lab german shepherd mix puppies

Choosing a reputable breeder is important for a number of reasons. For one, responsible breeders take good care of their dogs and puppies, and they only breed healthy dogs with sound temperaments. Here are a few things to help you with that. With that being said, responsible breeders will also back their programs with one or two-year genetic health guarantees, usually covering any severe genetic conditions that the parents have been tested for. This can help you weed out the bad apples and find a Goldendoodle breeder in Maryland that you can trust. We recommend you look for reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp. Or, you can check out user submitted Doodle breeder reviews here at Doodle Doods. Located in the neighboring state of West Virginia, Fox Creek Farm specializes in all sizes of the amazing Goldendoodle — from the smallest Petite and Mini Goldendoodles and up to the largest Standard Goldendoodle pups. Fox Creek Farm specializes in Multigenerational Goldendoodles, as their traits and characteristics are more predictable. This means that these pups are more often than not very low-shedding, making them ideal for people with allergies. What Makes This Breeder Unique? As a responsible Goldendoodle breeder, Fox Creek Farm follows and stays up to date on the most current ethical breeding practices. They introduce the puppies to potty training, crate training, basic manners, and socialize them with people of all ages and other pets. Waitlist: Yes. Rocks and Roses Doodles Rocks and Roses Goldendoodles With over 4 years of breeding history, Rocks and Roses have been able to earn a decent reputation as top breeders of the Goldendoodle. Rocks and Roses Doodles are located in Street, Maryland. They are a blue ribbon breeder of the miniature Goldendoodle under the Goldendoodle Association of North America. They are also a recommended breeder by Good Dog. Their Goldendoodle pups are raised in the family home where they are provided with enough space to run and play to their satisfaction. They get to sleep in a clean and temperature-regulated area and are provided with the right supplement and food to foster strong growth. Each Goldendoodle is exposed to basic puppy training and is also exposed to a wide variety of enrichment protocols like puppy culture and Early Neurological Stimulation. All their puppies are bred to high standards and stay with them until 10 weeks. They are multigen puppies so they come with hypoallergenic coats. In addition, the puppies all come from a healthy, impressive bloodline. To achieve this, careful, selective breeding must be done. This is why they spare no resources into researching the right sire and dam for their program. The dogs are tested for genetic health issues that are common to the Goldendoodle breed. They also have their hearts, patellas, hips, and eyes tested and certified by licensed professionals. Your Goldendoodle puppy should be exposed to basic potty and crate training. They also come with a 2 years health guarantee. They are health checked by a licensed vet and are each properly vaccinated and dewormed with records to show this. There are multiple reasons why you should get a Goldendoodle puppy from the 5 best Goldendoodle Breeders in Maryland. They have a stunning coat and are available in colors varying from red and cream to black and gray. In addition to their physical features, the following are some of the traits that make Goldendoodles one of the most desired dog breeds and why you should get them. Goldendoodles are rarely aggressive and love the attention they receive from other people and animals. Also, Goldendoodles are prone to getting separation anxiety when left alone for a long period. Therefore, even if you prefer staying indoors, Goldendoodles would happily stay with you if you play with them and keep a check on them at regular intervals. Also, you would probably get your Goldendoodle puppies in Maryland pre-trained with the ability to follow basic commands and socialize. In addition to it, you can also teach them basic tricks as they are quick learners and stress-free to train. Therefore, if you or someone staying with you is mildly allergic to fur, especially dog fur, you can still get a Goldendoodle. Goldendoodles have a thick undercoat and need a haircut every seven to eight weeks and additional grooming of nails. However, you should avoid bathing your Goldendoodle puppies frequently as it would result in them getting dry skin and infection. Also, the hypoallergenic trait of Goldendoodles would reduce the irritation of cleaning your house to remove dog fur. However, they are prone to various genetic health problems that affect mainly their knees, hips, and eyes and can be detected under genetic health testing. Apart from this, Goldendoodles are health conscious as they need a minimum of half an hour of playtime daily. In addition to it, they love swimming and also make the perfect hike companion if you like to explore new places. Read further to know from where you can get the best Goldendoodle puppies in Maryland. Goldendoodle Puppies For Sale In Maryland We have listed below the 5 best Goldendoodle breeders in Maryland from where you can get healthy and active Goldendoodle puppies. These breeders strictly adhere to the set of rules and ethics required to breed cruelty-free Goldendoodles. PuppySpot Looking for a Goldendoodle puppy in Maryland? PuppySpot is here to help! Plus, PuppySpot provides personalized guidance from their team of dedicated puppy managers, access to a network of veterinarians and trainers, and a comprehensive health guarantee for each puppy. So why not make the ethical and socially responsible choice by choosing PuppySpot for your Goldendoodle puppy search in Maryland? The breeders at Maryland Doodles treat their dogs and puppies as family members. They are fed on time, groomed, trained, and socialized. After all, being in the breeding business for generations, they know how to raise their sweet Goldendoodle puppies well. The socialization of the Goldendoodle puppies from an early age helps them adjust to the new family more efficiently. Most importantly, all of the Goldendoodle puppies at Maryland Doodles are hypoallergenic and can be taken care of by people having allergies to fur. Maryland Doodles Details. Marley is a curious puppy who loves adventures and seeking out new places to explore. She would love a home with lots of hikes and exploring new things. We are a premier breeder of Golden Retrievers and Golden Doodles, and all of them are raised by our family! Raised With Love Raised on the farm in Western Maryland, all our puppies are raised by our family since .Kid-friendly Your new puppy will be used to having children around. Our children actively help with feeding and socializing the puppies from the day they are born. Trusted Since We started raising puppies in , and have had many happy customers over the years. Including many repeat buyers. We Love Raising Puppies! It gives us a deep sense of satisfaction to see one of our pups grow into a friendly, sociable, and obedient companion. Our pursuit of a complete puppy breeding recipe from socialization to general habitual behavior will probably never end, but our pups are consistently bringing happiness to families abroad! High standards for both health and behavior have always been in the front of our minds, and we have built consistency in meeting those standards. We truly want your new family member to bring you happiness for years to come! Our Reviews. Yes, email me when puppies become available. Message sent. Because of flight shortages, we are offering these puppies only to families that can either come and meet them in person for pickup or meet at the Pittsburgh PA airport. Please contact Rita Power directly about this litter at: and schedule a facetime call or call. Please ask Rita about pricing. Goldendoodle Puppies for Sale in Maryland Yes, email me when puppies become available. We are a family partnership. Sisters and brothers, Mom and Dad, we all are breeders! We have puppies in a couple different states because we are family breeders. We raise puppies in our home, highly socialize our goldendoodle puppies, use high quality food, and health test our parent dogs! We are so excited to be a high quality puppy breeder and work with you on your journey. We have a few dogs and run a Guardian Program just like a few of our family members do. That keeps all of our urban doggies in less than 2 dog homes and also keeps them from ever being rehomed! We really enjoy our little business, and we hope you will enjoy the process with us too! About our English Goldendoodles English Goldendoodles have better health testing and more mellow personalities. This makes them extremely suitable for urban areas. They have such amazing temperaments! We chose this breed starting out with the English Cream Golden Retrievers and absolutely adore our stud dog, Ace. Add the poodle for non-shedding and intelligence and, whalah! The most perfect blend of all time! Goldendoodle Puppies Please feel free to contact us! We are horse lovers and dog lovers. We still enjoy both in the DC Maryland Area. Our experience growing up on the farm in Pennsylvania gives us a love for the farm life. We are so happy to be able to develop puppies and breed amazing lifetime companions. Please reach out to us and get to know us better, see our available puppies below and enjoy watching them grow. Please reload Did you Find Answers Frequently asked questions such as "Do you have any puppies available right now? Do you take a waitlist? Do you know when the next litters are going to be? Will you have litters later in the year? Most of the puppies are being raised in Idaho right now, but we have a couple litters a year in PA right now. We are all blood family members The Power Family. They were helpful from beginning to end and answered any questions we had. Parker is absolutely the best pup in the world. Angela F. Good communication was kept and our puppy is perfect. Coley D. December We are more and more in love with our Gracie Mae as each day goes by. She has been such a good girl from day one. She has slept in her crate from the first night with not so much as a whimper. She eats well and pees and poops on demand. She is so smart, loves to play and is very cuddly. The Dr said that Gracie is very healthy. Everyone there commented on how beautiful she is. She has been pure Joy for us. Thank you so much!! Lisette G. January Milo has been a tremendous blessing to our family and we love him fiercely! He is calm, sweet, eager to please and super quick to learn. Our experience with Copper Oaks was amazing. Becky was more than willing to answer any and all questions I had before purchasing Milo. Highly recommend!!! Adel R. He has brought our family such joy and is an amazing and fun loving little guy. He was super easy to train and is great with people and other dogs. Our experience with Copper Oaks was excellent: Duncan is our first dog, and we would definitely choose them again in the future. Daniel S. We love Copper Oaks mini Goldendoodles so much. We received a girl puppy from one of their fall litters and she is the best dog. Bea was spunky and loving right from the start. She bonded with us so quickly! She loves walks, meeting new furry friends and people, and playing fetch! Bea is super smart too and excelled in her puppy classes. She got a clean bill of health at all her puppy visits and the vets just love her. Everywhere we go people stop us to ask what kind of dog Bea is and where we got her from. I tell everyone she is from Copperoaks! From beginning to end Becky was informative and very helpful with the transition from her home to ours! She has continued to stay in contact and check on sweet Bea! I want to get Bea a sister soon! We love her so much! Amber G. April Wonderful breeder! They provided great information and resources and they truly care about the pups! Penny is the sweetest dog and is so smart! I already want to get my sweet Penny and sibling Aimee J. July Barkley is a wonderful addition to our family! He is energetic, smart, playful and cuddly! He picked up potty training quickly and loves to go camping and play on the beach! Big thanks to Copper Oaks and the amazing job they do! Our sweet Barkley is perfect! Krystle S. August Our little mini goldendoodle from Copper Oaks is the best little dog! She has been super easy to crate train, and is so sweet. You can tell these puppies are loved as family when you pick your pup up in person. I kind of want another one already!!!! Jada B. May Choosing Copper Oaks mini Goldendoodles for our puppy was the best decision. Stoli is such an amazing puppy - he loves people, playing fetch, he is super smart, fun, and all around great. Becky was amazingly patient and kind through the entire process. There is no doubt Becky and her entire family love the doodles, every one of them - the kind nurturing nature of the family continues to shine through via the follow ups since we brought our puppy home. To top it off, the puppy parents have a wonderful demeanor and are so kind and well behaved. Highly recommend Copper Oaks - we are thrilled to be a part of the family. Lisa R. March Payton is the sweetest little dog! Payton was one of Ivey's puppies and we picked him up from Copper Oaks at the end of September. Becky was so wonderful in responding to all of my questions. When we met Becky, her husband and their adorable children, I knew that Payton was coming from a loving place! Payton is now 4. He always wants to be around people and other dogs and is great with children too. He is kind, playful, smart and looks like a little teddy bear. He loves to play fetch, go on walks and go to day care with his dog friends. We can't thank Copper Oaks enough for helping us find the perfect addition to our family! Kate F. December Santa delivered a mini golden doodle this year! Becky was very helpful in answering all my questions regarding the purchase of a puppy and so many more questions about the breed. Willow and Tucker are super sweet puppy parents! I also loved that our puppy was surrounded by children. Dasher has been a playful and cuddly puppy! Our vet has been pleased with his puppy well checks: I have an allergy to dogs and Dasher has joined our family with no problem. I highly recommend Copper Oaks! Marianne N. February We got our sweet Teddy Bear a couple of days before Christmas, and we are so in love with him already! Amanda D. December My precious little mini golden doodle Savannah loves to go on rides in our pick up truck- she has her own little seat- the best one in the house! She is the smartest puppy we have ever had. She has learned so many tricks since bringing her home 3 months ago! She loves playing with the grandkids- played on the slip and slide- funny sight - loves Pwnn State football with her own little tee shirt, and loves going out and about meeting new people every day! We are hoping to be able to take her into nursing homes to meet the residents and cheer them up. We are so happy we found Copper Oaks mini Golden Doodles! Julie A. September We had a very good experience purchasing from Copper Oaks. Our puppy, Ginger, is a wonderful addition to our family. She is very smart and sweet. Her veterinarian commented on her confidence, how comfortable she was being handled, and the documentation we brought with us and said they were all signs of a good breeder. Tracey R. March Princess Hazel has adjusted very well into our family which is not a surprise because she came from a loving home to begin with. She is super sweet and doing fabulous in her obedience classes. I am so happy I was able to meet Becky and my husband and I were able to bring Hazel into this family. We would like to thank Becky and her family for raising such sweet dogs and being so loving and helpful. We cannot wait to see what Hazel has in store for us in the future. We will be sure to keep you updated. Elizabeth B. December Maple is turning 8 months and has been great from crate training to playing fetch. Would definitely recommend Copper Oaks. Some of her favorite things.Matt M. July We love our mini golden doodle, Bear! We highly recommend Copper Oaks! Sama G. March Our little Coco just had her half birthday and is now 6 months. We just love every moment we have with her; she brings so much joy into our lives. Copper Oaks is a great place to find a furry family member. Their whole family shows so much love to each and every puppy. This breeder is very knowledgeable and has lots of advice to share when it comes to the breed. When we are ready to add a little boy to our mix, we will definitely go through this breeder again! Helaine H. June Becky and her family provide so much love and attention to their pups.She is a responsible loving breeder who treats each litter like family. Our sweet boy Rowan is just perfect in everyway.If you've done your homework on Doodles and breeders.Jennifer M. We loved the experience with Copper Oaks from start to finish. Becky was always so warm and helpful. She always responded to my emails right away. I highly recommend purchasing your mini golden-doodle from Copper Oaks Mimi M. February Absolutely the best experience. Our puppy is perfect! Becky is so knowledgeable and great at answering our questions very quickly. Our pup flew across country and Becky made the transition very smooth. We were always informed. His personality is adorable. We can tell that he came from a warm loving environment. He is very social and paper trained. If you are considering a mini golden doodle copper oaks is a must to check out! Ramona B. He quickly adapted to our family and has been happy and cuddly since we brought him home. He is so smart and has even learned to ring a bell when he needs to go potty. Thank you Becky for making the transition so smooth for us. I highly recommend Copper Oaks!! Kimberly G.

Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. Deoderizer Plastic bin or something similar — optional Your new furry bundle of joy is likely going to go potty. Or, your new puppy may be scared and urinate out of fear. If you brought the list of things above, then this should not be an issue. You are prepared for it. Be patient and understanding. Your Golden puppy will be scared and nervous enough, so stay calm and reassuring if an accident happens. A puppy does not know any better and cannot hold its bladder for long periods. Geting frustrated with an already scared puppy is not helpful. Lap time is an excellent opportunity for you and your puppy to bond. It would help if you took every chance to build that bridge as early and often as you can. Like introductions and crate training, potty training can wait until another day. Now is not the time. If the pup does go on the towel, put the towel in the plastic bag for washing or disposal later. And what to do with any unexpected poop presents? Any soiled items are put in a plastic bag and sealed until they can be dropped in a waste bin. If your towels or blankets get soiled, and you want to relaunder, put them in a separate bag. Odors can be controlled by tossing a deodorizer in the bag. And this is where the plastic container comes in. It serves two purposes. Secondly, it makes it much easier to carry any supplies you have packed especially if you have to stop for the night. Also, your new puppy may get car sick. Stay calm, clean it up, and put it in the bag until disposal time. No littering. We packed a laundry basket with a bed, toys, paper towels, treats, plastic bags, old towels, and other items we needed. Bedding, Snacks, and Water Just like we need Doritos and other assorted snacks on a long car ride, so does your puppy. Instead, bring some healthy snacks. If the trip is a long one, bring along a bowl or two because your puppy will need to eat and drink water. A good breeder should provide you with some of the food that the puppy has been eating. So, you want to transition a puppy to another food slowly. Sometime before picking up your puppy, ask your breeder if they will supply some of the puppy food when you pick up the dog. If they do not, then ask them for the brand and where they purchased it so you can get some before arriving. Puppies sleep a lot, and with the added stress of the trip, your new puppy may want to chill. So, bring a bed or blankets. If you take a bed, make sure your line it with a puppy pad or some layers of old towels or rags. Toys Your puppy might be playful and want to play. Some puppies adapt faster to new situations and have an extroverted personality. Bringing toys along gives your puppy something to play with and is excellent for distracting it on the ride home. Avoid small toys or ones that your puppy can chew small pieces off to avoid choking hazards. Your puppy may even sleep most of the trip. Like people, some puppies may be more introverted and need more time to get accustomed to strange situations. Some puppies are timid, and some are not. Some will play right out of the gates; some will not. Other Considerations Using a Crate What about crates? Crates can be the safest option IF your puppy is accustomed to it and definitely if traveling alone. Ask the breeder if they familiarized the Golden puppy with the crate. If yes, then a crate may be a good option, but you should let the pup get familiar with the crate before departing the breeders. A bad experience can set back future crate training or affect it permanently. It can be traumatizing. You can leave the crate training to a day when it can happen in a calm environment and when your puppy has become a bit familiar with its new home and family. Bottom line: a crate is a good option if your puppy is familiarized with the crate thank you, breeder or has no issues going in. If your puppy is not happy about it or outright opposed, have someone sit it in the backseat holding and monitoring the pup. This great video provides helpful instruction on how to introduce your puppy to the crate. Leave The Kids at Home Kids love puppies, and puppies love kids, but this is not the time to make that introduction. And for you. And for the driver. The car is not the place to be distracted. Be safe and keep the stress levels as low as possible. Leave the introductions for when you can control the interactions in a stable and comfortable environment at home. The car ride on the first day is not the best place for that. Nor will it make or break the bonding and socialization experience if introductions wait until home. If the kids are 12 or over, then you can consider bringing them along. Staying Overnight If the trip is a long one, then you may need to consider staying overnight. If you stay at a hotel or motel, make sure you confirm that they allow dogs, especially puppies. Your puppy may whine a lot during its first night, so check with the hotel to determine if a more isolated room is available. You can bring a crate along or a playpen and make a little confinement area in the room—kind of like when you were kids and built forts. Also, overnight stays require some additional supplies. It would help if you planned on taking more food for your puppy, as well as snacks, paper towels, and any other supplies as required. In a pinch, you can always stop at the grocery store or gas station to top up. Rain can cause issues, as can any number of weather-related issues. If traveling in bad weather, then pack accordingly. For winter, that means extra supplies such as blankets, food, winter clothing, a survival pack, and shovels. Time off work Taking a week off of work is a good idea. The extra few days will give you time to ensure proper bonding with your puppy. And, if the trip is a long one you can take more time without rushing. The first week is essential for bonding with your new puppy and developing trust. The puppy is adjusting to its new surrounding and family, and you want the time to work on routines. Routines included potty training, feeding, and bedtime. You also want to work on preparing your puppy for the day you return to work. To learn about how to raise a golden Retriever puppy while working, this article may be of some help: Raising a Golden Retriever Puppy While Working: Guilt-Free Solutions Rest Stops Chance are you will need to pull over so your puppy and you can relieve itself and stretch the legs. However, it would be best if you were cautious where you stop. If you must stop, then consider going someplace with no or very little dog activity. Rest stops are usually full of people with dogs, so I suggest avoiding those popular areas. If you must pull over, then do it someplace that seems dog isolated like a farm road. Puppies fetch no pun intended a fair price these days, especially with demand increasing due to the pandemic and more people isolated at home. If you must make a pit stop, take turns while one person attends to the puppy another good reason to enlist some help and ensure someone comes along for the ride. Bailey having a rest stop. Relax and Have Fun Having fun might be the most crucial step. Dogs, especially puppies, really thrive in a caring environment and with lots of positive reinforcement. Doing so will help your puppy thrive from day one. That positive energy will lay the foundation to support your Golden Retriever puppy to prosper in the coming days and months. If you follow the steps above, you are almost certain to have created a mostly stress-free environment when bringing home your new Golden Retriever puppy. And doing so paves the way to cherishing one of the most joyful experiences we can have in life—a new puppy. Play separate Bring your dog to a puppy socialization class as early as eight weeks to allow them to exhaust their energy with other puppies. This will relieve your adult dog from some of the puppy play and increase the foundation for positive interactions. We brought Emma home on a Saturday and took her to puppy class on Monday. Looks for an organization that sanitizes the play location and requires all puppies have at least their first round of vaccinations. Play sessions can be in short durations minutes. Older dogs will naturally give your puppy some corrections, and this is great for training manners. However, puppies can be like the Energizer bunny and can be more playful than your adult dog. They have not learned bite inhibition yet, and their razor-sharp shark teeth are as unpleasant to your adult dog as they are to you. Ellie likes her personal space, so watched her closely for times when she appeared overstimulated by mouthing and jumping. Behaviors to monitor and unacceptable play? Signs of tension, aggression, or fear Behaviors such as growling, snarling, snapping, charging, or biting Stiff body movements instead of bouncy Curled lip, low warning growl Ears pinned back Tucked tail One dog trying to jet away instead of taking turns You'll want to intervene and redirect if you see any of these signs. Do not pull them apart by the leash. Instead, quietly step in, separate the dogs, and distract them with a chew toy. This reassures the older dog they do not have to do it all on their own and that you will step in to rescue and support them. Be mindful of food, treats, and toys Continue to manage the environment to maximize the success of positive interaction. Pick up and remove anything your dog may be territorial over, which reduces resource guarding, when a dog reacts when they perceive a threat to a valuable resource in their possession. Feed each dog separately. You may also be interested in… About the Author Kevin Bubolz is the founder of Golden Retriever Life, an online community with a mission to spread smiles. Read the full disclosure here. This comprehensive list covers all the essentials, plus some added extras. Food: Every dog needs food! See our puppy food guide for recommendations. Bowls: Your puppy is going to need something to eat that food from. Something to think about. Bedding: Your pup will need a comfortable bed to call their own. You can decide whether to choose a puppy-sized one or one that they can grown into. To avoid buying more than one crate, you can get one big enough to fit your adult golden and make it puppy-sized using dividers. Brushes: Get your puppy some brushes suitable for a longer-coated dog. The sooner you get pup used to being brushed, the easier it will be in the future. Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are daily essentials in your grooming routine. Be sure to choose a dog-specific toothpaste as the human stuff can be dangerous to canines. Treats: Essential for training. Pick high-value treats for when you really want to motivate your pup. Chew toys are essential to help direct chewing away from your belongings. Tug toys, balls to play fetch and treat-dispensing toys are also nice to have. Travel harness or dog guard: To keep your dog safe in the car. These are the main things you need to think about when puppy proofing your home. Put them up high or away in their proper place. Not only will it leave you out of pocket if your pup chews something expensive, many such items are also choking hazards. Be careful of plants: Make sure you remove any plants that are poisonous to dogs , both in your house and your garden. Common offenders include foxglove, wisteria and yew. Secure medicines and cleaning products: Both medicines and cleaning products can be highly toxic to dogs if ingested. Hide electrical cords: If a puppy sinks their teeth into an electrical cord, it can prove fatal. Try not to have electrical cords running across the room or out in the open where your puppy can get to them. If needs be, you can get cord concealers, cord wraps or even pvc pipes to secure them. Planning Appropriate Puppy Socialization Socialization, with both humans and other dogs plus other animals, if your new puppy is going to be around them , is one of the most important things to think about with your new puppy. A well-socialized puppy should turn into an adult dog who interacts well with all dogs and people, which makes your life so much easier as a dog-owner. It might sound a bit over the top, but it will stop your pup from getting confused or overstimulated and it sets some ground rules for the humans involved, too. Pick out regular meal times for your puppy and try to stick to them as closely as possible. Also take your puppy out into the garden on a schedule, as this will really help with toilet training. You can also schedule in training sessions, play sessions and, when your puppy is old enough, their daily walks. Learning How To Train Your Puppy You might think that training your new dog will be intuitive when you get them home, but dog training is a skill you learn, not one you just pick up as you go along. Once your puppy is old enough, group puppy training classes are an excellent idea. Not only will you learn more about training your pup, your dog will also get to socialize with other young canines. The ideal option is to have the puppy in the back seat in a car harness and have a passenger sit next to them, who can hold, pet and comfort them on the journey home. Some people forgo the harness altogether and have a passenger simply hold the puppy, wrapped in a blanket or towel. However, before you even get your puppy into the car, you should try to get them to relieve themself first , to avoid any toilet-based accidents on the journey home. Once you get your precious pup home, all that effort and preparation will have been worth it to give your new four-legged friend the best start in life. You May Also Like. However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped! My husband and I are bringing home our first puppy in September a goldendoodle and this was super helpful! Emily June 29, , am Thank you so much for this, Jen! I look forward to the post on favorite dog toys! We just got a puppy and, while its only been a week, we are definitely having some issues getting puppy to embrace his crate. He is doing really well with potty training, and has yet to have an accident in his crate, but soon after he enters his crate the howling begins. This way he associates it with a positive place. Also, leave treats in there. Some dogs do better with their crates covered so like drape a blanket over the sides so it feels more like a cave. You might also try placing a t-shirt or something that smells like you in there. Also, leave the door open all the time and praise him if he goes in on his own. Good luck! OH, what a difference! Long after they no longer needed their crates, we kept them and always left the door opened. They would go into them when they were tired, knowing they were in a safe place; their place. Friends always said to us that they would have a dog if it behaved like our dogs. Be consistent. Fun for all of you. I can definitely see how teaching while a puppy can make a huge difference. Looking forward to your next dog related posts :. Reply Link Megan June 29, , pm Ahh thank you for this post! My husband and I are looking into getting a pug puppy soon and these tips are so helpful. Looking forward to reading more posts on this, especially the crate training. Love the tips, we are still trying to stay the course with the UD group classes! Golden are the best! It has been such an eye-opening month with our new puppy. Our other dog is 8 so everything feels brand new. I actually wrote about it in my post for tomorrow, but a puppy is like a baby. My boyfriend and I are getting a golden pup in the fall and while I grew up with the breed I have never trained a pup on my own. We made the choice to get a puppy mostly to instil good habits and behaviour long term. So long story short, I would never put a puppy or young dog or any age in airplane cargo! Reply Link Megan June 30, , pm Good tips! Socializing him right away and crate training him were so key to having an awesome, well-adjusted dog! Reply Link Josi August 20, , pm Hello! Just wondering where you got your goldens? This really helped me figure out what to do when she gets here. Jen May 3, , pm YAY! Our 3rd Golden in about 33 years and know he has some big paws to fill Taegan was wonderful for 14 years. We are so excited!! I have a new English Cream Golden. I feel like I need to work for his affection. Great otherwise! Not super energetic. Bursts of energy followed up by lots of naps but never really interested in walks. First timer here. Your pup could really benefit from basic positive obedience! I would recommend seeking out an experienced trainer in your area to help you as your pup grows! Having a puppy in the home can be fantastic, but you also need to make sure that you can offer it the best as well. She has been really easy to house break. We are excited to bring her home. Thank you for the helpful tips. That is a good idea to make sure that we are committed to doing the work to train this dog. We do really want him to be well trained. Thanks for the tips! Thank you so much for this super informative post! Reply Link Jen January 22, , pm I always made sure she went before we got to the gym and walked her frequently. Meghan January 29, , am Thank you so much for the reply!! We kept each of our puppies on a leash in the house, never out of our sight except when they were in the crate for 4 months before we gradually gave them independence. We always messed with them and held them. They had accidents as you would expect until fully house trained at about 4 months, but never any destructive or aggressive behavior. We gave them plenty of tough chew toys. Also training classes. They were never nervous or skittish. They love to lay on us and never have had any trouble with grooming, food guarding, loud noises, children or other animals. Goldens are great dogs but like any dog, they can only know what you teach them. Great article!! Kathrinne May 5, , am Hi Jen, how old are your puppies when you let them go out? Jen May 5, , am What do you mean? Reply Link Carly September 8, , pm Thank you so much for your article! What would your input be? Do you think they would focus on each other more than their humans? Would 2 puppies be so much more difficult than 1? Any advice is greatly appreciated!! Love the name Zoey!! Any tips to Prevent that?? Reply Link Christine November 1, , am About to get golden 3. Learning all over about everything. Reply Link Jen November 1, , pm It is like starting over again but you will figure it out! Every pup is different but be patient and consistent! This is my first large dog breed so a little nervous. I read your post and you give wonderful tips that I will follow. Please let me know if it is safe to put a flea collar on the puppy. Thank you. Reply Link Jen January 29, , pm I would consult with your vet to see what they recommend for flea prevention and treatment. Also, about the scratching. It could be due to something else like an allergen outside. I have not had a dog in 3 years because I lost my last one in a painful way for me and I am afraid to get another one. I am now ready to get one and this page has helped me prepare for my new puppy. I am a 74 yr old male in pretty good shape no health issues, and retired so I should be around a while to look after a dog. My wife passed about four months ago so I guess I am looking to fill a void. I live in a single family home and have plenty of time to spare. Thanks Reply Link marion duffield April 14, , am I am picking my pup up in 2 weeks! This is the best AND most realistic article I have read about training…. My pup Tank will be 4 months when we get him. He is absolutely adorable. Have only seen photos. He lives with his breeder in Missouri and we live in Canada…. I am so excited for you!!!! Puppies are intense but so much fun. And wow, that is going to be an adventure! Reply Link Theresa April 30, , am Do you have suggestions about golden retriever puppy biting? We got ours at 7 weeks. She is now .How do we stop her from snapping and biting? She is smart and loving. The biting has been rough though. Can you help? But I love dogs soooo much. This info is everything to me. I love this post Soo much. Thanks a ton. You left puppy in car? Or what? Reply Link Madeline October 31, , pm I am picking up my 7 week old golden in 2 days! I am so excited! How did you go out taking him places before he had his full shots? I want to socialize him, and of course potty train him immediately, but obviously there are risks. Whats your take on this? So the whole crate training thing is not going so well. She hates it. Emily Camalo April 2, , pm Hi! Really appreciate you sharing all of this advice! It was super valuable. Reply Link Julie April 11, , am Loved your comments. I have a 9 week double doodle. I have crate trained since day 1 and she has been really good, day 1 upset for a couple of minutes. Day 2 no problem at all. Now just the occasional cry when I leave her but that is over with in a very short space of time. I also leave a low radio on for her. She uses the garden most of the time for toileting, but occasionally she will come into the house and do another wee. The problem I have at the moment is trying to stop her biting. I have tried the gentle command which she listens to some of the time. And I have tried standing and turning my back on her so she realises I am not playing when she bites, but she will then go for trousers or feet, which I try my best to ignore, or she will just go off and do something else like chew a mat or something which is a no no. Any ideas? Regards Reply Link Stephanie January 25, , am Really great info, thank you for your article. Our puppy arrives in 5 days and we have been preparing for months. Your advice is. Very helpful. Blessings to you.

