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Currency Dogger Blog Learn tricks of the grooming trade and how to get the most out of grooming and deshedding your doggo pal. Have you tried getting them into the tub or even keeping them still in the garden with the hose pointed at them or a bucket of water by their side? They will most likely want to run away. Before you try to wrangle them for a bath, read these tips first, or you may end up getting wetter than them! German Shepherds have a double coat - the topcoat and the undercoat. The topcoat protects them from sun exposure, dust and other particles. The undercoat protects them from the harsh, cold weather during winter, and the heat from the summer. Their double coat has natural oils, and bathing too frequently will only strip away these oils. And which may cause their skin to get dry and irritated. Nevertheless, during flea season, you can bathe your German Shepherd more often to control any pests. In addition, if your dog has a bit of a pungent scent during the summer, you can bathe him every 2 months. And if your German Shepherd plays out in the open and gets dirty, you may consider bathing more often. Brushing is another factor that would determine how often you bathe your German Shepherd. Brushing also makes their coat shinier and healthier. Start from the neck working your way towards the tail and use enough water to reach the undercoat. Scrub in circular motions with your finger so that the shampoo reaches the undercoat. You can also do long strokes like a massage that your German Shepherd will surely enjoy. Thoroughly wash off your German Shepherd, and you may want to repeat this step to ensure that all the suds are removed from the undercoat and any crevices. If a residue is left and it dries up, this can cause skin irritation. This is the part where you get wet, as they shake off all the excess water. Rub him with a towel to dry off faster. Brush their coat well to make it shiny. And blow dry in the direction of hair growth, otherwise, blowing back and forth can lead to matting. German shepherds don't really need haircuts but if your dogs coat is getting out of hand then a light trim of their coat could help them in the warmer months. As puppies, they can start bathing as young as three weeks. An organic shampoo, or at the very least, a gentle shampoo will do. Harsher shampoos can strip their natural oils, or make their skin dry. Final Note Diet plays a big role too, in their physical appearance and health. Feeding your German Shepherd the proper foods and keeping them away from harmful ones will prevent them from getting any skin problems. Now you are better equipped to bathe your German Shepherd Treat bathing as a bonding moment between you and your dog, and he will love you for it. German Shepherd coat care procedures German Shepherds have a beautiful thick coat, requiring regular and thorough care. In the first place, it involves the correct selection of a full-fledged diet and various hygienic procedures. The owner of such a dog should know exactly what and when to do to ensure that the coat of the pet is properly cared for. Often German Shepherds tolerate water procedures and love to bathe if they were accustomed to it from an early age. Later on, an adult kept in an apartment should be bathed with special products two to four times a year: in autumn, spring and summer. In winter, the coat is sometimes cleaned with snow outside. Water procedures performed in winter can cause the dog to fall ill. If there is an urgent need to bathe the pet during this period, the room allocated for bathing should be well prepared and warmed up. If your dog gets dirty on a walk, wash him under the shower or use a wet towel to wipe his coat. If your pet is clearly attracted to water procedures in summer, you can shower him after walks. When keeping a Shepherd Dog in an apartment, you should wash it during the following periods: after shedding; 7 days before the treatment against parasites ticks, fleas, and others ; before the dog shows. If the pet is kept in an aviary, bathing is performed no more than three times a year. Small puppies should not be bathed several days before vaccination and during the day quarantine after vaccination. The first vaccinations are given quite early, at 6 weeks or 2 months of age. Bathing a puppy at 1 or 2 months is still too early. Try to communicate with the puppy calmly and gently, not frighten him with harsh motions. Allow him to settle in by sniffing and looking around in the bathtub. After that, you can start bathing your German Shepherd puppy. What you need for bathing at home Prepare in advance everything you may need for the procedure: First, provide the bottom of the tub with a non-slip surface — a cloth or rubber mat — to prevent your dog from slipping. Wear clothing suitable for this kind of procedure a waterproof apron. Do not use soap on your Shepherd. Prepare a bathing towel. Remember to take your pet for a proper walk outside before bathing. Otherwise, he will want to go for a walk again afterward and may get dirty or catch a cold. Prepare carefully and anticipate everything beforehand. Make sure the water temperature does not exceed degrees Celsius. Using a special shampoo and sponge, thoroughly soap his entire body, including his paws, belly, and neck. Rinse off the foam with your shower. Repeat if necessary. Wrap your puppy in a towel and get him out of the tub. If the coat is still partially wet, let the puppy shake it off and dry himself by running around the house. If the puppy is not afraid of loud noises, try drying the coat with a hairdryer. After bathing, Shepherd fur dries for about 3 hours. Try to bathe your pet in 10 minutes. Exclude the possibility of draughts in the room to avoid the risk of catching a cold. After washing, walks are allowed only after 3 hours. How to bathe a German Shepherd outdoors In the summer heat, you can bathe your German Shepherd puppy in an open pond every day, starting at the age of 4 months. If you take your pet to a river or lake, pay attention to the state of the body of water and the shore before bathing. Are there any sharp objects, shards of glass, or other trash visible? Such precautions will help avoid unwanted injuries and poisoning of your pet. After examining the area, let your dog off the leash and allow him to get acclimated to his new surroundings. German Shepherds are not timid, but each animal has its own personality traits. Swimming in a body of water is good for strengthening muscles and joints. Start by stepping into the water and calling out to your dog. Due to their high degree of trust in their owner, Shepherds are then eager to follow. Allow him to dry naturally, play and run with him. After sickness, it is better to wait about ten days after the pet has recovered before bathing. If the coat falls out or it is dull and broken, it indicates a disease or lack of vitamins in the animal. German Shepherds are divided into long-haired and short-haired according to the fur coat. Their coats need daily brushing. While brushing, dirt, dust, and dander are removed from the coat and skin. At the same time, skin diseases are effectively prevented, and blood circulation and metabolism in the pet are stimulated. The following tools are necessary for taking care of the coat: A frequent brush for the massage effect for long-haired — with long teeth, for short-haired — with short teeth. Metal comb: used to detangle fleece hair. Scrubbing brush: used during the seasonal shedding of the pet and for detangling the tangles. In brushing, it is necessary to release the brush from the clogged hair and dirt periodically. If your pet is calm, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a small brush attachment. After dry brushing, wet-clean the coat with a special mop, then dry the coat with a dry towel, and do not forget to wipe the eyes and ears with a wet cloth. There are special complex procedures designed to care for the fur and skin of animals, the so-called grooming. A bath should be a good thing, right? After all, baths keep humans away from dirt and bad odor, so you may think the same logic applies to dogs. However, you should not bathe your German Shepherd more often than necessary. German Shepherds have a double coat with natural oils that keep their skin healthy. This could lead to skin issues such as allergic reactions or dryness. Dogs with thick double coats and heavy shedders like the German Shepherd can be bathed every 3 months. This is because when they shed , the coat naturally removes dead skin cells and harmful bacteria. While bathing your German Shepherd is an essential part of their grooming and care, you should only do it to remove dirt and unpleasant odors. You should only bathe your German Shepherd every two to three months or as necessary. They should be bathed when they have accumulated mud or dirt on their skin or coat or the dog smells unpleasant. Regular bathing is unnecessary if your German Shepherd has a clean, shiny, and healthy coat. There are a few other factors that can affect how often you should bathe your GSD: 1. A monthly bath may be necessary if your GSD is extra active and often gets full of dirt. Some dogs are known for rolling around in fox poop; if this is your dog, then more frequent bathing will be on your list of doggy chores. Others like to jump in muddy puddles whenever they see one on a walk, like Willow, my German Shepherd. She likes to cool off in swampy areas or sludgy puddles, as shown in the photo below. My German Shepherd taking a mud bath! Your German Shepherd Has a Skin Condition You may need to bathe your dog regularly if they have a skin condition that requires treatment with a special shampoo. One antibiotic-controlled study found that bath therapy twice weekly with a chlorhexidine shampoo and spray was as effective as amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in treating dog pyoderma. Although these pests are a threat to doggos all year round, they are most active during the warmer months. In such cases, he may need even fewer baths than the recommended once every months. Nonetheless, many enjoy a paddle in a river or shallow lake or other water activities. Willow is not keen on swimming — I think her heavy double coat weighs her down. But she loves being in the river and finds it fun sticking her head in the water to find pebbles. My German Shepherd hunting for river pebbles! Your GSD Has a Skin Allergy German Shepherds with skin allergies typically have issues with their skin barrier epidermis , meaning their skin dries up more easily. Regularly bathing a dog with skin allergies using harsh shampoos can worsen the already compromised layer of skin, further aggravating the allergy. If you do need to keep your German Shepherd clean and spiffy, here are a few tips to keep in mind. Brush your GSD twice or thrice every week. Removing loose fur also takes away old skin oils and prevents dog odor. Do you want to know the grooming tools I swear by? Get your German Shepherd tired. If you use the treatment that you rub between the shoulders, you should wait 48 hours before bathing. For example, you can consult your vet on how often you should bathe your dog. After all, your vet is likely knowledgeable about dog skin types and any skin issues your dog may have. The oatmeal and aloe mixture works well with sensitive skin. Additionally, the shampoo is manufactured in U. German Shepherd puppies should not be bathed with shampoo until they are at least 3 months old. Before then, just use warm water and a cloth or wash rag. At 3 months, you should use a good quality shampoo and conditioner made for dogs and pH balanced to avoid skin irritation. Do German Shepherds Like Baths? Most German Shepherds do not enjoy baths. They find being confined and scrubbed in the bathtub an entirely different experience from splashing around in a river which they enjoy. Some dogs are nervous around water, so reassure your pet, use a calm voice and offer high-quality treats. Long-haired German Shepherds should be bathed 3 or 4 times per year. Their bathing frequency is no different from the short coat variety. Too many baths will remove the natural oils that are present in their coat which can result in their skin becoming dry and inflamed. Final Thoughts How often you should bathe your German Shepherd depends on a few factors. In general, you should bathe your GSD whenever they get dirty or smelly. If you must have a regular bathing routine for your dog and they have healthy skin, you can bathe them once every two to three months. If you doubt how often you should bathe your GSD, ask your veterinarian. Your vet may recommend that you bathe your dog more or less than the recommended once every two to three months. Related Posts You May Like:.

Fromm is another good one n Zignature.Then try another bag n monitor.My dogs always ate chicken as pups. Never had issues to this day. They eat any protein out there n still good. The trick is to rotate proteins. Their body will get use to it n he will have less allergies IF any. So by keeping a journal till he rotations are done is a great idea so some. No brainer after that as they age. Most allergies are from food. Why I find start them young with rotating their food. If you can I would go with a raw diet immediately. It will help you out. Click to expand.Do you have any raw diet recommendations? I have never bought any kind of raw diet food for any of my previous pets. He likes soft food quite a bit, is there anything I can add to the dry food? I'm new to owning a Bully and I want him as healthy as possible if I can help it. I know rotating proteins is a good idea. With pedigree puppy, I was adding wet food based on different proteins, but the only reason why I stuck with that brand was because it was what the breeder started him on. I knew it wasn't the best option for him so want to get him on the best diet possible as soon as possible. Although certain health issues that Bulldogs may experience are congenital and beyond our control, others can be influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as diet. Some of the most common health issues faced by Bulldog include the following: Food allergies. Certain ingredients in their food can cause allergies in Bulldogs. This occurs when the immune system of some dogs identifies a specific protein, carbohydrate, or other ingredients in their diet as foreign and reacts to it as if it were a harmful substance. Food allergies in Bulldogs may present as dry, itchy skin, ears, or paws. However, intolerances do not involve the immune system but can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. We highly recommend conducting an at-home dog food allergy test like the 5Strands kit. This particular kit can test for up to ingredients and determine which ones may cause food intolerance in your dog. Once you receive the results, you can use the list to avoid dog food formulas that contain potential allergens. Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BAS. This condition occurs in Bulldogs and other animals with shortened facial features that result in a pushed-in nose. Bulldogs with BAS may experience difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather. Hip and elbow dysplasia. Bulldogs are prone to joint conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which can cause discomfort and mobility issues. Skin conditions. Bulldogs are susceptible to several skin conditions due to the folds in their skin that can trap dirt and moisture. Common skin conditions include eczema or atopic dermatitis, skin fold dermatitis, interdigital pyoderma, and chin folliculitis. Bulldogs may also develop demodectic mange, a skin disease caused by mites. Eye conditions. Bulldogs are prone to several eye conditions, including cherry eye, dry eye, corneal ulcers, eyelid and eyelash abnormalities, and persistent pupillary membranes. Bulldogs may also develop cataracts at a young age. This condition occurs when Bulldogs develop excessively thick skin on their legs or nose, which can be uncomfortable and lead to infections. Bulldogs may develop allergies to certain foods, medications, or environmental factors such as pollen or dust mites. Allergies can cause skin irritation, itchiness, and gastrointestinal issues. Heat sensitivity. Bulldogs are prone to heat sensitivity due to their shortened airways and difficulty regulating body temperature. Bulldogs should be kept in a cool, shaded area during hot weather to prevent heat exhaustion. Gastrointestinal issues. Bulldogs may experience gastrointestinal issues such as colitis and chronic diarrhea, which can cause discomfort and dehydration. Bulldogs may develop deafness, which can be caused by genetics or chronic ear infections. Bulldogs require a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain energy levels and stay active. Feeding a Bulldog an inadequate or low-quality diet can lead to a lack of energy, sluggishness, and even obesity. Bulldogs that are less active or prone to weight gain may require a lower-calorie diet, while more active Bulldogs may need a higher-calorie diet to fuel their activities. Feeding Bulldogs the right food and portions is essential to maintaining their activity level and overall health. Require a diet that is higher in calories and protein to support their growth and development. They also need a balanced calcium and phosphorus diet for healthy bone growth. Feeding high-quality puppy food formulated explicitly for English Bulldog puppies can help ensure they receive the necessary nutrients during this crucial stage. Adult English Bulldogs. Require a diet that is lower in calories and protein to maintain their weight and prevent obesity. They also need a balanced diet of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins to support their overall health and energy needs. Senior English Bulldogs. Senior dogs may require a diet lower in calories and fat to maintain a healthy weight and higher fiber to support digestive health. Senior dog foods often contain joint supplements to help mobility and joint health. Avoid common allergens. Bulldog often develops food allergies or intolerances, so it may be helpful if your dog food is free from common allergens, such as corn, wheat, chicken, and beef. Bulldogs can have sensitive digestive systems. Look for a dog food that adds probiotics to its formula. Dog probiotics support a healthy digestive system and immune system. Digestibility: Bulldogs can be prone to digestive issues, so look for dog food that is minimally processed, such as fresh dog food. Lower-quality kibble may contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and other ingredients that can be harder to digest and may cause digestive upset in some dogs. Joint support ingredients. Since Bulldogs are prone to common conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, look for dog food that contains ingredients that support joint health, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Limited ingredients. Bulldogs with skin allergies or sensitivities may benefit from dog food with limited ingredients, which can help identify potential allergens. Look for dog food that contains a single protein source and a limited number of carbohydrates. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Bulldogs with skin conditions may benefit from dog food that contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and coat. Look for dog food that contains fish oil, flaxseed, or other sources of these fatty acids. Easy-to-digest ingredients. Bulldogs with gastrointestinal issues may benefit from dog food that contains easy-to-digest ingredients, such as chicken, rice, or sweet potatoes. Avoid dog food that contains artificial preservatives or fillers, which can be difficult for Bulldogs to digest. Limited sodium content. Chapter 2: The Reviews. Puppies with allergies Physical Traits That Will Impact Your Choice Having a very short muzzle can present some challenges with lifting up and munching on food. English Bulldogs can also struggle sometimes with swallowing their meals, and with taking in sufficient oxygen while they are busy eating. Bulldog puppies often also have teeth that are overly crowded together in their smaller mouths. Rounded, triangular or other unique-shaped kibble are ideal, avoid the traditional large square bits. And if your English Bulldog puppy is still having a tough time with chewing, mix dry kibble with some wet puppy food. Portion sizes Begin by following the amounts listed on the packaging. How often to feed English Bulldog puppies Little and often is always the best approach when feeding a puppy. I start my puppies off with four meals a day, spread evenly over the daylight hours. Best dried food for English Bulldog puppies These three brands make some of the best food for English Bulldog puppies. You will notice each food is enriched with special nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Those that your English Bulldog puppy needs to develop healthily in every way. Royal Canin Bulldog Puppy dry dog food Royal Canin creates tailored recipes for the unique needs of different puppy and dog breeds. This has the same unique S-shaped kibble. Best canned food for English Bulldog puppies The best food for English Bulldog puppy can end up being a combination of dry puppy food mixed with a bit of wet puppy food. It also makes learning how to grab and chew the dry kibble just a bit easier! For both puppies and adult dogs, wet food can be more palatable than dry kibble. It is designed in a complete and balanced nutrition puppy formula. A great choice to mix with the Purina Pro Plan dry kibble, to help your English Bulldog puppy learn how to grasp and chew solid food! There are no artificial ingredients or by-products in this wet food either. Packed with vitamins, lutein, taurine and fish oils, your English Bulldog puppy will have the nutritional support to make the extra work of eating worth it. This is a great choice to mix with Royal Canin Bulldog puppy dry food for a little extra mealtime incentive! Best food for English Bulldog puppies with food allergies Treating food allergies in puppies often requires two phases: allergy testing and a limited ingredient diet. One of the known triggers for food allergies in dogs is grain. So the best puppy food for Bulldogs who have food allergies is often a grain-free diet. Plus DHA and plenty of vitamins and minerals to help with digestive support and immune system health. The kibble is a unique triangle shape which can be easier for your puppy to grab hold of and pick up. Best food for English Bulldog puppies with sensitive stomachs Finding the best dog food for English Bulldog puppies can sometimes be a challenge because of their unique anatomy. This can sometimes lead to digestive disruption. A limited ingredient diet may ease tummy upset, gas, diarrhea and other symptoms of a sensitive stomach. There is very minimal processing and no artificial additives of any kind. The kibble is both round and rectangular, offering a nice mix of shapes to help your English Bulldog puppy grasp it more easily. There is no corn or beef, both of which can be a source of digestive upset in puppies. This limited ingredient puppy food comes in two recipes: chicken and oats or lamb and rice. Both recipes include plenty of glucosamine and chondroitin, calcium and phosphorus. As well as vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, bones and immune system. