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Buy Now Mini English bulldog puppies Top quality healthy traits 1 year health guarantee Akc with pet insurance Lifetime coaching Finance options available Buy Now French bulldog and cane Corso mix French bulldog and cane. Corso mix absolutely beautiful dogs. Health checked. Beautiful full lilac or lilac metle. Females only Contact xxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Being held and cuddled are her favorite but don't count her out for playtime. She is very social and loves having fun. She will be an amazing companion, so don't hesitate to call in today and reserve her! View Detail AKC Bulldog puppy I have a9 weeks old male AKC Bulldog with papers born on November 19 bought him for my son then found out he's moving out of state and my female bulldog is becoming more stressed having another dog around. I want to find him a good home he is a really good puppy and if she wasn't so stressed I would keep him. Willing to deliver to Arizona, California, Utah for a fee. Also can ship at buyers expense. Unfortunately times have changed I'm at work 12 hours a day, my Children are in school then therapy, no one is home with him, I feel bad we don't get to play and do the things we use to do. Time to find him a loving home. Looking for great owners! English Bulldogs for sale. We have male and Female. Both have fantastic playful personalities, and love playing the the garden with their mum and dad and my other older dog! They will also leave with a blanket scented with their litter mates and a soft toy. These Bulldog are perfect companion and they make a perfect addition to any family. They hold significant show potential, or will make doting family pets. Please Contact us on whatsapp number. Check out this beautiful English bulldog. Great Bloodlines. Hes had his first shots. View Detail Beautiful loving 9 month old English bulldog We have a Beautiful loving nine-month-old English bulldog he is great with kids and others and trained we are looking for a forever loving home for him View Detail English Bulldog She has all her shots and she neutered. Has all her paper work from where and what time she was born. She is 10 months old, friendly with kids. One male and one female. These puppies have excellent pedigrees and superb temperaments. Both parents owned and can be seen. Reared in the heart of the home so well socialized with other dogs and children. View Detail English Bulldog looking for forever home Very friendly, loving English bulldog looking for a new forever home. Unfortunately our baby has grown very allergic to her and we can not her any longer. Great with kids, loves to sleep and lounge around. Can leave her home all day without any problems. She loves to play fetch in the house or yard as her daily exercise. They date back hundreds of years and are also known as British Bulldogs. They are a muscular, well-built dog with a wrinkled face and a pushed-in nose. This breed has won the hearts of generations of families for decades. They are considered to be one of the most popular dogs breeds in existence today. These fantastic puppies have gained popularity worldwide due to their playful, loyal, funny, and caring personality. They are laidback and tend to get along well with just about anyone or anything. They have very approachable demeanors and enjoy the companionship of their family. They also have a very easy-going personality which is one of the reasons they have remained a popular family dog. The English Bulldog does enjoy activity time and burning off energy, however, is not an overly energetic breed of dog. The correct ratio of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats, will keep your dog feeling and looking his best. Most people recommend feeding this breed two meals each day, spaced about twelve hours apart. This will help to ensure the dog is provided with the proper nutrients he needs. It is also important to remember to provide your dog with proper dental care. It is suggested that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. Although properly cleaning his teeth will take some practice to get good at, in time, this will become easier for you and your pup. The English Bulldog grows to be between fourteen and fifteen inches tall. At maturity, the English Bulldog weighs between fifty and fifty-five pounds. The average life expectancy for this breed is between eight and ten years. English Bulldogs require regular bathing and grooming. It is suggested that they are bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every four weeks depending on their activity level and lifestyle. This smooth coated breed does best with routine brushing which is essential to maintain healthy skin and a healthy coat. Frequently Asked Questions What are some of the health issues English bulldogs are likely to face? The English bulldog has various health issues with the most alarming being cardiac and respiratory complications. English bulldogs are also prone to dyslexia in the hip due to their relatively large body size. Skin infections are also a concern do to the wrinkly and folds nature of the skin. What is the lifespan of an English bulldog? The English bulldog can live up to years on an average scale. This is usually due to the numerous complications and health challenges the bulldog faces in the course of life. How frequently do English bulldogs shed? English bulldogs shed more frequently during the cold seasons like winter and spring. Compared to other dogs, they shed rather moderately and even lesser as they age. How hard is it to train an English bulldog? This breed of dog is known for its stubborn nature and can be really difficult especially for novice dog owners to get the hang of. Patience and routine should be the keywords when dealing with a bulldog. Are English bulldogs good watchdogs? The English bulldog has a natural instinct to protect its territory. Even though the bulldog is not usually much of a barking dog, in the case of an intruder it is well equipped and confident to take on the challenge at every cost. Are English Bulldogs dangerous to their owners? The English bulldog is not a dangerous pet. It is very much territorial and somewhat apprehensive to unfamiliar faces, but once it warms up to you, the bulldog is one of the most loving and loyal dogs. How much exercise do English Bulldogs need? The English bulldog on average needs about 30minuites of exercise every day to keep it mentally and physically healthy. Are English Bulldogs family dogs? The English bulldog may seem aggressive at first glance but you will get to find that they have a contrasting character to their appearance. They are perfect around children and can play all day. They are extremely lovable and friendly. How big do English Bulldogs get? English bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds and can grow as tall as 15inches. Male or female English Bulldog? This depends solely on the owner as both genders have their specific pros and cons. English bulldogs are very friendly and warm dogs and are amazing around children. No wonder they are one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. Are you interested in purchasing a English Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

If you have a Toy Poodle, you want to make sure you are feeding it the best food possible. Toy Poodles are one of the most popular small dog breeds. They are known for their intelligence and their spunky personality. Knowing how important your dog's nutrition is, this article highlights some of the best food options for Toy Poodles that are vet-tested and owner-approved. What is the best food to give a Toy Poodle? What is the best food to feed my Toy Poodle? It is made with high-quality proteins and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Royal Canin dry food for Poodles helps to maintain healthy skin and coat. This grain-free food is made with real roasted meats and contains omega fatty acids to promote a healthy coat. It is also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, made with real chicken, turkey, and salmon. It is rich in omega fatty acids and contains probiotics 2. Freeze-dried dog food is considered to be a more natural and nutrient-rich option compared to some other types of processed dog food. It is also convenient to store and serve, as it does not require refrigeration. It is important to note that freeze-dried dog food should be rehydrated before serving, as it is not meant to be fed to dogs in its dry form. It is important to carefully read and follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging to ensure that your dog is receiving the appropriate amount of food based on its size and activity level. It's generally recommended to feed your Toy Poodle a high-quality, grain-inclusive dry dog food that is formulated specifically for small breed dogs. This is because small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, and a diet formulated for their needs can help support their overall health and well-being. Look for foods that contain real meat as the first ingredient and avoid any containing fillers, by-products, and artificial additives. Your veterinarian can help you determine the right diet for your Toy Poodle. It is important to consult with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to determine the best type of food for your dog, as each dog is unique and has specific nutritional needs. They will be able to consider your dog's age, size, breed, and any health conditions they may have when recommending a suitable type of food. It is also important to carefully read and follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging to ensure that your dog is receiving the appropriate amount of food based on its size and activity level. If you're looking for the best dog food for Poodles, chances are you're a Poodle parent! In that case—hey there. As a veterinarian, Poodle parents often ask me to recommend the best dog food brands for their furballs. Poodles are one of the most diverse dog breeds out there. However, they're also prone to obesity, especially as they grow older. And while there are many factors to Poodle obesity , giving them an improper amount of food definitely tops the bill. According to Dr. As a result, pet obesity has followed the human obesity trend. Unfortunately, pets are getting high-fat, high-calorie treats, human food, toppers, etc. It's essential to find the best dog food for Poodles to fit your dog's nutritional profile and feed them according to their needs. You should first consider your dog's current activity levels, health conditions, age and life stage, and other variables. You sure wouldn't want to feed your dog with foods that aren't beneficial to them, would you? Below, I will take a closer look at the Poodle breed across all sizes. We'll also discuss their general needs and nutritional requirements before we review some of the best dog foods for Poodles. Did you know that the Poodle was once a duck-retrieving dog? It's true! The Poodle has also been around for over a century and was developed in France and Germany. Over the past years, the breed has been molded into the variations we know today. Each type looks identical to the others except for the size. Toy Poodles tend to weigh under 10 pounds, miniatures fall between pounds, and the standard is large at pounds. They all possess a thick, densely curly coat, floppy ears, a long tail, and expressive dark eyes. The Toy Poodle lives the longest, up to 15 years, while the standard's lifespan is about years. Poodles are fun, energetic dogs that love to be around people. They tend to be very good with children and possess a natural athletic ability. Poodles have never forgotten their heritage. Most are great swimmers and expert retrievers. They are a breed to be considered by avid sportsmen as they make excellent, intelligent duck dogs. Nutritional Needs It's this dynamic nature that makes it challenging to feed a Poodle. No matter what size you own, you must find the best dog food for Poodles to meet the breed's nutritional requirements. And above that, your specific dog's needs. But Dr. Shores, should I feed my toy poodle less because she's small? And is puppy food okay? My advice is: Talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your Poodle. Your vet is the best place to start. They'll make recommendations based on your Poodle's age, weight, activity level, and any health issues she may have. It will also help if you do your research which is where this article comes into play. I wrote this article based on my and my expert colleagues' recommended dog food brands for Poodles. We will discuss them based on their different life stages and body condition. If this is your purpose in reading this article, I suggest you bookmark this article, start the car, and go to the vet clinic. Continue reading when your vet gives you the advice you need on feeding your Poodle based on her nutritional needs. There are certain factors, even in the best food for poodles, that you must consider before buying one. Here are the important factors to keep you guided: Age The type of poodle dog food you'll buy will depend on her life stage. During the puppy stage and gestation period, too! In this case, you need to buy the best food for poodles that will give them all the vitamins and minerals that a growing puppy or pregnant dog, whichever is the case needs. Breed Size Yes, your poodle dog food will vary depending on your pooch's breed size. Every size of this breed has its respective metabolism. Smaller poodles tend to mature faster, which means they need nutrient-packed poodle dog food. Wet or Dry Feed Most dog owners prefer dry dog food or kibble because it's cost-effective. Nothing wrong with that. However, if your vet recommends having a mixed feed, you might need to combine wet and dry feed for your pooch. Nutrition The golden rule when buying the best food for poodles is to be balanced and complete. This means that the essential nutrients should be present in every serving. Providing a balanced meal for your pooch also means that the nutrients are in the right ratio and suitable for the poodles, depending on their age and breed size. What to Feed a Poodle Puppy Before switching your dog to any new diet, always consult with a veterinarian. Remember that no article on the internet can replace a consultation with a vet, including this one. I always recommend this to new owners of puppy Poodles. They've also done the legwork in developing the most digestible food for Poodle puppies. The unique flat, square kibble of Royal Canin makes it easier for their small mouths to pick up and chew. This food should be given to your dog for up to 10 months. Best Puppy Food for Standard Poodle Standard poodles are less likely to have developmental orthopedic diseases like hip dysplasia than other breeds. However, they are more at risk than their smaller poodle counterparts. While there is a genetic component to these diseases, significant nutritional risk factors play a part during puppyhood. These risk factors are rapid growth and excess dietary calcium intake. Of course, you don't want your Standard Poodle to develop these. This is why feeding your Poodle enough of the right balance of nutrients is crucial. Here are the steps I took to select the best dog foods for Poodles: I did my research: As a biologist who has interned at a veterinary hospital and studied dog nutrition, I read many books on Poodles and dog nutrition in general. I also consulted with other veterinarians and pet nutritionists on the best dog food to feed Poodles. I considered the unique needs of Poodles: Poodles have specific dietary needs that vary based on their size and activity level. As such, I looked for dog foods that were tailored to the unique needs of Poodles, such as food that is low in fat and high in protein. I read customer reviews: I spent time reading through product descriptions, ingredients used in manufacturing the food, and customer reviews on Amazon, dog food brands, and e-commerce sites selling Poodle dog foods. This helped me get a sense of which dog foods were popular and well-liked by other Poodle owners. I looked for reputable brands: I also made sure to look for reputable brands that had a history of producing high-quality dog food. This included checking for brands that used high-quality ingredients and had a strong track record of producing nutritious and balanced dog foods. I avoided harmful ingredients: Lastly, I made sure to avoid dog foods that contained harmful ingredients like artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. These ingredients can be harmful to Poodles and can lead to health problems over time. By following these steps, I was able to compile a list of the best dog foods for Poodles that meet their unique nutritional needs. In the next sections of this article, I will share my top recommendations with you and explain why they are the best choices for your furry friend. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodles When it comes to toy poodles, feeding them a balanced and nutritious diet is essential to keep them healthy and happy. As a pet owner, you want to provide the best possible food that meets their nutritional needs at every stage of their life. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for toy poodles. This section will cover the best puppy toy poodle dog food, the best adult toy poodle dog food, and the best senior toy poodle dog food. Puppies require a diet that is rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus. The poodle dog foods listed in this section are high-quality dry or wet dog food options that are specifically formulated for toy poodle puppies, which are typically small in size to accommodate their smaller jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle puppies. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle puppies. It also contains nutrients that promote optimal growth and development. It contains a balance of high-quality proteins and fats. This wet dog food is easy to digest and contains all the necessary nutrients that toy poodle puppies need to grow healthy and strong. Best Dog Foods For Toy Poodle Adults As your toy poodle grows into an adult, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. The dog foods in this section are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, they contain ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle adults. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle adults. It contains a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to keep adult toy poodles in good shape. The food also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It contains high-quality proteins and healthy fats, such as turkey and salmon. The dog food is also grain-free, which is ideal for toy poodles that may be sensitive to grains. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. The Poodle dog foods in this section contain joint-supporting nutrients such as glucosamine and chondroitin to aid mobility, and antioxidants to support the immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for toy Poodle seniors. This section will contain the best dry dog food for toy Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for toy Poodle seniors. It contains high-quality protein, whole grains, and other essential nutrients to support healthy aging and promote optimal health. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Miniature Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Miniature Poodle dog food, the best adult Miniature Poodle dog food, and the best senior Miniature Poodle dog food. The puppy miniature poodle dog foods I picked are rich in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. I picked these foods because miniature poodles are slightly larger than toy poodles, so they would need dog food with slightly larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle puppies. It is specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breed puppies, providing them with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support their growth and development. It contains real chicken that provides essential amino acids for lean muscle development. Additionally, it contains vegetables and fruits, providing antioxidants that support the immune system. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Adults As miniature poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. Similar to toy poodles, I picked dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I picked dog foods that contain antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that support overall health. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle adults. It also contains antioxidants and other essential nutrients to promote healthy digestion and overall well-being. It is made with real chicken and lamb which provides high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance. It also contains superfoods like kale that provide antioxidants for overall health. Best Dog Foods For Miniature Poodle Seniors Senior miniature poodles require dog food options that are lower in calories and fat to help prevent health issues such as obesity and heart disease. I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. I also chose poodle dog foods that contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can also support the immune system and overall health in older dogs. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Miniature Poodle seniors. This food is specially formulated to meet the needs of aging dogs, with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and decreased calories to prevent weight gain. It contains real chicken and brown rice, providing high-quality protein and carbohydrates. Additionally, it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health in senior dogs. In this section, I will share my recommendations for the best dog food for Standard Poodles. This section will cover the best puppy Standard Poodle dog food, the best adult Standard Poodle dog food, and the best senior Standard Poodle dog food. As with toy and miniature poodles, I looked for Poodle dog foods that are high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients. Because standard poodles are larger than a toy and miniature poodles, I looked for dog food with larger sizes to accommodate their growing jaws. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle puppies and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle puppies. Best Dog Foods For Standard Poodle Adults As standard poodles reach adulthood, their nutritional needs will shift to focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing energy for daily activities. I looked for poodle dog foods that are high in protein but low in fat to prevent obesity and other health issues. Additionally, I also looked for ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that can help support healthy skin, coat, and immune system. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle adults. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle adults and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle adults. Older dogs may require dog food with fewer calories and lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of health issues such as heart I choose poodle dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin which support joint health and mobility. In this section, I will go over the best dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. This section contains the best dry dog food for Standard Poodle seniors and the best wet dog food for Standard Poodle seniors. Fortunately, there are many options available that cater to specific health concerns. Here are some of the best dog foods for Poodles with health issues: 1. It is formulated with added glucosamine and chondroitin that promote healthy joints and mobility. It contains a blend of antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E to support a healthy immune system. It contains food with a low glycemic index like sweet potatoes and peas that regulates the blood sugar level of your poodle. It is formulated with a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and is made with high ingredients that support their overall health. But with so many great dog foods out there that cater to specific health concerns, you can rest easy knowing your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need to live a happy and healthy life. They come in three sizes — toy, miniature, and standard — and have a distinctive curly or wavy coat. Poodles are energetic and require regular exercise and proper nutrition to maintain their health and well-being. Choosing the right dog food is crucial for the health and longevity of your poodle. Providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet can help prevent health issues such as obesity, joint problems, and dental disease. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best dog food for your poodle. Understanding Poodle Nutritional Requirements Poodles are a breed of dog that is known for their intelligence, elegance, and curly coats. Essential Nutrients Required by Poodles Poodles are a high-energy breed, which means they require a diet that is rich in essential nutrients, such as protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Nutritional Needs of Poodle Puppies, Adults, and Seniors When it comes to the nutritional needs of poodles, there are some differences depending on their age. Poodle puppies require a diet that is rich in protein and fat to support their growth and development. Adult poodles need a balanced diet to maintain their health and energy levels, while senior poodles require a diet that is lower in fat and calories to support their aging bodies. Understanding the nutritional needs of your poodle at different stages of its life is essential for choosing the right dog food. Types of Dog Foods for Poodles When it comes to choosing dog food for your poodle, there are several types to consider. The most common types of dog food available are dry, wet, semi-moist, raw food, and homemade dog food. Dry Dog Food Dry dog food, also known as kibble, is the most popular type of dog food. It is convenient and easy to store, and it comes in a wide variety of flavors and formulations. Dry dog food is also affordable, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who are on a budget. Wet Dog Food Wet dog food, on the other hand, is typically more expensive than dry dog food. It comes in cans or pouches, and it contains a higher percentage of water than dry dog food. Wet dog food is an excellent option for dogs who have trouble drinking enough water, as it can help keep them hydrated. Semi-Moist Dog Food Semi-moist dog food is a type of dog food that is soft and chewy. It is often sold in small pouches or packets and contains a lot of sugar and salt. It is not recommended as a primary food source for poodles, as it can cause dental problems and other health issues. Raw Food Diet Raw food diets have gained popularity in recent years, especially for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a more natural diet. These diets typically consist of raw meat, bones, and vegetables. While there are potential benefits to a raw food diet, there are also potential risks , and it is essential to talk to your veterinarian before starting your poodle on a raw food diet. Homemade Dog Food Finally, homemade dog food is an option for pet owners who want to have complete control over what their poodle eats. Homemade dog food can be a great way to ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients they need, but it is essential to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to make sure that the food is nutritionally balanced. Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Food for Poodles When choosing the best dog food for your poodle, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy. Here are the factors to keep in mind: A. Poodle puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults or seniors. A poodle that is highly active will require more calories than a poodle that is less active. Allergies and sensitivities of your poodle Poodles can be prone to allergies and sensitivities to certain foods. If you notice any issues, consult with your veterinarian to determine if your poodle has any food sensitivities or allergies. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Brand reputation and recall history When choosing dog food for your poodle, it is important to consider the reputation of the brand and its recall history. Look for dog food brands with a good reputation and a history of producing high-quality dog food that is safe for consumption. Price and affordability Price is also an important factor to consider when choosing dog food for your poodle. