retention and swelling around the lungs. They had worse breathing scores than dogs with just one copy of the mutation or the normal gene. As a result, the younger generation of terriers is less like to develop the disease than older dogs. The problem in flat-faced breeds may not be quite as simple to deal with. Wonky skull shape still makes the risk of developing BOAS higher, and the gene mutation adds to that risk. The team needs to do a similar study with bulldogs to figure out how much of their breathing problems come from their genes and how much comes from their cute little smushed-up skulls. Smushed-up faces are what make certain dog breeds, like French and English bulldogs and pugs, so ugly-cute. The compact architecture of their skull results in deformation, that make the nostrils or soft palate too small, obstructing airflow and leaving the pups gasping for breath. Researcher long thought that the main cause was their shortened faces. But genes found in another breed suggest that the shortness of breath might be in their DNA. Ed Cara at Gizmodo reports that veterinarians began to notice that another small breed of dog, the Norwich Terrier, was increasingly coming down with similar respiratory symptoms, a disease called Upper Airway Syndrome. Unlike flat-faced pugs and bulldogs, however, the Norwich, bred for chasing rodents, has a nice, proportional skull. That got Jeffrey Schoenebeck of the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburghand and lead author of the study in the journal PLOS Genetics wondering if the breathing problems in all the small dogs were genetic. The team assessed Norwich Terriers for signs of the airway syndrome and also examined their genomes. Get the latest stories in your inbox every weekday. Recommended Videos. In addition to their fun characters and unwavering allegiance to their human companions, pugs have become so loveable and are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world because of their squashed noses, protruding eyes and wrinkled, flat faces. However, their shot noses and flat faces is a recipe for the serious breathing issues that they tend to suffer from. Many people who have interacted with pugs at their homes or in the park often ask; is it normal for pugs to breathe heavily? Heavy breathing in pugs is relatively common within the breed. They often have difficulty in breathing in certain situations given that their breathing passages are shorter and compact. However, pugs tend to have some serious breathing issues that should never be ignored. There are a lot of questions that dog lovers often ponder about before buying and bringing a pug into their homes. Despite being a lovely dog breed, their breathing problem can be a major concern. All you need to know is how to manage the situation. Do all Pugs Breathe Heavily? Therefore, all pugs will breathe heavily and make various noises including; gulping to catch their breath, have reverse sneezing, snoring and even passing gas. As a pug owner, these types of noise become a normal part of living with your lovely pug. In other words, you should expect pugs of all ages to make loud breathing sounds, albeit to a given extent. Why do Pugs Have Breathing Problems? Our canine friends have a respiratory system made up of the nares the nostrils , the sinuses, the nasal cavity and the pharynx, which is a membrane-lined cavity connecting both the mouth and the nose to the esophagus. As you can imagine, any defect in any of these components will leave your dog struggling to breathe properly. Again, all dogs have the following three main types of skull and muzzle shapes: Mesocephalic — These types of skull and muzzle are almost equal in length and are considered medium-sized heads. This is because they offer enough space for the nasal cavities and all other components of the outer respiratory system. These types of dogs include the Golden Retriever and the Beagle. Dolichocephalic — These are thin and rounded skulls with a relatively long snout. Just like in mesocephalic skulls, this type of skull allows for adequate room for nasal cavities and can sufficiently accommodate other components of the upper respiratory system. Brachycephalic — These types of skulls are short, compact and contracted. The distance between the forehead and the muzzle is virtually non-existent and is quite short. In essence, the upper respiratory system is compressed to fit into this inadequate frame. Evidently, such skulls are abnormal and can lead to various breathing issues. Some of the dog breeds in this category include the Bulldog, the French bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier and our little friend, the pug. According to studies, dogs with muzzles measuring less than half their head length or dogs with thicker necks have increased chances of suffering from BOAS, and pugs definitely fall under this category. Symptoms of BOAS Some of the signs of this condition can range from minor snoring to severe breathing problems. Again, animals suffering from this condition can struggle during exercises, are prone to overheating and can even collapse due to lack of sufficient air! This is because they tend to have nose problems and windpipe issues given that the entire respiratory system is lumped together. Other additional symptoms of this condition include rapid breathing, snoring, frequent panting and even difficulty in gagging and swallowing. In addition to the BOAS condition, pugs are known to suffer from other respiratory problems including: Pug Reverse Sneezing — Ever noticed that your pug sneezes so much? Many pugs have extremely long palate tissues that block their airways. This then leads to excessive sneezes, wheezes, and gasps. Pugs have stuffy noses, which tend to hold up moisture at all times. You should however not panic when you notice that your pug is on a seemingly endless sneezing spree. In such a situation, you can correct the elongated soft palate through surgery. You can consider talking to your vet on the corrective procedure to this issue so as to prevent it from becoming severe or leading to other respiratory problems. Given their conditions, pugs are highly sensitive and can negatively react to various situations. Struggling to grasp enough Air — Your pug can also struggle to grasp enough oxygen and may struggle to breathe properly. This can cause rapid breathing and respiratory distress. Their shorter and narrower breathing passages make them susceptible to extreme temperatures such as heat. If the situation worsens, and the breathing attack is severer than normal, you should immediately take your pug to the vet and have her checked out. Stenotic Snares — This is a general birth flaw found in dog breeds with squashed noses such as the pugs. This occurs in dogs with excessively soft nasal tissues. When they breathe, the nostrils tend to collapse, leaving them to breathe through their mouths. Collapsing Trachea — Pugs are known to suffer from collapsing or narrowed tracheas. As a result, they can suffer from chronic honking, which may lead to difficulty in breathing especially during exercise. Here are some of the perfect solutions: Use a Dehumidifier — Using a dehumidifier can help remove excess moisture from the air. This can help you avoid poor air quality, which may affect your lovely pug. Minimize Allergies — Pugs are a highly sensitive breed and may be affected by various issues such as smoke. For this reason, you should understand the types of allergens that your pug may be sensitive to and ensure that they are completely removed. You should, therefore, keep them in air-conditioned rooms and in pleasant temperatures. You should also avoid walking your pug in sunlight or in extreme temperatures. The ideal way to deal with this issue is to stop exercising and take enough rest. In essence, do not over exercise your pug as this can activate breathing problems. Carry some water — You can keep your Pugs cooler and hydrated during walks by giving them enough water. Instead, opt for a suitable harness that can offer better weight distribution and reduce the force on both the neck and throat areas. You should choose a suitable time that can help work off the calories without straining your lovely pug. However, the breathing problem is not as bad as it has been made to be. Allergic skin disorder x 5. Pugs are often considered to have a very gentle temperament, and this is supported by the study which showed very low levels of aggression in the breed. While this may make the Pug a good family pet from a human perspective, owners also need to consider the quality of life that the dog endures. Although these results provide evidence for some positive aspects of Pug health, they sadly highlight the Pug overall has substantially poorer health than non-Pugs. The findings suggest that many Pugs may suffer from seriously compromised health and welfare because of the extreme body shape that humanity expects of this breed. To correct this, the body shape of Pugs must shift towards a more moderate, and less extreme, conformation if we are to reduce these health and welfare issues for Pugs in the UK. It is time now that we focus on the health of the dog rather than the whims of the owner when we are choosing what type of dog to own. Widespread ownership of Pugs with extreme facial and body conformations should be discouraged until measures are in place to ensure stricter and more acceptable breed standards. These findings will also play a vital part in continuing to develop ways to encourage would-be owners to do their research and to help them understand the potential health and welfare issues that badly bred Pugs can face. We aim to curb the increasing numbers of rogue breeders, who are outside of any sphere of influence and are producing dogs with no regard for welfare and continue to urge would-be owners and breeders to think carefully about any breeding or buying decisions when it comes to Pugs, and make use of health testing, evidence-based resources and expert advice available on The Kennel Club website. Vet teams see pugs with these distressing health problems — from breathing difficulties to eye ulcers and painful spine abnormalities - in veterinary practices across the UK on a daily basis. While these extreme, unhealthy characteristics remain, we will continue to strongly recommend potential owners do not buy brachycephalic breeds such as pugs. References 1. The term