Breeds The link has been copied! If you're a French Bulldog owner, or considering becoming one, you probably already know how charming and endearing these little dogs can be. With their smushed faces, bat-like ears, and playful personalities, it's no wonder they're one of the most popular breeds in the world. But as with any pet, it's important to know what you're getting into. One crucial factor to consider is the French Bulldog's life expectancy. How long can you expect your furry friend to be by your side, and what can you do to ensure they live their happiest, healthiest life? In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about French Bulldog life span, from common health issues to lifestyle factors that can impact their longevity. So buckle up, grab a snack, and let's explore the world of French Bulldog life expectancy! The average life expectancy of a French Bulldog is between 10 and 12 years. However, like with any breed, there are many factors that can influence a French Bulldog's life span, such as their diet, exercise, and overall health. Additionally, there are some common health issues that French Bulldogs are prone to, which can impact their longevity. One such health issue is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS , a condition in which a dog's short snout and compressed airways can make breathing difficult. This can lead to a variety of problems, such as heat exhaustion , pneumonia, and even heart failure, which can shorten a French Bulldog's lifespan. Another health issue that French Bulldogs are predisposed to is IVDD, or intervertebral disc disease, which can cause back pain, hind limb weakness, and even paralysis. Other health issues that can affect French Bulldogs include hip dysplasia, allergies, and skin infections. To ensure your French Bulldog lives a long and healthy life, it's important to keep them at a healthy weight, feed them a balanced diet, provide them with regular exercise, and make sure they receive regular veterinary care. The Average French Bulldog Life Cycle The average French Bulldog life cycle can be broken down into several stages, each with its own unique characteristics. Here's a general overview of the different stages: Puppyhood year : This is the playful and energetic stage where your French Bulldog will be full of curiosity and eager to explore their environment. During this stage, it's important to provide your puppy with plenty of socialization and training to help them grow into a well-behaved and happy adult dog. Adolescence years : As your French Bulldog matures, they will begin to settle into their personality and develop their adult temperament. This can be a challenging stage as they may push boundaries and test your patience, but with consistent training and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog navigate this stage successfully. Adulthood years : This is the prime of your French Bulldog's life when they will be at their most active and energetic. They'll enjoy plenty of playtime, exercise , and attention from their human family, and will likely develop strong bonds with their people. During this stage, it's important to provide your dog with plenty of comfort and support, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular veterinary care. Breeding The breeding of your French Bulldog can have a significant impact on their lifespan. It's important to choose a reputable breeder who breeds for overall health and longevity, rather than just physical appearance. A responsible breeder will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs to ensure that they are not passing on any genetic health issues to their puppies. Additionally, a breeder who prioritizes socialization and early training can help set your puppy up for success and prevent future behavior problems that may impact their quality of life. Health Conditions French Bulldogs are prone to certain health conditions that can impact their lifespan. Providing your French Bulldog with regular veterinary care and following preventative care protocols can help detect and treat these issues early on, which can improve their lifespan and quality of life. Diet Proper nutrition is key to keeping your French Bulldog healthy and promoting a long life. Feeding your French Bulldog a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level can help prevent obesity and other diet-related health issues. It's important to choose a diet that is appropriate for your French Bulldog's individual needs and to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to weight gain and health problems. Veterinary Care Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are crucial for helping your French Bulldog maintain their health and detect any health issues early on. By staying on top of their vaccinations, dental care, and routine check-ups, you can help ensure that your French Bulldog lives a long and healthy life. Additionally, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly if you notice any changes in your French Bulldog's health or behavior. Exposure to Heat Exposure to heat is another important factor that can impact a French Bulldog's lifespan. French Bulldogs are brachycephalic dogs, meaning they have a short snout and compressed airways that make it more difficult for them to breathe, particularly in hot and humid weather. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can quickly develop in dogs with brachycephalic features, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. To prevent heat-related health issues, it's important to keep your French Bulldog cool and comfortable in hot weather. This can be done by providing access to shade and fresh water, and by avoiding outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. You may also want to consider using a cooling vest or mat, or keeping your home air-conditioned to help regulate their body temperature. Regular Grooming and Training French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt can help to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat. However, Frenchies are prone to skin folds and wrinkles, which can trap dirt and moisture and lead to skin infections. It is important to clean these areas regularly with a damp cloth and dry them thoroughly. Additionally, French Bulldogs have sensitive ears that should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Nail trimming, teeth brushing, and regular baths are also important parts of French Bulldog grooming. Training and socialization can help prevent behavior problems that may impact their quality of life. By providing your French Bulldog with proper grooming and training, you can help ensure that they live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Lifestyle The lifestyle you provide for your French Bulldog can also impact their lifespan. Providing your French Bulldog with a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition, regular exercise, and mental stimulation can help promote their overall health and well-being. Additionally, providing your French Bulldog with a safe and comfortable living environment can help reduce stress and prevent environmental factors from contributing to health issues. It's important to provide your French Bulldog with a lifestyle that is appropriate for their individual needs and to make adjustments as needed to ensure that they are living their best life. By prioritizing your French Bulldog's health and well-being, you can help ensure that they live a long, happy, and healthy life. Genetics Genetics can play a role in a French Bulldog's lifespan. While there is no guarantee that a French Bulldog from a healthy breeding line will live a long life, choosing a reputable breeder who breeds for overall health and longevity can improve the chances of a long and healthy life. It's important to research the breeder and their breeding practices before bringing a French Bulldog into your home. Additionally, providing your French Bulldog with a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care, can help promote a long and healthy life regardless of genetics. There is currently no evidence to suggest that the exotic coloring of a French Bulldog has any direct impact on their lifespan. However, there are some concerns in the French Bulldog community that certain coat colors may be associated with health issues or may be the result of breeding practices that prioritize appearance over health. For example, there are some breeders who specialize in breeding French Bulldogs with rare or exotic coat colors, such as fluffy , lilac , or merle. While these coat colors may be visually striking, they may be associated with health issues such as skin problems, allergies, and vision problems. Additionally, there are concerns that some breeders may be engaging in unethical breeding practices, such as breeding dogs with the same coat color in order to produce offspring with rare or exotic colors. It's important to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their breeding dogs and puppies over appearance. A responsible breeder will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs, breed for overall health and longevity, and avoid breeding practices that prioritize appearance over health. By choosing a responsible breeder and providing your French Bulldog with proper care and attention, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life, regardless of their coat color. The terms "micro" and "teacup" are often used to describe French Bulldogs that are smaller than average, but it is important to note that these terms are not recognized by reputable breed organizations and are often associated with unethical breeding practices. There is no evidence to suggest that micro French Bulldogs , regardless of the label given to them, have a longer or shorter lifespan than regular French Bulldogs. In fact, breeding for smaller size can actually increase the risk of health problems in French Bulldogs, including respiratory issues, hip dysplasia, and spinal problems. To ensure the health and well-being of your French Bulldog, it is important to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and longevity of the breed, rather than attempting to breed for a particular size or appearance. Additionally, providing your Frenchie with proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care can help to promote a long and healthy life. There are several steps you can take to help your French Bulldog live a longer, healthier life: Choose a reputable breeder Select a reputable breeder who breeds for overall health and longevity, rather than just physical appearance. A responsible breeder will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs and breed for overall health and temperament. Provide proper nutrition Feed your French Bulldog a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Avoid overfeeding and provide plenty of fresh water. Regular exercise Provide your French Bulldog with regular exercise that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, strengthen muscles and joints, and reduce the risk of obesity-related health issues. Veterinary care Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential for helping your French Bulldog maintain their health and detect any health issues early on. Follow your veterinarian's recommended preventative care protocols, including vaccinations, dental care, and routine check-ups. Mental stimulation Provide your French Bulldog with mental stimulation, such as interactive toys or puzzles , to help keep their mind active and prevent boredom. Proper dental care Regular dental care is important for preventing dental issues that can impact your French Bulldog's overall health. Brush their teeth regularly and provide them with appropriate dental chews or toys. Preventative measures Take preventative measures to help keep your French Bulldog safe and healthy. This may include protecting them from extreme weather conditions, avoiding exposure to toxins, and keeping them up to date on preventative medications such as heartworm and flea prevention. Choose a Quality Breeder Choosing a quality breeder is one of the most important steps you can take to help ensure that your French Bulldog lives a long and healthy life. Here are some tips for selecting a reputable breeder: Research Do your research and seek out information about the breeder. Look for online reviews or ask for referrals from other French Bulldog owners or breed clubs. Visit the Breeder Visit the breeder in person to see their facilities and meet their breeding dogs. A reputable breeder should be willing to show you their facilities and introduce you to their dogs. They should also be willing to answer your questions and provide you with information about their breeding practices. Health Testing A responsible breeder will perform health testing on their breeding dogs to ensure that they are not passing on any genetic health issues to their puppies. Ask the breeder what health testing they perform on their dogs and ask to see the results. Breeding Practices Ask the breeder about their breeding practices and how they select their breeding dogs. A reputable breeder should be breeding for overall health and temperament, rather than just physical appearance. Socialization A good breeder will prioritize socialization for their puppies to help them grow into well-behaved and happy adult dogs. Ask the breeder what socialization practices they use and how they prepare their puppies for their new homes. Conclusion French Bulldogs can make wonderful pets, and by taking proper care of them, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life. Some of the key factors that can impact a French Bulldog's lifespan include breeding, health conditions, diet, exercise, environmental factors, veterinary care, genetics, exposure to heat, regular health maintenance and training, and lifestyle. By choosing a reputable breeder, providing proper nutrition, regular exercise, veterinary care, and mental stimulation, and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure that your French Bulldog lives a happy and healthy life. Remember, a healthy French Bulldog is a happy French Bulldog , and with proper care and attention, they can bring you joy and companionship for many years to come. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. This is how you can ensure a happy and long life to your Frenchie 1. Only they can guarantee that you receive a healthy and strong puppy from a quality bloodline. We at TomKings are extremely selective about the breeding parents, we know the bloodlines for generations and exclude any Frenchie that shows any possibility of carrying a health issue. Check out the average French Bulldog Price at a reputable breeder. Focus on the right diet Keeping your Frenchie on a healthy and balanced diet also has a large impact on their lifespan. You should always aim for a high-quality dog food which has all the necessary nutrients. Choosing a grain-free food is a great option as it has more protein, meat and animal fats with a lower level of carbohydrates. Read our guide on how to choose the perfect dog food for your Frenchie. A raw meat diet like B. Wynter, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Another thing to keep in mind is that Frenchies are prone to obesity, which can unfortunately lead to some unwanted health issues like back problems, high blood pressure, problems with insulin and so on. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies 3. Good veterinarian, regular checkup Finding a really good vet and taking your Frenchie to regular checkups is absolutely necessary to ensure a long and healthy life. They will not only make sure that your puppy stays up to date with the yearly vaccinations, but will also do blood panels to see if there are any abnormalities or maybe some vitamins or supplements are needed. Minor skin problems can be treated at home but for example lethargy and lack of appetite are two common symptoms that mean your puppy requires immediate medical attention. Accidents can always happen so having pet insurance is an absolutely must for Frenchie parents! The importance of training and exercise Frenchies are companion dogs so they hugely depend on human interaction. Similarly to humans, stress has a large impact on health and their lifespan as well. French Bulldog mommy — TomKings Puppies Owning a Frenchie means that you need to carve out a considerable amount of time of your day to train them and make sure they are getting enough exercise. A short walk in the morning and the afternoon with a couple of training or playing sessions throughout the day are ideal and will tire your Frenchie enough both physically and mentally. If you ask us, playtime is by far the best form of exercise that you can do with your dog whether indoors or outdoors! Ultimate Guide. The average French Bulldog lifespan is between 9 and 12 years. Opinions and statistics vary, but we reached this figure using a combination of credible sources. And an informal survey by the British Kennel Club also recorded a median age of 9 years. So, a typical French Bulldog lifespan should be between 9 and 12 years. At the top end of the scale, the longest surviving French Bulldog reported in the Kennel Club survey reached just over .This is fairly average for dogs overall, but on the low end for small breeds. For instance, the Chihuahua has an average life expectancy of 17 years, thanks to a low likelihood of genetic health concerns. Lower Estimates On Life Expectancy As encouraging as up to 12 years might be, many Frenchies have far shorter lifespans than this. This review of over 2, French Bulldogs under veterinary care in reported 98 deaths, and the median age was just 3. Unfortunately, French Bulldogs, in general, have a high probability of health problems — higher than most other breeds. Interestingly, even factors like stress and anxiety can shorten life expectancy. Do Female Frenchies Live Longer? One study noted that male Frenchies were more likely than females to be diagnosed with certain disorders, although the researchers noted that lifespans between male and female were unaffected. Health Concerns of the French Bulldog The most common health concerns, according to a recent study , were ear infections, diarrhea, conjunctivitis pink-eye , over long nails and skinfold dermatitis. More worryingly, .In general, we do not recommend adopting flat-faced breeds, because of the high likelihood of breathing problems. Because of their flat faces, many French Bulldogs have trouble breathing, and some suffer from sleep apnea, snoring, etc. Keeping Cool Most dangerously, Frenchies are unable to maintain a safe body temperature during exercise or hot weather. Too many French Bulldogs die suddenly from overheating during hot weather or exercise. Eye tests should be conducted on the breeding stock, including tests for hereditary cataracts and other eye health concerns. Hip scoring is also available to test for the likelihood of hip dysplasia and related issues. Reputable breeders should provide these scores to potential puppy parents. Unfortunately, many of the most serious health concerns cannot be tested for. Quality Care Once you have your pup, there are some things you can do to keep it healthy. Ensuring a healthy diet — and keeping an eye out for food allergies, which are common — can help significantly. Regular visits to the vet will help ensure that your pet stays healthy and that any health concerns are addressed as soon as possible. Helping your dog get plenty of safe exercise will help, too. French Bulldogs are not super energetic, but they still enjoy frequent walks. Lastly, you should treat your dog with love and kindness, and try to minimize its stress. However, we were unable to find a trustworthy source to prove this. However, this was an informal survey. How Long Do Frenchies Live? French Bulldog Lifespan The French bulldog lifespan is generally years. To keep your Frenchie healthy, follow these practices and look out for these common conditions. The French bulldog lifespan is generally years. These small dogs are fun-loving, loyal, affectionate pets. And with their flat faces, stubby legs, and adorable skin folds, you would be hard-pressed to find a cuter companion. One thing to consider when adopting any breed of dog, the French bulldog included, is average life expectancy. So, what is the French bulldog lifespan? This is similar to the average lifespan of other dogs of this size, like Boston terriers and pugs. The French Bulldog Lifespan: Contributing Factors The kind of care and attention a French bulldog receives throughout their life has a direct impact on their lifespan. Some of the major factors that can affect the average lifespan of a Frenchie include: Diet What your dog eats has a great effect on their overall health. Overfeeding is one of the leading causes of obesity , so make sure you feed your pet the right amount for their weight and activity level. Daily short walks and play sessions with favorite toys are great ways to get your French bulldog the activity they need. Note that French bulldogs are brachycephalic dogs those breeds with squashed, flat faces and bulging eyes like the pug and Boston terrier. Whether you adopt a French bulldog puppy or an older Frenchie, high-quality, consistent care from a veterinary professional is a great way to keep them healthy throughout life. Part of good veterinary care is keeping up with essential vaccinations and flea and heartworm control. Additionally, they can help spot any health problems early, allowing for faster treatment and a higher likelihood of a positive outcome. Frenchie Health Issues The French bulldog lifespan can also be affected by certain health conditions, which dog owners should be aware of. Again, Frenchies are a brachycephalic breed. A French bulldog who gets overworked or overheated can struggle to breathe normally simply because of their unique facial structure. Other common health problems seen in French bulldogs include eye issues like hereditary cataracts , corneal ulcers, and cherry eye. And as Frenchies advance into old age, issues like hip dysplasia and intervertebral disk disease IVDD are more likely. Again, feed your dog a wholesome, well-balanced diet ask your veterinarian for a recommendation , and give your dog measured portion sizes to avoid overfeeding. You can also give your dog an added nutritional boost with the use of dietary supplements. And our Omega Oil offers omega-3 fatty acids to improve skin health and address joint pain. Exercise your Frenchie on a daily basis with walks and playtime, but remember not to over-exert your pet. Schedule regular check-ups to make sure your French bulldog leads a healthy life. Your veterinarian can check for signs of common health issues that affect French bulldogs, like IVDD or eye health problems. A final tip: If you are adopting from a breeder, ask for health history for your new dog and their parents. Reputable breeders should have this health information on hand for your puppy and their parents, and possibly another generation back depending on how long the breeder has been operating. Understanding family history can help you choose a healthy pup and prepare for the future. These little pooches make wonderful additions to any family. How long do these dogs live? The average French bulldog lifespan is years. A number of factors can impact that range, including diet, exercise, veterinary care, and breed-specific health conditions. French bulldog owners can help keep their dogs happy and healthy by feeding their dogs a nutritional diet, exercising them daily while being cautious of heat exposure , and taking them for regular vet check-ups. 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Golden retriever rescues in Pennsylvania Other Tips To Find A Rescue Golden Retriever The good news for golden retrievers is that there are more people looking to rescue a golden than there are goldens that need to be rescued. Most golden retriever rescues have long waiting lists, and some have even temporarily stopped accepting applications, but there are other ways to find a golden in need of a home. One way is to join your local golden retriever Facebook groups. Sometimes people that can no longer keep their goldens will post in these groups asking if anyone can take them in. By keeping an eye in these local groups, you can sometimes find a great golden that needs your love and your home. Another way is to get in contact with your local golden retriever club. People may reach out to them if they need to surrender their dog, or some of the members might know someone who has a golden they need to give up. And speaking of golden retriever clubs, when you do get your golden retriever, they can be a great resource for you. Here are the four golden retriever clubs in Ohio:. Kroger Rewards Program Kroger Rewards info. Click Here to go to our Events Page. We welcome members worldwide. Golden Endings is located in central Ohio. Additionally you will know that your membership fee will help save a Golden Retriever in need. If you have questions you may contact our hotline at .Want to help Golden Endings by volunteering some of your time? We would greatly appreciate it for sure. Please Click Here and send us an email. Tell us how you could volunteer your time. Many thanks, as we appreciate anything you might be able to do for us. We get this question asked a lot, "Where on the website can I see a photo of the Goldens you have up for adoption? We don't have photos of the Goldens ready to be adopted on the website because they typically don't stay with us for too long. They come to GEGRR, get the medical care, etc that they may need, and at that point we are actively finding and pairing them up with their forever families, via the adoption applications that we receive. We want them to be with a forever family as soon as they are ready. So putting photos on the website, would be counterproductive, as the Goldens in our care are constantly changing. So please go to the Adoption Page , download and fill out the adoption application, send it in, and we will contact you. You can also call us and we'll answer any questions you might have regarding the adoption process. Here are some of the Goldens that went to their forever homes in .You can see the adopted Goldens from by Clicking Here. Read about little Eeyore! Adopt a Golden Retriever Give a golden retriever dog a loving home. We rescue golden retriever dogs from select areas of Ohio, Michigan and in Indiana. Adopt today! See them all. Help Golden Retrievers We rely strictly on your donations to make a difference in the lives of so many loving, deserving golden retriever dogs. You can play a major role in helping us survive! How can I help? Sponsor a Golden Retriever Be a Golden Angel Sponsor or help a golden retriever with extraordinary, critical medical needs. Get all the details and have your name listed next to your sponsored dog. Become an angel. Volunteer or Foster a Golden Retriever Tuck a dog in at night or help show off golden retrievers at our adoption events. Whether you want to provide a temporary loving home or just want to help at events.Be part of rescue. We also adopt golden retrievers to the southeast area of Michigan and the northeast area of Indiana. We adopt to areas within Ohio, Michigan and Indiana where we can do a home visit by a trusted volunteer. Please contact us to see if we can service your area.

One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Virginia Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Virginia? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Virginia? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. More VaGolden Retrievers Hello, I hope you enjoyed my website, and have taken the time to review all my pages , from text,photos and videos. You can find answers to most of your questions on my site. Placing you and one of my puppies together is something I take very seriously. Knowing you are happy and that one of my puppies has made that happen, means a lot to me. I do hope each family takes the time to get to know me and the line of adult Golden's I have. This is my line. A strong line of Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers make perfect family pets. They always enjoy being part of the family's company and show love and devotion to all members of the family. They crave love and affection. Companionship is their top priority and they are totally devoted to their human family. Puppies For Sale If you're interested in my coming litter,, please call I have litters arriving thought out the year. Once they arrive, I will have videos of the puppies on this website. It's always best to plan taking a puppy home and contacting me in advance is always best. He has been the most amazing dog and are so blessed to have him in our life. He is going to turn 10 months old and looks so much like his Mom and Dad. Thank you Grayland for such an amazing dog! We named him Hook because we are a Disney family and he is the Captain of our new home. We will definitely recommend you to future Golden owners. Hello, it's been 3 weeks since our Penny came home. I just wanted to thank you for this precious pup. We love her very much and she's become an integral part of the family. She's doing great with house training and is even using door bells to let us know when she needs to go out. She can sit, lay down, and shake. Penny has an awesome personality and loves everyone even our cat! She just had her 10 week check up and our veterinarian said "she's perfect in every way. She's exactly what a golden should be. So thank you so very much. We are so thankful to have our little Piper. She is quite a gem that has added that extra spunk to our Golden family. We now have 4 and plan on adding to our brood with just one more from VA Golden Retrievers. We have had such a positive experience. You can definitely see that Mr. Nelson loves his Goldens. They are friendly, energetic and well bred. Thank you for sharing a part of your family with us. We purchased our golden back in April and we named him Theodore. We are so happy with him! Theo has the sweetest disposition and learns quickly. He does well on the leash, sits, stays sometimes! Our girls absolutely love him I just wanted to let you know what a blessing our puppy has been to us! Hello Mr. We meet before back in .Bailey is such a blessing to our family. First off he is the most loving and sweetest dog in the whole world! We could Not imagine life without him he has truly given our family so much happiness! I just wanted to thank you so much for our sweet boy! We brought Beamer home in December and he has been such a blessing to our little family.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are a Labrador owner or thinking of introducing a Labrador into your family, you may have heard of a Dudley Labrador. There is quite a lot of mystique around these special pups, which means they can sometimes struggle to find a home or your breeder might ask for a premium for the pup. Read on to discover everything you need to know about these handsome dogs. They are just as good a choice for a family dog as any other type of Labrador. What Is A Dudley Labrador? A Dudley Labrador is a Yellow Labrador that is born without any pigment in their nose, eye rims, and feet, so they appear pink. They will have pale-colored eyes as well, usually blue or teal. There are three recognized colors of Labradors, black, chocolate, and yellow. Each of these dogs has two genetic loci that affect their pigmentation. The first of these loci is called the B loci, and can be BB, Bb, or bb. Any Labrador that inherits a BB or Bb will be black. Dogs that inherit a bb can be chocolate or yellow. Whether they are chocolate or yellow depends on the Ee loci, which can be EE, Ee, or ee. Of these dogs with the bb loci, those that inherit EE or Ee will be chocolate, and those that inherit ee will be yellow. But, those few pups that inherit both bb and ee loci will not only be yellow, but they will also be a Dudley Labrador. So, Dudley Labradors are a natural genetic occurrence, but they are relatively rare. There are also other Labradors that have reduced pigmentation, such as Black Labradors with a chocolate nose. This type of reduced pigmentation is just natural variation within the normal color range of Labradors. Pink Nose Lab All Labradors are born with pink noses. For the majority of Labs, their noses will turn black or brown during the first few weeks of their lives. However, because Dudley Labradors have less melanin, their noses, the rims around their eyes, and their feet stay pink for their entire lives. Dudley Labradors are not albinos, because this lack of pigmentation does not affect every part of their bodies. But Dudley Labradors are not the only pink nose Labs. As Labradors age, the pigmentation in their nose reduces. This pigmentation is produced by an enzyme called tyrosinase, which makes melanin. As this enzyme becomes less effective, their nose can turn pink as they enter their advanced years. This is completely normal and is not anything to be concerned about. This is more likely to happen in colder temperatures, as the enzyme works better in hotter climates. But if a younger Lab, which is not a Dudley, develops a pink nose when they are younger, this can be a sign of a medical problem such as a bacterial infection, allergy, or skin condition. In this case, it is an indication that you should talk to your Vet. Beyond their distinctive nose, Dudley Labradors are no different from any other Labradors. They have the same temperament