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. This food appeals to those who pay attention to where their food comes from. Halo contains fatty acids and antioxidants but no DHA like most puppy foods. This recipe also contains legumes peas , which are ingredients of concern in canine diets, as we mentioned in a previous review. However, as we mentioned earlier, those fancy terms are primarily for advertising, not an actual reflection of the nutritional quality of the food. Also, grain-free diets come with their own cause for concern due to the high legume content. Although pet food makers use various sources for protein, dogs tend not to care whether the meat in their diet is cage-free or what form it comes in whole, meal, or by-product. English Bulldogs are prone to obesity, which is not healthy for any dog but is particularly dangerous for this breed. Flat-faced dogs, including Bulldogs, are prone to breathing issues related to their unusual anatomy. Being overweight makes these problems worse. Most foods come with a suggested feeding guide, but to be safe, ask your vet to help you calculate the ideal daily calorie intake for your bulldog. Your food choice may be somewhat dictated by any emerging medical concerns your pup is experiencing. Allergies, with their accompanying skin and ear problems, are one of the most common issues. We listed several allergy-friendly diets on our list for this reason. Do Your Research Before You Buy A Puppy Yes, you want to feed your English Bulldog puppy a healthy diet, but food can only do so much if your little dog comes with a host of inherited medical conditions. Our best value pick, Purina One , is both cost-effective and convenient. Royal Canin Bulldog features breed-specific nutrition. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains is free of ingredients from China and loaded with nutritious extras perfect for the Bulldog. We hope our reviews of these puppy diets help you navigate the crowded landscape of the pet food industry as you search for the best option for your wrinkly baby dog. She got her first cat at 5 years old and at 14, she started working for her local veterinarian. Elizabeth spent more than 20 years working as a veterinary nurse before stepping away to become a stay-at-home parent to her daughter. Now, she is excited to share her hard-earned knowledge literally--she has scars with our readers. When not writing, she enjoys reading, watching all sports but especially soccer, and spending time outdoors with her family.Read more Advertisement. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Our team went out into the field looking for the best canine nutrition products in the world. Our winner for this year is Pupper, which topped our charts in terms of ingredient quality as well as science backed claims. English Bulldogs are an amazing breed. They were traditionally bred to herd cattle. Today, these stocky, gentle companions have become one of the top breeds for families. English Bulldogs are extremely affectionate and low-maintenance. They tend to love to cuddle up on the couch with you as you binge watch your favorite show. You may also be aware that your pup needs routine exercise, as this breed is prone to weight gain. Keep reading to learn about 25 of the best dog foods available for English bulldogs. Each of these foods are crafted using high quality ingredients that are not only nutritious, but also taste great. They also provide just the right amount of calories for weight management, a crucial factor for most medium breed dogs. Give your dog a wholesome meal every day of the week with Pupper Fuel Chicken Recipe. This all-natural grain-free food is loaded with nutrients to keep your dog energized, happy, and at a lowered risk of common health conditions like diabetes, heart problems, and obesity. Pupper Fuel is made with 13 active ingredients, all of which provide functional support for your dog's health. Chicken is a great source of lean protein that builds muscle and strength. Apples are loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and various antioxidants. The addition of ginger provides gingerol, a compound that offers powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Calories: The calorie content will vary depending on the recipe. For more information, please visit wefeedraw. Price: Get this nutritious, minimally processed dog food at wefeedraw. The company ensures customer satisfaction and offers assistance through their dedicated customer service team. An English Bulldog's diet should consist of a well-balanced, high-quality dog food that meets their unique nutritional needs, considering their size, energy levels, and potential breed-specific health concerns. We Feed Raw provides superior raw dog food made from human-grade ingredients, including a variety of proteins like beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, and pork. Their selection consists of raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables, formulated to deliver a balanced and comprehensive diet suitable for dogs of all ages and breeds. Pure and Simple, this dog food is free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers, We Feed Raw dog food delivers clean and wholesome nutrition that your pet will adore. Breed-Specific Blend: We Feed Raw dog food is formulated to cater to the distinct nutritional requirements of English Bulldogs, ensuring a well-rounded diet tailored to their needs. Their dog food for English Bulldogs is uniquely formulated to provide balanced and complete nutrition for your furry friend. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult recipe is made with highly digestible proteins, high quality carbohydrates, and the optimal amount of fiber to support healthy digestion. This means less gas and less stool odor. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Bulldog Adult is also fortified with nutrients that support skin, coat, bone, and joint health. Each bite delivers omega fatty acids, vitamin E, taurine, and calcium along with other nutrients like B vitamins, niacin, and trace minerals. This natural, grain-free dog food gives your dog the fuel and nutrients he needs to make every day his best day. Each serving is loaded with protein, healthy fats, fiber, and naturally nutritious ingredients. Merrick Texas Beef and Sweet Potato is enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin to protect and support joint health, along with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for skin, coat, and heart health. It's also fortified with a blend of B vitamins, folic acid, and health-boosting minerals. This recipe doesn't contain any poultry ingredients, wheat, soy, corn, or gluten. It's also crafted without any artificial ingredients, including preservatives. This adult kibble is made with roasted bison and roasted venison, providing your dog highly digestible energy so that he's ready for walks, fetch, and every fun activity in between. Each serving also provides nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and legumes. These foods are high in antioxidants, fiber, and other essential nutrients that nourish your pup. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free is also made with a blend of omega fatty acids, which work together to support a shiny coat and healthy skin. Because gut health is so important, this food is enriched with species-specific probiotics. The proprietary strain of K9 probiotics is specially developed for dogs to support digestive and immune health. It's made without high fat, high calorie ingredients, which help to keep your bulldog at a healthy weight. The recipe starts with deboned chicken along with whole grains and fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients. Each serving offers health-boosting carrots, cranberries, brown rice, blueberries, peas, and alfalfa. It also contains the brand's exclusive LifeSource Bits, which offer a precise blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support healthy oxidative balance and immune health. This veterinarian formulated food is proof that simple ingredients are the best way to nourish and support your dog's needs. The recipe is formulated with a single meat protein chicken , along with two types of potatoes and antioxidant rich blueberries. It's fortified with essential nutrients, including calcium for strong bones, vitamin E for skin and coat health, and glucosamine to keep your pup's joints free from aches and pains. This food is made with nine simple food ingredients that keep your pup satisfied and nourished. The recipe doesn't contain any grain, wheat, corn, or soy, which means no upset stomach! Instead, it's made with chicken, sweet potatoes, alfalfa meal, and fiber-rich garbanzo beans. Added probiotics support your pooch's gut health while also supporting a strong immune system. The recipe is crafted with lamb, menhaden fish meal, flaxseed, tomatoes, peas, and other wholesome ingredients. This adult dog food is supported by essential nutrients, including glucosamine, taurine, probiotics, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. These nutrients encourage healthy digestion, a strong immune system, and healthy bones and joints. This all natural food is made with drool-worthy bison and beef, along with a mix of fruits and vegetables that will have your dog counting down the time until his next meal. Each serving is packed with lean protein, peas, flaxseed, apples, carrots, blueberries, cranberries, and spinach. These ingredients are natural sources of omega fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Earthborn Holistic Great Plains Feast Grain-Free is enriched with taurine for heart health along with vitamin C for a strong immune system and vitamin E for skin and coat health. This grain-free food is also fortified with B vitamins, zinc, calcium, vitamin E, and probiotics. It's made with a blend of lean protein, functional superfoods, probiotics, and other nutrients that support immune, gut, and joint health. Each serving provides wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, green beans, pumpkin, carrots, blueberries, and cranberries. To ensure your pup is getting all the nutritional support he needs, this Solid Gold formula is fortified with a blend of vitamins and minerals, including choline, zinc, vitamins A, C, and E, and copper. This all natural food is made with wild Pacific salmon that's caught using sustainable fishing practices. Salmon is naturally rich in omega fatty acids, protein, B vitamins, and potassium. While some dogs thrive eating grain-free food, it's not the best option for all canines. These grains are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other health-boosting nutrients. It doesn't contain any wheat, soy, corn, peas, legumes, potatoes, or meat by-products. It's also free from artificial flavors or preservatives. This holistically balanced food provides the nutrition that your dog needs to reach and maintain optimal health. It's made with high-quality protein from chicken meal, along with healthy fats and whole grains. The addition of blueberries and guaranteed amounts of vitamin C and vitamin E ensure that your canine has a strong immune system. This natural food also contains healthy fats, including omega 3 fatty acids, along with whole grains that are rich in B vitamins, fiber, protein, zinc, iron, and other minerals. These ingredients also provide sustained energy to keep your pup going all day long. This food is specially formulated to meet the nutrient needs of medium and large breed dogs at all life stages. It's made with a holistic formula that features an optimal balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, and fiber. It contains a healthy dose of omega fatty acids, which promote skin, coat, and joint health. This natural dog food also contains DHA for brain support, along with carrots, apples, peas, and blueberries that are naturally high in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It's made without wheat, corn, soy, or other low quality ingredients that don't nourish your pup's health. This high quality kibble offers complete and balanced nutrition with a blend of wholesome ingredients. Each bite will leave your pup fulfilled, offering a mixture of venison, peas, sweet potatoes, and flaxseed. The addition of fish oil provides health-boosting omega fatty acids, which protect and nourish your dog's skin and coat. Give your dog the nutrition he needs with Orijen Original Grain-Free. Each bite is loaded with whole prey nutrition, including nutrient-rich meat, organs, cartilage, and bone. Orijen Original Grain-Free is also made with other whole ingredients, including peas, navy beans, pears, apples, butternut squash, and kelp. Orijen Original Grain-Free kibble is freeze-dried coated for a burst of raw flavor that your dog is sure to go crazy over. It's also fortified with zinc, vitamin E, probiotics, and even botanical ingredients like juniper berries and rosehips. This light adult dog food is made with fewer calories but doesn't cut corners on flavor or nutrition. Your pup won't even know that he's eating light food! It's formulated with pasture-raised lamb for quality protein, along with superfoods like pumpkin, chia seed, kale, blueberries, dried kelp, spinach, and others. Diamond Naturals Light Formula is also made with wholesome grains, including grain sorghum, brown rice, and millet. Diamond Naturals Light Formula is enriched with species-specific probiotics. This healthy bacteria supports healthy digestion as well as a strong immune system. Each serving also contains prebiotics and antioxidants to give your pup a daily boost of wellness. This grain-free kibble is made with easy to digest ingredients that won't cause tummy problems or other issues. Instead, it's formulated with omega-rich salmon, along with nutrient-dense carbs like pumpkin and sweet potato. The active nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber included in this food support your dog's immune, digestive, and overall well-being. This food doesn't contain any low-grade ingredients, including artificial flavors, poultry by-product meal, or preservatives. It's made without grain, wheat, corn, or soy, so you can feel extra good knowing that this food protects and nourishes your best friend. This food is made with animal-based proteins and offers an optimal amount of amino acids and other nutrients to keep your pup strong, healthy, and thriving. Not only is this kibble made with chicken and other meat-based ingredients, it also contains low-glycemic whole grains like flaxseed and millet, along with whole produce like apples and blueberries. Each of these ingredients are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that protect your dog's well-being. Each serving is fortified with nutrients like taurine, copper, zinc, potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin E. With this high quality, grain-powered dog food, you can nourish your canine's mind and body so that you both can enjoy many more years together. This kibble is manufactured in the USA and is formulated with an optimal blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that keep your canine energized and nourished. This nutrient-rich dog food is made with dual animal proteins from chicken and pork meal, which are flavorful and packed with plenty of muscle-supporting protein. It also contains whole grain and fiber from oatmeal and brown rice, along with peas and flaxseed. Each serving contains ideal levels of glucosamine for joint health, vitamin E for skin and coat health, calcium for strong bones, and taurine for cardiovascular health. This grain-free food is made with high-quality protein and field grown vegetables that are natural sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Each piece of heart-shaped kibble is made with chicken, turkey, potatoes, apples, and carrots. This dry food is also made with flaxseed, which is not only high in fiber, but is a great source of protein, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. The natural recipe is loaded with glucosamine, chondroitin, biotin, amino acids, vitamin A, and probiotics for optimal digestive and gut health. This holistic dog food is made with clean, easy to digest ingredients that nourish your pooch with every bite. This kibble is formulated with responsibly raised chicken, along with other high quality ingredients including chicken liver, oat groats, flaxseed, along with fruits and vegetables like blueberries, sweet potatoes, and peas. Your dog's skin and coat will be healthier than ever with optimal levels of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. This wholesome kibble is also made with thiamine, zinc, copper, calcium, vitamin E, taurine, and other health-boosting compounds. It doesn't contain any artificial ingredients or preservatives, which means that you can feed with total confidence. While it's specially formulated for overweight dogs, this dry kibble doesn't skimp on flavor or nutrition. In fact, this food is made with a blend of 15 different superfoods, including whole chia seed, dried kale, dried spinach, dried pumpkin, dried apples, dried blueberries, and others. All ingredients are sourced from trusted farmers across the globe and are thoroughly tested for safety and quality purposes. This weight management kibble is made without any GMOs and also doesn't contain any wheat, corn, soy, chicken by-product meal, or peas. This dog food is formulated with quality ingredients that you know and can trust. This formula is designed to support all life stages for dogs of all sizes and breeds, including English Bulldogs. Inception Fish Recipe is formulated with animal and fish protein that supports your dog's lean muscle. The combination of whitefish and catfish offers health-boosting nutrients like protein, omega fatty acids, B vitamins, copper, phosphorus, and others. Each serving also contains fiber-rich oats, along with millet, milo, and ground flaxseeds. Inception Fish Recipe is made without wheat, corn, soy, chicken, or grain. It also doesn't contain low quality fillers, including legumes, potato, and harmful ingredients like artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. This balanced recipe is made with minimally processed ingredients that help your canine to thrive and be his very best. This complete and wholesome nutrition will keep your pup fit, happy, and healthy. Each bite is packed with tasty meat, fish, and more than 20 superfoods like carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, blueberries, cranberries, and blackberries. This adult dog food is fortified with prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy digestion and immune function. It's also formulated with L-carnitine for heart health and fat burning to keep your English Bulldog in tip-top shape. It also doesn't contain artificial flavors or preservatives. This adult dog food is ideal for pups with and without food sensitivities. 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. Final thoughts Choosing the right dog food for your English bulldog is easier than you may think. No matter which food you choose for your bulldog, you can have total confidence that your pup is getting all of the nourishment he needs with every meal he eats. 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.