applies to all breeds of dog and cat with short heads. Among the brachycephalic breeds are: pugs, English bulldogs, French bulldogs, Pekinese, Lhasa apsos, Shih tzus, and Boston terriers. Brachycephaly affects the health and welfare of animals in various ways Oechtering, .It affects the upper airways, eyes, ears, gastro-intestinal tract, spine and the ability to give birth normally. Here we focus on just one subset of these problems — BAOS. BAOS is the collective term for the problems caused to the upper airways. The brachycephalic head shape is due to an inherited defect in development of the bones of the skull Stockard .The head is a normal width but its length - especially of the muzzle - is reduced and in some breeds, like the Pug, extremely so Oechtering et al, ; Oechtering, .However, the soft tissues of the head are not correspondingly reduced in size and have to squeeze into a smaller space. This affects the passage of air into the lower airways and lungs Harvey .Pugs also exhibit other characteristic of an extreme brachycephalic conformation with a pronounced underbite and widely placed, shallow eye orbits. Most brachycephalic dogs are affected by upper airway obstruction to some degree Brown and Gregory .The airways are narrowed in several places due to the abnormal face shape and also because of the 'knock-on' consequences on the linings of the airways, of chronic laboured breathing and the abnormal pressures associated with this. Shell .BAOS is the term given to this collection of anatomical abnormalities, the secondary pathological changes they cause, and the resulting clinical signs. The risk of BOAS increases sharply as relative muzzle length shortens and BOAS occurs in dogs whose muzzles comprise less than half their cranial lengths Packer et al .There are a number of congenital present from birth , anatomical abnormalities that form the basis of BAOS Oechtering, : Stenotic Nares abnormally narrow nostrils — This is usually a bilateral condition ie it affects both nostrils. It causes occlusion of the airways, increasing the effort needed to breathe in. The 'knock-on' consequences of this laboured breathing include pulling the soft palate deeper into the larynx causing further blockage to the airway Shell .Distorted nasal passages are also thought to cause some occlusion Hendricks .Elongated soft palate — It is believed that the genetic defect responsible for shortening the bones of the nose does not correspondingly affect the soft tissues of the head, so relatively, the soft palate and tongue at the back of the mouth are disproportionately large Venker-van Haagen .In a normal dog of the same size ie with a normal head shape , the soft palate would be the correct length, but in the brachycephalic dog, it is over-large and over-long and gets pushed backwards, partly obstructing the larynx the opening to the lower airway Hendricks .For these reasons, the soft palate itself becomes swollen and further enlarged over time, further blocking the airways Shell .Pharyngeal turbinates — These are bones of the nose that should be confined to the nose but which can protrude back into the upper part of the throat in some brachycephalic dogs — especially pugs Ginn et al ; Oechtering et al, .Trachea hypoplasia Abnormally narrow windpipe relative to the size of dog —Tracheal hypoplasia is often seen in conjunction with the above abnormalities in other brachycephalic breeds — but it is very uncommon in the pug. It can also be seen in association with other abnormalities not considered to be part of BAOS including megaoesophagus abnormally enlarged oesophagus; Coyne and Fingland .Views vary about the extent to which trachea hypoplasia plays a part in BAOS. It has been suggested that tracheal hypoplasia worsens the prognosis for dogs with BAOS Orsher , Monnet and predisposes to increases the risk of chronic or recurrent lower airway and lung infections Harvey .However, further evidence in the literature to support this was not identified by Pink et al .As noted above, tracheal hypoplasia is very rare in pugs. Laryngeal hypoplasia abnormally small, underdeveloped larynx - In this condition the cartilages that form the larynx are abnormally soft and underdeveloped in shape, and the abductor muscles that function to open the larynx do not operate properly Venker-van Haagen .This is a common cause of laryngeal collapse in brachycephalic breeds according to Venker-van Haagen , though other authors do not discuss this condition as part of BAOS. Affected dogs with extreme brachycephaly conformation usually have some combination of the above defects Brown and Gregory and most have more than one of them Fasanella et al .They result in increased workload in breathing and, over time, to a progression of secondary problems. These include: Collapse of the larynx — There has been debate about whether collapse of the larynx is secondary to the abnormally low pressures in the pharyngolaryngeal throat region, as a result of the obstructions described above Wykes , or whether it is a primary problem which tends to accompany brachycephaly. It is believed that it may be a primary problem associated with brachycephaly in the pug Oechtering, personal communication. Three stages of laryngeal collapse have been described: In stage I there is eversion of the laryngeal saccules small sac-like structures in the side walls of the larynx which turn inside out and balloon into the airway, adding to the obstruction. In stage II there is loss of rigidity and medial displacement of the cuneiform processes of the arytenoid cartilage part of the cartilage that forms the support structure of the larynx and they collapse inwards, and in stage III there is collapse of the corniculate processes of the arytenoid cartilages - this involves further collapse of the laryngeal structures blocking the airway Pink et al .Bronchial collapse. Laryngeal collapse has been found to be significantly associated with bronchial collapse: the collapse of the branching airways in the lungs De Lorenzi et al .As with laryngeal collapse, this may not be secondary to pressure changes caused by BAOS, but be a primary problem. Evertion and hypertrophy of the tonsils — Inflammation of the soft tissues in the throat leads to the tonsils enlarging, adding to the amount of tissue protruding into the pharynx the back of the throat; Fasanella et al .Hypertrophy of the pharyngeal muscles — The muscles in the throat become larger and thicker as they are constantly working harder to keep the pharynx open to enable the passage of air into the lungs. However, this hypertrophy of the muscles further narrows the pharyngeal cavity. Gastrointestinal problems: dysphagia, regurgitation, vomiting and acid reflux — Dysphagia is defined by Poncet et al as difficult or painful swallowing. It can be associated with regurgitation of oesophageal contents and vomiting. Dysphagia in brachycephalic dogs has been reported by many authors e. Ducarouge , Dupre and Freiche , Koch and others .Poncet et al also noted many reports of anatomical defects in the gastrointestinal tracts of brachycephalic dogs. For example, hiatus hernia in which part of the stomach can pass up into the chest through a larger than normal hole in the diaphragm, and pyloric stenosis in which the stomach exit is narrowed, preventing food from leaving the stomach normally. They found a correlation between the severity of BAOS and the severity of gastrointestinal disease and postulated that the respiratory diseases affected the severity of gastrointestinal signs and vice versa. Heart Failure — This occurs as a consequence of inadequate oxygenation of the blood in the lungs, due to the airway obstructions. In response to inadequate oxygenation of the blood, the capillaries in parts of the lung that are poorly ventilated are constricted. Chronic long term vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure in the lungs increases the blood pressure in the right side of the heart and eventually can lead to right-sided heart failure Monnet .Breathing problems during whelping - Breathing difficulties may affect some brachycephalic bitches during whelping giving birth and may be a reason for elective or emergency caesarean section in these dogs Harvey .Thermoregulation — The normal nose plays an important role in body temperature regulation in the dog. Evaporation from the extensive folded surfaces over the complex mesh of turbinate bones, enables cooling. In brachycephalic dogs, this function is severely disrupted resulting in severe difficulties in coping with heat — whether due to the warmth of the environment or resulting from exercise. As Oechtering states: ' This is why brachycephalic animals are particularly heat-sensitive, why many pant to no avail even at room temperature and without physical effort, and may need several hours to recover even after brief exercise. Some of these conditions are progressive so the signs depend on the congenital anatomical defects present, the severity of each and how long the secondary conditions have been progressing. The primary congenital abnormalities cause the signs of BAOS in puppyhood. The mean age at which brachycephalic dogs are presented to vets for treatment of BAOS is 3 to 4 years of age Monnet .Laryngeal collapse is usually seen in older animals Harvey a. In the mildest cases the clinical signs include snoring and respiratory noise stridor on inspiration breathing in , Brown and Gregory , Fasanella et al .In more severe cases signs include exercise intolerance , mouth breathing, gagging, restlessness, rapid breathing tachypnoea , cyanosis blue coloured membranes of the mouth — due to lack of oxygen in the blood , dysphagia, abnormal posture, and intermittent collapse Shell , Fasanella et al .Vomiting and regurgitation are also frequently seen Dupre .Flatulence is common due to aerophagia swallowing air; Harvey .Respiratory crises commonly occur in moderately to severely affected individuals, in which the animals rapidly develop respiratory distress, struggle to breathe, and may collapse and die. Severely affected individuals, with laboured breathing, stand with their elbows held away from their chests in an attempt to ease breathing Brown and Gregory .With the laboured breathing, there is over inflation of the chest and the abdomen is sucked in Dupre .Dogs with more severe BAOS live a precarious existence and minor aggravations can lead to severe respiratory distress and crisis Hendricks .Stress, exercise, excitement, heat, and trips to the vet all act as aggravators Hendricks , Dupre .These dogs are very prone to heat stroke Hendricks .Hendricks examined sleep disorders in 20 English Bulldogs, another brachycephalic breed of dog that suffers from BOAS. All dogs over 2 weeks of age exhibited disordered breathing during sleep including pauses in breathing, and blood oxygen levels which dropped below normal many times per hour. It is likely that this happens in pugs also. BAOS is a progressive disease. Some of the primary problems, such as stenotic nares and over-large soft palate can be helped with surgery. Tracheal hypoplasia is untreatable Brown and Gregory .Surgical treatment is a major intervention but without treatment moderate to severely affected dogs will suffer progressive respiratory distress, incapacity and ultimately death. Some of the secondary problems can also be improved with surgery. Overall prognosis for dogs that have had surgical interventions varies; Reicks et al , in a study of 62 cases from various brachycephalic breeds, reported a favourable outcome for all dogs needing surgery. However, the outlook for dogs with BAOS depends on which primary and secondary conditions are present and how advanced they are. Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact BAOS has a major welfare impact since it not only reduces general quality of life but puts affected dogs at risk of death through major respiratory distress. Without major surgical treatment such episodes can reoccur. Disrupted sleep patterns are probably common. Even those with mild to moderate BAOS are unable to exhibit, what for non-brachycephalic breeds of dogs, is considered normal behaviour such as running and resting comfortably. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact This is a life-long disorder, starting in puppies, progressively worsening throughout life and ultimately often shortening it Dupre .The average age of first presentation to vets for treatment, for all brachycephalic breeds, is years Monnet .Even with surgical treatment life-expectancy can be compromised. Some authors record death or euthanasia due to BAOS in a relatively high percentage of cases. Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Brown and Gregory suggest most dogs with extreme brachycephalic conformation dogs are affected by upper airway obstruction to some degree. The severity of the problem depends on the number and severity of the anatomical abnormalities. Nasopharyngeal turbinates - are found in some brachycephalics, most commonly pugs Ginn et al .Laryngeal collapse is common in pugs with BAOS. Surgical treatment is more challenging than in larger dogs Harvey d. Trachea hypoplasia is seen in some pugs in conjunction with BAOS Eom et al , but is generally believed to be rare in pugs. Secondary problems are also common. Of Pugs, 53 dogs .The owners of over half of dogs diagnosed with BOAS at a referral centre stated that their dog did not have breathing problems Packer et al .This normalisation phenomenon may blind owners and veterinarians to the extent of the problem in affected animals and lead to under-reporting and under-diagnosis. Return to top 5. Diagnosis BAOS will be suspected in any brachycephalic dog showing the characteristic signs, because it is so common. Stenotic nares can be diagnosed on clinical examination of the conscious animal, but definitive diagnosis of elongated soft palate, tonsillar hypertrophy and laryngeal collapse depends on examination under anaesthetic. Diagnoses of tracheal hypoplasia, right-sided heart failure and confirmation of disproportionately large soft palate are made with radiography x-rays under anaesthesia and gastrointestinal complications may be investigated using endoscopy and biopsies, again under anaesthetic Monnet .Anaesthetics carry substantially increased risks during recovery for BAOS sufferers and most authors only recommend anaesthesia for diagnosis when corrective surgical treatment can also be carried out at the same time, under the same anaesthetic, so that these risks during recovery are reduced. Return to top 6. Genetics Brachycephalic head shape has long been thought to be the result of an inherited defect Stockard .Recently the region of the canine genome associated with brachycephaly has been identified and 2 particular genes have been implicated. The exact gene or genes are currently unknown Bannasch et al .This inherited defect defines all brachycephalic breeds and without this defect these breeds would no longer exist in their current form. Pugs have been shown to have narrow tracheas, thus a genetic component is assumed, though currently the specific genetics of this condition are unknown Eom et al .Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? The pug breed is currently defined by its brachycephalic head shape — all pugs are affected most have some degree of BAOS Brown and Gregory , so it is extremely difficult to identify a puppy that will be free of this condition. Anyone wishing to obtain a pug should ensure that it and its sire and dam are free of obvious signs of BAOS. Ensuring they have not had correction surgery for any of the primary or secondary conditions is also vital. Currently, identifying individuals that have had previous surgery for these conditions is difficult because scars on the nostrils may not be easy to see and the other surgical scars are hidden inside the throat. Because of this, Harvey had a policy of simultaneous neutering all animals that had corrective surgery. It is not known if others have adopted this approach but it is certainly not universal. Because demand would sustain continued production of affected animals, puppies with signs of BAOS should not be purchased and, if signs appear after purchase, the puppy should be returned to its breeder. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem Clear identification and neutering of all dogs which have had surgical interventions seems vital but must not be a constraint to prompt treatment. However, it is the brachycephalic head shape that underlies the primary anatomical abnormalities that cause BAOS. The practices of Caesarean section and artificial insemination that allow some brachycephalic dogs to reproduce have enabled selection for even more extreme versions of this defect Bannasch et al .If dogs with signs of BAOS were not used for breeding, the remaining gene pool might be so small because so many are affected that the breed would be unsustainable so it appears that outcrossing with non-brachycephalic would be necessary. Opinions differ as to whether it is ethically acceptable to breed animals whose welfare is likely to be compromised. As Oechtering states: ' It is high time for a radical rethink in brachycephalic breeding. Brachycephaly is a pure manmade disease. Eds, D. New Zealand Veterinary Journal .Coyne B and Fingland R Hypoplasia of the tracheal in dogs: cases —.Doctoral thesis, Lyon. Accessed .Paris, France, November 10, .Journal of Veterinary Science 9: —.Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association Harvey C a Upper airway obstruction surgery 1: Stenotic nares surgery in brachycephalic dogs. Journal of American Hospital Association Harvey C b Upper airway obstruction surgery 2: Soft palate resection in brachycephalic dogs. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association Harvey C c Upper airway obstruction surgery 3: Everted laryngeal saccule surgery in brachycephalic dogs. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association Harvey C d Upper airway obstruction surgery 4: Partial laryngectomy in brachycephalic dogs. Journal of Small Animal Practice .Hendricks J Recognition and treatment of congenital respiratory tract defects in brachycephalics. In Bonagura, J. Philadelphia: W. Canine Practice Monnet E Brachycephalic airway syndrome. In Slatter, D. Eds Textbook of Small Animal Surgery. Accessed 19th July .Canine Genetics and Epidemiology 2: .Oechtering G Brachycephalic syndrome — new information on an old disease. Veterinary Focus 20 2 : .In Bojrab, M. A potential constraint to improving canine welfare. Animal Welfare 21 Supplement 1 : .The genetic and endocrine basis for differences in form and behaviour as elucidated by studies of contrasted pure line dog breeds and their hybrids. In Ettinger, S. And Feldman, E. Eds Textbook of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Philadelphia: WB Saunders. Wykes P Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome. It may or may not be normal for a Pug to: Pant Burp Have loud breathing Panting and loud breathing sounds are expected- to an extent- from Pugs of all ages - puppies to seniors. Because of how a Pug dog's head and snout is shaped, it is normal for this breed to have to catch their breath every now and then. With this said, heat stress or over-exercise can cause heavier than normal panting noises that require an immediate break from activity, a drink of water and possibly other treatment if the Pug cannot calm down. Since this dog breed overheats very quickly, panting will occur as soon as the dog begins to feel too hot; so this can often happen on hot or humid days or if your Pug ends up walking or running around longer than planned. If a Pug is making noises that appear to be stressed breathing, an owner should bring their dog into a cool environment and allow their Pug to rest. If this is happening, the dog is in distress; most likely from a blockage of some type. An elognated palate can be partially blocking the air way, causing loud breathing sounds. Stenotic Nares narrow or closed nostrils can also cause a Pug to struggle with normal breathing. Both of these issues are common health problems with the breed and often resolved with a surgical procedure. If a Pug dog burps, this may be triggered by the food that he is eating or the rate at which he is eating it. While you may not be able to eliminate all of the burping, making even small changes to his diet can help often the removal of a particular vegetable works. Additionally, obtaining a slow-eat bowl or portion pacer to add to an existing bowl allows for slower consumption of food which means less air is being gulped down. If the burping is excessive, this may point to an acid reflex problem and your vet should be made aware of just how often your Pug is indeed burping. You may also be interested in: Pug Dog Breathing Problems - Being a brachycephalic flat faced breed, there expected to be some level of breathing issues with Pugs. Learn what is normal and what is not. Pug Sleeping Habits - How much sleep is normal according to age, ways to help your Pug get a good night's sleep and more. Pugs and Gas Problems - If your Pug is letting one rip quite often, there are some things you can do to cut down on flatulence. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Pug Breathing Problems Why Pugs Have Breathing Problems A dog's respiratory system consists of the nares the nostrils , the nasal cavity, the sinuses, the pharynx the membrane-lined cavity which connects the nose and mouth to the esophagus which is the canal that leads to the stomach , the larynx also known as the voice box , the trachea also known as the windpipe , the bronchi the branches of the trachea that extend into the lungs , and the lungs. When there is an abnormality of any one of these components, this will affect a dog's ability to breathe properly. Pugs are very prone to respiratory-related abnormalities and this is directly linked to this breed's skull shape. There are 3 main types of skull and muzzle shapes seen with canines: Dolichocephalic image 1 - The skull is thin and rounded and the snout is relatively long. This shape allows for lots of room for the nasal cavities. There is generally adequate room for the nasal cavities and all other components of the upper respiratory system. Brachycephalic image 3 - The skull is compact and the muzzle is comparatively short. Because the upper respiratory system must fit into this compressed shape, it is common for there to be abnormalities and related breathing issues. A Pug may make lots of noises including grunting, snorting, gasping, or wheezing even when at rest. This can vary from minor to severe and may include sleep apnea short moments when breathing stops. In some cases, minor breathing issues are considered 'normal' for this breed and no action needs to be taken other than following the general care tips to help Pugs breathe as well as possible next section. However, in moderate to severe instances, these breathing-related issues point to abnormalities with upper respiratory system components and may warrant veterinary treatment details ahead. Top 10 Ways to Help a Pug Breathe Better Even when a Pug is cleared of breathing-related disorders stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, tracheal abnormalities, etc. There may be all kinds of loud noises, trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, heavy panting that interferes with meeting exercise requirements, intolerance for hot or cold weather, and other issues. Fortunately, there are quite a few things you can do to help your Pug breathe better both when active and at rest. Maintain an indoor room temperature between 68 and 75 Fahrenheit 20 and 24 C. Use an air conditioner during hot weather and take care to not turn the heat up too much in the winter. For those that do not have an AC, there are some things that can keep a room cooler to help a Pug breathe better including opening windows on opposite sides of the house to create air flow, placing fans to help air circulate throughout the rooms, and keeping blinds and curtains closed to block out sunlight that would otherwise heat up the house. Overly dry air dries out breathing passages and air with high moisture levels can interfere with breathing as well. In the winter, air is very arid due to cold air not holding moisture. When that dry air is heated in the home, the relative humidity drops significantly, compounding the problem. In many locales, it's the opposite problem in the summer, when air often holds high levels of moisture. For those that live in an area with high humidity levels, a dehumidifer like the Afloia Dehumidifier for Home may be needed. Limit exposure to very cold air. Air that is inhaled through the nasal passages is warmed before it reaches the lungs, but air that is inhaled through the mouth is not and that cold air can exacerbate breathing problems. So, if a Pug is outside in the winter and is breathing through their mouth often seen with Pugs that have stenotic nares, a very common issue with this breed , that dog may pant heavy, gasp for breath, and struggle to keep breathing under control. This is seen most often on days that are under 10 F C but can occur at higher temps in the 20's or 30's. If your Pug has more trouble in the winter, limit outdoor time just to bathroom trips and short walks to maintain exercise requirements. Take exercise precautions during hot, humid weather. It's a fine line between not pushing a Pug too far and making sure that there is enough physical activity to stay healthy. Since summer can be long and Pugs should not stay sedentary, exercise may need to be limited to early mornings and later in the evenings to avoid the hottest parts of the day, breaks should be taken in the shade, and plenty of water should be provided. If there is a heat wave, keep your Pug indoors. Never place a collar on your Pug when on leash. When a leash is connected to a collar, any and all stress or tension from that leash is placed directly against the windpipe which can severely impede breathing ability. Panting, wheezing, exercise intolerance, and many more aspects can dramatically worsen. Pugs and other brachycephalic breeds should always wear a harness instead; this distributes pressure across the back, chest, and shoulders while keeping the neck free. This is a step-in design nothing has to be fit over the head , it's made of breathable air-mesh, and it is adjustable. Limit over-excitement. When Pugs get too excited this can lead to excessive panting and can worsen clinical symptoms of stenotic nares, elongated palate, and other breathing-related disorders. Offer introductions to new people or other dogs in a gradual and casual manner and keep things low-key when offering new toys or announcing a fun activity. Keep your Pug at a healthy weight. Excess weight affects breathing by pushing on the diaphragm and chest wall, adding pressure to the tracheal area, decreasing the amount of room for the lungs, and causing the heart and lungs to work harder to move oxygen around. Since Pugs are prone to becoming overweight, it's vital to keep an eye on this. Keep your Pug on a healthy high-quality diet and maintain a regular exercise schedule. Reduce or eliminate air irritants. Eliminate what you can by making your home a non-smoking zone and avoiding aerosol products. If your Pug has allergies , working to resolve this may include limiting time outside on high-pollen days, wet-dusting and vacuuming the house often, and cleaning off the coat and paws when coming back inside. Encourage good sleeping positions. Sleep apnea, episodes of greatly reduced or paused breathing, can also be at play which can be a dangerous and sometimes fatal condition. To help a Pug breathe easier at night, the body should be in a stretched-out arc with the neck supported and extended. To facilitate this, have your Pug rest and sleep on a large round or rectangle dog bed with raised bolstered sides that serve as a pillow for the head. Since this breed is very prone to hip issues, a memory foam mattress is recommended. If your Pug likes to sleep on a flat mattress, try slipping a narrow pillow under their head. Monitor your Pug. With so many factors that can affect how well a Pug breaths there can be changes throughout the year and over time. So, continually monitor your Pug for increased breathing problems, making adjustments as needed. If there is a dramatic change in breathing issues, sudden episodes of respiratory distress, or chronic breathing problems that do not respond to the changes that you make, bring this to the attention of the veterinarian asap. Health Conditions that Affect a Pug's Ability to Breathe Well As covered earlier, the Pug's brachycephalic profile makes this breed prone to certain abnormalities associated with the upper respiratory system. Let's take a look at these. Signs of this include noisy breathing especially when inhaling , noticeable flaring of the nostrils when inhaling, snoring, and exercise intolerance. Moderate to severe cases are corrected with a relatively simple surgical procedure. Read more about Pug Dog Stenotic Nares. Elongated Soft Palate This involves the soft palate, which is located at the back of the throat, partially blocking the entrance to the trachea, making it difficult to breathe well. Tracheal Issues This includes hypoplastic trachea, an abnormality with the rings of cartilage that surrounds the windpipe and collapsed trachea which is a degeneration or weakening of the rings that leads to collapse. Signs include a distinctive honking-type cough, noisy breathing, gagging on or regurgitating food, gasping for air, and exercise intolerance. Read more about Pug Dog Tracheal Issues. Everted Laryngeal Saccules This involves the laryngeal saccules, which are located above the vocal cords, becoming everted flipping inside out and partially blocking the entrance to the trachea, making it difficult to breathe well. It is considered the first stage of laryngeal collapse, a very serious and often fatal condition, so early diagnosis and treatment is vital. Did you find this to be helpful? This comprehensive care book is a complete guide for every step of your Pug's life. See what's inside. You may also like these helpful articles: Pug Separation Anxiety - Excellent tips and step-by-step advice for helping a Pug that hates to stay home alone. Pug Grooming - A super-helpful round-up of all the grooming tasks you should be doing to keep your Pug clean and smelling nice, and to maintain healthy skin and fur. Pug Care Tips - These are the 15 things that will keep a Pug happy, safe, comfortable, and healthy. See how many are you currently doing and which ones should you start to implement today. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Now, more and more are having surgery Simon Usborne Wed 27 Feb .They are in unusually good condition for a four-year-old bulldog. His incisors, while gappier than a row of gravestones, are a brilliant white and his tusk-like canines gleam like polished ivory under the surgical lights. They suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS , which is estimated to affect half of all brachycephalic flat-faced dogs, most notably bulldogs, French bulldogs and pugs. What follows is gory, but Opperman is keen to reveal — in bloody detail — what happens when pet trends fuelled by social media combine with decades of unnatural selection to create a cycle of cruelty, unregulated trade, abandonment and early death. As breathless breeds become more popular and the animals age, vets warn the cycle is about to get much worse. Show Breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, French bulldogs and boxers are prone to a range of health problems, many of which are related to their short skulls and other characteristic features. Breathing problems Brachycephalic breeds often have narrow nostrils, deformed windpipes and excess soft tissues inside their nose and throat — all of which can lead to difficulties with breathing, which can also lead to heart problems. The dogs are also prone to overheating. Dental problems The shortened upper jaws of squashed-faced dogs means their teeth are crowded, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Eye conditions The head shape and prominent eyes of brachycephalic breeds means the dogs are at risk of eye conditions including ulcers. Among the causes of eye ulcers is that brachycephalic dogs often cannot blink properly and have problems with tear production, while eyelashes or nasal folds can also rub the surface of their eyes. Was this helpful? Thank you for your feedback. Breeders have selected the animals with the biggest eyes and the funniest faces to meet demand among fickle owners. French bulldogs, known as Frenchies, have enjoyed — or endured — a startling spike in popularity , with their puppies selling for several thousand pounds. Their little faces, pointy ears and clownish personalities dominate dog Instagram, where more than 20m posts bear the frenchbulldog hashtag. The Kennel Club, which records puppy registrations, counted almost 37, French bulldogs in , compared with only 1, 10 years earlier. Pug and bulldog numbers, meanwhile, roughly doubled in the same decade, up to about 10, each last year. But scrunched skulls and snouts leave little room for breathing. It is too big, occupying the space where air that arrives from the nose should flow freely into the windpipe and lungs. He then reaches for a cauterising tool and runs it along the clamp, cutting away at the palate. Such operations are becoming increasingly common, Opperman says. Within a few minutes, Opperman has cut out a 3cm morsel of meat, which he drops on a surgical tray. He reaches for a curved needle and removes the clamp. This reflects growing numbers of the three affected breeds at the home, which took in 40 French bulldogs alone last year up from eight four years earlier , abandoned by often naive owners. The team have lowered his jaw and now turn to his nose. It is also squashed, its little nostril flaps acting like closed doors. But some animals with BOAS find ways to prop them open to survive the night, using furniture or toys as wedges. If not, they can wake up repeatedly with startled snorts. Extreme sleep deprivation is common, leading to even less exercise than their airways allow anyway. This can result in obesity, which only worsens the condition, making sleep harder. Vets report seeing dogs so tired that they nod off in consultations while still standing. However, as Opperman tried to inject the anaesthetic into his shaved paw, he panicked, flinching and showing his teeth. He will come back another day. Blood drips and pools on the floor as Opperman stitches the cuts as quickly as he can. Opperman will often cut out tonsils to clear more space. Further obstructions can exist behind the nostrils, which can sometimes be cleared with more invasive laser surgery. BOAS dogs can suffer from oxygen starvation, leading to fainting and other problems. The constant fight to draw in air can also create a destructive negative pressure inside the animals. Over time, this weakens harder structures such as the larynx, causing them to narrow or even collapse, further obstructing the airway. Reality TV star Pete Wicks has become an advocate for brachycephalic dogs since the unexpected death of his French bulldog, Ernie not pictured. The buildup of pressure, meanwhile, can pull at the digestive tract, drawing out fleshy folds and even pulling up the stomach into the chest, causing reflux. But Opperman expects the problem to get worse as more French bulldogs, in particular, arrive in his care. The dog had become one of the growing army of Frenchies that now fill our parks and social media feeds. Some of the influencers are dogs themselves; Manny the Frenchie , an eight-year-old based in Chicago, has 1. Insurance premiums for the dogs can be high.Distraught and moved to learn more about the breed, he was shocked to discover the level of suffering the dogs can endure. He now works with dog charities to expose some of the ways in which unscrupulous suppliers are meeting rising demand. But until new legislation kicks in that is due to ban the sale of puppies and kittens by anyone who has not bred them , buying a Frenchie is easy. Many may be healthy and listed by good breeders, but there is nothing to stop deals taking place in pub car parks, no questions asked. Puppy farms in Britain and eastern Europe are meeting demand. The worst among them are selecting for extreme features, worsening the deformities that cause BOAS, as well as conditions that affect eyes and skin. The Kennel Club, which recently launched a BOAS assessment and grading system in partnership with Ladlow at Cambridge, advises would-be owners still intent on getting a brachy dog to use registered breeders or rescue homes. He now uses social media to raise awareness and promote the adoptdontshop hashtag 24m posts and counting. He got Eric, now three, from Dogs Trust, after he was smuggled from Lithuania. He also has Peggy, an month-old Frenchie who had to have an eye removed after it got ulcerated — another common problem in the breed. They carried out about airway operations last year. At Cambridge, Ladlow says her team performs up to four a week. The Kennel Club, which has been accused in the past of perpetuating unhealthy traits, says it is tackling the problem from the top, by challenging show breeders to select dogs with better airways. Ladlow says she has already started to notice quieter kennels at dog shows. Beyond the canine elite, the club is working with charities to raise awareness, increase diagnoses and challenge advertisers to stop glorifying affected breeds. It promotes healthier breeds such as the norfolk and norwich terriers. But, as Opperman points out, the healthiest dogs tend to be mongrels. The best Sidney can hope for is an easier life. As his testicles and chunks of his throat and nose lie in the theatre ready for disposal, he shakes his head suddenly as he starts to come round. Opperman slides the breathing tube from his mouth. Air begins to flow through his widened nostrils. A few days later, kennel staff report that Sidney is recovering well and showing early signs of improvement. They will soon put him up for adoption. Explore more on these topics. Pharynx connects the nose to mouth and esophagus Larynx or voice box Bronchi branches of trachea connecting to the lungs Lungs Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to respiratory abnormalities. In other words, there is an abnormality to one, or more, of these respiratory components that arise in many Pugs. The small skull and short muzzle of Brachycephalic dogs like pugs mean the upper respiratory system has to fit into an unsuitably small area. Breathing issues arise as a result of this. Many Pugs can live a full, healthy, and happy life despite these issues. Minor breathing issues are generally considered to be normal for Pugs. Just keep caring for your pug according to best-practices. If you think your Pug is having more difficulty breathing than usual, you might want to visit your local veterinarian. They will be able to give you the best treatment advice. Signs to look out for that indicate moderate to severe respiratory distress in your Pug could include: 1. Increased panting If your Pug shows difficulty breathing, especially when exercising, this could be cause for concern. It is relatively normal for Pugs to display some panting after spells of intense exercise. Especially in very hot, humid, or cold weather. If your Pug is panting heavily, more than usual, or showing difficulty catching his or her breath, let them rest and contact your vet. Loud breathing Excessively noisy breathing is also a sign of breathing issues. If your Pug is constantly grunting, wheezing, snorting, or gasping for air, this is cause for concern. Especially if they are making these excessive noises when at rest. Excessive snoring Pugs snore. Though minor snoring is not a problem, severe snoring could be a sign of sleep apnea. This is far more serious as it means your Pug is experiencing short durations without breathing. This is the major component resulting in their breathing difficulties. Pugs are not in discomfort all of the time and some of these contributing factors can be mitigated with proper care. Since Pugs are likely to experience some respiratory-related problems in their lifetime, owners should secure a good pet insurance plan. This will give you the peace of mind that veterinary help is always available, without any sky-high, or unexpected costs. They are overweight Pugs have a voracious appetite. But they are also genetically prone to obesity. As a Pug owner, you absolutely must not give in to those pleading eyes all the time. It might be tempting, but treating your Pug too often could be doing them more harm than good. If your Pug is carrying too much bodyweight around with them every day, they will feel uncomfortable and lethargic. This is because of the excess pressure on their joints. More importantly, they might experience difficulty breathing even more than normal. Keeping track of your Pugs weight, and maintaining a balanced nutrition and exercise regime is one of the simplest and easiest ways to look after their respiratory health and overall happiness. They are too hot When Pugs get too hot their breathing suffers. You might notice an increased level of panting or snorting. Your Pug might even hand their tongue out of their mouth to try and cool down. Remember, pugs have a shortened nose. This is them attempting to take in more, much-needed air and cool themselves down. The best way to avoid this happening is to take your dog out during the cooler times of the day. A short walk in the morning and another in the evening is the way to go. Allergies Pugs sometimes develop allergic reactions to things. Common examples include pollen, different foods, allergens, and physical contact with certain fabrics. This contributes to respiratory distress in your pup. Common signs of Pug breathing problems caused by an allergic reaction include sneezing episodes, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Visit your local vet, who will prescribe an appropriate treatment plan. Bacterial buildup Another factor that contributes to breathing difficulties in Pugs is bacteria. This is harder to spot, but there are simple steps you can take to avoid bacterial overgrowth in your Pug. Remember those folds and wrinkles are a breeding ground for invisible bacteria. Try using a cotton swab to wipe around your Pugs nose and apply some petroleum jelly to dry areas. Their respiratory system This one is the biggie. Pugs have small, narrow nostrils and an abnormally long soft palate. As a result, the amount of airflow is restricted and access to the trachea obstructed. It causes noisy inhalation, flared nostrils, snoring, and exercise aversion. Unfortunately, this blocks the entrance to the trachea and inhibits breathing as a result. Because of this deformity, newborn Pugs can sometimes be seen dribbling milk from the nose. Signs in adult Pugs include: heavy panting.