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is important to prioritize quality and nutritional content. Look for dog food that fits your budget and offers good value for money. How to Read Dog Food Labels When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, understanding how to read dog food labels is crucial. Here are the key elements to look for on a dog food label: A. Guaranteed Analysis This section of the label lists the minimum and maximum percentages of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture in the dog food. Ingredient List This section lists all the ingredients in the dog food in descending order of weight. Look for high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, and fish, and avoid foods that contain a lot of fillers or artificial ingredients. Feeding Guidelines This section provides recommendations for how much food to feed your poodle based on its weight and activity level. Ingredients to Look for in Poodle Dog Food When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your poodle, the ingredients list is a crucial factor to consider. High-Quality Ingredients to Look For in a Poodle Dog Food Some of the essential nutrients that poodles need in their diet include protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Protein should come from high-quality animal sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, or lamb. Fats should come from sources like fish oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat. Carbohydrates should come from sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats. Other beneficial ingredients to look for include fruits and vegetables like carrots, peas, apples, and blueberries, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes can also help maintain a healthy gut. How to Identify High-Quality Ingredients in a Poodle Dog Food Look for whole-food ingredients that are minimally processed and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Instead, opt for brands that clearly list their ingredients and provide detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. By choosing dog food with high-quality ingredients, you can ensure that your poodle is getting the necessary nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. For example, some ingredients can cause digestive issues, allergies, or even serious health problems. By avoiding these ingredients, you can help ensure that your poodle stays healthy and happy. Additionally, watch out for ingredients that are listed as artificial, such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. These ingredients have been linked to health problems in dogs. Finally, look for natural and high-quality ingredients, such as real meats, fruits, and vegetables that provide essential nutrients for your poodle. Special Dietary Needs for Poodles As much as we want our Poodles to stay healthy and happy, they may face some health issues as they age. Therefore, it is essential to cater to their special dietary needs. Here are some things to keep in mind: A. Overview of Common Health Issues Poodles May Face Poodles are prone to certain health issues, such as allergies, skin problems, sensitive stomachs, and joint problems. Some of them may be genetically predisposed to these issues, while others may develop them as they age. If your Poodle has allergies, for example, you may want to consider hypoallergenic dog food. For Poodles with sensitive stomachs, easily digestible foods are recommended. For joint problems, food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin may help to support joint health. Some of the most commonly recommended supplements for Poodles include omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and probiotics. Omega-3 fatty acids can help support healthy skin and coat , while glucosamine can help support joint health. Probiotics can help support digestive health and may be beneficial for Poodles with sensitive stomachs. Pay attention to the ingredients and nutritional content listed on the label, and look for high-quality ingredients like lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and veggies. Equally important is being aware of what ingredients to avoid, such as artificial colors, preservatives, and fillers like corn or soy. You might consider consulting with a veterinarian to help determine the best options for your furry friend. Every dog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. With a little bit of research and attention to detail, you can help ensure that your poodle is getting the best possible nutrition to live a happy and healthy life. David Cassiel As a biologist and dog enthusiast, I have gained valuable experience and knowledge through my internship at a veterinary hospital and my personal ownership of multiple breeds. My passion for dogs and expertise in areas such as nutrition, care, and training drives my goal of providing a helpful resource for dog owners through my pet website. Find More Search for: Affiliate Disclaimer We may earn commission from Amazon and other retailers when you make a purchase through our links. You can learn more about our affiliate disclaimer here. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. 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. Share Us. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese Grapes and raisins Sweets and desserts Avocados Dogs can have dried cranberries as a treat, as these berries are good for digestive and bladder health. However, raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs and can lead to significant kidney failure. If you fear your dog has eaten raisins or grapes, reach out to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Dry Food Vs. Wet Food Dogs should rely on dry food as opposed to wet food. However, wet food should be a consistent portion of their diet. Although most dogs would eat only wet food if they could, too much wet food can cause digestive problems and make dogs sick. Dry food offers fibrous content that dogs need for a healthy bowel movement. Wet food offers food rife with vitamins and minerals — alongside an appealing taste for most dogs. However, dry food can help with tooth health and fight gum disease. A healthy combination of dry and wet food can lead to a well-balanced meal and a happy dog. The best possible dog food varieties include those that offer your Poodle only the healthiest and high-quality ingredients available. Although some of these dog food choices may be expensive, they also offer lean proteins like duck and sweet potato, so you know your Poodle is getting only the best from their diet. Although the first ingredient is a chicken by-product, this dog food option is rife with protein, vitamins, and minerals that will help your Poodle feel at the top of its game. The kibbles included in this dog food choice are enriched with omega-3 fatty acids and contain vitamins that will assist in healthy coat formation and healthy gums. Not only is this brand recommended by vets around the world, but it also includes a flavor that dogs seem to love and ingredients that pet owners can feel good about. While the cost for this dog food option is a touch high, it offers the security of knowing that your dog will have all the nutrients and vitamins needed to live a long and healthy life. Each variety contains the exclusive Nutrivantage, and no filler or meat bi-product. Chicken meal and rice flavor. No Corn, no wheat, no soy, no meat bi-products. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Alongside lean protein and quality sources of fat, this dog food option also offers tons of vitamins and minerals. Although this dog food choice is expensive, it is also ideal for dogs who are currently training or need a boost in their performance. Contains one 1 30 lb. Blue Buffalo is notorious for making only the best dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. This is rife with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants that will help your Poodle thrive. Additionally, this dog food is also enhanced with vitamins and minerals specifically for immune system support. ALL NATURAL: Created by nutritionists, veterinarians and animal lovers, our recipes provide an ideal balance of nature's finest ingredients, carefully selected to nourish and sustain your dog's.However, the calorie content of this food is a little high, which can cause weight gain. Additionally, this dog food brand is more expensive than the average, although it does have everything your Poodle will need to keep them healthy and happy. Larger Poodles may not get all the nutrients and vitamins they need from this dog food option, as it is meant for smaller breeds. This choice may be the least expensive choice for dog food while maintaining high-quality ingredients and food rife with minerals and vitamins. There are no artificial ingredients, and there is plenty of protein in this food option. This brand prides itself on not including any animal by-products or fillers. This product is rife with vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy gums and a full coat. Poodles Require Special Nutrients Poodles need more protein than other dogs because of their lean shape, meaning that Poodles may require a unique brand of dog food that can offer enhanced vitamins, minerals, and protein content. Whether you are looking for the best Poodle dog food available on the market or preparing for adoption, these top seven dog food options stand apart from other dog food options because they offer more essential nutrients for your Poodle. Although some options are expensive, these brands can help your Poodle avoid harsh and destructive ingredients like artificial dyes linked with cancer in animals, fillers, and empty calories. Instead, they boast quality and put healthy dog food ahead of profit. Small Poodles may be less than 40 pounds, meaning they may need even more nutrient-dense food to accommodate their small stature — something these dog food brands are passionate about providing. With the best dog food for Poodles on this list, you can be sure that your Poodle is getting everything they need from its diet. Similar Posts. Ingredients Due to their size and predisposition to certain health conditions, Toy Poodles need high-quality ingredients and nutrient-dense foods without a lot of empty calories. You should look for foods with gentle protein sources as the first ingredients, such as chicken or turkey, or wild-caught fish. After that, the rest of the nutrition should come from complex carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes, fruits, and vegetables. Antioxidants are foods that limit oxidative stress , which can lead to health problems like diabetes. Finally, fatty acids are healthy fat sources that contribute to brain, skin, and coat health. Kibble is hard and can help remove tartar from teeth, supporting dental health. Dry food is also lower in moisture content and may not upset their digestive system as much. If you want the best of both worlds, use dry kibble, and top it with a little wet food or a high-quality food topper. Image Credit: bodnar. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts' knowledge with pet lovers across the globe.Read more Advertisement. Royal Canin Health Nutrition Poodle Dog Food We saved the best for the last, Royal Canin dog food for small breed dogs, especially Poodles because it is made with a large number of ingredients. It contains specific fibers and resistant starches to help promote digestive health. It contains specific fibers and resistant starches to help promote the digestive health of toy poodles. Promotes beautiful skin and coat health, as well as clear eyesight. Pros Includes antioxidants for an active immune system. Omega fatty acids for strong heart and joints. Prebiotics supports healthy intestinal flora. The shiny coats also mean that this breed needs more baths and tends to shed more. Here are some factors to consider while selecting the finest nutritious dinner for your adorable Toy Poodle. Ingredients You should look for these ingredients in your dog food if you have a Toy Poodle. Lean meat, with the first ingredient being real meat instead of by-products or plant proteins Whole grains instead of added sugars. Whole grains are more nutrient-dense than their processed counterparts and give your dog energy without harmful additives like sugar and corn syrup. You should never offer your poodle pups any of the following ingredients: -Artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. Poodle Diet And Nutrition: Toy poodles are small breed dogs that need a healthy and balanced diet. Nutritional deficiencies are common with smaller dog breeds due to their fast metabolisms, so they must receive the right amount of nutrients. Nutritional stress not only influences growth but also affects behavior, which in return can hinder training. Toy poodles tend towards obesity because of their small body size and high metabolism traits. Purebred poodle puppies are prone to hip dysplasia. It is essential to provide them with a nutritious diet so they can gain the weight needed for their bones and muscles during developmental periods. Poodle pups are highly active physically, making them susceptible to exhaustion or even obesity due to the lack of exercise and overfeeding. Toy poodles should eat real meat instead of by-products or plant proteins. Serving your poodle premium food will ensure they are getting the necessary nutritional value without added sugars or corn syrup. Nutritional deficiency is the most common type of nutritional deficiency for toy poodles and can affect their growth and behavior. Calcium deficiencies may cause problems with bone development such as rickets, bowed legs, and soft bones. This condition makes it hard for them to stand or walk properly. Protein Toy poodles need a lot of protein in their diet. Lean meats and poultry are considered to be the best sources for this particular dog breed. Healthy protein comes from meat, eggs, fish, poultry, and dairy products. These are all necessary components of a balanced diet for toy poodles. Protein is required to develop muscles and bones in your dog. Muscle development requires amino acids which are obtained from protein intake into the body through food or supplements. Carbohydrates provide dogs with energy, and they also make up the majority of the diet for toy poodles. However, it is important to keep in mind that most toys will need reduced amounts of carbs compared to larger breeds. Poodle dog food should not have more carbs than protein. For the health of your Toy Poodle, it is important to be aware of their carbohydrate content as more carbs can cause weight gain. Like carbohydrates, these should only make up a few ingredients on your dog food list. Fats are responsible for keeping your dog warm and healthy. Fats also keep their skin and fur in good shape, which is why they need to eat high-quality fats every day. The best sources of healthy fats are things like fish oil or salmon oil. A healthy weight should be maintained. Dog food containing these two fatty acids is great for their overall wellbeing. A diet rich in fatty acids will provide your furry friend with healthy skin and a beautiful, shiny topcoat 7. The more antioxidants your dog consumes, the stronger his or her immune system will be, and the better its natural defenses will protect him or her from illnesses. Antioxidants fight the free radicals that are linked to age-related diseases, diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, and other illnesses. Any prebiotic is beneficial since it encourages the digestive system to absorb as many vitamins and minerals as possible. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the best diet for toy poodles. Some people prefer to feed their dog wet food, while others think that dry food is better. Ultimately, it is up to the pet owner to decide what they think is best for their dog. Choosing different dog foods for toy poodles is similar to choosing human food—you want it to be high in protein with minimal fats and carbs. If you want to be more specific, look for brands that contain chicken or lamb as the main ingredient. This will ensure your toy poodles have all the necessary proteins it needs to remain healthy and strong! The average lifespan of a toy poodle is years. Some health concerns that toy poodles face in their lifetime are: Obesity.