and intelligence. They also have the same life expectancy and are predisposed to the same medical conditions as other Labradors, but they are not prone to any additional medical issues as a result of their distinctive noses. There has been some recent research into whether the color of Labradors influences their trainability or other behavior; responding to the anecdotal evidence, Chocolate Labradors tend to be more hyperactive, aggressive, and difficult to train. The study found there was no difference in the trainability or intelligence of Labradors based on their color. There is some evidence to suggest that Yellow Labradors, like Dudleys, might be slightly more aggressive towards other dogs than Black and Chocolate Labradors, but the difference seems to be negligible. There have been no specific studies carried out to see if Dudleys are different from other Yellow Labradors in terms of their intelligence and behavior. The one area where Dudley Labradors are different from other Labradors is they are not eligible to be show dogs or breeding dogs. Their pink noses are marked as a fault in the ring, which excludes them from competition. They are also not recognized within the Breed Standard by the Kennel Club. This means that the dog can also not be registered for breeding. From the AKC website: The nose should be black on black or yellow dogs, and brown on chocolates. Nose color fading to a lighter shade is not a fault. A thoroughly pink nose or one lacking in any pigment is a disqualification. So, while Dudley Labradors make an excellent pet for the home, they are excluded from competition and breeding. Dudley Labradors can be bought from all the same places as other types of Labradors, but they are pretty difficult to get hold of. Secondly, knowing the restrictions on Dudley Labradors when it comes to competition and breeding, many breeders will specifically control to exclude Dudley Labradors. If you are desperate to have a Dudley Labrador, you could ask a breeder to attempt to breed one for you. But you should expect to pay a significant premium for this service. You are more likely to find a Dudley Labrador among the litter of a non-professional breeder whose Labrador has become pregnant. If they are selling the pups, they might also want to charge a bit extra for the Dudley, as it is likely to be unique among the litter. So, long story short, actively hunting down a Dudley Labrador can be a challenging process. If your Labrador happens to produce a Dudley in their litter, or you come across a Dudley that needs adopting, they make excellent household pets. Yes, Dudley Labradors are relatively rare as you need a very specific genetic combination to produce a Dudley. Also, many breeders control for this gene and exclude it when creating new pups, as Dudley Labradors are excluded from showing and are also excluded from the breed registry. Dudley Labradors have the same life expectancy as all purebred Labradors , so around twelve years. The genetic quirk that gives Dudley Labradors their pink nose does not have a detrimental impact on their health. Are Dudley Labradors Albino? Like albinos, the pink nose in Dudley Labradors is caused by a lack of melanin, but they are not albino, as this does not affect the other parts of their body, and their skin and hair still contain pigment. Dudley Labradors suffer from all the same health issues as all purebred Labradors, but they are not susceptible to additional health issues as a result of their pink nose. Their nose may be more prone to sunburn than those of other Labradors. For this reason, extra precautions should be taken to avoid developing skin cancer in that area. Dudley Labradors will have light-colored eyes to match their noses, usually blue or teal. Their eyes will never be described as green, as this is not a color recognized for Labradors by the Kennel Club. The only purebred dog recognized as having green eyes is the American Pit Bull Terrier. As Dudley Labradors are considered among Yellow Labradors, Chocolate Labradors are actually the rarest color Labradors, though they do occur almost as frequently as Yellow Labradors. Black Labradors are roughly twice as common as the other two colored Labradors. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Chocolate Labradors are more hyperactive, aggressive, and harder to train than other types of Labradors. But recent research suggests this is not the case and that it is not possible to determine the trainability or character of a Labrador based on color. There is some evidence to suggest that Yellow Labradors might be more aggressive towards other dogs than Brown or Black Labradors, but the variation is too low to be considered highly significant. In fact, one of our puppies that we trained for nearly 2 years was a Dudley. After 2 years of training Dublin became a service dog and worked for another 6 years. In my experience there has not been any noticeable difference in the behavior of a Dudley Labrador vs other Lab colors. Final Thoughts Dudley Labradors are gorgeous Labs that lack pigmentation in their nose, the rims around the eyes, and paws. As a result, they have a pink nose, rather than the black or brown nose that characterizes most Labradors. This is an entirely natural, though slightly more rare genetic occurrence among Labradors. But, for some reason, these special Labradors have been excluded from the competition circuit, and they are also not recognized by the Kennel Club for breeding. But, despite this, these pups, if you come across one, make an excellent family dog. They are just as loving, intelligent, and playful as other Labradors. If you have any experience with Dudley Labradors, please share it with the community using our comments section. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Blue Labs with blue eyes? In fact, there are very few ways for dogs to have blue eyes, and none of them occur naturally in the Labrador breed. But can you picture their eyes without looking at a photo? Chocolate Lab eye color Eye color in Labradors falls broadly into two categories: brown, and hazel. Of course, a little natural variation is allowed between individuals. So brown eyes can vary from dark espresso to warm sepia, and everything in between. And hazel eyes can have varying proportions of green, amber and brown in them. At the furthest possible end of the spectrum, you might even occasionally meet a chocolate lab with green eyes. This is true of the chocolate English Labrador belonging to show lines, and the American Chocolate brown Lab bred from working lines. When there is lots of melanin in the eye it absorbs light, and we see the color brown. When there is very little melanin, light scatters around the tissues of the iris instead, and we perceive that scattered light as being blue. Green, yellow, grey and amber eyes are caused by an intermediate amount of melanin, so that we see a mix of both phenomena. There are four ways dogs can have so little pigment in their eyes that they appear blue, but none of them are associated with Labradors. The blue eye gene Some dogs carry a specific gene for blue eyes called ALX4, which determines the amount of pigment in the eyes independently of the genes determining coat color. Huskies are a well-known example of a breed carrying this gene. Merle coloring Merle coat coloring is closely associated with blue eyes. Dogs with the merle gene have patches of diluted pigment in their coat, and often one or two blue eyes. Common examples include Australian Shepherds and Great Danes. Albinism Albinism is a genetic condition which inhibits pigment formation anywhere in the body. Albino dogs have white fur, and blue or pink eyes. Dogs with white patches covering one or both eyes are also less likely to make pigment in those irises. What about Lab with blue eyes? They are highly pigmented dogs, and that includes their eyes! However, some Labradors with the color dilution gene do make less pigment than others. Silver Labs are chocolate Labs with the color dilution gene. Their coat is lighter brown than a traditional chocolate Lab — think more chocolate milkshake than chocolate brownie. Their eyes are lighter too — usually somewhere between amber and pale green. Baby chocolate Lab with blue eyes All Labrador puppies are born with blue eyes to begin with. The earliest you might start to see their final eye color appearing is about a month old, and it can take a further two months for the pigment to finish developing. They could have inherited the blue eye gene from a Husky ancestor and combined it with the genes for a brown coat. Or, they could have inherited the merle gene from a merle ancestor. If they have the merle gene they will also have a merle pattern coat, so have a look for tell tale patches of dilute fur color. What about a blue Labrador with blue eyes? Blue Lab puppies are something our readers often ask about, meaning dogs with grey fur. Could this be an alternative route to a Labrador with blue eyes? Blue dogs are black dogs with color dilution. Black Labs with the dilution gene are known as charcoal rather than blue. They are not terribly common, and their pedigree status is often subject to heated debate. Life Span Did You Know? One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they come in many colors. Silver Labrador Retrievers, or Silver Labs, are relatively new compared to the other Lab coat colors. Contrary to their Yellow, Chocolate, and Black Lab cousins, which have recorded sightings from and before, Silver Labs have only cropped up since .There was some heated debate over their authenticity, as many breeders believed the silver tint appeared from outside the breed. A diluting factor in coat color dominance traits is responsible for the silver hue — something that is also present in Charcoal and Champagne Labs as well. At any rate, Silver Labrador Retrievers are regal, loyal, and friendly Labradors that have a lot of energy and a lot of love to give! Silver Labs are curious and playful dogs. Their curiosity will often get the better of them and they may wander off in search of adventure if they are off-leash. Labrador Retrievers are known for their gentle, friendly dispositions and good natures. Well-socialized Labs tend to get along with children, other dogs, and even other pets and strangers. Because of this they make the ideal family dog and are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. Despite being one of the most active dog breeds , Silver Labrador Retrievers are highly adaptable. They prefer bigger spaces to stretch their legs and explore. As one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures , they will often take an outside adventure over an inside one any day. But, they will also just be happy to be spending time with you. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Silver Labs are one of the most affectionate dog breeds. They are happiest when they are spending time with their favorite humans, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Silver Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, hereditary myopathy, heart disease, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. A condition called exercise-induced collapse EIC has a genetic link and can occur in young adult Labradors. Good breeding practices and the health of the parents make a big difference in the health of Silver Lab puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, the Silver Labrador Retriever is at a higher risk for bloat. Silver Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds. They pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. Despite their energy and getting bored easily, they are still a great fit for dog owners of any experience level. Labrador Retrievers are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Silver Labrador Retrievers have short, water-resistant fur in two layers. Because of this dense double coat that protects them from the cold, and being one of the dog breeds that tend to love water , they may try to go for a swim regardless of the season. They shed year-round and more heavily twice a year when seasons change. Plus, your Lab will love spending the time with you. Trimming their nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Regularly checking ears and cleaning them as needed can help prevent ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, is important to prevent the tartar buildup that causes painful dental diseases later in life. Silver Labrador Retrievers need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for this dog. Although they are high-energy dogs, Silver Labs will tend to mellow out a little bit as they get older. Labrador Retrievers tend to have an extended puppyhood and maintain that puppy-like energy until they are around years old. Swimming is a great low-impact activity. Once your Lab puppy is cleared for more intense activity, you can try a lot of different activities with them. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Labs are also athletic and versatile dogs that tend to be a good fit for a wide range of activities. Fully-grown Silver Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Silver Labs generally live for years on average. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. They are also commonly found working as police or military dogs. They are even one of the best dog breeds for farms! Featured Silver Labrador Retriever Article. Life Span Did You Know? Charcoal Labrador Retrievers, or Charcoal Labs, are playful little helpers that just want to explore. Their loyalty and independence make them a perfect pet for beginners. Interestingly enough, many breeders believe the gray tint appeared from outside labrador lineage. However, genetics has been able to provide more than enough evidence to support that these are indeed Labradors, albeit rare ones. Their genes contain a diluting factor in coat color dominance traits that are responsible for the gray hue — something that is also present in Silver and Champagne Labs as well. Quizzical and adventurous, Charcoal Labs have a penchant for chasing woodland critters. As a Retriever, they make great companions or service dogs and are perfect for hunters. Besides their working dog nature, Charcoal Labradors also exhibit a playful and patient attitude. This makes them perfect for families, even those with small children that may be too exuberant for other breeds. Highly adaptable, Labs are happy in almost any environment. While they definitely love to get attention, they are not a high maintenance breed and are content to spend time guarding over their family. They do tend to have natural retriever urges though, such as digging and minor barking, but exercise and some training will usually take care of this issue. These dogs are happiest when they are with their family, are well-exercised, and have plenty of mental stimulation. They can adapt to apartment living, but they must get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation in order to do so. Their double coat makes them a good fit for almost any climate. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Overall, Charcoal Labs tend to be a healthy and active dog breed. Regular visits to the vet will take care of most common issues, but owners should keep an eye out for overeating in their pup. Later on in life, Labs are likely to develop common age-related issues such as eye disorders and joint problems. Ideal for first-time owners, Labrador Retrievers are highly independent and adapt to almost any living situation. They are also highly trainable and are eager to please their owners. As companions, Labs can make the change from lap dog to guard dog and make a great fit for most owners. Grooming is fairly low maintenance for Charcoal Labs when compared to most breeds. Charcoal Labrador Retrievers will shed moderately year-round and will go through two heavier shedding cycles each year. A thorough brushing once per week, and the occasional bath will do just fine. If your pup likes to swim a lot or gets muddy on a hike or run, it may be necessary to bathe them more often. Bred to be working dogs, Labs are fairly active and need regular exercise as part of their routine. Daily walks and runs, trips to the park, or the occasional hike or swim will help them to stay active and healthy. They do tend to calm down a little once they get around 2 years old, but they will still be a high energy and active dog. Charcoal Labs grow up to be medium to large dogs. Typically, they get to be about 23 inches in height, weighing in at an average of 75 pounds. Males tend to range between 65 and 80 pounds while females range from 55 to 70 pounds. Labs enjoy a nice longevity, providing companionship for 10 to 14 years. Labrador Retrievers have a thick, tapering tail. Featured Charcoal Labrador Retriever Article.