The oldest of the designer dog breeds, cockapoos are not a true breed but, rather, a cross between the American cocker spaniel and the poodle. This offspring of a purebred cocker spaniel and a purebred poodle is also known as a cockapoodle, cockerpoo and cock-a-poo. As with any type of mixed-breed dog, the appearance of cockapoos is difficult to predict. Their size and weight depends mainly on the type of poodle used in breeding. The adult offspring of a toy poodle can weigh as little as 5 pounds, while the offspring of a standard poodle — known as maxi cockapoos — can weigh up to 65 pounds. Some breeders offer teacup cockapoos that are as tiny as 2 pounds. Most commonly, though, cockapoos are created from crossing a cocker spaniel with a miniature poodle, creating sturdy, medium-sized dogs that weigh around 15 pounds and stand about 14 inches at the withers. The appearance of their coat is also difficult to predict or control and comes down to which parent breed's genes are dominant. The coat can be straight, wavy or curly, and long, medium or short. One characteristic that is typical, yet still not guaranteed, is that cockapoos usually inherit the low-shedding quality of a poodle's coat. Another characteristic that generally applies to most cockapoos is that they don't tend to produce a strong odor and don't need to be bathed often. While their coats don't need to be cut like a poodle's, they do require regular brushing to prevent matting and remove debris that can get caught in their fur. Their coloring also widely varies. Cockapoo puppies can be any color that you'd see in a poodle or cocker spaniel, including black, white, red, brown, sable, tan, blonde or a combination of colors and patterns. Personality: Cockapoos are bred more for temperament than for appearance, and they tend to inherit the sweet, loving and friendly natures common with both parent breeds. They are highly intelligent, easy to train and also typically inherit the poodle's enthusiasm and tendency to be little jokers. These dogs tend to be extremely friendly and thrive on social interaction. They hate to be left alone and can develop separation anxiety if left solo for long periods. They get along well with other pets and children although, due to their high energy and enthusiasm, they tend to do better with older children and should be supervised around young children. Living With: Cockapoos do well in apartments, although maxi cockapoos may be less well-suited for small living spaces than their smaller counterparts. They don't bark a lot, although they will let you know when someone's at the door. They have a moderate amount of energy and can be quite bouncy, but they're also happy to curl up in a lap or next to you on the sofa. They generally require about 15 minutes of exercise a day, which can be achieved by playing in the backyard or with a quick walk around the block. Although their coats don't require regular cutting like a poodle's, they do need to be brushed regularly — and some cockapoo owners do like to keep the coat trimmed to a certain length. Their floppy ears are prone to infections and should be cleaned and inspected on a weekly basis. Signs of an ear infection include an unpleasant odor coming from the ear, redness or swelling, itching, and constant head shaking. While cockapoos tend to be healthy and hardy dogs, they can be prone to the same genetic predispositions to health conditions that affect either of their parent breeds, including cataracts, patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, allergies and liver disease. When considering a cockapoo puppy, it's important to do your research and seek a reputable breeder who is happy to answer any questions you have about the parents and their health, disposition and purebred status. History: The earliest of what has become known as designer dogs, cockapoos were first created by accident in the United States in the s. Impressed by the sweet and intelligent nature of the puppies combined with their odorless, low-shed coat, enthusiasts began intentionally crossing poodles with cocker spaniels in an attempt to recreate these results. This crossbreed has only gained popularity over the decades. Cockapoos make excellent companion dogs and family pets. The American Kennel Club does not recognize cockapoos as a true breed, but considers them a mixed-breed dog. However, efforts are underway by cockapoo breeding organizations to get the cockapoo recognized as a true breed. Related Pet Care Articles. Today, you can find Cockapoos in different sizes, although they all share similar behavioral traits and temperaments , including the Toy Cockapoo. Given that Cocker Spaniels are friendly and lovable and Poodles are intelligent and low-shedding breeds, Cockapoos inherit these excellent qualities from their parent dogs. Cockapoos are small, low-shedding, and highly intelligent dogs with a face and temperament that can win hearts. They come in a variety of colors and heights, and their characteristics will also vary depending on the type of Cocker Spaniel and Poodle used for breeding. The difference between a regular Cockapoo and a Toy Cockapoo is that the latter is bred using a Toy Poodle. Cockapoo puppy on a Halloween celebration with pumpkin at the back. F1 Cockapoos will vary greatly depending on the type of parents and the qualities they inherit. When two F1 Cockapoos are bred together, their offspring is F2 Cockapoo, also called a second-generation Cockapoo. Puppies of later generations have stable characteristics and their traits can be guessed with near certainty. These Cockapoos can be deliberately bred to get the desirable characteristics in the offspring. Appearance The appearance of a Cockapoo can vary a lot because of its hybrid nature. Their size and build depend upon their Cocker Spaniel and Poodle parents. Generally, they are small to medium-sized dogs with big round eyes. Size of Cockapoo Though all Cockapoos are generally small, the variation in their sizes depends upon their Poodle parent. Cockapoos are distinguished into three types depending on their sizes — Maxi Cockapoos, Miniature Cockapoos, and Toy Cockapoos. Maxi Cockapoo is the largest amongst the Cockapoos and is the result of a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel. They are around 15 inches tall and weigh more than 19 pounds. Their height ranges between 11 and 14 inches and they weigh 13 to 18 pounds. They can grow up to 10 inches tall and can weigh around 12 pounds. Cockapoo sits comfortably on furry cloth. Coat Cockapoos have a single coat with long hairs that can vary from straight to wavy and loose curls. They can also have different coat colors and combinations of diverse colors and patterns often found in Cocker Spaniels and Poodles. They can even have bicolor or tricolor coats, but such Cockerpoos are rare. Some Cockapoos may also have a sable coat where their hairs have one color at the base and different colored tips. Black and white Cockapoo puppy with a scarf. Personality Cockapoos have a very friendly and fun-loving personality. They are cheerful and intelligent dogs who love spending time with their human friends. They are also known as the clowns of the doggie world. As Cockapoos are active dogs, they also need constant attention and must be kept occupied with various activities like games, walks, and training. These intelligent creatures always need something to keep their brains active. Cockapoos make for a great family pet as their antics keep everyone entertained. Cockapoos get along with everyone they meet, humans and other animals alike. Despite their difference in size, all of these character traits also apply to Toy Cockapoos. Cockapoo puppy on his back loves to play! However, there are some aspects you may need to pay more attention to. Grooming Thanks to their Poodle gene, Cockapoos are low-shedders. Toy Cockapoos must be groomed regularly. They have relatively long hair than can get tangled and matted, especially if they have a wavy or curly coat. So, their coats should be brushed at least 4 to 5 times a week. You can get their coat trimmed every 3 months. Brush its teeth regularly to remove tartar buildup and bacteria, at least thrice a week. Their nails have blood vessels in them, if you cut too deep, they might bleed. While grooming your pup, check for infections, rashes, and any hidden injuries to rule out any health issues. A dog prepares for a shampoo. Is a dog ever truly ready for the bath though? Training Being the intelligent dogs that they are, Cockapoos are very easy to train. They are also eager to learn new things and love being active. One of the most effective ways to train Toy Cockapoos is to use positive reinforcement training. You can use treats to encourage your pup to learn new tricks and commands. Make sure to be gentle with them while training and do not raise your voice or show any aggression. Cockapoos are fairly obedient in a nurturing atmosphere. They enjoy being stimulated both mentally and physically, so keeping them engaged with chew toys and games is a good idea. Training should ideally start from a younger age as puppies are more adaptive to changes. Teach them to socialize with other people and pets and make sure to expose them to different sights, sounds, and experiences when they are young. Exercise Both Poodles and Cocker Spaniels were developed as hunting dogs, so Cockapoos naturally have boundless energy. To use up that energy, your Toy Cockapoo will need a daily dose of exercise. Toy Cockapoos can do with half an hour of walk every day. Along with exercise, they have to be constantly kept stimulated through training and playtime. Here are some games that you can play with your Cockapoos to keep them engaged: Scavenger Hunt: Cockapoos are both intelligent and active. A scavenger hunt will enable them to use their brains and pent-up energy in finding their toys or treats. Frisbee: Games like frisbee and fetch are great physical activities. Cockapoos will be thrilled to play these games with you. Two happy Cockapoos running! Feeding The amount of food a dog needs depends upon its size and physical activity. But make sure that you feed it high-quality, nutritious food twice a day. As your puppy grows into adulthood and eventually reaches an older age, you must change their diet accordingly to reduce fat food. Along with food, proper exercise is necessary to avoid issues like being overweight. Switching dog food diets Toy Cockapoo Health Cockapoos are healthy animals as they are typically bred carefully. It is said that Cockapoos have the benefit of hybrid vigor, the best qualities of their parents brought together. Cockapoo lying on the floor. However, Cockapoos can also inherit some diseases from their parents. These are some diseases Cockapoos are prone to: 1. Cataracts This is similar to a human eye cataract where the vision is affected and will have a cloudy appearance. Toy Cockapoos typically suffer from cataracts in old age, but it can be removed surgically. Also known as slipped stifles or trick knee, it occurs when the knee joint also known as the patella slides out of place. This can cause significant pain while moving and can even lead to crippling in dogs. The only way to diagnose it is through an X-ray. As this is usually an inherited condition, dogs with dysplasia should ideally not be bred further. Liver Diseases Liver diseases are common in Cocker Spaniels, so there is a high likelihood of Cockapoos inheriting these diseases. Liver diseases can be in two forms — chronic active hepatitis and copper toxicosis. Allergies Allergies are common in all dogs, including Toy Cockapoos. These allergies can be triggered by anything food, contact, chemicals in shampoos and other grooming products, or even dust. Ear Infections Cockapoos have inherited their long, floppy ears from their Cocker Spaniel parent. These ears can trap dirt, moisture, and debris, causing irritation and other infections. Life Expectancy Smaller dogs generally live longer than larger ones, and Cockapoos are one of the longest-living dogs. A Toy Cockapoo has an average lifespan of years. It is also important to note that the lifestyle of the dog will also affect its lifespan. For example, a Toy Cockapoo bred from healthy parents and raised in a loving environment with a healthy lifestyle of nutritious food and daily exercise will live longer than others. Hypoallergenic dogs are ones that do not trigger allergies in humans. It should be noted that no dog is purely hypoallergenic; every dog sheds, some more than others. As Toy Cockapoos are low-shedding dogs, they drop a very low amount of dander. They are as hypoallergenic as dogs can get. Cockapoos are generally social dogs and thrive with consistent social interactions. But, if they are trained well, they can be left alone for hours at a time. They also get better at handling their temperament as they get older. However, Cockapoos are also prone to separation anxiety. If you leave them alone for long periods at a stretch, they might feel stressed and may demonstrate some aggressive behaviors. Cockapoo looks like a teddy bear in her new haircut. Toy Cockapoos come in compact sizes and are naturally low shedders, making them perfect pets for apartments and small houses. Getting them when they are still young will also help them get adapted to confined spaces. Two black Cockapoo puppies sitting on the stairs for a photo. Since Toy Cockapoos are designer breeds, make sure you get them from a reputable breeder. Avoid puppy mills and pet stores at all costs as they do not follow responsible breeding practices and the puppies they produce are often prone to various diseases. Make sure to ask the breeders about genetics, lineage, and health history to check for any inherited diseases like hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. Cockapoo puppy with flower on a pink blanket! Conclusion Toy Cockapoos make the perfect pet for small families and students living in apartments. They are compact, intelligent, active, and very friendly with everyone they come across. They also learn quickly, adapt seamlessly to different situations, and are easy to train as well. Make sure you do your research on the breed and only reach out to responsible, ethical breeders so that you bring home a healthy and happy Toy Cockapoo. 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. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Cockapoos have an infectious zest for life that spreads to everyone around them, that essential joie de vivre that makes every day a celebration. These guys are just plain happy to be alive. The true Cockapoo been bred with the goal of a healthy, hypoallergenic dog with a good temperament. When the cross works as intended, you get the intelligence and spirit of the Poodle with the sturdiness and field spirit of the Cocker. Efforts have been made over the last decade to clearly separate Cockapoos and Spoodles into two different hybrids, and some success has been achieved. If the type of Cocker involved is important to you, be sure to ask. Cockapoo Highlights 1. Friendly and Affectionate: Cockapoos are known for their friendly and loving nature, making them excellent companions. Hypoallergenic Coat: Many Cockapoos have hypoallergenic or low-shedding coats, which can be a great choice for allergy sufferers. Intelligent and Trainable: They are intelligent dogs and are usually easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement methods. Adaptable: Cockapoos can adapt to various living environments, including apartments, as long as they receive enough exercise and attention. Good with Families: They are generally good with children and other pets, making them great family dogs. Long Lifespan: Cockapoos often have a longer lifespan compared to some other breeds, living 12 to 15 years or more with proper care. Moderate Exercise Needs: While they enjoy playtime and walks, they are not overly hyperactive, making them suitable for families with varying activity levels. Unique Coat Variety: Their coat can vary from curly to wavy and comes in a range of colors and patterns, adding to their charm. Grooming Requirements: Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat in good condition and prevent matting. Health Considerations: Like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, so regular veterinary care is essential to maintain their well-being. Cockapoo History When it comes to designer dogs, the Cockapoo is an old hybrid, popular since the s. The first breeding may have been accidental, but the happy result was a litter of puppies who were intelligent, almost odorless, had the low-shedding Poodle coat, and showed the easygoing and loving nature of the Cocker Spaniel. These puppies were well received, and the Cockapoo line began. Some efforts are being made today to establish breed standards and start the Cockapoo on the hard road of becoming a true breed, one producing offspring with consistent traits. Once the Cockapoo became more well-known, he only grew in popularity. The Cockapoo Club of America formed in and, in an effort to create breeding consistency, it created a breed standard. This group formed in and provides certification for Cockapoos who are the results of first- through sixth-generation breedings. The Toy Cockapoo can reach 10 inches in height but has a sturdier build, the bigger ones tipping the scales at just under 12 pounds. The Miniature Cockapoo weighs 13 to 18 pounds and ranges between 11 and 14 inches high. The Standard or Maxi Cockapoo should weigh more than 19 pounds and be at least 15 inches in height. Cockapoo Personality Intelligent and easy to please, the Cockapoo was established as a companion dog. He has an outgoing nature and usually gets along with everyone. Depending on his temperament, he can be active or he can simply enjoy snuggling up on the couch with you. He has the intelligence of his Poodle forebears but also the sweet disposition of his Cocker Spaniel ancestry. Socialization helps ensure that your Cockapoo puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. He prefers, always, to be with his family and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a Cockapoo; he can achieve high levels of obedience with time and patience. However, there is a general misconception that hybrid vigor automatically applies to mixed breeds. Cataracts : Cataracts cause opacity on the lens of the eye, resulting in poor vision. Cataracts usually occur in old age and sometimes can be surgically removed to improve vision. Patellar Luxation: Also known as slipped stifles, this is a common problem in small dogs. The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, although many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Allergies : Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Cockapoo is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Liver Disease : This condition is becoming more prevalent in Cocker Spaniels in two forms: chronic active hepatitis and copper toxicosis poisoning. Both conditions may or may not be genetic; at this point no one is certain. Ear Infections : These afflictions may plague the Cockapoo because of his floppy Cocker ears, which can trap moisture, dirt, and debris. Ask your veterinarian about appropriate ear care products. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Health clearances are not issued to dogs younger than 2 years of age. They enjoy a good walk — and need it to keep them from becoming overweight. The best type of exercise, though, is a good play session in the backyard. Expect him to need at least 15 minutes of exercise every day. The Cockapoo is an adaptable breed. He can live in an apartment, though the smaller varieties seem to do better there than do the Maxi or Standard Cockapoos. They thrive when with their family and can suffer from separation anxiety when left for long periods of time — and that can lead to excessive barking and to destructive behavior. A crate is also a place where he can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will also help your Cockapoo accept confinement if he ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Cockapoo in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Cockapoo, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Cockapoos can be found in all the colors and color combinations that are seen in both Cocker Spaniels and Poodles — a more rich variety of coat colors than is usual in many other breeds. The Cockapoo is usually seen au naturel, but many people like to clip the coat. However, it should only be trimmed to two to three inches in length. The coat should be brushed daily. To retain coat oils and health, he only need be bathed when absolutely necessary. Because his floppy Cocker ears block air circulation, the ears must be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent ear infections. Gently wipe out the ear — only the part you can see! Your Cockapoo may have an ear infection if the inside of the ear smells bad, looks red or seems tender, or he frequently shakes his head or scratches at his ear. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Cockapoo Children And Other Pets The Cockapoo does well with youngsters , although he generally prefers homes with older, more considerate children. He also gets along with other dogs and pets. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Cockapoo Rescue Groups Cockapoos are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. Cockapoo Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. This small to medium sized dog is very active, who loves to be outside. However, they are also friendly and caring, liking just as much to curl up on your lap and to watch TV with you! These dogs can be used as working dogs such as guide dogs, although they were originally intended to be companions, especially for those with allergies who needed a dog with a low-shedding coat. Breeders must follow the rules when producing puppies to make sure they stay in line with the breed standard. To get a better understanding of where these dogs came from, we can take a look at the origins of their parent breeds. The Poodle originated from the French and German border in the 15th and 16th century and was associated with the upper class. Because they are excellent water dogs, they were used to hunt water-fowl. Later on, because of their adorable look, these pups became a very popular dog. The Toy Poodle was bred from the Standard Poodle by choosing the smallest pup from each litter and breeding with them. They were first seen in America in the 20th century. Cocker Spaniels first came to the US on the Mayflower in the 17th century. They were registered in and the popularity of the Cocker Spaniel grew significantly during the s and s. The American Cocker Spaniel has a smaller prey-drive than the English Cocker Spaniel, which makes them better family pets. Characteristics Of The Cockapoo Although there is a breed standard for the Cockapoo, you still cannot be sure what traits you are going to get in a litter of Cockapoo puppies. These dogs can come in a range of colors and patterns and it all depends on which parent they take after more. A Cockapoo puppy is normally born in litter sizes of four to eight pups. Because the Toy Poodle is the smallest size of all dog breeds, if you are crossing a Cocker Spaniel with one then the Toy will always be the father to prevent any complications. However, if the Poodle is a Miniature size, it does not matter whether they or the Cocker Spaniel are the mother because they are similar in size. Cockapoos are popular dogs and this means that they can have a hefty price tag. Always ensure that you are buying from a reputable breeder. Appearance The Cockapoo has a distinct look due to their adorable teddy-bear appearance! These dogs are classed as small-medium sized dogs, although their size will largely depend on whether they are bred from a Toy or Miniature Poodle. The Cockapoo is a well proportioned dog that is athletic and sturdy. Their heads are round and their eyes should be brown with a black nose. If they have a brown nose then their eyes should be black and if they have a lighter nose then they will have green or hazel eyes. Their ears hang down, too, giving them a super cute look! Coat There are three different coat types that the Cockapoo could inherit. Again, this depends on which parent they take after more. They can have a tight curly coat, a medium curl or a flat coat. All of the coats will be quite thick but they will almost always be a single coat. One of the reasons the Cockapoo was bred was to inherit the low-shedding coat from the Poodle parent. While the coat is not hypoallergenic, these dogs do not shed as much as many other breeds and may be the perfect dog for those with allergies. Color There are a range of different colors that the Cockapoo can come in and they can either be solid, part, phantom or tri-color. The colors include red, black, merle, tan, sable, brown, chocolate, and apricot. Temperament The Cockapoo is a very energetic pup that loves to be outside exercising. Because of their hunting heritage from their parent breeds, the Cockapoo can still retain this trait so you will need to be careful when out and about. Proper training and socialization can fix this, and it can also help with unwanted or aggressive behaviors that the Cockapoo is sometimes known to develop if not socialized properly at a young age. Friendly and loving, the Cockapoo will happily also spend time curled up next to you on the couch. They love attention and people and can be known to be very social dogs with children, pets and even other strangers. The Cockapoo is an observant dog and will bark to warn you if something is out of place. Occasionally, the Cockapoo can be prone to rage syndrome and, although rare, it is associated with Cocker Spaniels and they can sometimes pass it on to their young. Again, adequate socialization from a young age can help with this. Lifespan The Cockapoo has a long life expectancy. These dogs are expected to live to anywhere between 14 and 18 years old. Known Health Issues Due to the fact that these dogs are a mixed breed, they have fewer health concerns than many pups. However, unfortunately, they can still be prone to some health problems that their parent breeds are prone to. This is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Patellar Luxation is another condition the Cockapoo may inherit from their Poodle parent. This is a common condition in smaller dogs and is caused when the patella is not properly aligned. This can cause lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any severe issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the Cockapoo temperament and traits, we can take a look at what daily life with one of these pups is like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. Food And Diet A Cockapoo needs roughly calories of food a day, which equates to around two cups of kibble. Of course, you should always double check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding your dog based on their weight. The food you feed your Cockapoo should be high-quality and nutritious. You should try to split their food into at least two meals a day. As a puppy, their food should be split into three meals a day. Unfortunately, this Poodle Mix can be a fussy eater so it may take you a while to find a food they like. Take a look below at the food we recommend for this breed. At the tiny end of the scale, the teacup Cockapoo will weigh less than 6 pounds. The toy Poodle Cocker Spaniel hybrid will weigh less than 12 pounds at adulthood, and a mini Cockapoo will weigh in at anywhere from 13 to 18 pounds. A full grown miniature Cockapoo is the medium size and the one you are most likely to see at the dog park. At the other end of the scale, a maxi Poodle and Cocker Spaniel mix, with a standard Poodle parent, will weigh 19 pounds or greater. The vast majority of Cockapoos weigh a more moderate lbs Appearance Cocker Spaniel Poodle mixes tend to have a broader head the average Poodle. Their fur varies between loose and very tight curls. Both Cocker Spaniels and Poodles come in a wide range of colors so there is plenty of choice for the would be cockerpoo owner. Are Cockapoos Hypoallergenic? He began crossing breeds in an effort to produce a hypoallergenic guide dog, for a blind woman whose husband was highly allergic to dogs. So, he crossed a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle. This is because allergies are caused by pet dander. And all pets, regardless of breed, produce some dander. Certain dog breeds shed that dander less readily, however. This particularly applies to dogs with very curly coats. And this may be beneficial to owners with allergies to dander. Dogs that shed less fall into this category partly because loose hair remains trapped in the curls rather than floating around your home. Do They Shed? All dogs shed to some degree. A Poodle and Cocker Spaniel hybrid dog can have either coat type, or something in between. And unfortunately, you cannot predict which coat they will inherit. So they may be less likely to trigger allergies. But they might not. Remember that the tighter the curl, the less the dog is likely to shed, and if you have allergies, do spend some time with Cockapoos to see how they affect you, before you bring one into your home. Cockapoo Temperament The typical Cockapoo personality can be hard to predict. It is important to make sure that both parents are friendly, when you buy a Cocker Spaniel Poodle mix. And Cocker Spaniels are loving and very loyal. Both breeds are clever and active. Cockapoo Barking Any dog has the capacity to bark. And may bark more if they discover barking is in some way rewarding. But some individuals of this particular breed maybe a little more prone to barking than average. And to make use of resources like this one if you need to train your pup not to bark. Training and Exercising The good news here is that these dogs are as a whole are people-centric and eager to please. Your Poodle Cocker Spaniel mix will likely want to be where you are, doing whatever you are doing. These dogs are social and people-oriented. So, the closer your bond is, the easier Cockapoo training will become. Throughout training, positive reinforcement will be your key to success. Poodle and Cocker Spaniel mix dogs are particularly sensitive to punishment, so avoid this at all costs. They need daily exercise, and regular training to stimulate their minds, too. The important thing is to keep your Poodle Spaniel mix busy. Remember that young puppies have much lower exercise needs than adult dogs. A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of structured exercise, such as walks, per month of their age, per day. Heart Valve Disease Cocker Spaniels are liable to develop leaky heart valves as they grown older. In the early stages medications will help extend life. But in the later stages the dog develops heart failure, a leading cause of Cocker Spaniel death. Sadly operations to repair heart valves are not yet commonly performed on dogs. A blood clotting disorder that causes excessive bleeding. Epilepsy Cocker spaniels are prone to epilepsy and seizures. These can often be treated with medication. Both Poodles and Cockers are prone to this disease, which causes blindness. Hip Dysplasia Cocker spaniels and standard poodles are prone to hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia causes pain. It affects the movement and function of the hip joint. Some cases are improved by surgery. Patella Luxation Toy and Miniature Poodles are among a number of smaller breeds that can suffer from Patella Luxation. It may require surgery. Exactly how likely each problem is, depends on a number of unpredictable factors. Life Span Did You Know? The Cockapoo is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Miniature Poodle, a Cockapoo and either of the original parent breeds, or two Cockapoos. They are one of the most popular designer dog breeds. The American Canine Hybrid Club recognizes both mixes. The Cockapoo can also be referred to as a Spoodle or a Cockadoodle. With some of the most affectionate dog breeds as parents, well-socialized Cockapoos are affectionate family dogs that thrive on attention and affection from their favorite humans. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Provided they are properly socialized, they are even open and friendly with strangers. Cockapoos are highly adaptable dogs. Provided they get enough daily attention, mental stimulation, and exercise, they adapt well to larger homes as well as apartments. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may also need to bundle up with some winter dog products while on walks in the cold. Because they thrive on attention and bond so closely with their families, these companion dogs do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them early on. Potential health concerns to be aware of in Cockapoos can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, cataracts, and glaucoma. Good breeding practices and screening make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to ensure they are not 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. With some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners as parents, the Cockapoo is also a great fit for owners of any experience level. They bond closely with their owners and are sensitive to them. This, along with their intelligence and eagerness to please, means they pick up on things quickly and respond well to rewards and praise. They could have a coat similar to a Mini Poodle or a coat similar to a Cocker Spaniel. In either case, you will need to brush them daily to remove tangles and prevent mats and visit the groomer every weeks. Weekly ear checks along with careful cleanings if needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily dental care for dogs helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Daily brushing, along with cleanings as the vet when needed, is ideal. Cockapoos may be small dogs, but they are also playful and energetic. These dogs sit in a moderate activity range and will often match their energy level to yours. Daily walks plus some play sessions throughout the day are usually enough for these dogs, but they will also usually be up for more activity if you are. They also tend to be versatile and athletic. Once puppies finish growing and the vet clears them for what you want to try, you can try a variety of activities with them. Fully-grown Cockapoos usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Cockapoos generally live for years on average. One of the facts about Cockapoos is that they are considered one of the first designer dog breeds, according to the modern definition of the term. They have been a popular designer dog breed since the s. Featured Cockapoo Article.

Latest Dog Articles Dog in the house Dog - a real one, with the advent of each person whose life is changed. Someone enjoys wonderful moments spent with the animal, someone eventually get tired of careful care of them. Anyway, the pet will always meet his master with eyes filled with love an How to take care of a rising puppy If you have a puppy of a small breed, it will be easier to take care of it. You will need a comb and a small brush. If your four-month puppy has already overgrown grown-up pet dogs and continues to grow rapidly, now while walking you have to handle its to First commands for training dogs Training a dog is a very responsible thing. During first weeks talk with your dog calmly and softly. Whatever are his faults blame yourself, but not him. You are his master who has to foresee everything. Little puppy could be so scared by loud and dreadfu People train dogs to improve their natural skills and abilities, but not all dog trainers do it righta and that subsequently causes an unacceptable result. Actually, dogs are full-fledged members of Grooming is hygienic care of pets necessary for any dog. Some dogs need bathing, combing, cleaning ears and eyes but others need more. Dogs of some breeds need haircut. It's because of hygienic and aesthetic requirements. Best seen on a computer, too many photos for most phones. Our puppies are all born in our home, or Kim and Justin's home. We love them to be house dogs and we work together to have a terrific line of quality Frenchies. Frenchies technically are born at the veterinarians since they have c-sections. French Bulldogs also often need to be bred by AI, and are normally born by c-section. C-sections also mean the moms will only have a few litters in their lifetime. Raising Frenchies, French Bulldogs is definitely not for everyone! The price of hard to raise puppies in breeds like French Bulldogs is simply greater due to the difficulty and cost involved in getting quality genetics and then of raising the puppies. Kims puppies at her home have started potty training at 6 weeks of age All puppies are microchipped and current on vaccinations. See the other pages: "About our puppies," "what comes with your puppy", and "is a puppy really right for you. Please do not get a puppy, or dog if you have any hesitation about long term responsibility of a furry best friend. We love our puppies and dogs and only want them in a home where they will be a part of the family! Frenchies are heat and cold sensitive, some more then others. Some are amazingly agile, fast, and athletic and do tolerate a wider range of temperature since we breed for a more open airway. Others are at risk of collapsing if overheated when simply out on a warm day and playing. Many make terrific therapy dogs. They are very sturdy and tolerant of children. See Fiona's story on the parent page. I need new photos! She has really grown, super cute! One up ear and one floppy ear yet. Mom, Mazzora, one of my favorites Mom, Mazzora, one of my favorites 6. He is a handsome guy, a unique heavily brindled blue, crate trained and well started on house breaking. Love to play and is catching on to sitting for pets, well socialized with other dogs and people. He is quite the ham, loves to bring you toys and bounce around in triumph. Very well natured getting along with lots of random dogs he's met along the way. We wont know if they are actually pregnant for awhile yet. The puppies would be 8 weeks old in December. Deposit information: Until puppies are born it is just an educated guess as to what colors they may be, or if the mom is even pregnant for awhile! We of course don't know gender, or color until birth. At times we have deposits prior to puppies being born, when that happens those families pick first and then the remaining puppies will be shown as available. We will post puppies as available until a deposit is received, then mark them as sold, or pending pick up. Always check by phone or email to be sure the website is updated for the puppy you are interested in. A deposit holds a specific puppy, or a place on the list for choosing a future unborn puppy. You can always pass and wait for the next litter when a specific color, or gender is desired, or just personal timing if you place a deposit. Past puppies and color references in the slide show! Brindle Pup with his new family Brindle.

Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? Making sure your German Shepherd gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation is really important for keeping them healthy and happy. Regular exercise can not only keep them in good shape, but it can also help improve their behaviour and well-being. How much exercise does a German Shepherd need? German Shepherds are highly active dogs , originally bred for working and guarding flocks of sheep, and more recently used by military and police forces. All this means that German Shepherds are among the most high-energy dogs out there. Of course, their exercise needs can vary based on a number of factors including age, fitness level, general health, food intake and more. That said, most German Shepherds usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing. To get an exercise goal tailored to your dog, simply download the free PitPat app and enter their details. How much exercise does a German Shepherd puppy need? This is especially true for this breed since they are prone to conditions like hip dysplasia. As a rule of thumb, puppies will need five minutes of formal exercise such as walkies for every month of their age. These walks should be opportunities to explore their environment, work on training and good behaviour outdoors, and socialise with other people and dogs in a controlled manner. How much exercise does a senior German Shepherd need? You can also set your own goals manually in case they have higher or lower exercise needs. What types of exercise are best for German Shepherds? German Shepherds excel at all sorts of exercise and canine sports thanks to their working background. In addition to their daily walks, you could try:. Mar 10, German shepherd dogs are an active breed. If you live with one, you know what we mean. As working dogs, they are high energy and have lots of brain power, too. And even then, as long as they have the ability, they still love to have fun and play well into their senior years. Since German shepherds were bred to work all day, they have lots of stamina. Built for herding and guarding livestock, they have plenty of energy to burn. They can easily get destructive, frustrated, develop anxieties, and even get depressed. Bored German shepherds are unfulfilled, unhappy dogs. The age a German shepherd begins to slow down is unique to the individual dog. The energy level expended in these sessions will lessen as the dog ages, their physical condition declines, or they develop orthopedic problems, etc. By the time a German shepherd reaches 8 — 10 years old, they are usually content to play, roam around the yard, go for a short walk, enjoy the outdoors, or go for a car ride. Taking them out for several short sessions several times a day is better than 1 — 2 long sessions. Some experts suggest exercising your puppy 5 minutes for each month of age several times per day. So, if your puppy is 4 months old, you would go for a minute walk several times a day rather than one power walk for an hour. Training Training your puppy will also help tire them out. You can also burn off energy by reinforcing training throughout the day. By doing things like having your puppy sit and wait for food, sit at the door before they go outside, or sit before you hand them a toy, you can work in the type of training that will also help calm them down. By exposing your puppy to new people, places, scents, noises, and animals, you will help them grow up into a confident dog that is free from fear and anxiety while burning up some of that puppy energy. Things like stuffed Kongs, puzzle toys, chew toys, snuffle mats, games, problem-solving like finding treats , scented toys, and more are all fun and help burn off steam so they can relax. Teach your Puppy to Relax or Settle Down Did you know you can also teach your puppy to relax and settle down? But, at the end of the day, your puppy can learn to chill out for a while. You can do this by marking calm behavior with a verbal command. Other tips for calming a high-energy puppy include: Crate training Confining to an exercise pen Mental games, such as sniffing and finding things Treat dispensing toys Switching out toys Calming the environment To recap, German shepherds, are working dogs that have lots of energy. They will be active from the day they come home and remain so well into their adult years years old. The age they begin to slow down depends upon the dog, their overall health, breeding, drive, etc. You can expect your adult dog to start becoming calmer around 6 years old. But even senior dogs continue to enjoy activities that they are physically able to do. After all those needs are met, you can teach your puppy how to relax and be calm. We hope you found this information helpful. As always, please feel free to share with your friends. German Shepherds will start to calm down around 2 to 3 years of age. And this will continue as they get older. Then at 7 or 8 years old, owners might see significant changes in their behavior. The dogs will still be active, but not as hyper as before. So this is when their playfulness will begin to show. Phase 2: 2 to 4 months Next, German Shepherds at this age will be more active than before. So aside from being playful, they may also show other behaviors, such as: Humping. Being aggressive. Phase 4: 2 to 6 years German Shepherds might reach maturity at the beginning of this stage. Either at 2 or 3 years old. So as adults, their attention span will start to increase. And they may also calm down a bit. German Shepherds were reported to have calmed down at 7 or 8 years old. Note: This is generalized. So your doggo can experience it earlier or later. As there are other factors that can affect this. What are they? Scientists found a certain allele a type of a gene in German Shepherds. Which is linked to hyperactivity in dogs. As well as impulsiveness. Which are known for having heaps of energy as well. You may know this already. But the 1st registered German Shepherd was a sheepdog. Their ancestors used to run and control thousands of sheep before. This is why being active must be in their blood. And from then on, German Shepherds were trained more as working dogs. Which is a wider category and has many roles. Such as assisting people in need or doing search and rescues. Wanna know more cool trivia about them? Whilst all dogs are unique, German Shepherds are certainly on my list of the more hyperactive breeds… and if you own one, you might be wondering when your German Shepherd is ever going to calm down. Are German Shepherds calm dogs? I would say German Shepherds are not calm as a sweeping generalisation. This is primarily because they are bred to be working dogs, which means they are literally built for chasing, catching, herding and other high levels of athletic activity. This means that naturally, German Shepherds have a lot more energy than your average dog and, as a result, are a lot more hyperactive and quite low down on the calm scale. When do German Shepherd puppies calm down? When a German Shepherd reaches the one year old, you should expect them to calm down a lot over the subsequent 6 to 12 months. Although your German Shepherd may continue to be hyper after two years, it will never be to the same extent of them in their adolescent age. Again, this is a generalisation. Their hyperactivity peaks and troughs throughout their life, so below is a rough guide: 2 to 4 months At this age, your German Shepherd will be very excited and fascinated by everything. It will have a lot of pent-up energy, so it is important that they have plenty of opportunity to healthily release it via exercise or playtime. If not, you risk instilling harmful behaviour patterns. Yes, your German Shepherd will still appear more hyper than the average dog at this time, and this is because the gap between the physical and the mental development is most pronounced. But, with patience and plenty of means to healthily expel of excess energy, you can feel assured that at this stage, your German Shepherd will calm down considerably. They will still have their moments, but at this point they will ideally have an established routine and exercise regime that keeps their energy levels at bay. When they get to this age, they will be a lot more inclined to relax and snooze as opposed to charging around, but you should still keep up with their exercise. A lack of physical and mental stimulation As we