Don't hesitate to send us a message. We've been breeding these wonderful dogs and providing great family pets starting in .Our parent boxers are screened for the ARVC genes which are the genes responsible for Boxer cardiomyopathy boxer big heart disease. .We provide healthy boxer puppies for great family pets. Boxers require a well fenced.Champion bloodline. Parents both fully health tested and O. AKC Bred with H. All puppies have their tails docked, dew claws removed, up to date on vaccines ,dewormer and have a vet health cert and guarantee. AKC Breeder of Merit. We breed with the emphasis on health and temperament. Puppies available. We take great pride in our puppies! Health checks at 7 weeks old, shots, tails done and declaw! Using the AKC Standard as our guide, we strive for sound temperament, longevity, and good health. We offer pets and show prospects to approved homes. Brian Schantz North Ridgeville, OH, Services: Stud Service Looking to breed my golden brindle boxer Sven, he comes from a long line of breeding dogs and Im looking to get him a puppy, he is the father of 3 litters Feel free to call or text at anytime Domino Boxers. Our group shares dogs in Rescues and Shelters throughout Florida and bordering states. The pets are available to be seen at our adoption events on weekends at the Petsmart in Altamonte Springs on Saturday from and Sunday from .Orange County Orlando, Florida Email www. Coastal Boxer Rescue of Florida, Inc. Click on a number to view those needing rescue in that state. My owner dumped me and » Read more ». Florida Boxer Rescue utilizes a secure online donation service. Bringing home a new family member? If you would like to mail your donation, please send to: Florida Boxer Rescue Inc. Florida Boxer Rescue. Why buy a Boxer puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of Boxer puppies in Orlando who need a home. Search for boxer rescue dogs for adoption near Orlando, Florida. We strive to rescue unw Florida Boxer Rescue. Get answers to frequently asked. Austin Boxer Rescue pets for adopt. Apply to adopt Kate today at Petfinder. James here! I'm just another friendly dog at the Shelter looking for a good fur-ever home. Florida Boxer Rescue, Inc. Florida Boxer Rescue will pay for all veterinary care, which must be approved prior to vet visits, and provide you with monthly heartworm prevention. Boxers for Sale in Orlando. Many are injured or neglected and some have been abused. We are totally staffed by dedicated volunteers and all Boxers in our program are in foster homes where they can. Orange County Animal Services is thrilled to partner with rescue groups to help place homeless shelter pets in loving, forever homes. Call the day you. American Bulldog Rescue is a c 3 non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to rescuing and finding forever homes for bull breed dogs in need. Please consider making your tax deductible donation today! Click here now and help us make our next rescue! Please direct all inquiries to her - Lynn at Kenai is a boxer pit mix. Get answers to frequently asked questions here. Our Journey Home campaign will fund much-needed new construction and campus improvements that will double-dog capacity and create an all-new kitty city. The momma boxer mix and her pups are safe and sound at Ziggy's Legacy. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Orlando Florida. Search for dogs for adoption at shelters near Orlando, FL. Be happy for the ones that have been adopted… The right Boxer is worth waiting for. About Us News Happy Tails! New Arrival Maryland. Each pet requires medical treatment and care. We take pride in adopting out healthy rescue babies! Boxers learn new things quickly, and, at the same time, can be clever and stubborn. North Carolina Boxer Rescue. Welcome to Atlanta Boxer Rescue! We are an organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of Boxers in the metropolitan-Atlanta area, and to provide support and education for Boxer owners. We rely solely on donations and our special event fundraising to support our efforts to rescue more boxers. He's a very loving, playful, gi more 4 days ago on Adopt-a-Pet. If you are adopting a pet from AABR please review our adoption contact. We are devoted to creating a healing community for dogs, both big and small, who have been neglected, abandoned, and mistreated. FBR is always in short supply of foster homes available for owner surrender dogs. She is looking for the best place to retire and prefers a home with humans home often! Rescue is taking in a dog in need, no matter what age, sex, color, cuteness, etc. Florida Boxer Rescue Website: www. BDRR is on a mission to save canines at the Texas-Mexico border who have been left behind by immigrants attempting to enter into the U. From our on-site volunteers to our foster families, financial supporters, and forever homes, there are countless ways to make a difference in the life of an animal…and each one can make a difference in your life, too! All donations are tax-deductable. Inquisitive in nature, she will be an ideal pet for an active individual or a family. If you reside outside of this area you may be directed to one of the below Boxer rescue organizations. Marlyn is a spayed boxer mix, she is 8 years young. Rescue Me! If you do not agree with this contact the adoption will be voided. Thanks for stopping by! If you are a first time visitor, then congratulations on your decision to adopt a dog! Your are about to improve and potentially save! Call the day you wish to visit for availability. Through their efforts, more than 1, pets were saved during the fiscal year. That being said, I am posting here to ask for help. They usually require large amounts of attention, love, and patience to help them adjust to their new home and family. Incorporated in , Florida Boxer Rescue Inc. Be happy for the ones that have been adopted The right Boxer is worth waiting for. We are totally staffed by dedicated volunteers and all Boxers in our. Meet Pearl a Pet for Adoption. Each year nearly 20, animals enter the shelter. Boxer mix For more information please visit our website at www. We do our very best to help as many Boxers as we can, but please understand we receive. We do our very best to help as many Boxers as we can, but please understand we receive multiple calls every day for owner surrenders, strays, abandoned dogs and dogs in shelters. Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today. Search horses Boxer, Pit Bull Terrier. Adopt a rescue dog through PetCurious. Momma dog, 7 pups rescued from home in Orlando. If you live in a state other than Florida, please do an internet search for Boxer. She is up to date on vaccines, spayed, and just had a dental. You can choose to pay with your credit, debit card, or direct by eCheck. If you live in a state other than Florida, please do an internet search for Boxer Rescue with the name of the state in which you live to locate a boxer rescue organization that serves your area. The information on each dog's bio is the most current available and any updates are posted daily. The Animal League was established in to help abused, abandoned, and neglected animals. Orlando, FL Contact — Email info poodleandpoochrescue. Boxer Friends Inc. As we continue to grow, we have opened our Community Resource Center in and provide training, education, grooming events, and a food pantry for those in need in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole. Established in , we have successfully placed over dogs. Through compassion in action like yours, the Orlando Union Rescue Mission has helped meet physical needs for meals, safe shelter, and Christ-centered care. He is sweet, friendly, and expected to reach about pounds when full-grown. Started on a non-existent budget by a small group of animal lovers committed to a no-kill policy, the organization soon became an important presence in the Central Florida area and then beyond. Koda May 8, Maryland Blaze May. Our organization places approximately 1, pets in loving. He is a 'Potcake', the generic term used to describe island dogs. Florida Boxer Rescue is a tax-exempt organization that rescues, cares for and places needy boxers. He was kept away from the other dogs. Meet Tie a Pet for Adoption. Boxer Rescue Angels of Florida Inc. In , Pet Alliance adopted out more than 5, dogs and cats into loving homes in our community — saving lives and helping families grow. The momma boxer mix and her pups. Speaking of homes, we are always in need of foster homes to provide a safe and loving place for them to live until adoption. He is about four and a half years old. Harry is a male Labrador retriever and boxer puppy currently. It is believed that nearly 50, dogs will need rescuing along the Mexico border in the coming year: a number that only grows as these dogs reproduce and are left without being spayed or neutered. You will provide food, a warm. If you are interested in adding a new member to your family, and have decided to rescue a boxer, please take a minute to understand what rescue is. Boxer Rescues and Adoption In Florida. Sign Adoption Contract Must call to set up an appointment and discuss the family or household lifestyle to help match the perfect pet or companion 2. Maisey is a 8-year-old Boxer weighing about 45 pounds. Her owner passed away and she found herself needing somewhere to land! She is great with other dogs, children and even cats! She is about 45 pounds, playful, sweet, and very smart. None of your contribution is retained by any professional solicitor. Boxer Rescue Information: Boxer dogs are energetic, playful and intelligent animals, they like to clown around a lot and will keep you laughing. Seminole County Orlando, Florida .More than rescue groups have registered with the shelter. She is a sweetheart that would be well suited for someone who lives in a smaller » Read more » Leon County, Tallahassee, FL. You can reach out to New Life Rescue via mail or check out their website. Your support opens the door to meet spiritual needs through the Gospel, inviting homeless men and women into a new life of walking with Christ. We simply don't have the resources to help every Boxer every time. For this reason, it is very difficult to guess his actual breeds. Prior to meeting our available dogs, you must have submitted an Application and been approved to Adopt. He is looking for a place to call home. Should your first choices have found their forever home, let us suggest a few. Rescue is taking in a dog in. You will provide food, a warm bed, dog bowls, collars, leashes, toys, basic training, positive reinforcement and lots of TLC. Get information on all CBR events. Boxer dogs bond well with a family, are very affectionate and get along well with children. Harry, Labrador retriever and boxer mix. Maisey is the sweetest girl you could ever meet and just wants to be with you all the time. These people have big hearts and are doing good work! He was saved from a high kill shelter. Look at pictures of Boxer puppies in. For information and available boxers, Big Dog Ranch Rescue was founded on the idea that every dog deserves to live and, most importantly, to live a full and happy life. Boxer Puppies Florida Boxer Puppies FloridaTake a look at our available puppies by clicking on the picture of the breed you are interested in. We moved to Florida in .We have been breeding Boxers for 31 years. We are not a puppy mill nor are there kennels in the back yard. This is between Orlando and Tampa, Florida. Boxer Puppies for Sale in Central Florida. Boxers for Sale in Melbourne, FL. Male Orange Collar Boxer. Please contact us to find out when we are getting more. This is an AKC-compliant breeder that specializes in breeding Boxers only. Lakeland is right in between Orlando and Tampa. Take exit 31 toward Kathleen Rd. We breed for health, temperament, intelligence, agility, conformation, color and well socialized pups. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Boxer Puppies For Sale in Florida. Purebred Boxer Puppies. Had other breeds but always came back to the Boxer for their unmistakable loyalty and dedication. Their Boxer puppies have all received deworming and administered their first shots. Speaking of homes, we are always in need of foster homes to provide a safe and loving place for them to live until adoption. They have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. We are happy to help find your way to Fortune Meadows! Dogs and Puppies, Boxer. We have been a K9 breeder for over 20 years and have been breeding boxers for over 12 years. AKC registered Boxer puppies, 5 males, 5 females. We take pride in providing our buyers with the best Boxer puppies to add to their family. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Florida. Our puppies are held and loved daily by our family. Hard Run Acres is situated on a farm in the heart of Florida in Lakeland. Calvin's Boxers is located in North Florida and breeds Boxers. We are a responsible boxer breeder that cares about our. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. Frightened and rescued from neglect, Penelope arrived with her 1-year old hound mix brother named Noah. These puppies are family raised and well socialized with children and other pets. FL Find Boxer puppies for sale Near Florida Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. We have been Breeding for about 18 Years. The mini boxer is a hybrid dog. Contact us today! If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy. The Westminster Dog Show is beginning to draw to a close and is now much closer to crowning its winner following Monday's Best of Group competition. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. If you are looking for a puppy, please contact us to inquire about puppies sired by our stud dogs or for the occasional litter born into our nursery. They are described as bright, fun-loving, and active. Florida Boxer Rescue Inc. Our Boxer puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. Boxer Puppies by Champions! This mini line is a cross between the American boston terrier, which has been around for years, and the boxer, originally from […]. Please view all of our available dogs to find the Boxer who is the most likely candidate to fit into your home and lifestyle, keeping your heart and mind open to all possibilities when considering your new family member. Crestview, FL view our pets petfinder flbr. Get information on all CBR events. The Westminster Dog Show is in full swing, with Day 1 completed. Female Boxers are a little smaller, maturing to stand up to .Available Dogs — Coastal Boxers Rescue. Contact Us About Calvin's Boxers. Crazy About Boxers Details; 2. Throughout my life I've had boxers. Get answers to frequently asked questions here. We have beautiful puppies of good colors, conformation and personalities. We breed naturally reared performance and conformation dogs and believe that all boxers should be engaged in meaningful jobs to enrich their lives. We are a small hobby breeder in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. While these dogs are definitely brave and smart, there's more to it—the breed is also famously affectionate and goofy with their families, too! Their Boxer puppies have all received deworming and. Despite their light and fun-loving nature, the Boxer is a hardworking, versatile, and vigilant breed that is incredibly loyal to their family. Hybrid dogs are created when two purebred canines, from different groups or classes, breed to create a new standard with positive characteristic from both lines. When raising puppies we focus on lots of early handling and socialization. Florida Boxer Classifieds Hoobly. Call or Text for. Boxer Breeder Details. Boxer For Sale in Florida .At Chippewa Valley Boxers, we consider ourselves to be family breeders who raise puppies for the joy it brings and as a wonderful experience for our families. She is a sweetheart that would be well suited for someone who lives in a smaller » Read more » Leon County, Tallahassee, FL. That means we know some of the winners of each of the seven groups a reminder: There's a breed winner, and each of those. As Boxer puppies Miami mature, they grow into impressive dogs… a little imposing too! Male Boxers can mature to stand up to 25 inches high at the shoulder, weighing up to 80 pounds. Boxer puppies for sale in Georgia from trusted breeders. Boxer Puppies in Florida For Sale; 1. Identifiable by their short hair, square jaw, and strong bodies, Boxers have been one of the most loved pets. Boxers were bred to be intelligent and noble guard dogs. Our boxers are raised in a social, healthy and loving environment. Westminster Dog Show winners: Complete list with Best in. Sweetest pure bred boxer pup with shots and papers just at 12 weeks old full of energy and needs a good home Buy Now Boxer puppies 4 week old Boxer puppies available, 1 fawn male, 4 brindle males and 1 brindle female, fun, feisty, beautiful pups who want stable and loving homes. Boxer puppies for sale in Florida from trusted breeders. Dedicated to a Healthy Legacy. The puppies are raised in a birthing room in controlled temperatures. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. Boxer puppy for sale in Florida. Our Boxers are part of our family and we take great pride in taking care of them and making sure they are healthy and happy and the same goes for our little puppies until they go to their forever homes. Boxer Puppies and Young Boxers pictured. We own a farm on 29 acres in Morriston, Florida, near Ocala. Puppies have been dewormed, tails have been docked, dewclaws removed, and …. We have been breeding since .There was only one repeat champion this. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Our Boxers are part of our family and we take great pride in taking care of. She is a sweetheart that would be well suited for someone who lives in a smaller » Read more » Leon County, On average, Boxers range from 21 to 25 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 50 to 80 pounds. Find your Boxer puppy for sale in Orlando, FL. Purebred boxer puppies four fawn males and one solid white male available. If you reside outside of this area you may be directed to one of the below Boxer rescue organizations. We are totally staffed by dedicated volunteers and all Boxers in. We are committed to offering Boxer puppies who will grow up to become important members of your family. We are a responsible boxer breeder that cares about our boxers and our boxer puppies. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help. Available Dogs Available Dogs If you are interested in adding a new member to your family, and have decided to rescue a boxer, please take a minute to understand what rescue is. Penelope ID is a petite, 8-month old female Boxer mix with an adorable underbite. Adopt Penlope a Boxer, Mixed Breed. Rescue is taking in a dog in need, no matter what age, sex, color, cuteness, etc. Westminster Dog Show winners: Complete list with Best in …. Boxers for Sale in Fort Myers. Find Boxer Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful Boxer information. Boxer Aid and Rescue Coalition - Northern. American Boxer Puppies Details; 3. Florida Boxer Rescue, Inc. They are playful and healthy and the breeders have been inspected and approved by AKC. Our boxers are part of our family; they live in our homes. PleaD contact Natalie Kruse at xxx-xxx-xxxx or xxxxxxx xxxxx. Incorporated in , Florida Boxer Rescue Inc. Through my life I've had boxers. Best Boxer Breeders in Florida! While these dogs are definitely brave and smart, Purebred FL Boxer Puppies .Boxers are medium to large dog from Germany. She is great with other dogs and loves to p… more 1 week ago on Adopt-a-Pet. Welcome to our fun loving farm here in the heart of Florida. Boxer puppies for sale in Orlando, FL from trusted breeders. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Boxer puppies and adult Boxer in Florida. Boxers generally live years on average. The Boxer you least expect may be the one who chooses you! Welcome to TrustedPuppies. Known as the Sunshine State for its warm weather and abundant sunshine, Florida is located in the Southeastern United States. It is a fantastic destination for dog lovers and their furry companions. Our main objective is to connect you with the best Boxer breeders and puppies for sale throughout Florida. Our website has a wide variety of reputable breeders that specialize in raising healthy puppies. Our breeders are committed to only raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations, veterinary checkups, and care to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide additional support and advice after the sale to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new puppy. With an estimated population of just over 5 million dogs, Florida ranks number three among other states in terms of dog ownership. Florida boasts a vibrant dog community, offering numerous dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and events you and your four-legged friend can enjoy together. Dine alongside your pup at popular locations like The Dog Bar in St. Petersburg or the Jupiter Off-Leash Dog Beach, all provide ideal play, exercise, and socialization areas. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our trusted breeders offer safe and affordable flight delivery, with a dedicated flight nanny accompanying your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring a pleasant and safe trip as they make their way to their new home in the sunny state of Florida. In addition to flight delivery, most breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option guarantees your puppy is safely transported to your doorstep by a professional who understands the unique needs of pet travel. Please begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy today on TrustedPuppies.