By choosing a dog food with top ingredients, you can ensure your Frenchie receives the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Salmon, poultry, and lamb are particularly beneficial sources of protein for French Bulldogs. Healthy Fats Healthy fats, such as omega-6 fatty acids, are an excellent source of nutrition for French Bulldogs. These fatty acids help maintain a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, and result in a glossy coat. By providing your Frenchie with a diet rich in healthy fats, you can support their skin and coat health while helping to moderate inflammation. Beneficial Supplements In addition to high-quality protein and healthy fats, beneficial supplements like prebiotic fiber, probiotics, glucosamine, chondroitin, taurine, and omega fatty acids should be considered for French Bulldog dog food. Prebiotic fiber and probiotics are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote digestion. Glucosamine and chondroitin are essential for joint health and support joint and cartilage health maintenance. Taurine and omega fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for cardiovascular health. Some dog foods that include these beneficial supplements are: Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food, which contains taurine for cardiovascular health Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Food — which provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. By choosing a dog food with these beneficial supplements, you can provide your Frenchie with a well-rounded diet that supports their overall health. Potential Allergies and Sensitivities in French Bulldogs French Bulldogs may be prone to allergies and sensitivities , making it important to research the ingredients in their food and consult a vet if necessary. Some common sensitivities in French Bulldogs include corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. If your Frenchie shows signs of allergies or sensitivities, it is essential to evaluate the ingredients in their food and seek veterinary advice if needed. If you suspect your French Bulldog has a food allergy , you may want to consider a limited-ingredient dog food or a grain-free diet. By being aware of potential allergies and sensitivities and choosing the right dog food, you can help your Frenchie maintain a healthy and happy life. Feeding Guidelines for French Bulldogs Feeding guidelines for French Bulldogs include following label recommendations for feeding quantity and dividing daily servings into smaller meals for sustained energy supply. For French Bulldog puppies , it is recommended to provide them with 1. Puppies aged between 2 to 6 months should be supplied with three meals per day, whereas older puppies should be given two meals daily. Adult and senior French Bulldogs should also be fed two meals per day. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your Frenchie receives the right amount of food for their age, weight, and activity level, helping them maintain a healthy body weight and preventing potential health issues. Our Top Picks: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs in Our top picks for the best dog food for French Bulldogs in include a variety of options tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of this charming breed. From weight management formulas to grain-free options and specialized diets for puppies and seniors, these dog foods offer the essential nutrients your Frenchie needs to thrive. Pet owners recommend this dog food for its weight maintenance benefits, quality ingredients, and multiple protein sources. Additionally, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives and contains taurine, which acts as a natural antioxidant for your pup. By choosing the best overall dog food for your Frenchie, you can support their overall health and well-being. This dog food is specifically tailored for overweight and less active dogs, providing an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help them reach their weight goals and maintain an energetic lifestyle. However, the benefits it offers in terms of weight management and affordability make it a great value option for French Bulldog owners. Food and food are both great options when it comes to feeding your French Bulldog puppies. Both provide a complete, balanced diet for their growth and development. Food provides complete and balanced nutrition, strengthens the immune system, encourages growth, and promotes balanced intestinal flora. It is also easy to digest for optimal nutrient absorption, making it an ideal choice for your Frenchie puppy. It is worth noting that some puppies may not take to Royal Canin French Bulldog Puppy Dry Dog Food, and it is more expensive than other dog food options due to its breed-specific nature. However, the benefits it offers in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it a top choice for French Bulldog puppies. It provides optimal nutrition to maintain their health and wellbeing. This specialized diet is formulated for French Bulldogs over the age of twelve months and includes L-carnitine and top-notch protein to sustain optimal muscle mass, probiotics to minimize intestinal fermentation, and a kibble design that is easy for Frenchies to consume and encourages chewing. While some dogs may not accept Royal Canin French Bulldog Adult Dry Dog Food and it is costly, the benefits it provides in terms of nutrition and breed-specific formulation make it an ideal choice for senior French Bulldogs. Customers say their dogs love the taste of this food. Additionally, it is excellent for dogs with food allergies. No longer will they suffer from itchy paws or diarrhea. By choosing a dog food specifically designed for French Bulldogs with allergies, you can help alleviate their allergy symptoms and provide them with a diet that supports their overall health and well-being. Customers have reported that their dogs enjoy the flavor of Wellness Core Grain-Free Kibble and have maintained a healthy coat when consuming this food. By choosing a grain-free dog food option for your French Bulldog, you can support their overall health while accommodating their dietary needs. They come in a wide variety of flavors and are packed with lots of nutrition. Our dogs do deserve the best! Gradually introducing the new food over a period of days can help avoid these problems. If your dog experiences any digestive issues or stomach discomfort, consult your veterinarian for advice. Foods to avoid include chocolate, coffee, tea, grapes, and raisins. Instead, consider offering your Frenchie safe and healthy alternatives such as oatmeal, sweet potatoes, brown rice, fish, chicken, vegetables carrots, green beans, broccoli , and fruits apples, bananas, blueberries. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain about what foods are appropriate for your French Bulldog. By providing your Frenchie with safe and healthy food alternatives, you can promote their overall health and well-being. Homemade Dog Food Options for French Bulldogs While commercially manufactured foods are generally recommended for French Bulldogs, some owners may prefer to prepare homemade dog food for their pets. Suitable ingredients for homemade dog food for French Bulldogs include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, cooked vegetables, cooked grains, and healthy fats. If you choose to prepare homemade dog food for your French Bulldog, it is essential to ensure that the diet provides the necessary nutrients to support their health and well-being. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on creating a balanced and nutritious homemade diet for your Frenchie. Summary In conclusion, selecting the best dog food for your Frenchie is an essential part of supporting their overall health and well-being. By understanding their unique nutritional needs, choosing high-quality ingredients, and providing a diet tailored to their age, weight, and activity level, you can ensure your Frenchie thrives. With the right nutrition, your Frenchie will enjoy a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. Frequently Asked Questions What are Frenchies allergic to? French can suffer from environmental allergies such as dust mites, pollens, molds, and grass as well as food allergies such as corn, soy, beef, and dairy products. Taking steps to reduce exposure to allergens can help keep your Frenchie healthy and comfortable. This could include things like keeping the house clean, using air purifiers, and avoiding areas with high pollen. What should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? As the owner of a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to ensure your pup is getting the right nutrients. Feed them high-quality, nutritionally complete puppy food and, if desired, lean raw meat to provide them with the balanced diet they need. When he's not spending time with his furry best friend "Freddy II", you can find him reading up on the latest Frenchie trends or exploring new parks and hiking trails with his dapper little Frenchie by his side. Whether you're a seasoned Frenchie owner or just starting your journey, Freddy is excited to share his experiences and insights with you through his articles on this website. French Bulldog puppies have unique dietary needs that require special attention. There are a few key factors to consider. First off, opt for puppy-specific formulas that meet their nutritional requirements. Avoid recipes with fillers or artificial additives — go for wholesome kibble made especially for small dogs like Frenchies. A balanced diet is crucial in preventing common issues such as paw licking or upset tummies. With proper nutrition, your Frenchie pup will be ready to conquer the world one playful bark at a time. This premium dog food provides a balanced diet with a combination of high-quality proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It contains essential nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote healthy growth and support a strong immune system. One of the key features of Royal Canin Small Puppy is its small kibble size, which makes it easier for Frenchie puppies to chew and digest. This formula includes prebiotics to support digestive health and aid in nutrient absorption. The inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids contributes to healthy skin and a shiny coat. This grain-inclusive formula includes deboned chicken as the primary source of protein along with wholesome grains like brown rice. The blend of fruits, vegetables, and superfoods in Wellness Complete Health Puppy ensures that your furry friend receives essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe also incorporates omega fatty acids for healthy brain development and DHA for optimal eye health. We have never used this brand but I hear great things about it. This formula features deboned chicken as the main ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein to support muscle development. What sets Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe apart is its inclusion of whole grains like brown rice and barley. These grains offer a good source of energy and fiber while promoting healthy digestion. The recipe also includes fruits and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, and sweet potatoes to provide additional nutrients. Royal Canin has been our go to french bulldog puppy food. After trying multiple brands such as Purina, Stella and Chewy, and Merrick no large quantity available for purchase, small bags got expensive , Royal Canin has never let us down. We have never noticed skin problems, intolerance, and poops have always been great. Other brands have caused vomiting, diarrhea, and skin reactions to name a few. French Bulldog puppies are energetic and growing rapidly, which means they need frequent meals throughout the day. It is recommended to feed them three to four times daily until they reach six months of age. This regular feeding schedule helps maintain their energy levels and supports proper growth. Follow the recommended portion sizes based on their age and weight. Different brands may have specific guidelines tailored for French Bulldog puppies or small breed puppies in general. For puppies aged weeks: 1 cup of food per meal. Victor Ocean Fish All Life Stages Dog Food Remember that these portions can vary depending on individual factors such as activity level and metabolism. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly if you notice significant weight gain or loss. Monitor their weight gain and adjust feeding amounts accordingly. While puppies naturally gain weight as they grow, excessive weight gain can lead to health issues such as joint problems. Keep an eye on their body condition and consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about their weight. If your puppy is gaining too much weight, consider reducing the portion sizes slightly or switching to a lower-calorie puppy food formula. On the other hand, if they are not gaining enough weight or appear undernourished, consult with your vet to determine if an increase in portion size or a different type of food is necessary. By following these feeding guidelines, you can ensure that your French Bulldog puppy receives the nutrition they need during this crucial stage of growth. Providing proper nutrition will help set the foundation for a healthy and happy adult French Bulldog. Feeding your Frenchie the wrong food can lead to serious health issues and discomfort. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be highly toxic for dogs. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like restlessness, increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, seizures or even death. Onions and Garlic: A Recipe for Anemia While onions and garlic might add flavor to our meals, they pose a significant risk to our four-legged companions. This could lead to anemia and potentially life-threatening complications for your French Bulldog. The exact reason behind this toxicity is still unknown; however, ingestion of these fruits has been linked to kidney failure in some dogs. Xylitol: Sweetness Turns Sour Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free products like gum or candy. While it may be harmless for humans, it can be extremely dangerous for dogs. If ingested by your French Bulldog, xylitol can cause a sudden release of insulin, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. This can result in seizures, liver failure, or even death. Opt for high-quality dog food specifically formulated for their needs. Look for options that include meat protein sources like chicken or salmon, as these are beneficial for their muscle development and overall health. Make sure the food you choose contains adequate amounts of vitamins and fatty acids to promote healthy skin and coat. Avoid foods with excessive fat content that could lead to weight gain or digestive issues such as loose stools. Stick to dog-friendly fruits and veggies as treats instead. Chicken fat as dog food High-fat meats, chicken skin and fat from steaks or roasts are not recommended. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset or even pancreatitis. This can be a very painful condition for dogs. Providing a healthy diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Opting for lean proteins like chicken and turkey ensures they receive high-quality nutrients without excessive fat content. These proteins promote muscle development, support growth, and provide essential amino acids for overall health. Opt for natural alternatives that are free from these artificial additives. Whole Grains: Nourishing Carbohydrate Sources Carbohydrates play a role in providing energy to your puppy. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal. Instead of fillers like corn or wheat that offer limited nutritional value, look for whole grains such as brown rice or oats. These whole food ingredients provide fiber, vitamins, minerals while promoting steady energy levels throughout the day. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promoting Healthy Skin and Coat To maintain healthy skin and a lustrous coat on your furry friend, incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into their diet. Sources like fish oil offer an abundance of these beneficial fats that nourish their skin from within. Not only do omega-3s contribute to a shiny coat but they also help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin and overall health. By opting for lean proteins, avoiding artificial additives, incorporating whole grains, and including omega-3 fatty acids, you are providing the essential nutrients they need to thrive. Remember, a healthy diet sets the foundation for a happy and active French Bulldog. So be mindful of what goes into their food bowl to ensure they grow up strong and free from unnecessary health problems. Now that you understand the importance of healthy ingredients in food, you can make informed choices when selecting the very best dog food options for your furry companion. Keep their health in mind as you provide them with nourishing meals that will support their growth and overall well-being. By following these feeding guidelines, you can provide your Frenchie with the balanced nutrition they need to stay in optimal health. Obesity can lead to various health problems such as joint issues, heart disease, and respiratory difficulties. To keep track of their weight effectively, consider using a digital scale designed for pets or consult with your veterinarian. Adjusting Portion Sizes French Bulldogs have different dietary requirements based on their activity level and age. Puppies require more calories and nutrients to support their growth and development compared to adult dogs. To determine the appropriate portion size for your puppy or adult dog, consider consulting with animal nutritionists or your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on factors such as breed-specific needs and individual metabolism. Excessive treats can contribute to weight gain if not properly regulated. Instead of relying solely on treats for positive reinforcement, try using praise or playtime as alternative rewards. Be mindful of the calorie content in both regular meals and treats. Opt for healthier options like small pieces of lean meat or fruits and vegetables that are safe for dogs. You could even use it as a meal topper to make meal time more fun. There are hundreds of different options on the market all claiming to be the best, no wonder our Frenchie parents constantly turn to us asking what they should feed their puppies. The usual nutritional needs of French Bulldog A well-balanced Frenchie diet should contain the correct amounts of macronutrients: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. However, this is only a general guideline, and a more accurate calculation can be made based on specific factors. For instance, the age and activity level of your dog are essential factors to consider. Hormonal changes can cause neutered dogs to become less active than their fertile counterparts. Store-bought vs. Most commercial dog foods and canned goods contain preservatives, flavor enhancers, coloring, and other additives. Instead of real meat, they often contain animal by-products or meat meal, which