have seen from the above, the key to controlling a hyperactive German Shepherd is routine — this can have a huge calming effect. Their routine should involve plenty of exercise that not only challenges their body and keeps them from getting overweight , but stimulates their mind too. Hyper German Shepherd, what to do? Give them plenty of exercise! The same can be said, in turn, for a lack of mental stimulation. German Shepherds, as hunting hounds, are incredibly intelligent creatures. There are many easy ways to mentally stimulate your dog, such as teaching them tricks and commands or providing them with interactive toys where they have to work for their treats. They just need to be challenged in order to calm down. A lack of attention All dogs need love, and German Shepherds are especially affectionate, widely renowned for their good temperament and status as the ideal family dog. However, hyperactivity alone is not a symptom of hyperkinesis. Other symptoms of hyperkinesis include: Attention seeking behaviour. Short attention spans. Impulsive nature. There are several steps you can take in order to tackle that behaviour in a positive, long-term manner. Teach your German Shepherd tricks: it will make them more disciplined, occupy their mind and provide them with some much-needed mental stimulation. Offer them breaks from playing: and provide them with an area to retreat as mentioned, German Shepherds struggle to self-regulate, so encouraging them to rest and giving them an area to associate with relaxation helps them to learn to develop healthy boundaries. Make their exercise more challenging: when on walks, trying using an extended lead so they are free to run, or maybe set up some jumps or hoops in your yard to encourage their inner athlete! Reassess their current routine: as mentioned above, if your German Shepherd seems unusually hyperactive, you should ask yourself whether they are getting the appropriate amount of physical and mental exercise. German Shepherds thrive on routine, so if they are getting less than what is recommended, the simple answer to is up their activity and make a new routine! More on this in the next section. Did You Know? There are certain characteristics in the GSD breed that make them the best police dogs. Do German Shepherds calm down after neutering? It will depend on the age they get neutered, and what behaviours they might have already learned to enjoy. A German Shepherd with no testosterone can display some subtle behavioural changes. This can lead to behavioural issues such as: Increased aggression. This is actually one of the most popular questions we receive from German shepherd owners! This article will explain everything you need to know on this important topic. German shepherds calm down after years. This is the most common age range when most German shepherds mature and calm down a little. How do GSDs have so much energy to begin with? To this day, German shepherds remain to be one of the top working dogs, if not the no. To perform at such a high level, German shepherds have adapted to have impeccable endurance, stamina, attention, and energy levels. I personally noticed a change in hyperactivity and energy level after 3 years with my GSD. The best way to get a calm German shepherd is to manage their energy levels appropriately. A quick word on Training! Results show improvement in obedience and behavior quicker than we thought possible! Definitely check it out. Stick to a routine The power of routine and sticking to set times is not spoken about enough! Dogs, especially highly intelligent breeds like German shepherds, absolutely need daily routines. Having set times for everything will instantly reduce stress, anxiety, and can even improve obedience. Eating, exercising, training, playing, socializing, and even brushing, should ideally be around the same time every day. Your German shepherd will learn to expect these activities at certain times, allowing them to remain calm during all other times. Exercise twice per day and first thing in the morning Although most owners exercise their German shepherd once per day, exercising them twice per day is extremely beneficial. Along with exercising twice per day, exercising your GSD first thing in the morning is a game-changer. German shepherd adults over 1 year should ideally receive minutes of exercise per day. Split this up into two sessions, once in the morning and another in the evening. German shepherd puppies, under 1 year should stick to a set puppy exercise routine to ensure their joints and bones can develop properly before receiving too much stress. Important read: German shepherd hip dysplasia information 3. Increase socialization activities Socialization is a hugeee one. Perhaps the most potent form of mental stimulation comes when two dogs sniff, play, and interact with each other. In most cases, socialization and mental stimulation are not focused on enough in daily routines. To increase socialization, you can stay longer at the dog park, visit doggy play groups, find Facebook groups online in your local area for the purpose of dog socialization, or visit friends that have dogs more often. Use puppy pens for cool down periods Puppy pens are an excellent tool when used correctly. Not only will they keep your puppy safe and contained, but they can act as a place where your puppy learns to calm down. Puppy pens are essentially like crates, but far more liberating and comfortable. By placing your pup in the pen, it will limit their movement and encourage them to calm down. If your pup considers the puppy pen as a punishment, it will not work to calm them down. Spend a week or so building positive associations with the pen. This means spending time with your pup around the pen, throw toys in there, treats, and give plenty of praise. As long as your puppy enjoys being in the pen, then this will work wonders for whenever you need your pup to calm down quickly. Related: Why are German shepherds so dramatic 5. Puzzle toys usually require your pup to figure out a simple or hard challenge in order to receive the treat. Some puzzle toys are better suited for when you are there to assist, and others are set-and-forget, perfect for when you leave the house. As explained before, providing more mental stimulation for your German shepherd will without a doubt reduce their energy and hyperactivity. Keep up with daily command training! Of course, any German shepherd owner knows just how important training is… But still, I speak to so many owners who stop command training way too early! With a little creativity you can make each training session different and more complex. Try to incorporate minutes of dedicated command training on a daily basis ideally at the same time! This will keep their stress and anxiety levels down, prevent bad behavior and reduce the chances of hyperactive behavior. If you are leaving your GSD home alone for a few hours per day, then ensure they have had some exercise before, and provide them with a puzzle toy, or training prior to leaving them. This could certainly be the case for German shepherds too, considering just how much they crave their owners attention and time. If a German shepherd starts to feel alone, understimulated, or disengaged, then many unwanted behaviors can be the result hyperactivity being just one of them. The 8 tips above all work to help keep your German shepherd calm because they are all stimulating and engaging. Working dogs like German shepherds absolutely need to be stimulated physically, mentally, and socially. The tips above accomplish this in one way or another. By adjusting your GSDs daily routine to include these tips, not only will their hyperactivity reduce, but their overall behavior, happiness and stress levels will improve. Prioritise what your German shepherd needs when they need it, and their behavior and temperament will be exemplary. German Shepherds Are Energetic Dogs! This last section is just a reminder that German shepherds are energetic dogs after all! These dogs are not couch potatoes, and will have energy way into their senior years. As long as we raise a friendly, obedient, and happy German shepherd, their energy levels will be manageable with fairly little effort. Thank you for reading! If you have any questions please message in! The Puppy Mag makes an active effort to search for plagiarized content using plagiarism detection software. If plagiarized content is found, action will be taken. Do not add a GSD to your life if you do not have the time, patience and energy to exercise, train and manage them in interactions with all people and all animals. Changes of residence, family and having been in a shelter situation are highly stressful. Because of the loyalty of the breed, you can expect to put in more work at the beginning of the relationship with a new GSD pet. Many times they are aloof on meeting, then become overly-bonded Velcro dogs , then finally settle into their family routines after months. We use these ratings to match dogs with appropriate adopters and foster homes. We do our best to account for breed-specific differences when evaluating non-GSDs that enter our rescue. There is no universal rating levels or evaluation systems; this is simply how we do it. The higher the Rating Level, the more confident and demanding the dog is, and the more of everything the dog will require e. Young dogs under 2 years old will probably mature up a Level when they reach adulthood. A 5 year old German Shepherd is typically a mature dog. They tend to be willing to go along and get along, and want to avoid trouble. They tend to be gentle, soft, mellow dogs. Usually Low to Moderate Energy. Most German Shepherds at Level 1 are over 3 years old. Usually moderate energy that can be satisfied with daily walks and play or training time. They tend to need some basic obedience lessons and refresher courses as well as some supervision and management in certain situations. Level 2 dogs are suitable for novice homes that are willing to provide hours of daily training and exercise. Confident, assertive and pushy, will challenge leadership status. Usually Moderate to High Energy. Independent problem-solvers that will try to out-think their owners. With professional training, these dogs often mature to Level 2 at the age of years old. Suitable for homes with strong leadership that are willing to provide hours of physical and mental exercise every day, including rain, shine or snow. Past breed experience is extremely helpful and homes must be open to support of professional trainers with breed knowledge. They require owners who are home often enough, and have enough patience, time, energy, and experience to appropriately exercise and train a GSD puppy. Owners need stamina to make it through the nipping, chewing, digging, jumping up on people, clawing, mouthing, barking and destroying your most expensive items stages. Adult Level 4: Usually High Energy. When awake they never slow down. This type of dog is highly trainable but is fast, strong, and intelligent with strong working desire. This dog is always ready to work and requires lots of obedience work and play time every day to thrive. Level 4 dogs are usually competition dogs or powerful dogs who need a job. These dogs live to work for a toy. These dogs are rare in our rescue. Suitable homes require knowledge of the breed, strong leadership and have multiple hours to devote, daily, to exercise and training. For puppies, suitable homes must also have prior puppy training experience and be willing to work with a professional trainer. Usually ball, toy or prey obsessed. High Energy, always in high gear. Need several hours of physical and mental challenge every day, live to outwit, outplay and outlast everyone else. Never slow down, never wear out. Level 5 dogs are extremely rare in our rescue. Suitable homes require professional handlers or top competition owners with knowledge of and experience with the breed and the strength to handle; these dogs are not suitable for the family home. Life with a German Shepherd. They are most commonly brought home from a breeder at the age of 8 weeks to 6 months. This is also the juvenile stage when they start acquiring negative or positive habits. German Shepherd puppies can be hyper because of the following reasons: Lack of Exercise German Shepherds were bred to carry out tasks that require a lot of energy, such as herding. Therefore they need exercise to stimulate them. Puppies are always full of energy and therefore tend to run all over the place. They are also naturally built as strong, athletic dogs, and hence require a lot of exercise. Rewarding Bad Behavior When your German Shepherd puppy is hyper, giving them what they want, such as attention or food, to calm them down, encourages bad behavior. The puppy learns that to get what they want, they have to exhibit excited behavior. Boredom Hyperactivity in German Shepherd puppies can result from boredom. In most cases, dogs are left home alone as parents go to work and children go to school. An untrained puppy will end up re-arranging the house and not like an interior decorator! Lack of Training A German Shepherd puppy may act hyper if she is not properly trained. Therefore, regular training is essential to teach your GSD puppy discipline from a young age. This will help your puppy to know the difference between playtime and when to listen. Feeding the Wrong Food Dog owners tend to be overly kind to their puppies and may share food with them. However, certain foods may lead to their hyperactivity. Apart from causing hyperactivity, some of these foods, like chocolate , can be toxic to puppies leading to illness or death. If you are uncertain about what to feed and what not to feed your German Shepherd puppy , consult your vet. Separation Anxiety German Shepherd puppies often suffer from separation anxiety when their owners leave for business trips or vacations without them. This can also happen when the owner simply leaves for the day to go to work. They can express themselves by being destructive or peeing in the house while you are away. Getting Wet German Shepherd puppies who run around outdoors, just like a child, have to be bathed. This dryer comes with adjustable heat settings, a wide selection of air speeds, and a great warranty to boot. How to Calm Your German Shepherd Puppy As much as you love your puppy, all the hyperactivity and destruction can be overwhelming. The following are ways to calm a German Shepherd puppy. Properly Train Your Puppy Training enables your puppy to obey your commands. While you can train a German Shepherd to follow complex commands, only the basics are necessary. Make sure to always train your puppy in an area where there are few distractions, such as in your home or yard, and then progress to more distracting environments. This slow acclimation will also help to properly socialize your German Shepherd , which is essential for your puppy to grow in to a well-adjusted adult. When giving commands to your puppy, be sure to use an authoritative voice and issue them in a slow-low pitched voice. High-pitched commands which are spoken rapidly will only serve to over-excite your puppy. Below is a YouTube video showing you some simple and effective ways to train your German Shepherd puppy: Give Your Puppy Enough Exercise German Shepherds have more energy than most other breeds, and walking by itself as exercise will not be enough to keep excess energy at bay. Playing games such as fetch, going for runs, walking on hilly areas, and teaching your puppy to swim are healthy ways to wear your puppy out and curb hyperactivity. If you do not have adequate time to exercise your German Shepherd puppy, consider getting a dog walker. Did you know that German Shepherds are great frisbee dogs? This fact escapes most GSD owners, and because of this they often miss out on some great fun to be had with their dogs! Read this great article all about German Shepherds and their ability to play frisbee. Socialize Your Puppy As we mentioned above, a great way to calm your puppy is by regularly socializing her with other puppies, adult dogs, as well as other people and animals in general. Socializing your puppy will tire her out both physically and mentally, while at the same time making her the well-adjusted dog that you want her to be. This is because your German Shepherd puppy will learn that to be rewarded, she will have to behave appropriately, and that bad behavior will only result in being ignored. Aromatherapy Essential oils such as vanilla, ylang-ylang, lavender, sweet orange, and chamomile can be soothing to your dog. Test some of these on your German Shepherd puppy to see which one works best. For more information on aromatherapy and its benefits and potential harmful effects on dogs, check out this great article below: Is Aromatherapy Bad for Dogs? Setting up a good routine for your puppy is your responsibility. Make sure to not feed her too late at night, and always make sure that your puppy gets at least a moderately long walk before bed. A useful practice is putting food in a dog toy when your puppy becomes hyper. This will enable her to shift focus from hyperactivity to concentration. One great toy for this is a Kong Treat Dispensing Toy. This toy is designed to be filled with any number of goodies, and will keep your GSD puppy occupied for a long time! Some great examples of treats that you can put into a Kong are: frozen mashed banana and yogurt mashed potatoes and rice frozen Xylitol free peanut butter pureed and frozen watermelon and strawberries pureed and frozen turkey and cranberry mixture Essentially, if you can dream it, and it is safe for your puppy, you can stuff it into a Kong and keep your puppy occupied. Additionally, there are a number of other treat dispensing puzzle toys that will work to accomplish the same goal of reducing hyperactivity in your puppy while increasing mental focus. Stay Calm Reducing hyperactivity in you German Shepherd puppy begins with you. Puppies pick up on the energy you put out. If you become excited around them, they will copy you and start running around or barking loudly. To them, they are doing nothing wrong. In fact, a puppy will think that it is doing a great job by imitating you, the pack leader. So it is important that you set a good example for your puppy through your own behavior. It will take time to train and calm your German Shepherd pup because they are naturally energetic, strong, and athletic dogs — they love activity! Always use positive reinforcement as opposed to punishing your German Shepherd puppy. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are loyal, courageous, make excellent guard dogs, and bred as herders. German Shepherd puppies are generally hyperactive from the age of 3 months to 3 years. Later on, they become more mature and calm. Training puppies from 8 weeks to 6 months enables them to acquire and retain positive habits. Dog owners need to properly socialize their puppies, play with them, and use toys not only to challenge them mentally but also to require their full concentration, thus reducing their hyperactivity. Consistent training is also essential. If you are unable to do this on your own, we strongly suggest reaching out to a professional dog trainer. This will be a great long-term investment, and save you the difficult task of teaching an old dog new tricks. Puppyhood Newborn German Shepherd puppies are less active than those who are nearing the weaning stage from their mothers, and their activity levels only increase from there! German Shepherds are a very curious and brave breed, so puppies tend to be quite active and engaged with the world from a very young age, which can lead to higher energy levels. As the puppies reach sexual maturity and enter into adolescence , their energy reaches a peak and they will need quite a bit of interaction and activity in order to keep them happy and healthy. Just look at these puppies, do you think you could keep up with these cuties? Adulthood As German Shepherds reach around a year old, they will be at their most active and this period of high energy will usually last all the way up until about 6 or 7 years. Some German Shepherds who come from working line genetics or those whose background involves ancestors who were heavily involved and specifically bred for certain high adrenaline dog sports will likely be even higher in energy levels. German Shepherds who were bred for police and military work will generally show the highest energy levels, and those bred for show, pets, or for use as service animals will generally have typical or lower energy levels compared to the breed standard. The working line dogs will also likely maintain their energy levels far later into life than other lines, and may need additional outlets for that continuous energy. Seniors The energy levels of German Shepherds tend to start declining as they reach their senior years which can start as early as 7 or 8 years for some dogs , but they often still show quick bursts of high activity level, and many healthy German Shepherds can and will stay quite active up into their twilight years. It is worth repeating that each German Shepherd is an individual, and they may have their own ebbs and flows of energy levels throughout their lives. But there are a few factors that can directly influence the energy level of a German Shepherd, and why they seem to have more energy than they should. Lack of Enrichment Dogs require both physical and mental stimulation in order to be happy and healthy, and as a working breed German Shepherds tend to require an increased amount in order to have their needs met when compared to a breed of dog that traditionally has only been used as a companion, such as many of the Toy breeds. German Shepherds are also very owner-oriented , and if they are left alone for long periods of time with nothing to do, they can build up frustrated energy which can express itself as destructive behaviors or separation anxiety and increased vocalizations. German Shepherds who are kept crated or tethered all day , every day will also develop pent up energy that will evolve into behavioral issues down the line. Not Enough Exercise German Shepherds are considered a highly active and athletic breed of dog , and if they are not receiving enough physical exercise their energy levels may reach an unmanageable point. This is especially true for German Shepherds in the adolescent and adult stages of their lives, where their energy is often much higher than at other points. The adolescent period in particular is also usually the stage in which dogs become more confident and interested in the world around them, and other unwanted behaviors may appear which the pent-up energy can make worse. Oftentimes, a simple walk around the block is not enough physical exercise for a young, exuberant German Shepherd so you must supplement with vigorous playtime or more extensive exercise on the weekends such as a lengthy hike or a trip to the lake for a good swimming session. Poor Impulse Control Aside from their natural athleticism which can increase their energy levels, German Shepherds are also considered highly intelligent dogs who require training from a young age in order to manage their tenacity and interest in everything and anything around them. If they do not receive proper training and develop poor impulse control as a result, they may show a higher level of energy at inappropriate times and may not know how to curb that energy into more appropriate outlets. A good example of this is when a young German Shepherd has not been taught polite greetings when a guest arrives at the house. Medical Or Behavioral Issues In some cases, excessive energy is a result of an underlying medical or behavioral issue. German Shepherds who suffer from separation