Some final words There is a little bit of leeway in their feeding schedule as all standard poodles are not the same. Each individual dog will require different amounts of food at different times of the day. The following information is a guideline as there is no set rule on when or how much to feed your pet each day. Before they are 6 months of age, you can feed your little pet up to 4 to 5 times. After they reach the age of 6 months, you can lower that total to 3 times every day. Just because you serve them multiple times throughout the day, it does not mean their serving size is huge. You are looking at feeding your puppy about 2 cups of dog food each day. This serving size can be equally measured out so that your little feller or gal gets enough food at each meal. It will take a little research to find the perfect food for your pet. If you are in doubt, you can always ask your vet what is the best type of dog food to use. The key to feeding your dog its food is that you cannot change it from week to week or day to day. You must pick one and stick with that brand. Changing the food often and without mixing it with their old dog food will upset their stomachs and cause accidents to happen. If you are worried about the number of calories your puppy is eating, those are listed on the side of the package under the heading kcal. Just look at the number next to that box to get the actual number of calories your dog is receiving. Also, the amount of food you feed your pet depends on how active they are. If they are not very active you can cut their portions down a little bit. This will help avoid your pet from becoming overweight. If he or she is very active, then you should feed them a little bit more food than the recommended amount. Puppy Food Tips There are some guidelines to help you find the right pet food for your puppy. Here are a few of those guidelines to direct your search: 1. Try to Avoid Fillers and Additives- Look for those options that contain more meat and vegetables 2. Grains are Good- Unless your vet recommends against it. Grains help your pet have more energy. Be Heavy on Glucosamine and Chondroitin- These ingredients will help your pet if it has a family history of dysplasia or joint problems. Make Sure the First Ingredient is Meat- The first ingredient tells you that it is the dominant ingredient and the more meat the better for your puppy. Look for Vegetables as Well- These ingredients provide needed nutrients your puppy needs to grow healthy. Provide a Mix- A little wet food on the dry dog food will help your picky eater build their teeth and get needed nutrients. Wet food alone will not do this but it does help with dry dog food consumption. What Foods Not to Feed Your Poodle There are some ingredients you should avoid so that your puppy gets the healthiest meal possible. MSG- It is not good for humans, and it is not good for pets. In fact, not only can it give you a UTI, it can do the same for your dog. Artificial Colors and Preservatives- These are hard to avoid but try if you can. Foods with Animal By-Products- The reason to avoid this ingredient is that you do not know where those by-products came from. Some final words Be careful when you feed your pet. There is always the danger of over-feeding them. If they act like they are always hungry, give them something else to do. They could have just arrived in your home, have a toothache, upset stomach , or they do not like the taste of the food. When you give your pet a bone, there is always a chance that bacteria may be on it. So be careful when raw feeding your pet any food item. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. However, you should keep the intervals between meals similar. Best Dog Foods for Poodles To keep your dog healthy and happy, choose the right food. A feeding guide should include the best food to feed your dog, whether raising a puppy or caring for an older companion. Poodle owners have several choices when it comes to feeding their pets. They can buy commercial dog food, prepare a homemade diet of raw food or raw meat, or opt for a combination of the two as the best food for their pup. Poodle Homemade Food: A homemade diet can provide your dog with all the nutrients it needs, as long as you know what to include in a balanced meal. You can consider giving ingredients like grain-free foods for those with a sensitive stomach. You may also feed a Poodle puppy sweet potato or add cooked meats to their diet. Biologically Appropriate Raw Food Diet BARF : BARF , also known as raw diet or raw feeding, is a type of diet that mainly consists of raw meats, eggs, crushed bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. If feeding raw food is done correctly, it can be very healthy for your puppies and adult dogs since it is free from preservatives. Consulting an experienced vet is strongly recommended when looking for the best diet for your Poodle. Sometimes, they get curious too. If you love coffee, keep it out of reach of your Poodle. It contains caffeine , which may cause high blood pressure, stomach upset, and heart problems. Another human food that should not be a part of your puppy food is chocolate. Theobromine , found in chocolate, can cause abnormal heartbeats, seizures , and even death in your puppy or adult dog if consumed. Toy, Mini, and Standard Poodles can also be harmed by gum, peanut butter, and candy containing xylitol. This can cause disorientation , hypoglycemia , seizures, and collapse. Most kinds of toothpaste also contain xylitol, so make sure not to drop any on the floor when you brush your teeth. A small amount can be fatal to your Poodle. Moreover, it is not advised to feed your Poodle avocado or cherries. The pits, skins, and leaves of avocados contain a toxin called persin. It is essential to always check the food label on any treats or ingredients to avoid giving toxic foods to your pets. Additionally, do not feed your puppy too fast and too much as it can result in bloating. You should also consult a vet if you have questions about safe human and puppy foods to ensure they live a long life. Start by adding more of the new food and eliminating some old food at each meal until your pet eats only the new food. This also applies when you switch from puppy to adult food. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. 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. Share Us. Pups weaning from mom to her kibble that she drops Of course Pups don't learn proper Table manners until they are 6 weeks of age At three weeks of age they are introduced to softened Kibble , which is soaked and made into a warm gruel. What a sight, the first few feedings have the little pups "wearing" more food than eating it. They learn quickly though. Now, what do you do? This is, in part, due to the change from our home to yours. Do not worry, the puppy will begin eating normally. You may choose to continue with a bit of softened food for the first week, to aid puppy in adjusting to their new home Just remember what is not eaten will spoil within hours and will need to be thrown out. Of course our feeding schedule of 3x a day at certain times, is not cast in stone and you will come up with your own schedule. We do recommend the final feeding to be approximately hours before your bedtime allowing you to get puppy outside immediately after eating see "Housebreaking" and again well before your bedtime. The morning feeding should be after you've taken the pup outside, let it have it's pee and poo, and a little play session. Time the middle feeding at a halfway point between the morning and evening feedings or as closely to that as your schedule allows. After puppy is toilet trained.We have found that "free feeding" a well trained puppy one that knows who the leader is prevents bloating, prevents gorging of food, prevents fussy eaters well the list goes on and on on the benefits. No matter what your Vet says or believes, our Poodles do not and will not over eat! Chicken products from China causing intermittent vomiting and Diarrhea and killing dogs. Glycerin in dehydrated jerky type treats, dehydrated Chicken Breasts, dog treats, greenies. According to the FDA, they have found that dogs who consume varying amounts of Glycerin can exhibit the following symptoms: decreased appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water consumption urination. With blood tests, the dog may have an increased BUN, Blood glucose which is evidence of glycerin's negative affects on the kidneys. In hundreds of dogs kidney failure and death has been reported. A puppy does not need treats. Praise and play work wonders to motivate. Keep in mind that treats are not a substitute for a meal… we use teeny tiny pieces… We don't give our pups or dogs treats routinely. If I wish to bribe my Poodle then I will resort to chicken wieners or sardines. Another odd phenomenon we see so many times, is that anxious owners, or owners with stomach or digestive issues themselves, have this same disorder manifest within their puppies. Do not make food or treat time an anxious time. Do not get them worked up over food or treats. NEVER keep switching foods for different flavors or brands, this creates a nightmare of a fussy eater A dog views food as a part of survival. Dogs do not use food to feed emotions the way us humans do. In summer when there is extreme heat and especially humidity, it is not uncommon to see dogs eat grass to settle their tummies and sometimes vomit as a result. Dogs can easily get overheated, so if you hear "humidity warnings" don't go outside to play with your puppy wait until it gets cooler in the day or evening, to venture outside for a game of play. Please always remember, that cool, fresh water should be available at all times except during crating times. If you restrict water puppy can develop a Bladder or Urinary Tract Infection. At first offer your puppy about 2 cups of food. Your puppy should always have kibble left over in their bowl at the end of your feeding time. Do not starve your puppy just because you are following the directions on the bag or your vet said to feed "x" amount… Let the pup have access to the food for about 20 minutes. What they have not eaten after this time, you take away until next meal time. Continue this through the scheduled feeding times. As poodle puppies grow, so too do their appetites. If your puppy consistently finishes all of the food offered during the feeding time, increase the amount of food, just removing the contents after 20 minutes. Growing puppies can eat what seems to be a phenomenal amount. We have seen so many of our adults basically starving with hips sticking out and just too thin because owners want to control their dog's food intake! The heart is a big muscle that will be adversely effected including but not limited to rhythm irregularities Starving your Poodle sorry I mean "controlling your poodle's diet will also cause GI upset and sensitivity. Your poodle should eat enough that it is leaving food behind in the dish. If it is not.This Poodle male was 50lbs and should have weighed 75 lbs The owner listened to the Vet and fed what they were told to do, ignoring common sense!! This is abuse! This Poodle's body would be eating muscle in order to survive. The heart is a muscle. There is no excuse for this. Free feeding also aids in avoiding bloat and or torsion like we do. At some point between weeks your puppy will no longer require three feedings a day. A lot of puppies will let you know when that is. They will begin to pick at one of the meals. If you find your puppy is consistently not interested in a meal often the mid feeding , take the same amount of food you have been feeding in a day and divide it into two feedings. Puppy is eating the same amount, just twice a day instead of three times a day. We feel this aids in preventing bloat and making fussy eaters. In we decided to try our dogs and puppies on this food as it is poultry and grain free and limited ingredient and more dogs of all breeds, have been having sensitivity to poultry and or diets with grain. New as of - the public found out that a lot of dog foods were being filled with Whey acid by-product of the Greek Yogurt and that this is counted as Protein It could be coincidence however there are more and more puppies of all breeds and mutts having GI upset and bladder issues, so we tend to not believe in coincidences. Since starting on this food our pups have not had loose stools and their bladders have been healthier. We can't deny all the amazing reviews of this quality product. If puppy eats all their food in the alotted time then you should be feeding more. Unlike humans, or other less "refined" dog breeds, Poodles will not over eat. So make sure that puppy has enough food. Do not substitute food with giving treats all day long either. How much should your puppy weigh? My standard for my pups, which are over 8 wks. If a puppy is 8 weeks old it should weigh around 8 lbs. This formula is fairly accurate until the dog reaches the age of 3 months. Basically your puppy should have left over kibble in their bowl every meal time during the alloted time limit. If the kibble is all gone in the first few minutes, just add more kibble and know for next time the proper amount. The following amounts are for EACH feeding. Do not worry if there is food left over. Food and Weights for Puppy 7 weeks. Raw or cooked homemade meals When you bring home a new puppy, you might want to switch her food to a brand you prefer. Wait until your dog has been with you for at least a few weeks. This is a time of big changes for your puppy, and you should minimize the trauma coming all at once. Plan to make the dog food switch over the course of a week or so, and watch for signs of digestive upset. Poodle Puppy Diets Many diets today are age- or stage of life-specific, even breed-specific. But does this really matter, or is it marketing? The truth is, it actually does. Brands that make dog foods pay attention to research to formulate the best nutrition for different stages of life and for different sizes of dog. A good puppy formula will include extra nutrients, such as calcium, and extra calories per pound of body weight. It will also have the right number of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, carbohydrates, and fats for the right amount of growth. The right amount actually