A little prevention can go a long way towards keeping your Loyal Pals nice and tidy for years to come! Since Loyal Pals can be made of a range of materials, we recommend avoiding commercial cleaners and detergents as those products may damage your product. To clean the surface of any Loyal Pals, simply use a damp cloth and warm water. It is also a very good idea to avoid exposing your Loyal Pals to heat sources like direct sunlight, irons, and clothes dryers, especially for items that contain plastics. Your Our Generation Loyal Pals has a cuddly, soft body that should not get wet. Pretend swimming is ok! But please do not submerse your doll pet in water. OG Loyal Pals love pretending to play outside, but please make sure not to let your doll sit in the sun for too long…exposure to heat of any kind can cause serious harm to your toy! We know you will do everything you can to keep your Loyal Pal happy and healthy! And you can always bring them to the Healthy Paws Vet Clinic if they need some extra care! Small parts. Not for children under 3 years. Recommended Accessories. Disclaimer: The price shown above includes all applicable taxes and fees. The information provided above is for reference purposes only. Products may go out of stock and delivery estimates may change at any time. For additional information, please contact the manufacturer or desertcart customer service. While desertcart makes reasonable efforts to only show products available in your country, some items may be cancelled if they are prohibited for import in Gambia. For more details, please visit our Support Page. We can deliver the Perfect Petzzz Boxer the Breathing Puppy speedily without the hassle of shipping, customs or duties. We have a dedicated team who specialize in quality control and efficient delivery. Since , desertcart has been delivering a wide range of products to customers and fulfilling their desires. You will find several positive reviews by desertcart customers on portals like Trustpilot, etc. The website uses an HTTPS system to safeguard all customers and protect financial details and transactions done online. The company uses the latest upgraded technologies and software systems to ensure a fair and safe shopping experience for all customers. Your details are highly secure and guarded by the company using encryption and other latest softwares and technologies. So You Want A Boxer? Mar 17, Jun 22, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. So you want a Boxer? I personally have a soft spot for Boxers thanks to fond childhood memories. Both were fawn colored and great with kids. One of my pet sitting clients was also a black brindle colored Boxer who loved to play catch me if you can in his yard. His name was Bogart and he was the most beautiful Boxer I have ever seen, and I swear he was aware of his good looks! Known as brachycephalic dogs, their nasal passages are much shorter than those of dogs with long snouts. That makes them more prone to overheating on hot summer days than dogs with regularly sized nasal passages. The same applies to tail docking. Besides a more natural look, undocked Boxers with a full tail are also better swimmers and can communicate more effectively with other dogs and humans too. It simply means teaching your Boxer to follow rules that are important to you. For example, no pulling on walks , not being allowed on furniture, no jumping on guests, waiting for your OK to eat, not racing through an open door, etc. They enjoy being close to their humans, including adults and children. For instructions, check out our blog post 21 Dog Training Commands. Boxers Are Classified As Working Dogs Did you know that thanks to their courage, strength and stamina, Boxers were originally used to hunt wild boar and bears?

By Chris We dog parents know this all-too-well. German Shepherds are stoic, confident dogs, so what gives? Why do German Shepherds whine? Many dog parents always wonder what their dogs are whining about , especially working breeds like the German Shepherd. Dogs whine for a variety of reasons, but most often it is to communicate a need or desire. In this blog post, we will go over 7 reasons why your intimidating-looking German Shepherd might sound like a big baby every once in a while. Your German Shepherd Wants Something The vast majority of the time that your dog whines is because it wants something from you, whether it is to go out, to play, or for attention. The first thing to do is to identify what your dog is trying to tell you. So what does your German Shepherd want, and how do you tell? If your German Shepherd is whining to go outside, he might stare at the door and whine, or run between you and the door. Look out for the whining after your dog wakes up from a nap or a few minutes after he finishes his meal. German Shepherd nudges his owner to show affection. Your dog is bored German Shepherds are active dogs that require a lot of activity to burn off all of their energy. These intelligent dogs, in particular, require cognitive stimulation. Make sure your dog is getting enough physical and mental stimulation. A good run every day or a two-hour walk might keep a German Shepherd happy. Make sure that there are plenty of chew toys and puzzles to keep your GSD occupied when indoors, and if not, go for more walks! A hyperactive GSD is not a good idea. German Shepherd hyper actively plays with a ball. They are hugely bonded to their human owners and might be a little attention-seeking sook every once in a while. Your pooch is delighted to see you! Dogs whine from extreme excitement too. When you first arrive home, your German Shepherd will most likely whine because it is overjoyed to see you. Simply interpret this whine as a cheerful welcome, but if your GSD is prone to excessive whining and separation anxiety, you might need to wait for him to calm down before giving him the same greeting back. Your GSD is scared or anxious Although GSDs are known to be fearless, courageous dogs, they can be scared too, just like any other dog. Storms, stressful events, loud noises , and the unfamiliar can make a GSD anxious and scared. If your German Shepherd whines in almost the same presumably stressful conditions, it is probably scared and requires your solace. Because you are the pack leader, when your dog is terrified, it looks to you for safety and comfort. If your German Shepherd is whining because of a storm or another uncontrollable situation, simply soothe your dog as best you can in a calm, reassuring way. Relaxed German Shepherd lying on the floor. Your dog is sick or in pain Dogs who are in pain or sick will whine to express how they feel. Whining that is associated with other symptoms of illness, such as drowsiness, loss of appetite, and loss of interest should be checked out. If you believe your dog is whining because it is in pain or sick, make an appointment with your vet right away. Meanwhile, comfort and be affectionate with your dog to make it feel more at ease. German Shepherd lying on the ground. Other telltale signs of a doggy apology include the tail between the legs, ears flat, and droopy body. A whine usually means it is a BIG apology! German Shepherd approaching his owner. How Can You Reduce Whining? For most dogs, it is simply a way of communicating what they feel or need, in the absence of the spoken language. While some whining is normal, especially if they have a legitimate reason like wanting to be let out to go potty, excessive whining can be downright annoying. If your GSD is whining excessively, here are some ways to deal with it. Ignore it Is he trying to get your attention out of jealousy? Simply ignore him. If you give in to such behavior, he will continue to act in this manner, which will eventually become irritating. German Shepherd being curious beside his owner. This is especially true if the pain is chronic or persistent. So the next time your dog starts whining , take a moment to consider whether he might be trying to tell you something. A German Shepherd at the Vet. Training Training will not only help your dog burn off excess energy, but it will also teach your dog to behave the way you want it to. It is best to begin as early as possible, starting with very short durations for puppies and gradually increasing the length of each training session. German Shepherds are one of the most trainable dogs in the world, hence their popularity as working dogs. Use that working drive! Owner trains her train German Shepherd. It will keep them occupied and provide them with something to chew on. Your shoes and furniture will be forever grateful. German Shepherd plays with his toy at the park. But your dog has only you. Spending quality time with your dog will not only provide them with the attention they require but will also help to reduce their anxiety and calm them down. Set aside some time in your busy day for your beloved pooch. It means a lot to them. German Shepherd sits with his owner in the field. Final Thoughts There are a number of reasons why dogs whine. Most commonly, dogs will whine when they want something — usually attention, food, or to be let outside. If a dog is bored, anxious, or frustrated, it may also start to whine, which in most cases, is perfectly normal behavior for dogs. However, if a dog starts whining excessively, it could be a sign of a bigger problem, such as separation anxiety or another form of stress. No matter the reason, dogs typically only whine when they feel they are not being heard. It just might save you both a lot of frustration. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Many dog owners endure the whiny vocalizations that erupt from their pup for seemingly unknown reasons. Dogs whine for many reasons The reality is, dogs whine for many reasons. Your dog may have trained you to give him a treat or a tickle when he whines. He may even whine when playing with other dogs or as a sign of appeasement. Dogs may whine when they are ill, in pain or are developing cognitive problems so any sudden symptoms or behavior changes should be brought to the attention of a vet. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety will often whine when they know you are planning to leave them alone and will typically continue to whine, bark, and possibly get destructive when left alone. Is your dog afraid, excited, aggressive, or maybe begging for a treat? It will be helpful to get familiar with canine body language cues. If your dog is whining for a treat, obviously, you will not reward him for his whining. Rather engage him in some other form of training and treat after he does a good job. If you need to, crate your dog or separate him from the rest of the family during mealtimes until you can put a stop to his behavior. You can help your dog stop his whiny ways by engaging him in other activities, training, games, food puzzles, and anything else that will stimulate his mind and distract him from the trigger. For anxious or nervous dogs, you can practice exercises that will help teach him to be calm such as the down, place and stay command. Once the dog is in his place, redirect his nervous energy with a chew toy or a Kong filled with treats. Dogs that whine out of fear can be helped by helping to build their confidence through reward-based training. Dogs that suffer from low confidence do best when challenged with simple tricks that offer immediate rewards, such as touch, shake, find it, etc. For dogs that suffer from separation anxiety, whining will be harder to stop since you will have to help your dog overcome his separation anxiety. Please read our article on separation anxiety and contact your vet or a trainer familiar in helping dogs overcome this condition if symptoms are severe. Never reward your dog for whining The bottom line is, training takes time and teaching your dog to stop whining is no different. If you need to, buy some earplugs but until then, in most cases, by simply ignoring your dog, refraining from petting, feeding, treating, or even talking to him will eventually send the message that whining will get him nowhere. Final Thoughts A German Shepherd is one of the most sociable and vocal dog breeds. While everyone knows that these dogs are intelligent, brave, strong, and protective, whining is the last trait that can come to your mind. However, if you ask any GS owner, they will tell you that their pets tend to whine a lot, especially when they are young. This high-pitched sound may be quite troublesome and frustrating. The causes of such behavior can differ. This article will describe them and tell you what to do to solve the issue. First of all, you need to understand that whining and barking are the main forms of communication for most canines. Since these dogs are very communicative, they use such sounds to make it easier to understand what they mean. However, before making these tight bonds, you may feel worried, upset, or even irritated. Being ill or Injured This reason is rather frustrating. Whining can start all of a sudden. You need to be especially concerned if it has started recently after something happened. For instance, your dog might have eaten something bad or was hurt in some way. Boredom and Need for Attention Things may not be as bad as that. Your German Shepherd can start to whine when it is bored. Look whether your pup has something to engage with. These dogs are very active, and they need at least one hour of exercise per day. If they do not get it, and they do not have any toys to play with or things to do, they whine and disturb you until you pay some attention to them. They may even follow you with a ball in their mouth if they want to go outside and play. Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety is quite a common characteristic of German Shepherd dogs. They hate being alone. We can explain it by their origins from pack animals whose nature was to protect each other. When you are about to leave, your puppy starts to whine as if it tried to persuade you not to abandon it. It whines because it does not understand how it can protect a part of its pack when they are not close around. The separation anxiety can also result from the inability to guard. For example, your dog hears some threatening sounds or moves far away. It wants to check how dangerous they are but cannot do it from the inside and starts whining. It can even get alert and remain still for a while and then begin to pace and whine. Yes, dogs, like humans, can also get stressed. If your dog has recently started to whine at night, something is likely to have happened to it. For example, you have moved to a new place, or one of your family members has left or died. Dogs can also experience stress when someone treats them badly. When your puppy is frightened, it becomes fearful and whines. When someone who is not good at it is around, when it sees lightning or hears thunder, sirens, or other loud sounds, it can also be afraid. That is why fireworks do a lot of harm to dogs, and your German Shepherd is not an exception. Excitement and Empathy Your young GS can get extremely excited when you or someone from the family comes home. Or you are going to walk it or play with it. When it is curious about something new or unusual, it begins to whine, too. This is normal, and if this whining does not get on your nerves , let it show its emotions in this way. Empathy is one of the sweetest things in your dog. If it feels that you are frustrated, in pain, or in trouble, it will commonly whine to support and comfort you. Let your GS know that everything is OK with you, and it will stop whining. Feeling sorry is another cause of whining. Your pup is very smart and, when it has done something wrong and feels that you are angry or upset about it, it starts to tuck its ears back, tuck its tail, avoid eye contact, and whine. You do not need to correct it. The only thing is that you should not feel angry with your puppy for a long time. Show it that you have forgiven that and give it a scratch or play with it as usual not to prolong its bad emotion of feeling sorry. A Need to Obtain Something Your German Shepherd may want something from you — playing with it, feeding it, giving it some treats, going for a walk , etc. Or it may just want to attract your attention. You should not give in because your puppy is very smart, and it will understand soon that the only way to get the desired object is by whining. Instead, you have to show your pet that whining does not work and you will give it a treat only if it stops doing it. There are different methods to make your GSD whine less. You may apply them according to the situation but they usually work very well. The most helpful tip is to give your puppy more training. German Shepherds are very active dogs. If they do not get just one hour of exercising per day, that may lead to some behavioral issues. Make sure that this exercise involves walking, running , swimming, playing fetch, and other activities that require a lot of strength and stamina. If you cannot do it yourself because you are too busy, get a dog walker to perform it for you. Positive reinforcement training can be quite efficient as well. Teach your dog to behave properly and obey all the commands needed for your perfect cooperation. Start with the basics, such as teaching it how to sit and stay. Choose a quiet environment without any distractors. Then, continue with more complicated things in the place with more distractions, such as a beach or a park. If you do not know how to train your dog properly, you may need help from an expert trainer. Remember that if your German Shepherd is not trained properly as a puppy, that will result in bad behavioral issues like whining, barking, anxiety, unmotivated aggression, and others, in adulthood. You should show your puppy that whining for a treat or walk is not the best way to obtain the desired thing. Instead, you may stop giving your dog a treat or attention when it whines. Though, you can give it something if the whining stops. Then, if the puppy starts whining again, show it that no treat is available until it stops. That will teach your dog that whining is a bad method to obtain desired things. Be Attentive to Your Dog If you feel that your GS whines because it does not get much attention from you, use several options to increase the amount of care. Play some interesting games with it. Tug of war usually works very well. This game is useful for providing both enough attention and exercise to your German Shepherd. Doggy daycare may be a great option. Acquire special toys to play with. Or get it focused on some interesting things instead of chewing your footwear or furniture. It is especially important during the teething phase when a puppy wants to chew everything it sees and constantly whines because of feeling discomfort. You can also offer your doggy some puzzle games. Your puppy will play with such puzzle toys to get the treat enclosed inside them. German Shepherds are very smart, so get them the toys that are not boring because they may lose interest in some simple things very soon and… start whining. Give your dog appropriate chews too. If it whines at night, there may be some serious health issues. Your veterinarian will have it tested and tell you what to do or prescribe some medical treatment. If there is some other issue, they also advise you on changes in diet , training, exercising, or overall care. Final Thoughts So, why do German Shepherds whine? There is no distinct answer. When you bring your puppy home for the first time, its whining may even sound cute. However, you will feel that you should do something about it because it drives you mad. Petting and cuddling may help a lot. Though, your dog also needs proper training and a lot of exercise. Train it to be engaged and not to feel lonely. Special practices for avoiding whining are not necessary. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Aug 3, Share As a dog parent, you know that German Shepherds tend to whine at the most inopportune times. It could be several things, including the dog being sick or in pain. However, before calling the veterinarian, you can examine our list of seven reasons German Shepherds whine and how to stop it. Your Shepherd Needs to Go to the Bathroom The reason your German Shepherd is whining could be as simple as the dog needing to go outside to potty. The dog might whine, then run to or stare at the door, trying to tell you it needs to go outside. This whining usually happens right after your dog wakes up from a nap or just a few minutes after it eats. The dog could be whining because it wants your attention and is ready to cuddle or play. Image Credit: Happy monkey, Shutterstock 3. You can cure this by ensuring your dog gets at least 2 hours of physical exercise daily and providing it with many challenging games and toys. A hyperactive, bored German Shepherd will become destructive, aggressive, and whiny, so make sure your dog gets the exercise and mental stimulation it needs to be healthy and happy. The Dog Is Happy to See You Dogs, including German Shepherds, are usually happy to see their pet parents when they walk through the door in the evening. Your German Shepherd may whine when it first sees you out of sheer excitement. If the whining is accompanied by a lack of appetite, drowsiness, or other signs of sickness, you must take the dog to the vet for an examination. Until your appointment, it will help to comfort and love your pet to make it feel better. An illness or injury should never be ignored because it can cause other health issues if not addressed by a veterinarian and treated promptly. Your Shepherd Is Stressed Although German Shepherds are known for being fearless dogs , they get scared, anxious, and stressed. If your German Shepherd is whining and none of the reasons above apply, your dog may be stressed or afraid of something. Some events that could be stressing your dog and making it whine include storms, fireworks, and even a stranger in the home. Image Credit: Pxhere 7. There are a few other signs of a dog trying to apologize, including keeping its ears flat, its tail between its legs, and a droopy body. Ask your vet for recommendations Ignore the whining unless your dog needs to go potty Give your dog plenty of attention Train your pet not to whine professionally if needed Distract the dog Image Credit: Sam Wordley, Shutterstock Final Thoughts German Shepherds are known for being courageous, loving, protective, and loyal pets. However, they do tend to whine a bit. However, you should make an appointment with your vet if the whining continues to ensure your dog is not suffering from an injury or illness. Because dogs do not speak our language, they must use other ways to communicate their needs to us, and this includes whining excessively. Dogs can be taught to ask for things they want in a polite way, such as by sitting or giving some other visual signal that they need something, rather than rudely yelling for it. Depending on the severity of their illness, injury, or discomfort the whining could be quiet and slow, or it could be loud and frantic. Oftentimes if your German Shepherd is whining a lot due to being unwell, it is accompanied by other signs and behaviors that indicate a sickness or injury , such as heavy panting, pacing, hiding, or attempting to vomit or go to the bathroom and being unable to. Reason 3: They Need To Go Outside When your German Shepherd begins whining a lot, it could be an indicator that they need to go outside to use the bathroom. This is especially true if your German Shepherd is a puppy who is still in the potty-training process, you have a senior German Shepherd who must go outside more frequently, or your German Shepherd is suffering from a digestive or bladder issue that is causing them to need to use the bathroom more frequently. Because whining is a way in which a German Shepherd can signal their discomfort, this is one of the first ways they will alert you to their needs. Whining to go to the bathroom tends be softer in pitch at first, and you may also see your German Shepherd look towards the door or run back and forth between you and the door. If that initial request goes ignored, the whining will probably increase in pitch and intensity, or your pup may opt to just go to the bathroom in the house. You can also see this whining behavior when your German Shepherd has an upset stomach and needs to vomit. Dogs naturally start whining when in a high arousal state, similar to how you may bounce around in place or when kids start chatting nonstop when they are excited. German Shepherds in particular can be very affectionate with their owners , and their intense excitement about interacting with their owner can cause an increase in whining. If the whining is also accompanied by lunging, jumping, mouthing, or other high-energy or stressful behaviors , or you have neighbors who take issue with the noise, then you can work with a local trainer to help teach your dog to better manage his excitement and emotions. Reason 5: They Are Scared Dogs may also whine when they are scared or anxious, so if your German Shepherd is whining a lot, it could be because they are afraid of or anxious about something. If you can identify what is making them afraid or anxious, you can either try to soothe your German Shepherd and show them there is no reason for them to be upset, or you can move them away from what is freaking them out. While some whining is normal depending on the situation, at other times the excessive whining could be a cause for concern. If your German Shepherd suddenly begins whining excessively, it might be due to an underlying medical issue, and you should schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. In order to stop your German Shepherd from whining so much, you must first determine why she is whining in the first place. If your German Shepherd is whining due to wanting something like attention or a treat, work towards encouraging them to ask for what they want more politely, such as by sitting quietly in front of you or by laying down by their food bowl. German Shepherds have a reputation for being an easily trainable breed of dog , so provided you stick with a good training schedule it should be fairly easy to curb the excessive whining. If you reward them with what they want while they are crying for it, it will further encourage them to continue whining usually even louder and in more situations to get what they want, similar to a child crying for candy in the store. If the whining is due to fear, anxiety, or excitement, you can work with a local dog trainer to help your dog better manage his emotions. If you are concerned the excessive crying is due to your German Shepherd having an underlying illness or injury, then speak with your vet as soon as possible to get your pup checked out. Closing Thoughts Due to German Shepherds being such a vocal breed, the whining from your German Shepherd is probably nothing to be concerned about. If you suspect that the continuous whining and crying is related to an underlying medical or behavioral issue, reaching out to your veterinarian is probably the safest thing to do. My 2 German Shepherds and 1 Siberian Husky mix keep my busy, along with my 8 cats I am also a crazy cat lady and my axolotl Fin Diesel he's all about family. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.