anxiety or who display increases in energy as a result of reactivity or attention-seeking behaviors may show higher energy levels than they should when in certain situations or environments. There are several things that you can do as a responsible dog owner to help your German Shepherd find outlets for their energy and to keep them happy and healthy. Daily walks are the minimum requirement for most German Shepherds, and you often have to include additional playtime if your walks are short or there are not enough sensory experiences along your walking route to tire your pup out mentally. Extensive play sessions involving tug of war or fetch are other good ways to help tire your dog out. While German Shepherds can do well without a big yard , if you happen to have one you could also set up agility equipment or even basic play equipment normally designed for children to give them something to do when you are not able to walk them. Provide Sensory Experiences Mental enrichment is another important part of dog ownership, and this is especially true for German Shepherds due to their high intelligence levels and interest in solving puzzles and playing games. Doing different physical activities or games with your German Shepherd are also good ways to provide some mental enrichment as well as tire them out physically. Flyball, agility, or lure coursing are all good high energy activities that German Shepherds can do well with. You can also utilize puzzle toys, and snuffle mats, or teach your German Shepherd some nose work games to provide mental enrichment but in a quieter, less energetic way. Train Your Pup Training is not only a necessary part of being a responsible dog owner, but it is also a great way to help with energy and provides mental enrichment for German Shepherds. Outside of typical obedience training which will help develop good impulse control in your pup , you can also train your German Shepherd to do pretty much anything and everything. The list is almost endless! Training your German Shepherd can help alleviate pent up energy due to boredom, and also helps keep them interested and engaged with you rather than acting silly. Trick training shake, roll over, etc. This depends entirely on how your German Shepherd uses their excessive energy, and if the energy is a result of their needs not being met. If the excessive energy interferes with training, is a safety concern, or causes problems in your household or neighborhood, then the energy probably needs dealt with and additional measures should be taken to make sure your German Shepherd is receiving appropriate care and that their physical and mental needs are being met. Did you just take them on a particularly exhaustive hike, or are they recovering from an illness or injury? Then the lower energy levels they may be displaying are probably normal and nothing to be concerned about. Some German Shepherds are also just a bit lazier than other German Shepherds, and as your dog enters into their senior years you may notice steadily decreasing energy levels. But if your German Shepherd suddenly displays a lack of energy in comparison to their normal energy level, then a vet visit might be in order. Certain illnesses can cause a decrease in energy, and in some cases, a sudden onset of lethargy is a serious concern that requires immediate veterinary attention when accompanied by other symptoms such as drooling, excessive panting, crying, inability to find a comfortable position, vomiting, or diarrhea. If your German Shepherd is not as energetic as he usually is, it might be worth a check up just to rule out any underlying issues. Closing Thoughts While each individual German Shepherd may have varying energy levels, most German Shepherds have their highest energy levels during their adolescent and adult years and then their energy begins to decrease once they enter into their senior years. They are considered a high energy breed , but as long as their physical and mental needs are being met on a daily basis their energy is manageable. German Shepherds who do not have their needs met, or who may be suffering from an underlying medical or behavioral issue, may show higher bursts of energy at inappropriate times or they may engage in unwanted behaviors including chewing, digging, and howling. Making sure that you exercise your German Shepherd physically and mentally will help keep them happy and healthy! 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. These beautiful dogs are high-energy, and intelligent animals that crave working environments. This breed is known for its industrious nature and persistent activity demands. Bred as working dogs , these strongly built, yet graceful canines are second to none in terms of working abilities. They serve as aids for the handicapped, and as police or military rescuers and scouts. These animals exhibit outstanding loyalty , devotion, and courage to their owners, and human family members at home. As extremely versatile canines, they have the ability to learn and excel at a multitude of different tasks. Once well-trained, they seldom deviate from the task at hand, often over-achieving with energy to spare. They frequently meet and even exceed the expectations and goals of their trainers. In short, German Shepherds are very high-energy dogs with the ability to accomplish challenging tasks and goals. Most German Shepherd dogs seem to need continuous activity. In fact, many seem to have an inexhaustible amount of energy, which is mainly due to the breeding history. Max was amazed at the beauty, physical strength, endurance, and level of intelligence of this animal. After purchasing the dog, he renamed his new pet Horand. Max then bred Horand with other dogs displaying similar capabilities and qualities, which created the German Shepherd breed known today. Since dogs of this breed had such impressive energy and strength, they were often used as herding dogs. Research reveals that their ancestors ran in groups, or packs, to control wild animals. Even today, German Shepherds are used on farms and ranches to herd, or control, cattle, sheep, and horses. Any animals that stray from their herds, fields, or pastures are rounded-up or corralled by the GSDs. If you have a home with a large backyard, your German Shepherd will definitely love it, since they have a great need and desire to run in open spaces. They need much more strenuous exercise than a quiet stroll in the park. If you deny them this show of approval, they may politely demand it! According to Dogtime , they may continue to perform certain tasks or activities with hopes of attracting your attention. If you fail to respond, your endearing pet may actually attempt to herd you into joining the performance and antics. Thanks to their intelligence and sensitivity, German Shepherds quickly learn to distinguish acceptable indoor activities from outdoor play. Yet when feeling restless or especially playful, they may start to run around inside your home. This is most likely due to the history of this breed, and its long-term use for outdoor work. These dogs need to stay busy! Although it can be difficult, the best solution is to ignore their crazy behavior. Natural scents like lavender, mint, and chamomile will make your shepherd feel mellow and content. This will help remind them of time spent resting in nature. Even today, they enjoy outdoor rest after a strenuous session of herding other animals. If you are considering getting a dog as a new family pet, a German Shepherd can actually be ideal. Although they can be somewhat over-active and rambunctious, these dogs like children and can bond rather quickly. According to Animals. If your active youngsters start to run toward the street in an effort to retrieve a ball during play, you can count on your shepherd to herd your children back to safety if they start to stray. This acutely aware dog will rush to the rescue, gently but firmly redirecting the child back to safety. Once the youngster is back in the safe, secure territory, your pet will most likely look for traffic. If all is clear, your shepherd will probably go fetch the ball. As part of the family, these loyal, sensitive dogs like taking part in everyday household activities and chores. Your shepherd may show an interest in helping you straighten up the house, picking up items from the floor. While you run the vacuum, your pet may follow along, checking the carpet and flooring for lingering dust or debris. These dogs love to play with robot vacuums, herding them away from walls and open doorways. It is essential to obtain your German Shepherd from an excellent breeder. Especially if you have small children, you need to be sure that your new pet has been properly socialized. The idea of choosing a puppy that can grow up as part of your family is great. Yet you must ensure that you get your new pet from a responsible breeder with a top-tier reputation. You can then feel confident in welcoming a young shepherd into your household. Breeds like German Shepherds that come from harsh or careless breeders may not have had good socialization training. These animals, although acutely intelligent and aware, may feel somewhat uneasy when around babies and young children. Some may show signs of excessive nervousness or anxiety due to bad treatment or training practices. In this case, your shepherd most likely needs additional training before interacting with your family. Some people are automatically afraid of large, active dogs like German Shepherds. Even though they may never have had any threatening or frightening interaction with this breed, some neighbors may be apprehensive as well. The energetic habits of these dogs can seem scary or unsettling. Yet when your shepherd is carefully bred, cared for, and trained, your friends and neighbors can feel safe and relaxed. If training is done properly, your dog will soon be quite popular in the neighborhood! They can also adapt to various climates since they are a strong and hearty breed. They can thrive in both cold and hot temperatures if well-fed and exercised. In hot or tropical climates, they do need access to plenty of shade, cool spaces, and water. Wherever they live, these fascinating and lovable dogs need to spend much of their time outdoors. Yet they do not like being left to themselves, even in outdoor areas where they can run freely. When well-bred and trained, shepherds like socializing with other friendly dogs of various breeds. If your neighbors own dogs too, your shepherd may seek them out when outdoors. These versatile dogs are equally content in households with large, active families, and with quiet, older people or handicapped individuals. Even in quiet homes without much activity, they learn to use their energy in helpful, non-disruptive ways. German Shepherds often develop joint problems, including degenerative myelopathy spinal cord weakness. Shepherds may also experience dysplasia abnormalities of joint sockets of the elbow and hips. Another very serious health problem, bloat, can occur in this breed. Expert breeders use DNA testing to prevent these issues from becoming hereditary traits. Experienced and reputable breeders will give written proof of testing for such health problems to new shepherd owners. You can help prevent your German Shepherd from developing joint weakness by ensuring that your pet gets enough daily exercise. The vet can also test your shepherd for any potential allergies or autoimmune issues. German Shepherds need a diet rich in proteins. Ideal dog foods for this breed contain duck, turkey, and chicken as well as sweet potatoes. These foods are high in essential vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, and fatty acids. Your dog can also eat carrots, eggs, salmon, and peanut butter. We also recommend consulting your veterinarian for expert advice about quantities and best feeding times. This can help your beloved German Shepherd live a long, healthy, and happy life! Check out this cool video on German Shepherd dog training! For everything German Shepherd related, feel free to continue exploring our website — thanks for reading!

Like many small dog breeds, Pugs reach their full size faster than medium to large-sized dogs. Pugs reach their adult size around nine months of age but may continue to put on a small amount of muscle until they are a year old. Image Source: Pexels How big should a 6-month-old Pug be? A six-month-old Pug will weigh between 7 and 12 pounds on average and will be close to their full adult height, which is typically around 10 to 13 inches tall. Pugs are highly prone to putting on excess weight and their food intake needs to be monitored closely. Pro Tip: Check out this ultimate pet parent guide with 39 dog care tips on health, puppy-proofing practices, training, winter and summer safety, and more! How much bigger will my Pug get? Pugs reach their full size around nine months of age but may continue filling out until they are a year old. If your Pug is younger than nine months old, they are definitely still growing! If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, they are likely still growing. This is a classic puppy feature that indicates that more growth is needed. A puppy will rarely grow to be larger than their bigger parent, so this will also give you an idea of their maximum size. What is the size of a full-grown Pug? According to the American Kennel Club Official Pug Standards , you can expect a full-grown Pug to weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and stand 10 to 13 inches tall. A full-grown Pug will appear compact and solid, rather than lean and leggy. If your Pug continues to put on weight past 18 pounds, reach out to your veterinarian to assess whether your Pug is putting on excessive weight. If your Pug weighs more than 18 pounds, consult with your veterinary professional to ensure that they are at their healthiest weight. Pugs are especially prone to heatstroke due to their compromised breathing. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to lessening the side effects of brachycephalic syndrome. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct narrow nostrils or elongated soft palettes. Many veterinary treatments and procedures cost thousands of dollars. When surveyed, Only .This is a crucial factor in why pet insurance is so valuable to pet parents. Pet insurance reimburses you a percentage of your out of pocket expenditure for veterinary bills. Not only can pet insurance provide you peace of mind should surgery or treatments be needed, but available wellness plans can significantly reduce the cost of routine veterinary exams or maintenance, like dog teeth cleaning or x-rays. Your veterinarian is your greatest resource in keeping your pup happy and healthy. Continue making healthy lifestyle choices, like daily exercise and a nutritious diet, for your Pug to keep them active and living their best life! Unfortunately, Pugs are prone to a larger number of health issues due to their brachycephalic syndrome and other genetic predispositions. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Deciding you want to purchase a pug puppy is exciting. However, you want to make sure you find the right puppy for you. Make sure you seek out reputable breeders so your puppy does not come with any health problems. Visit the puppies in person and choose the one that suits your needs. Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the puppy's current health and pedigree. Before bringing your new friend home, make sure your house is puppy proofed. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Pug puppies come with a unique set of needs. Puppies in general require more care than an adult dog. Before embarking on your journey to find a pug puppy, consider whether you can accommodate one at the moment. Make sure you have time for a puppy. Puppies need extra feeding, as well socialization and training. If you have a very busy schedule, you may want to wait for things to settle down before getting a puppy. Pugs, as a pet, require some maintenance. The folds in their faces need regular cleaning, and they're also prone to a great deal of shedding. Make sure you can live with frequent grooming, and accept the fact your house will never quite be hair-free. Like all breeds, pugs are prone to certain health problems. While a good breeder is adept at breeding out such problems, there are certain problems that are hard to breed out. These are usually simply due to how a pug is built. Learn the risks associated with pugs and make sure you're prepared to deal with them down the road. All pugs, regardless of breeding, are prone to eye problems. Pug's distinctive, bulging eyes expose a large area of their corneas, which puts their eyes at risk of drying out or forming ulcers. You may have to deal with frequent vet visits to deal with eye issues. Pugs are very prone to overheating because their flattened faces makes it hard for them to breathe. This problem can be even worse in hot weather, and overheating can cause serious health issues for a pug. Behaviorally, pugs are a more social breed. They are more prone to separation anxiety issues than other breeds. If you're gone a lot, a pug may not be the right dog for you. When searching for a breeder, there are a few places to scratch off your list right away. Puppy mills and very obviously bad breeders should be avoided. You're more likely to get a pug with existing health problems, or the risk of developing health problems down the road. In general, do not trust a breeder who simply sells dogs online from any given buyer. A breeder who does not ask any questions is probably not a good breeder. Responsible breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes. Puppy mills sometimes sell puppies to pet stores, so avoid buying a pug from a pet store. Puppy mills may also sell pugs online. If you can simply look at a picture of a puppy and purchase it, this is probably a puppy mill. Start your search locally. If you're lucky, you will be able to find a breeder who lives nearby. Look for ads in the newspaper, online, at local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and at any local pet clubs. A breeder in your area is convenient, as you will not have to travel far to see the puppies. Just because someone is a local breeder, do not assume they are an ethical one. Make sure to visit any breeder in person and look at the puppies physically before purchasing one. Unfortunately, not all areas have pug breeders close by. In some cases, you may have to travel to meet and select a puppy. There are many places you can look online to locate the nearest pug breeder. The Pug Dog Club keeps a list of reputable breeders online. You can search for the closest breeder there. The American Kennel Club also has a database of dog breeders. You can search there by breed. Remember to have patience. Even if you find a good breeder relatively close to you, they may not have puppies available for a while. You may have to wait a few months before taking home your pug puppy. Call a few breeders during your search. Pay close attention to your interactions. Learn the signs of a good breeder. Only work with breeders who are responsible and care about their dogs. Their facilities should be clean and spacious. They will be flexible in scheduling a time for you to see the puppies. A solid breeder will usually only breed one type of dog, or only a few types of dogs. The breeder should be very knowledgeable of pugs. During your initial conversation, the breeder will want to go over some basic pug care information with you. Good breeders do not have anything to hide. Not only will the be willing to let you see the dog's pedigree and meet their parents, they will actually encourage this. When you select a breeder to meet up with, make sure to ask a variety of questions. You want to make sure their puppies are a good match for you and your home. You also want to make sure the breeder is responsible and that the puppies are in good health. Interacting with a dog's mother and father can give you a sense of your puppy's future temperament. Ask questions about the breeder's credentials. Ask how long they've been breeding pugs. A more experienced breeder is more likely to produce healthier puppies. Ask about the puppy's parents. Make sure the parents do not have any inheritable diseases. Ask if you can see the health certificates for the parents on request. You should also ask about what treatment the puppies have received. Have they been vaccinated or de-wormed? Have they been spayed or neutered yet? When you get a chance to interact with the puppies, look closely at the puppy's you like. Pugs are prone to certain abnormalities. You can detect a potential issue by examining the dog's eyes, as well as how it breathes and moves. Watery eyes, squinted eyes, or glazed over eyes are signs of poor health. Hold the puppy close to you to hear it breathe. Raspy, labored breathing is generally a bad sign. Watch the puppy moving and at rest. It's not uncommon for pugs to breathe through their mouths when running around. However, a resting puppy should be able to comfortably breathe through its nose. There should be no signs of limping or an uneven gain if the puppies are old enough to walk. If you notice a puppy walking funny, listen for a clicking noise from the hips. This indicates the dog may develop hip problems later in life. As you interact with the puppies, aim for one with a good temperament. You want a puppy that's not too shy, but also one that's not overly rambunctious. You want a puppy that allows you to pick it up without squirming. A very aggressive or very standoffish puppy can be a problem. Once you've selected two or three pugs you like, request one-on-one time with them. You want a puppy that is friendly away from its litter. A friendly puppy will wag its tail, allow you to pet it, and look at you when you talk. A good breeder will be as scrutinizing of you as you are of them. Breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes, so don't be put off if a breeder asks you a lot of questions. This is a good sign. The breeder wants to make sure you will take good care of the puppy. They will also want to know about your general lifestyle and how you plan to care for the dog. If this is your first pug, don't panic. A breeder is unlikely to reject you simply because you don't have specific experience with pugs. As long as you've done some research on the breed, the breeder will probably be willing to sell to you if you're responsible. A good breeder will always be willing to provide this information. After selecting the puppy you want, ask for its pedigree as well as a certificate of health. These papers should assure you the puppy is in good health, and that its family tree is relatively free of inheritable conditions. Puppies need frequent vet visits. You should have a certification on hand showing what vaccinations and other treatments your dog has already received. As you prepare to bring your puppy home, make sure you're ready. Your puppy should enter your home with all the supplies it needs to thrive ready. You will need the following: [7] X Research source A crate to transport your puppy home and for crate training later Bedding Collar, leash, and identification tag Toys Grooming supplies i. Before bringing your dog home, you will need to pug proof your house. Pugs are inquisitive animals and prone to getting into things. You want to make sure your pug cannot get into any dangerous substances or places. Make sure all electrical wires are covered or out of reach. Keep things like household cleaners and detergents out of reach. Place them in high kitchen cabinets. Prevent access to staircases, as young pugs can easily slip and fall on the stairs. A good breeder will present you with a contract prior to