can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Subscribe to our weekly blog newsletter: Subscribe to our blog newsletter! First name Email When you cook food for your dogs, you can be sure of what goes into their bowl. Finally, homemade meals can prolong the average French Bulldog lifespan , so we definitely recommend homemade food! Why is it so hard to find the right dog food? Feeding is an evergreen topic among Frenchie parents in our Facebook group. They know they should feed their puppy with high-quality premium dog food to keep their baby healthy and fit, but they are left puzzled when they see the plethora of different choices. The answer is actually quite simple: every Frenchie is different and what works for one puppy may unfortunately cause problems for the other. The best French Bulldog breeders will always give you advice on how to continue feeding your puppy once you welcome them home. So what are the most important things to consider while trying to find the perfect food for your Frenchie? Read on to find out! The quality of dog food is always determined by the percentage of its protein content, in other words, the amount of meat or fish it contains. So what should you pay attention to when looking at the ingredients list? This could be beef, lamb, salmon, or any other type of meat. The list usually ends with some sort of animal fat, vegetables, and fruits. Jasper, available French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Any other ingredient not mentioned above is only included to increase the volume of the dog food and to ensure the most economical production possible. So, if you see that a food contains an unrealistic amount of filler ingredients like wheat, corn, or chemical preservatives, it is definitely not a suitable and healthy choice for your Frenchie. Dog foods without chicken and grains A question that always comes up when choosing the right food for a Frenchie is whether it has to be chicken or grain-free. For that reason, we usually recommend giving chicken and grain-free food right from the start to avoid any possible problems. Makayla, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies That means that if you look at the list of ingredients, you can find companies whose food meets all the criteria we mentioned above and is much more affordable. Like with so many things, the name is not everything! On the other hand, if the kibble is too large they will have difficulties consuming the food. The flavor of the dog food When looking at dog foods, you can choose from lots of different flavors like a lamb, fish, beef, duck, etc. If one of the foods from a particular brand works fine for your Frenchie, the flavors can and should be changed as long as they have the same nutritional values. A varied diet is important not only for humans but dogs as well, not to mention that your fur baby will be very happy to taste some new flavors. The stool of your Frenchie A very important criterion and perhaps the best indicator of the given food is suitable for your Frenchie is their stool. A healthy stool should always be completely solid, which means you can easily collect it with a bag. You should always ensure a smooth transition by gradually mixing in more and more of the new food with the old to avoid any dietary issues. Signs of a food allergy in your Frenchie We have already mentioned that Frenchies tend to be allergic to chicken, but what are the actual signs of a food allergy? The most common symptoms include scratching, hair loss, dull lifeless fur, inflamed eyes and ears often with some discharge, paw licking, swelling, but also vomiting, and loose stools. You may not notice all of these and the degree to which they occur may also vary. Any of these symptoms indicate that an immediate change of diet is necessary, about which you should always consult your vet first. Eating a bit more slowly and with less appetite are usually signs telling you to cut out the middle meal. As for the amount, nice-looking French Bulldogs are a bit stockier, so you should always increase and lower the amount of their food with that in mind. Read our article to learn more about maintaining a healthy body weight for your Frenchie. Odie, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Special recommendations by TomKings Puppies The best food for French Bulldog with a sensitive stomach For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we always recommend home-cooked food , so you can be sure of what your dog is eating. However, it is important to ensure that the transition from store-bought to home-cooked dog food is gradual. Consultation with a veterinarian can also be helpful in determining the best wet food for a French Bulldog. It is essential to choose a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Look for products that are labeled as complete and balanced, which means they contain all the essential nutrients your French Bulldog needs in the right proportions. The best dry food for French Bulldogs Although cheaper dry food may appear to be similar to premium brands based on the label, there are significant differences in the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Additionally, we advise you to switch to adult food at the age of months. We always inform new parents of Tomkings puppies of the brands we used to feed the pups and we recommend to continue using the same brand for some time. The best raw food for Frenchies There are several types of raw food diets for dogs, including the Prey Model Diet, the B. To ensure that TomKings puppies receive only the highest quality food, we continuously evaluate available options and test the latest trends. We consult with a panel of experts and experienced puppy parents within the TomKings Frenchie Family, and we are proud to recommend the B. Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods diet. Consulting with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. In general, weight management dog foods can be a good option for overweight French Bulldogs. These foods are formulated to be lower in calories and fat while still providing high-quality protein and other essential nutrients. Avoid feeding table scraps or high-calorie treats, and make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and play. In some cases, a prescription diet recommended by a veterinarian may be necessary to help your French Bulldog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Best food for French Bulldogs with skin allergies If your French Bulldog has skin allergies, it is important to choose a diet that is specially formulated to help support skin health and minimize potential allergens. Consultation with a veterinarian is also recommended to determine the best course of action. Some high-quality dog food brands offer special formulas that are designed for dogs with skin allergies. These foods typically contain limited ingredients and exclude common allergens such as wheat, soy, chicken, and dairy products. Instead, they may use alternative protein sources such as fish or venison and may contain added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help support skin health. Some veterinarians may also recommend prescription diets that are formulated specifically to manage skin allergies in dogs. These diets may contain hydrolyzed proteins, which have been broken down into smaller components to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. Even though processed dog foods might not look healthy to us, they actually contain all the nutrients that Frenchies need to stay healthy. Home-made and raw diets like B. Should I opt for dry kibble or canned wet food? Wet foods are of course more appealing to dogs, which means they get used to them easily and will not want to eat dry food again. If your Frenchie is a picky eater you can mix the dry and wet food but never give them the latter only. We recommend wet food for dogs who are ill and have no appetite. How much time does my puppy need to adjust to a new food? At what age should I switch to adult food for my French Bulldog? We usually recommend switching to adult food at the age of months old. If you notice that your puppy looks a bit chubbier or bigger compared to other Frenchies you can make this change even sooner. What is the best food for a Frenchie puppy? The best choice for your Frenchie puppy is to continue providing the same brand the breeder used to provide. This should be a high-quality brand that uses real meat and avoids fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. What is the best food for an adult French Bulldog? You have several options. You can buy high-quality wet and dry god food at your local pet store or if you want more control over what goes into the bowl, you can feed your adult Frenchie with home-cooked food. Raw diets like B. The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and their customers, and show puppies from their breed. Check their available French Bulldog puppies , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. May 31, Are you head over heels for your adorable French Bulldog puppy? These little bundles of joy bring so much laughter and love into our lives. Best Food for your French Bulldog puppy According to vets and French Bulldog experts in the US, the best bulldog diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates as well as an equal amount of healthy fats for brain power and energy. Just like humans, your dog could be allergic to some kind of food, such as corn or soy, but in most cases, they are actually allergic to fillers found in processed food. These fillers are used to add mass to the product, but have no nutritional value and are difficult to digest. The best way to save your dog from this kind of suffering is avoiding fillers and giving him whole food ingredients. These budget-friendly choices mostly trigger allergies and contribute to various health problems. Having earned the highest of all ratings, NutriSource is a great choice for puppies! Contains all the essential nutrients for the optimum health of your pet. Contains no animal by-products, whole corn, artificial additives or preservatives. Fromm Besides containing nearly all of the essential nutrients, the fact that you can get grain-free varieties and non-grain-free varieties is great. Salmon oil and probiotics have been added to aid digestion and promote good health. No corn and no wheat. Highest consumer ratings!