purchase. This outlines your basic responsibilities and the breeder's return policy. Read the contract carefully before signing. If there's anything you don't understand, ask the breeder. You want the option of returning a dog in the event it has a health problem you cannot afford to treat. Once the contract is signed and your home is ready, you can bring your new friend home. You can now enjoy your pug puppy, and begin the process of training and caring for your new lifelong friend. Teary, sunken, and caked in eye gunk Ears Clean without any dirt and wax Dirty and waxy with signs of earworms Nose Damp and cool to touch Dry and warm Pink jaw with well-spaced teeth Pale or inflamed gums with tightly packed teeth Skull Head size is proportional to the body The head is either too large, too flat, or too wide Behavior Lethargic and tired Similarities Between Healthy Pug and Unhealthy Pug Although there are many differences between a healthy pug and an unhealthy pug, there are also some similarities between the two. Body Type — Both healthy and unhealthy pugs are small, short-haired breeds with distinctive wrinkled faces and curled tails. Health Issues — Both types of pugs can be prone to certain health issues, such as breathing problems and eye issues, due to the shape of their face and skull. Food and Exercise Needs — Both healthy and unhealthy pugs need proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care to thrive. Personality — In terms of personality, both healthy and unhealthy pugs are known for being loyal, affectionate, and playful. However, an unhealthy pug may not have the energy or enthusiasm of a healthy pug due to poor health. Pug Skull vs Normal Dog Skull? Click here to learn more. Signs Your Pug is Healthy Some of the distinctive signs of healthy pugs are listed below. Shiny Coat — A healthy pug will have a smooth, shiny coat that is free of tangles or mats. Bright Eyes — Healthy pugs will have bright, clear eyes without any discharge or redness. Good Appetite — A healthy pug will be eager to eat and make some noise at dinner time. Regular Bowel Movements — Healthy pugs will produce firm, well-formed stools. Good Energy Levels — Healthy pugs will be able to run, play, and interact with you without difficulty. Signs Your Pug is Unhealthy Some common signs of an unhealthy pug are as follows. Dull Coat — An unhealthy pug has a dull, dry coat that lacks shine. Sunken Eyes — Unhealthy pugs have sunken eyes, which can be a sign of dehydration or illness. Lack of Appetite — An unhealthy pug may not eat at all and it can be a massive sign that your pup needs medical attention. Irregular Bowel Movements — Unhealthy pugs may produce loose or runny stools. Lethargic Behavior — An unhealthy pug is more tired and inactive than usual, lacking the energy and playfulness of a healthy pug. Frequent Illness — If your pug is frequently sick or prone to infections, it may be a sign of poor health. Common Health Issues with Pugs Pugs are small, stocky dogs that are prone to certain health issues. Some common health issues with pugs include: Breathing problems Pugs have flat faces and short noses which can cause respiratory issues. They may struggle to breathe in hot or humid weather, and they may snore or have difficulty panting. Eye Issues Pugs are prone to eye problems, such as dry eye, eye infections, and eye injuries. They may also develop cherry eye, a condition where the gland in the eye becomes swollen and protrudes. Skin Issues Pugs may develop skin allergies or irritations, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss. Orthopedic issues Pugs may develop joint problems, such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, which can cause pain and difficulty moving. Obesity: Pugs are prone to obesity, which can lead to other health issues such as diabetes, heart problems, and joint problems. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your pug to the vet for a check-up. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Caring for your Pug Pugs can be highly entertaining dogs due to their big personalities and clownish nature. They generally do well in family environments where they have lots of company all of the time as they love to spend time with everybody. Pugs and barking As with any dog, your Pug is likely to make noise in one form or another. How much your dog barks will be down to them as an individual. Training and socialisation When it comes to training Pugs, although they are a clever breed they can also be very strong willed. Training needs to be ongoing and firm but fair. You can start positive, reward-based training from day one, whether you get your Pug old or young. Exercise Pugs can be prone to gaining weight that can make breathing problems worse, so it is important to keep them active and avoid any weight gain. Your Pug will need up to an hour of exercise a day. This should include shorter walks, with extra playtime and lots of brain-stimulating activities. Several shorter walks throughout the day can help to stop them from becoming too tired or overheated, which is a great way to keep them active throughout the day. Keep a close eye on your Pug as they can tire easily due to their difficulties getting enough oxygen. As soon as you start to notice them struggling to breathe, stop and make sure they get enough of a rest. You will also need to avoid exercising them in the heat as this can cause even more problems since they can be at higher risk of heatstroke. Grooming Even though their coats are short, Pugs can still shed loads. Luckily, they tend to love being groomed as it means a lot of attention all on them. Pay close attention to the folds in their skin, as these are the perfect breeding ground for bacterial and fungal infections if left damp. You can teach your Pug from an early age to love tooth brushing and nail clipping so you can keep those pearly whites and paws in great condition. Pugs and children Pugs adore company and really love people of all ages. They often get on well with children, especially if the Pug loves to play. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Always supervise children and vulnerable people with your Pug and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. Pugs and other pets Pugs are known for getting along well with other pets and dogs. Introductions still need to be done carefully, though, just in case. Good, kind training will also help them become well-rounded dogs that keep calm in new situations. Your vet or vet nurse will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet higher standards for breeding. See our advice on what you need to know about flat faced pets and how to choose a healthier pedigree pet. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, some centres will vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will have already neutered the dogs they rehome where appropriate. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or if your dog outgrows them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catching any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. A group of Pugs is called a grumble! Pugs are an ancient breed, dating back to Ancient China where they were bred for Emperors. Pugs were bred to be companions, which is why they love people so much. Getting a Pug Do plenty of research before you get a Pug. Although they are loveable and friendly, they are sadly likely to get a lot of health issues more so than many other breeds. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Pug. Breed-specific rescues specialising in Pugs are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any existing health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will have been well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if a Pug is the right pet for you? Now, I have to decide which Pug puppy to bring home. I'm so nervous that I'll choose the wrong dog. How can I possibly know I am choosing a Pug puppy that is the best one for me? They're all going to be so cute! Answer: Hi Ashley. We agree that all of the puppies are going to be adorable and cute! However, there are definitely some guidelines that you can follow when you are trying to pick out the perfect Pug pup. We are not sure if it matters to you if you have a male or female. There are not that many differences, despite what others may say. While potential health problems may not be visible, there are 3 things that everyone should do: Check the eyes, breathing and gait. The Eyes: The eyes are not only the window to the soul, they can also give you a clue about the health of the dog. Watering, squinting or a glazed film on the eyes is a sign of health issues. Breathing: Hold the puppy close to your ear and listen carefully. Do you hear rattling and rasping? This is a sign of a breathing problem. Does the puppy have to breath through his or her mouth? If the puppy is at rest, they should be able to breath fine with their mouth closed this can be a stenotic nare issue, which often needs to be corrected with a surgical procedure. Watch the puppy walk: While young pups under the age of 6 weeks may still be gaining their footing, take note of any limping or odd gait issues. If you do notice an odd gait, listen for any clicking noises coming from the hip area. This sort of issue may be caused by underdeveloped hip bones joint and socket , a health problem not uncommon with the Pug breed. Interaction and Activity Some people will tell you that you should pick the puppy that comes right over to you first. This is not the best advice. Puppies that are very bold like that may be harder to train. Their enthusiasm may be great fun for a while, but keeping up with and trying to train such a puppy may turn out to be stressful. When you are choosing a Pug puppy, it is usually best to choose one who is quiet and calm. However, you most certainly need to make sure that the pug is not too quite due to an illness or extreme shyness. You don't want to bring home an ill pup and choosing a dog that is overly shy may make for a pet that is afraid of everything and will be in need of extensive of socialization training. It is recommended to have a close look at several puppies that stay in the background. If a Pug puppy is laying listless without any energy at all, this is a warning sign that the dog may be unhealthy. A calm Pug that does respond to you when picked up is what you should be looking for. Listen to the breathing for any signs of labored breathing or rasps. If the breathing is clear, take a look at the eyes. They should be bright and clear without an excessive discharge. With 2 or 3 puppies now left for you to decide on, take a look at how each one responds to you and how they respond to each other. Wiggle a toy in front of a puppy or whistle to him or her and see if the pup shows natural curiosity. The one for you should come over to you to investigate. Allow the whole litter to play with a toy. Take notice of the ones that seem to be bossy and the ones that seem to play fair. Take note of the ones who cower in the corner if the others fight for the toys. You will want to choose a Pug puppy who falls somewhere in the middle. This will ensure you have one that has a calm, yet curious personality. Finally, when you have it narrowed down to 2, do not feel rushed. Take time to sit down with each and talk to them. Does the pup look at you when you talk? Does he or she keep their tail high or wag the tail to express happiness? At this point, you should get a good feeling about which puppy is the one that is meant for you. Please remember, that just because you have an appointment to pick up a dog does not mean that you must go home with one. If the litter seems ill, all of the dogs seem aggressive or you do not feel a bond with any of the puppies it is absolutely acceptable to relay this to the breeder. While you may be very disappointed at first, in the long run you will be happy that you waited. When you are holding the Pug puppy that is right for you, you will know it. And what a lucky guy or girl that will be! Ready to begin his or her new journey as part of your family! All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.

When you bring a new puppy home, it's important to keep feeding it the same food that it has been eating at its previous home. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Talk to the person or organization that you are adopting your puppy from to see what food they are feeding it. They should willingly provide that info and they may even send you home with some if you can't find any to buy. If you can't find the right food in your local pet supply store, consider ordering it online. However, you would need to order it ahead of time so that you have it on hand when the puppy comes home. If you want to feed your puppy a different food from what it has been eating, you will need to switch its food over the course of several days. Feed that mix for several days. Finally, you can give the puppy all new food. If you are content to give your puppy the food it was originally eating, it's fine to do that. Every puppy will have different nutritional needs. Because of this, it's a good idea to discuss proper nutrition with your vet. They can suggest great foods to give your puppy and how much it should be eating. Go to source The right portion size depends on the size of your puppy and its metabolism. Ask your vet to teach you how to body score your puppy. This will allow you to do a quick visual check to see whether your puppy is losing or gaining weight. Tip: If your vet suggests a specific food but doesn't tell you how much to give your puppy, follow the instructions on the packaging. Doing 3 or 4 feedings per day allows your puppy to get enough nutrients without overwhelming its digestive system with a huge amount of food at once. This is especially important when your puppy is under 6 months old, as they have delicate systems. Go to source Don't just leave the food out all day. Take the food away after the puppy eats for about 10 or 15 minutes. Lab puppies should always have access to fresh water so that they can stay adequately hydrated. Put out a dish of water and dump it out, clean the dish, and refill it daily. Some puppies are really messy with their water dishes. To prevent a mess, try putting the water dish on a tray, so that spilled water won't go right onto the floor. Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!

Located on a beautiful ranch in the Texas Hill Country, we are a totally volunteer run organization committed to annually placing hundreds of dogs in their best forever homes. We at a A Doggie 4 You understand you want to do what is right for the dog that you have either found as a stray or can no longer keep. We have to be clear before proceeding, we are a volunteer run not for profit organization who is funded only by donations and adoption income. We are not able to go out to rescue a dog off the street nor we can not legally go on to private property for any reason. We are NOT the resource you need if a dog is in an emergency situation. We do not euthanize but we are limited by our space and resources. Our medical bills alone are almost equal to our income. Having said this we want to help when we can. If you have an animal you would like us to consider taking in please submit the surrender form below. Allow at least 2 business days for a response, sending multiple requests or calls for the same animal only slows the process. Submission of this form in no way guarantees we will be able to accept the dog. But you can make yours any way you want. A closer look at the Golden paper dog: And a better look at the sweet little Border Collie paper dog: Inspiration for these paper dog boxes came from paper-replika, who made some super cute printable dog paper toys a while back and shared them under a Creative Commons license. I converted their basic design to the Cricut and made my own design tweaks — a longer body my dogs have long tube bodies! Then I thought this paper toy would be even better if it were a box! So I designed a trapezoidal box that fits under the dog. So now let me show you how to make paper dog boxes! Read my full disclosure policy. I have three different dog designs — one is modeled after my border collie puppy, one is a malamute, and the other is modeled after my golden retriever dog. Feel free to change the size of these, too! Need help with the scoring lines? Check out my tutorial on Cricut Scoring, Grouping, and Attaching! Fold your head piece along the scorelines, both big folds and tab folds. Everything gets folded IN. Glue everything on the head, saving the back of the head for last. Now, glue up the paper dog body, saving the rear end for last. If you are going to put a collar on your dog, fold and glue it to the body now. Now you can stop here and just have a paper dog or paper puppy. But if you want a paper dog BOX, keep going! Take the box piece and fold it in, both big folds and tab folds. Now, glue the tabs to the sides to form the box. Here are all of the cute paper dog boxes I made! Which one would you like to adopt? You can really make a lot of different dog breeds just by using different color of paper, different styles and sizes of ears and tails, and different markings. If you made yours look like your dog, be sure to include a photo of your dog, too! Please share a photo in our Facebook group , or tag me on social media with jennifermaker. Love, Jennifer Jennifer Marx is a designer, an enthusiastic crafter, a lifelong teacher, and a proud overcomer of a variety of life's challenges. She lives a full, happy life in beautiful Ann Arbor, Michigan with her partner Greg, her teen daughter Alexa, and their two dogs, Hunter and Chloe. Knowing and understanding normal labor and delivery, as well as proper pregnancy care, can help make the process go more smoothly and help you know what is normal and when it is time to get the veterinarian involved. Knowing the exact time of conception, however, is difficult since a bitch can be receptive to the male before and after ovulation. For this reason, the time from breeding to delivery is usually somewhere between 58 to 70 days. Your veterinarian can help narrow this time frame by examining the cells of the vaginal wall. Be aware that just because your bitch bred does not mean she is pregnant. Some dogs will even show signs of pregnancy and not really be pregnant. There is a phenomenon in dogs known as false pregnancy or pseudocyesis. For confirmation of pregnancy, an examination, with ultrasound and possibly X-rays by your veterinarian, is suggested. Before breeding, make sure she is up to date on all her vaccinations. It is not recommended to vaccinate your dog during pregnancy. Also, make sure she is dewormed and tests negative for a bacteria known as Brucella. This bacteria can cause abortion in dogs and is also contagious to people. After breeding and conception, most bitches do well during the first 4 to 5 weeks of pregnancy and do not need any special treatments. Things start to change during the last trimester week 5 to 6. The babies start to rapidly develop and this results in a significant nutritional drain on the mother. At this time, you may want to consider gradually changing her diet to a growth type diet or a food specifically made for pregnant or lactating bitches. Continue this diet throughout the remainder of pregnancy and until the puppies are weaned. Vitamins or other supplements are not recommended nor needed. With a proper diet, your dog will receive the proper amount of nutrients. Excessive amounts can actually result in birth defects. Do not begin feeding your dog a higher calorie food before the last trimester. This can lead to weight gain and fat deposits. This has the potential to cause difficulty in maintaining the pregnancy and can result in problems delivering the puppies. Whelping boxes are intended to be easily accessed by the mother but escape proof for the new arrivals. You can use wood, Formica or any building material that is easy to clean. Make the box large enough for the bitch to comfortably stretch out. Make sure the sides are just low enough for the mother to step over and place the box in a warm, dry, draft-free area. If possible, try to choose a quiet and secluded area. Initially, place newspapers on the bottom of the box for easy clean up. Once all the puppies are born, place blankets or towels to provide some footing for the puppies. Be aware that you must get the bitch used to the whelping box before the birth. If not, she may make her own decision on where to have the puppies — and this may be a closet, a pile of fresh clean laundry or even in the middle of your bed! An additional suggestion is to have your dog examined by a veterinarian toward the end of pregnancy. A thorough physical exam, along with ultrasound or X-rays can help determine how many puppies you can expect. This way, you will know when she is done delivering and not just in another resting phase between pups. About 24 hours before the beginning of labor, there will be a temporary drop in the body temperature. Normal temperature is to .Twenty-four hours prior to labor, the temperature can drop to 98 to 99 F. You may notice panting, pacing, refusal of food and maybe vomiting. Nesting behavior begins. This is the time to place her in the whelping box hopefully she is already accustomed to the box. After getting settled in the whelping box, you may notice her dragging clothing or fabric to the area to form a comfortable bed. You may want to remove any clothing as whelping begins or these pieces of clothing may be permanently stained. This stage of labor typically lasts 6 to 12 hours. At the end of stage I, the cervix is completely dilated. If your dog has not started whelping within 24 hours after beginning stage I labor, veterinary assistance is recommended. Visible contractions begin. The abdomen tenses and the bitch begins straining. This action will appear similar to the bitch trying to have a bowel movement. The first puppy should be delivered within 1 to 2 hours of the onset of contractions and straining. Veterinary assistance is strongly encouraged if the first puppy is not delivered within 2 hours after the onset of contractions. After delivery of the puppy, the bitch may enter a resting phase that can last up to 4 hours. Active straining will begin again and more puppies will be delivered. If you know there are additional puppies yet to be born and the resting period is longer than 4 hours, veterinary assistance is necessary. This resting phase may not occur after each delivery. Sometimes, several puppies may be born rapidly. This is the time when the placenta, after birth, is delivered and usually occurs 5 to 15 minutes after delivery of the puppy. If multiple puppies are born rapidly, several placentas may be expelled together. After the passage of the placenta, the bitch will return to stage II labor. She may continue the resting phase or begin contracting. Throughout whelping, the bitch will fluctuate between stage II and stage III labor until all the puppies are born. It is very important to keep track of the number of placentas. There should be the same number of placentas as puppies. If a placenta is retained in the uterus, the bitch will eventually become quite ill. She should begin vigorously licking the puppy, remove him from the amniotic sac if still present and chew the umbilical cord. The bitch may even ingest the placenta. This is not necessary and, sometimes, can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Prompt removal of the placentas can help you keep track of how many placentas she has passed. Those puppies that are born still in the sack need immediate help. If the mother does not open the sack and begin cleaning the puppy, it is up to you to help. Tear the membrane of the sack and begin cleaning and rubbing the puppy with a clean dry towel. Cleaning other puppies may be necessary if the mother is not showing much interest in her newborns. Tie off the umbilical cord about 1 inch from the belly wall using string, thread or dental floss. Cut the cord off on the other side of the tie. Clean and rub the puppy vigorously until you hear crying. Place the puppy back with the new mom and make sure she allows the puppies to nurse. Being prepared to assist and understanding newborn puppy care is essential to help the mother and her babies through these first steps of life. Yes, you could choose to use a kiddie wading pool for whelping, or you could also build a basic wooden box. Both of these will hold the pups while they are small, still dragging themselves around on their bellies, but there are so very many other things to consider in order to safely contain the bitch and her puppies, that I would be doing you a huge disfavor if I were to say that a basic box or kiddie pool were all you needed. Whelping box with puppy rails and fleece pads for bedding. Thanks to Debbie Bjerkestrand for sharing her photos with us! The best thing, will be for you to design your whelping box to fit your bitch and your available space, while designing your entire set up so that it will also to fit the growing and changing needs of the litter and dam over the next couple of months. Whelping Box Dimensions — ideally the box should be at least a foot longer than the bitch is long when measured from nose to rear. A box that is too large could mean the newborn puppies might get lost, unable to find their way to mom; and a box built to small increases the odds of the bitch lying or stepping on a wee one. Side Height — the height of the side wall is most effective when it is designed to be adjustable, so more height can be added when the pups begin to walk and climb out of the box. Laurie Ward shared this photo of her whelping box with the puppy rails clearly visible. Floor — Whether you want or need a floor in your box will depend on the floor surface where you are whelping the litter. I whelped my litters in my basement, and while these were clean, dry cement floors in newer homes, the floors were also cold to the touch depending on the season. I often added a sheet of Styrofoam insulation under the floor of the whelping box as well for added protection from cool drafts and chilling. Newspapers are cheap but be prepared to go through a ton of them so start saving up early on. These loose strips get shuffled around by the bitch and the puppies moving about, the strips will stick on top of stool and wet spots, keeping the pups and mom from lying in or crawling through any mess. The strips are lightweight so they easily move around to help keep things cleaner in the box. Towels or blankets can be used but there are definite disadvantages. Very young puppies can get trapped and lost underneath and then can easily be crushed by their mother or may suffocate if they become wrapped or rolled in the material. Unfortunately one cannot get one mat large enough for the entire box so several must be pieced together. It does need to be cut to size to fit the box, and needs a good washing to remove all the residual chemicals and to soften the nap. A good option for lining the whelping box for newborns are lambskin crate pads. These are artificial lamb-like fur pads that come in various sizes and are easily found in most dog catalogs. These pads absorb liquids to keep puppies from laying in wetness, and are easily cleaned in a clothes washer. They are thick so the puppies can cuddle in them for extra warmth and the pups get good traction when crawling to get closer to their mother. You can buy lambskin crate material in bulk from some companies so the exact dimensions of your whelping box can be matched when ordering your pads. Links following this article are included for a couple of sites who offer this material. Photo by Laurie Ward of mom and pups snuggling in the whelping box. Location, Location, Location…. Where to place the whelping box for the birth? Where to keep the whelping box as the pups get older and begin to eat solid foods and poop, and poop, and poop? Convenient and quiet — where ever you decide to whelp and raise your litter, make it in a convenient place for you to be able to monitor the bitch and the puppies. I recommend whelping puppies inside the house, and as the whelping itself can take a long time and often seems to happen at night, having a couch or lounge chair nearby for cat naps is high on my priority list! Ideally, the location should be quiet with the least amount of family activity. If you have lots of family members or small children, probably the basement, laundry room or garage is best. Bitches with newborn puppies can be very temperamental, protective and are easily disturbed. Giving the bitch a quiet and secluded place to nest with her puppies is going to simplify many things for you and for her. Temperature — you will need to be able to control the temperature of the whelping room or at the very least, the whelping box itself, as the biggest threat to newborn puppies is chilling. A draft free room, away from frequently opened doors and windows during cool weather is a good start. A heat lamp that can be raised or lowered to adjust the temperature for warmth should be placed strategically in one corner of the whelping box. I strongly urge you to use either a heat lamp or a puppy heating pad as opposed to heating the entire room and subsequently the dam to keep the puppies from chilling. I always keep a thermometer fastened securely to the whelping box and near the floor under the heat lamp so I can monitor that the area is warm enough to prevent the puppies from chilling but not overheating. Both options are viable and a matter of personal preference. Diarrhea following delivery is common, especially if the bitch eats placenta during the birth process. Additionally, the bitch will have a vaginal discharge following delivery, sometimes this is heavy and often it is messy. Weaning pen attached to whelping box. Notice the fleece pads in use for bedding in the whelping box and the newspaper strips being used in the weaning pen. Thanks to Debbie Bjerkestrand for sharing her photos with us. Once this process begins, Mom stops wiping their little butts and cleaning up after them so — well — poop begins to happen! Around days of age, caring for Gordon Setter puppies becomes a challenge, and you need to have a plan ready to enact for how you will handle the much-needed expansion. Unless you live in a temperate climate, you like me, will most often be raising those puppies completely indoors with a trips outside to play when the weather permits. This is where a weaning pen comes in. Weaning Pen — this is an enclosure that can be constructed from same material as the whelping box, an exercise pen, or any other puppy safe fence like material that will confine the pups in a larger space so they have more room to run and play and to also use as a potty area, thus keeping the whelping box a clean area for sleeping and eating. The size of the area you need for a weaning area will depend on the size of the litter, obviously twelve puppies would need more room than four. Bedding for the Weaning Pen — the trick to keeping puppies clean and sweet-smelling is to find the right bedding for soaking up the pee and poo that comes right along with their cute wiggly little butts. After years and years and many different choices my favorite bedding for weaning puppies, will always pine shavings never cedar shavings as they are toxic. This means that my puppy weaning pen needs a solid 3 or 4 inch tall rail to hold the shavings inside the pen, rather like bedding in a horse stall. Urine will soak right into the shavings keeping it out-of-the-way. I am used to buying bales of pine shavings at a farm feed store, so places that sell horse and cattle supplies will often carry them. They are bagged in paper or plastic and are about the size of a bale of hay. I want the large, flaked, actual wood shavings not the small, fine stuff that is used in hamster cages. The drawback is that the flakes get everywhere as they drift and float about or stick in hair and on shoes. But cleaning up those stray shavings sure beats cleaning up stinky puppy poop papers! I use a poop scoop to clean out the puppy piles frequently and when the shavings start to appear dirty or wet I scoop them out with a shovel, disinfect the floor with some bleach and throw down a new 2 to 3 inch deep pile of shavings for pups. Newspaper strips — can also be used as bedding in the weaning pen. I know it is possible to by newspaper in rolls for this use so you may have success purchasing this online as well as locally. There should be an open puppy door to allow the pups free access to move freely between inside and out. Puppy play area and weaning pen. Thanks to Laurie Ward for sharing this photo of her indoor set up. As the puppies grow, having a much larger place for the puppies to roam and play is important for muscle development and socialization skills. Puppies kept in a small whelping box until they are 8 weeks old will have poorer muscle development, could have coordination problems, and be socially delayed compared to pups who are allowed to run, play, and explore both inside and outside. People socialization is extremely important between 4 to 8 weeks of age for Gordon Setter puppies, so spending as much time with them as you can both inside and outside is critical, as are inviting neighbors and friends by to visit with them. This is the time when your puppies need to be introduced to as many sights, sounds and smells as you can safely find for them, so be sure to enlarge their world to include time outside the weaning pen too. Debbie Bjerkestrand shared these photos of her puppies outside at play. In addition I found a couple of sites with whelping box plans to give you a variety of things to look at as you decide what it is that you want to include in your set up. If you already have some awesome ideas, techniques or items that you use in your Whelping Setup please share them with us by using the comment section below. Click any of these links to view products such as or whelping box plans:. Whelping and Raising Puppies Week 6 to 7. It has been proven to work best to have the potty area farthest away from where you greet the puppies. This picture shows the box I use for an indoor puppy potty station. It is located far from bed and food, by the door that is used to go outside. You can see on that door the bells that are hanging; some owners like to use the bell system for the older dogs to ask to go outside. They soon learn if they ring the bells, the door gets opened. These puppies are too young to learn this, but do use the box. Potty station box is a Rubbermaid under mattress storage box with short sides. It is easy to clean. I do not recommend puppy parents to use this system unless the puppy is an apartment dog and will continue to use a potty station. It is recommended that when you first get your puppy at 8 weeks or older, you immediately begin the type of potty training that will be routine, i. All dogs prefer to go outside. At five to seven weeks, putting a crate in the pen like one they will be using at their new home is recommended. They do not see this new den as a scary thing, in fact they stuff themselves into it. See article about crate training Pen designed for the Misty Method of housebreaking very young puppies. Using the Misty Method , at seven weeks, the play area has been expanded to its maximum size as they are really playful now, and need room to run, romp and roll. Included in this box are enough toys for each to take one home. It will smell very nice and familiar to them. They are also being introduced to crates. A seven and a half-week-old puppy with the vet. Seven and a half-week-old puppies at the vet. At six weeks pups are NOT yet ready to have their first set of booster shots. I like to wait till they are seven or eight weeks old. This will be their second visit to the vet; the first was at three days old for an exam and dew claw removal. Remember, this first set of three booster shots ONLY protects the puppy for you to get this puppy home. New puppies should NEVER be socialized outside the family home or your own fenced-in yard fenced, as you do not want strange dogs eliminating in your yard. The last set of boosters, including rabies, is done in another four weeks. Your puppy is now protected, and is able to go to the park, where unknown dogs have been. At seven weeks, puppies can be taught small training skills, and they are also able to start to recognize their name. Seven-week-old puppies are still too young to ship as cargo. I rarely ship via cargo, but if this is the only way, nine weeks would be the very youngest. Vet shopping: If you do not have a vet you have a good relationship with, shop for a new vet. I recommend that if you are not totally convinced by the second set of shots that this is the vet for you and your new companion, then try a different vet for the third set of shots. I love my vet there are six at the clinic , and they LOVE my dogs and puppies as their own. Breeders that use the Misty Method have their puppies well on their way to being housetrained before they leave the breeder. Seven puppies in this litter and they are all using the poop station. All of them. There needs to be a divider between the poop station and the play area because puppies run and play and roll and drag and chew the paper. The picture shown above has the divider removed for cleaning. When they are playing, it kind of sections it off and stops them from running into the potty area to play—they just don't. They play in the clean area, and even excited they will sometimes run on the paper, but not as much. The wood is awesome, but doesn't need to go full length and it does not need a door. This litter is exceptionally trained at seven and a half weeks of age. ALL have gone pee and poop on the paper station area during the night; their play area is clean. I usually find an accident or two each morning, but the last couple nights have been accident free. When they have to go, they stop what they are doing and run through the door to the paper. None of the pups are in this picture, as they are running free in the kitchen. They are almost ready to go to their new homes and ready for some individual training. This litter has been cared for and raised properly. They know at such a young age that there is a designated spot to do business, and that is not in bed, or the play area, and not all over the house. When you do not have a separate place for the pups to poop, they just poop where they play, and then roll and play in it.And when you try to clean it up they mob you and the pile of poop. The dog door works awesome. I can lock them on either side while I clean up mistakes, or change the paper or bedding. The door can be closed. Tips on paper-training a litter of pups.Pre-housetraining should be part of the process in housetraining a dog. One of the leading causes for dog neglect, and the dog becoming a fixture in the backyard, is from poor house habits. It is a well-known fact that no one wants a dog that hasn't learned to eliminate outside or in a designated indoor potty station, wandering loose in the house. It is also the most enjoyable relationship to have your dog involved in everyday family activities. This IS why you got the dog in the first place, isn't it??? No one wants a dog that hasn't learned to eliminate outside or in a designated spot in the house. Do not raise the puppies in one big box or put the paper in a corner; the pups will just drag the paper everywhere and play with it. With experience, I have learned sectioned rooms work best. That is how a house is.Even outside, dogs create a place to eliminate and usually go to that area repeatedly. Do not change the paper too often in the beginning, as you are creating the odor of an elimination spot to trigger instinct. I advise covering poop and pee with a layer of paper during the day and cleaning up each morning, leaving one piece of paper with pee smell. You cannot keep too clean, as when young the smell is what draws them to that area If you leave the paper soiled, they will also find another place to go.So you have to find a happy medium, which is clean, but smelling like a bathroom. By seven weeks, you can change the paper as often as you like, as it isn't the smell that is drawing them; they have learned that is the designated area to eliminate. Removable wood divider used in the Misty Method of housetraining very young puppies A wooden removable divider used for penning off the puppies in different areas. At night it is open as they walk over and potty and go back to bed. But in the day when they are active, I put up a divider, mainly to HOLD the paper where it is or else they will drag it. This stops them from playing and skidding into a land mine poop. The wood was in place in the night. This wood does one more thing: puppies will go to the paper and stand with their front paws on the paper and back end off, and will pee all over the floor, four inches from the paper. The wood encourages them to go INTO the potty area. This one area is all clean, ready for them to come out into the playroom in the morning. They have the 10 x 10 room at night. On the deck, notice the potty station in the background. The outdoor potty station is the adult station. It is paper, under a rack, as.Then you have a flood puddle of pee, and they all step in it. So, pee gravel is what I have in the other runs. However, if they are in the house and need to get out, they can get to the deck where there is the paper under a rack. So five dogs can pee, and none will get their feet wet and track it back into the house. Pups playing with the kids in the morning The pups all decide to take a nap in the small crate inside their area. Giving them a crate to crawl into is an excellent way to make the trip to their new homes less stressful. Upon bringing your puppy home, housetraining should begin immediately. A dog needs to be housebroken before you give him the run of your home. TEACH your dog by habit, not by hitting, that there is a spot for everything—a place to eat, a place to sleep and a place to eliminate; exactly what he already hopefully has started to learn as a pup living with the breeder. And as the owner, you can train your dog to eliminate in a place of your choice. Just remember when choosing this spot that it will become permanent. See article on crate training for more tips. Courtesy of MistyTrails Havanese.

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Their goofy personalities and love of children make them perfect nannies for even the youngest child. They love water, retrieving frisbees, and diving into the occasional swimming pool. What kind of dogs do all that? And they are living fulfilled lives, as medical detection dogs, service dogs, and family and companion dogs in nearly every state in the United States! World Map of our Clients Before leaving, you might like to click on some of our pages. Our "Words of Warning" for those purchasing a purebred dog for the first time on the internet is a favorite. Just remember this quote…. No amount of training or special food will fix a problem dog. If you want to view videos of our dogs, check out our Youtube Channel page. If you appreciate our breeding philosophy and love what we do, do let us know by becoming a fan! Raising dogs for you and your family. Call or text .Every breed has different requirements, whether the space they must have or the amount of exercise they need. If you are not certain yet, check out our essential White German Shepherd breed info to find out everything about the White German Shepherd. How to find White German Shepherd puppies for sale? When buying a puppy, it is important to consider not only the pet but also the breeder. Because a responsible breeder will ensure their dogs come from the strongest bloodlines and have the best start to life. Ask about the health and temperament of their White German Shepherd pups as well as their living environment. But also find out about the breeder's practices and commitments. A good breeder will be happy to answer everything before you decide. After all, they will want to ensure that their dog goes to a good home. When you have done your research and got all the info you need, you can then choose the right breeder with confidence. To help ensure you choose a responsible breeder, all the White German Shepherd kennels you see listed here are verified by Pets4You. You will also find that the best breeders will provide a guarantee with their dog. This information, and more, is available on the breeder's website within Pets4You. Browse through our dog breeder directory with complete breeder profiles and current puppies for sale to find your dream dog. Disclaimer It is the duty of every person that is considering buying a puppy or dog to confirm all the information provided to them by the breeder is accurate. Pets4You makes no warranties, expressed or implied, as to the condition of any dogs offered for sale, the standards or practices of any breeder, the quality of their canines, or the accuracy of any information contained within our site. Pets4You does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee a particular kennel, breeder or dogs listed on the Pets4You website. For Buyers. Their lovely mostly cream or white colored coat makes them quite rare and highly sought after among canine lovers within the country. Just like the regular German Shepherd, they are blessed with the same level of intelligence, which makes them easily trainable and highly versatile. They make great dogs as family companions as well as therapy and service dogs. As stated earlier, German Shepherds with a white colored coat are quite rare in the country, as only a handful of breeders within the US are dedicated to these German Shepherd coat types. With that being said, there are some white German Shepherd breeders residing within the country but you still would need to search for a reputable breeder with good breeding practices and programs. This article attempts to ease the search for you as we provide you with a list of some reputable white German Shepherd breeders residing in the USA. The article also provides the contact details of these breeders to help make it easy for you to contact them. It is very important that you only view this article as a guide toward helping you find the best breeder possible. Personal research is still highly recommended. We also recommend that you read this article till the very end as we reveal our personal pick from the list of white German breeders below. As their name already suggests, they are top breeders of premium quality white German Shepherds. They started their breeding program in the year , so they have over 10 years of breeding experience behind them. They are genetically health tested for genetic health issues and are rated by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, OFA to show they have good working hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts. Their newly produced puppies should each come with their written health guarantee. The puppies are raised as family dogs and not kennel dogs. This means they get to live in the family house in Middletown, Connecticut, and not in a kennel. They are loved and cared for by members of the family, given their full nutrients in puppy food and supplements and they are properly dewormed and vaccinated at the appropriate age ranges. All their dogs are properly handled by people of varying age groups. They are introduced to new stimulating experiences to help build their confidence.