includes the restriction of certain nutrients. Having too much of a good thing can actually be bad for dogs. In large breeds like the Standard Poodle, the ingestion of excessive amounts of energy and calcium as puppies can lead to a higher likelihood of developmental orthopedic diseases such as hip dysplasia. Poodles are genetically prone to joint problems like this, so diet here is very important. For kibble, you can even dish up the daily meals at the start of the day. Personally, I always make one extra bowl to use as training treats. Allowing me to reward my pup for good behavior throughout the day without messing with my ratios. Over the first couple of months, I feed four meals so I make up five bowls first thing in the day. Spread the formal meals evenly throughout the day time, making sure the last one is at least two hours before you want to go to bed. This will save you getting back up again to let your puppy out to open their bowels! An adult dog food should have less protein, calcium, fat, and omega-3 acids than the puppy version. Once your Poodle gets to about 80 percent of his expected adult size, feel free to switch to the adult brand. Every dog is different in terms of metabolism and body type. In that case, it might be time to switch to the adult corollary. Look for meat-based protein sources in the first few ingredients listed on the package. Be sure to start off with apuppy formula if your dog is under 12 months old. Feeding a Poodle Puppy Wet Food Many canned dog food options are digestible and full of balanced nutrition. Not all wet foods offer a balanced diet, so make sure to read labels. If your dog needs better hydration or has problems with her teeth, wet food might be a good option. Canned food often has 75 percent moisture content compared with percent for dry. Canned food has more fat and protein and fewer carbs, along with more animal products. Also, do your research! Learn about safe handling and storage of meats. This works because some foods provide more nutrition and taste better! Others are better raw. So this diet can be more flexible and easier to deal with than the raw diet. And you can avoid some of the pitfalls of uncooked meat, too. However, some of the same nutritional issues must be addressed. Weigh your puppy frequently and use a Poodle growth chart, then adjust food amounts as needed. If you can see them without having to feel for them, your dog may need more food. Look for other symptoms of problematic weight, such as exhaustion and difficulty turning around, or bowel and gas issues. Poodles are prone to obesity, and obesity comes with plenty of health issues you do not want to deal with, such as metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, heart disease, and joint problems. Instead, find ways of helping your pup eat slower, or feel full faster. A slow-feeder bowl can help reduce the rate at which your dog scarfs down his meal, for example. A puzzle feeder or other toys may also help. Play with her to distract her, or take her out! If you really think you need to adjust food amounts, talk to your veterinarian and get professional advice. Poodles tend to be a slower-maturing breed. The different sizes of Poodle mature at different rates. Smaller dogs mature more quickly. Miniature poodles will be fully grown between months but may take a bit longer to fill out. Standard poodles may take up to 2 years to mature. You can start feeding Miniature and Toy Poodles adult foods at around months. Category : Puppies When you take your puppy home usually around weeks of age they will need to eat 3 or 4 times a day. At 8 weeks old we feed small meals 4 times a day at 7 am, 11 am, 2 pm and then at 5 pm. We allow them free access to water until 7 pm in the evening. An alternative is to feed 3 times a day at 7 am, 12 noon and at 5 pm. If your puppy is hungry split the meals to 4 times a day. By the time they are 10 weeks old they can go to 3 meals a day. If your puppy feels thin you can feel all the ribs and backbone easily increase the amount of food. If your puppy feels fat you should be able to feel some of the ribs reduce the amount of food. Some puppies are very active and burn up every calorie they eat, some are prone to being a little rounder and their food intake needs to be carefully monitored. Research has shown that dogs that are not overfeed have a much lower risk of developing hip dysplasia. Keep your puppy thin and healthy. We do not recommend free feeding of puppies as this makes it more difficult to housebreak your poodle and regulate their diet. Better to move to free feeding after housebreaking if you choose to. It is harder to monitor how much food they eat when free feeding and a glutunous puppy may quickly become fat. Remember a thin puppy is less likely to develop hip dysplasia. We strongly encourage you to keep your puppy on the same food we provide for the first month. Both coccidia and giardia may live in the gut of a healthy poodle and they never have an outbreak. When their bodies are stressed they are more likely to develop an unhealthy balance and the result may be a sick puppy. Moving to a new home, leaving their Mother and siblings and diet changes are all stressful. We encourage you to make as few changes as possible to your puppies diet the first month. Changing to a different dog food — go slowly. It may take a month or longer to switch foods. If at any point your puppy develops an upset stomach go back to the level of food mix that they were doing well on. Should your puppy develop bloody diarrhea take them to the veterinarian, they have most likely developed gastroenteritis and may need some medication or possibly fluids. Go slowly, new protein sources require time for the stomach to adjust. This is true not only in puppies but also adults. We continue to feed our puppies 3 meals a day until they are 6 months old. Our belief is that in keeping food moving through the puppy it allows for better consistent growth and health. At 6 months of age we start to feed 2 times a day with snacks throughout the day. We continue to feed our dogs 2 times a day throughout their life. We feed snacks several times a day to both puppies and adults which may be carrots, green beans, eggs or chicken or pieces of their kibble. We feed our poodles both kibble and home cooked food. Bully sticks are given occasionally for chewing. No Comments.

Tunnel Dash The Weaving Wonder Games for German Shepherds can include everyday objects that you can find around your house and are fun activities that give your German Shepherd mental stimulation and exercise. Try a few of these activities for German Shepherds and see which ones your dog loves! Hide-and-Seek Treats Hiding their food helps your dog use their noses to explore. Mental stimulation with a food hide-and-seek game keeps your dog sharp by using their noses source. You can use this game indoors or out in your yard or garden. Now hide a few pieces around the house or yard while they watch, and encourage them to find the food. German Shepherds have a keen sense of smell, and many learn to track. Puppy Puzzles This German Shepherd activity teaches your dog to use their nose and brain together. Food puzzles are activities that keep your dog working for their reward. Use this stimulating mind game to introduce them to puzzles. Next, place their food in the puzzle. Show them how to find food and encourage them to find the food on their own. If you want to feed your dog the right foods, then read this list of healthy, tasty treats for German Shepherds. Break your treats into small pieces, no larger than the size of your pinkie nail to keep their nutrition in check. The Special Delivery activity uses common mailing items as hiding places for their treats. Use a clean box that came in the mail. Place pieces of kibble or treats inside the brown paper wrap. Squish the brown paper or paper towels together to wrap around the kibble. Encourage your dog or puppy to look for their food. When they are finished, refill the brown paper packaging or paper towel balls and start again. Another simple and easy game to put together is a bottle treat dispenser. The bottle slides and moves on the floor to make the game more interesting for both puppies and adults. And, of course, supervise your German Shepherd during games at all times. Save a large water bottle. Make sure it is clean and dry. Let your dog turn, paw, and shake the bottle so the kibble falls out. Repeat when empty to finish their meal. Replace the bottles regularly as they become dirty or worn. The larger the opening, the easier the food will fall out. Brain Training for Dogs Brain Training your German Shepherd keeps them mentally stimulated and physically engaged, ensuring they have a pawsome time! Brain training your German Shepherd is an activity that increases their mental stimulation and is fun for both you and your dog! You can use brain training to help teach your German Shepherd manners and basic obedience at the same time. But… You can read more on my helpful review: Brain Training for Dogs Review to learn all about this engaging playtime program. Setup this game by doing this: Place a few bits of their food or treats in the muffin tins and a ball over the top to cover the cups. You can leave some muffin tins without a tennis ball to make the game easier to start or for puppies learning about brain games. When your dog is finished, refill the muffin tins. To make the game interesting, leave some tins without food, but still cover the compartment with a tennis ball. This makes your dog use his nose more and gives them a surprise when they find the food in some compartments but not in others. Frozen Kong Delight By far, my German Shepherd enjoys this mental exercise the best, as the food seems to last longer and keep her quiet. Get out your trusty, indestructible German Shepherd-proof Kong toy. Place a mixture of moistened kibble in the center. I like to add a few spoonfuls of unflavored Greek yogurt mixed into the food for extra encouragement. Set this in the freezer for a few hours to stiffen up. When frozen, give it to your dog for a tasty mealtime surprise! If you buy a few Kongs, you can keep them in your freezer for times when you want or need to keep your German Shepherd busy and entertained. Trust me, the Kong toys make for engaging playtime ideas for German Shepherds and can stand up to their rough play. Tupperware Surprise These old plastic food storage containers make useful indoor activities for your German Shepherd. Put them to use with this game. Place several pieces of plastic food storage containers upside down, without their lids, over a handful of kibble. You can put the food storage containers all in one room or place them in multiple rooms for a seek-and-find activity. Encourage your dog to go find the kibble, and help them find the first few to get them started. They must figure out how to turn the container over with their paws or nose, which is tricky for some dogs, especially puppies. Use this mental exercise inside or outside, depending on the weather. This game also uses empty cardboard tubes from paper towels or toilet paper. Place their kibble on brown shipping or craft paper, or even a clean paper towel. Next, wrap the kibble up securely and place the wrapped kibble inside the cardboard tubes. Encourage your dog to explore the tubes. You can see my German Shepherd enjoying the game of finding treats in cardboard tubes. As simple as this sounds, the activity keeps my German Shepherd busy as she delicately removes the kibble from the boxes or toilet roll tubes filled with kibble and paper. No worries. This game really gets an active Shepherd moving and keeps them occupied! Start slowly and toss one ball away from you. While your dog goes to chase that ball, get another ball toy ready in your hand. As they return the first ball, toss the second ball across the grass for them to have another sprint. Only play a handful of rounds, and then let your dog have a rest and some water to avoid them overheating. Instead, use these summer activities to exercise your German Shepherd in the heat. Place their kibble meal or another dry treat inside the toy to help provide a challenge to their minds and bodies. As your dog chases the toy around and works to get their reward, they burn calories and have to use their brain power to work the food loose. You can wash this treat dispensing toy, so if your dog is a first-class drooler, you can easily clean their germs away. This is a mentally-stimulating game for an indoor German Shepherd activity for a puppy or even a bored German Shepherd. Tunnel Dash Collapsible tunnels can make for an exciting and fun backyard activity. Owners of our high-energy breed will appreciate teaching their dog both indoor agility to challenge their minds and outdoor agility to challenge their minds and use their energy! You may have to entice your dog through the tunnel by placing them at one end and having them wait while you walk to the other. But German Shepherds love this type of stimulation and are expert tunnel runners! The Weaving Wonder From German Shepherd puppies to seniors, almost every dog enjoys learning how to become a weaving wonder! If your dog enjoys high-energy activities, then add to your agility set by using these easy-to-set up weave poles. Your athletic Shepherd will love to use their brains and their agility to figure out the best way to quickly maneuver through the weave poles. Begin by walking ahead of your dog through the weave poles and have them follow you. Reward them frequently in between poles in the beginning. When they make it to the end, celebrate and reward them again. Eventually, have your GSD make more turns of the poles before the reward. Learn all about the right ways to exercise your German Shepherd for complete health and fitness. Your dog or puppy has many senses they need to use daily. They can see, hear, touch, smell, and think. Many dogs living in our modern, busy lives lack mental stimulation. In the wild, your dog would work alongside their pack or alone to track down prey using their senses. They would then plan an attack, using their mental abilities. Using all these senses during play helps your dog gain confidence in themselves and in their abilities. New experiences ignite portions of their brains to keep them engaged in their environments. An engaged dog is a happy, better-behaved dog! Include 2 or 3 new activities for your German Shepherd a week to begin. You ready for more? From nutrition tips to exercise tricks, this guide has it all. Trust me, your German Shepherd will be wagging their tail with joy! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your free guide now and continue fun adventures and activities with your German Shepherd! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Due to the hectic lifestyles that many of us lead today, German Shepherds might spend many hours alone at home every day. Here are some of my favorite ideas. Give them the King of toys — the Kong. Kong toys not only help calm your dog but, when frozen, can keep your German Shepherd busy for a long time. Kongs are great for hiding treats or serving their daily meal and keeping them busy. Stuff the Kong with natural peanut butter, their favorite dog-safe foods, special treats, or even fill with a mixture of all. Most German Shepherds will stay happily busy working for their food. And, a properly stuffed and frozen Kong could take a lot of time for your dog to release all their tasty reward. Is it summertime and you need to help them beat the heat? Kong to the rescue for busy-time and summer fun! Not only can the Kong toy itself be filled and frozen, but for an extra treat fill a freezer-safe plastic container with low-sodium broth and water and drop your food-filled Kong inside the mixture. Leave it to freeze overnight. Then, take the toy and your dog to a safe spot where they can enjoy licking and chewing their giant-size pupsicle! Do you have a teething German Shepherd puppy to keep busy? Place their soaked kibble in the Kong and freeze for them to soothe their inflamed gums and aching jaws while they chew and squeeze away the pain. Want to know the right size Kong for your dog and how to use the toy to help solve and prevent behavior problems? Then read all about Kong toys for German Shepherds. Show them interesting sights and sounds. Some Shepherds enjoy watching the sights and sounds of the world going by. Others will bark at leaves falling. Here are a few stations that dogs generally enjoy: Animal Planet Discovery Channel National Geographic There are even YouTube channels that cater especially to dogs at home that need some visual and auditory stimulation. While watching these videos your German Shepherd can see squirrels, cats, birds, other dogs, and nature scenes — all while hearing the sounds of the animals along with calming music. If you know your dog gets upset hearing other dogs or animals, then look for calming music channels that play soothing sounds and tunes to comfort anxious dogs. Provide a search and sniff scavenger hunt. Did you know that sniffing helps to calm dogs and provides needed mental stimulation to keep their minds occupied source? Encourage your dog to hunt for her meals by hiding small piles of her kibble around your house in safe, easy-to-reach areas so she has to use her nose to find them. Scatter a couple of handfuls of kibble in the places where your dog hangs out during the day before you leave for the day or when you want to keep her entertained. You determine how easy or difficult you want the game to be depending on where you decide to hide the treats. At first, you might need to leave the food in more open areas as your dog learns to play and sniff for their treasure. Easy Scavenger Hunt larger groups of kibble placed in the open smaller groups of food placed under safe items groups of treats together next to items, but not hidden a kibble trail that leads your dog on a sniffari indoors You can make the Scavenger Hunt more difficult as your dog learns the game. You can also hide one of her meals in her Kong puzzle toy right before you leave home. This prompts her to associate you leaving for the day with a positive — as opposed to a negative — emotion and can help lessen the fear of being alone for her. Play a classic game of tug-of-war. Tug can help build confidence in German Shepherds when played correctly. All you need for this old-school game is a tough rope toy and some space to move around safely. To entice your German Shepherd to grab the rope, wiggle it like a snake, let her take hold of it, and gently begin tugging the rope. While your dog sinks their teeth and puts her bodyweight into the pull you get a bit of an upper-body and cardio workout. Plus, did you know that cotton tug ropes provide your German Shepherd the opportunity to easily help clean their teeth? In fact, research shows that playing tug with your dog is much more complex. In one study dogs handicapped themselves i. Tug, when played correctly and with rules, can build confidence in German Shepherds and help teach them more about your owner-dow relationship. Teach your dog a new trick. When was the last time you taught your German Shepherd a fun trick? I bet your brilliant German Shepherd would love to keep entertained by learning a new trick or obedience command. You can pick a hard trick that takes a while to learn or an easy trick that your dog might quickly pick up on. Or aim higher by working on naming all of her toys in her toy box so she can get them by name when you ask. Either way… Your German Shepherd is capable of learning almost anything that you take the time and patience to train. Remember, your German Shepherd is so smart for a reason. Whether you have a German Shepherd puppy or a full-grown dog, this is super fun to try! Even better… 6. Include plenty of play with their friends. Having doggie friends is essential for German Shepherds, especially puppies. Sometimes your German Shepherd just needs to play with other dogs and socialize. You can schedule playdates with other well-behaved dogs with your friends and family for some puppy entertainment. Many doggy daycares will provide discounts if you purchase multiple play days to keep the price reasonable and provide your German Shepherd with more opportunities for entertainment. There are separate play sections for puppies and larger, adult dogs, so your dog is matched to their appropriate playgroup. Never underestimate the value of a healthy play session to keep your German Shepherd entertained. Sneak in a new toy. Sneaking in a new toy for your German Shepherd can keep them entertained as they enjoy the surprise. Do you have a dog that loves to play with toys? Then help keep them busy by sneaking in a new toy to spark their interest and keep their self-directed play fun. Just think of how excited your German Shepherd will get when they sniff out their new toy! Also, rotate her toys every week or so to heighten the excitement of playing with her toys. Simply put away a few of the usual toys and sneak in another to replace the missing old toys. Then, rotate them again for a fresh perspective! Teach them how to stay calm. Even busy German Shepherds need to calm down to recharge and relax. Teaching a German Shepherd how to calm themselves and channel their energy into resting and relaxing is actually difficult. If your German Shepherd becomes nervous, anxious, or overactive when you leave home, try these ideas to help comfort them, especially puppies. Give a treat designed to encourage rest and relaxation, like these calming chicken and hemp chews. Use a dog pheromone diffuser. Use a dog-appeasing pheromone diffuser if you think your absence causes anxiety in your German Shepherd. Adaptil makes a calming dog diffuser for this specific purpose that is shown to lessen anxiety symptoms and promote calm. The pheromone released by the diffuser is similar to the one that lactating mother dogs emit to calm their newborn puppies when feeding. So, the pheromone is familiar to your German Shepherd and creates a sense of relaxation and calm. Place the diffuser in a room your dog generally uses or spends most of her time in. These calming tools are especially helpful to German Shepherd puppies who might be overwhelmed in their new home and miss their littermates and mother. Include a mid-day walk. Dog walking services are provided in many cities and towns to help you. The typical dog walking schedule for many working owners is in the morning and evening. But the German Shepherd Dog is a high-energy breed and will benefit from a mid-day walk to add some entertainment to their day. Many reputable pet care facilities include a dog walking service and will walk your German Shepherd with other dogs that are similar in personality if you like. I highly recommend that you also get a GPS tracker for your German Shepherd if you have a dog walker. Give remote surprise check-ins. Checking in on your mischievous German Shepherd puppy has never been easier with remote cameras. With all the modern pet technology today you might be overlooking how to keep a German Shepherd busy remotely. Remote cameras are a great way to keep your German Shepherd occupied and surprised. How amazing is that for modern pet technology? Each puzzle takes a combination of reasoning, persistence, and paw dexterity to work out. The very act of leaving a German Shepherd alone for 8 hours or more a day and then being too tired to spend time with them in productive ways is the reason for most of the behavioral problems they develop. How would you feel if you were left at home all day, every day, with no one to talk to, no television to watch, no books to enjoy, no work to do, and no opportunity to exercise? It would be awful! Read this post on how to exhaust a German Shepherd to reduce boredom to learn more about what you can do to help keep boredom at bay. Playing with your German Shepherd enriches your relationship with her on a unique level. Together, the two of you will have a distinctive interaction during your play sessions. This is vital information because play helps build a strong relationship foundation. While some people believe that German Shepherds are rough, tough, working breeds they genuinely have a playful nature and seek out the companionship of play with their special person. German Shepherds seek out play with those they feel close to and are comfortable with. Although there are many different ideas to entertain your dog, every dog is unique and has certain preferences. They tend to develop behavior issues when secluded from their family and can become depressed, act out for attention, and develop other health conditions due to the stress of spending too much time alone. When you understand how to keep a German Shepherd busy and entertained both of your days will go by more smoothly. Remember… The time you put into your German Shepherd creates an unbreakable bond. Catherine Krasavin, BS Hons. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Puppies German Shepherd puppies are incredibly playful. So how do you play with a German Shepherd puppy? This article will examine the best way to play and entertain your German Shepherd puppy, providing example games to play and activities to do. The best way to play with a German Shepherd puppy is through short bursts of low-impact physical activity. This will keep their growing bones and joints safe from injury and malformation. Additionally, play games that sharpen their motors skills and hone their natural abilities. All dogs have a maximum tolerance for exercise, and playtime counts towards that limit. Most will play for as long as you allow them. Thus, you need to pay attention and keep them from overexertion, especially during activities that involve plenty of physical movement. In general, young dogs should have two sessions of exercise per day where each session is about 5 minutes per month of age. So, a German Shepherd puppy of around 2 months old should only get 10 minutes of playtime twice a day while a 6-month-old pup can tolerate two minute sessions. By the time your GSD is a year old, they should be able to tolerate hour-long sessions of play or exercise. Keep in mind, however, that these are general guidelines. You need to keep an eye on your dog and determine their own tolerance to avoid serious consequences like overheating and overexertion. Like children, individual dogs have different preferences. Use play as a means to strengthen their motor skills, nurture their sense of curiosity, and build their confidence. The best toys for young German Shepherds are interactive ones that stimulate their senses. Especially exciting are treat dispensers and squeaky toys while teething toys provide tons of comfort. They also love balls that they can grasp and chase after. They also love playing with people and other animals. Doing this often will help prove each of these commands and ensure they will obey no matter the situation. Have fun with the Obedience Shuffle by randomly asking for each command and rewarding your dog every time they obey. Make it increasingly difficult for them by adding distractions in between. Hide-and-Seek Hide-and-Seek is an excellent game to play with your German Shepherd puppy because it requires some concentration, sniffing, and running. It also primes them to think of you as the best reward. To play this, ask your dog to stay while you hide. Release them from their stay position and respond with excitement and praises when they find you. Hide in easy-to-find spots at first and find more difficult hiding places as your pup picks up on the object of the game. You can start by keeping your pup in a down position as they watch you hide the treats. When they understand the point of the game, you can make it more challenging by keeping them in another room and letting them in only when all the treats are hidden. It also requires very little space and involves more concentration and nose work. To play the shell game, take 3 cups and some treats, and sit across from your dog. Place the cups upside down on the floor and keep a treat under only one. Shuffle the cups before arranging them in a row. Turn over the first one your pup touches. If they get the right one, let them have the treat. If not, re-shuffle the cups and play again. Find-and-Retrieve Find-and-Retrieve is not just a game of obedience and concentration. This game involves teaching your dog the proper names of things, finding those things on command, and handing them over to you. To play this game, start by teaching your dog the name of one toy. Then, make the game more difficult by asking them to retrieve the ball from other places. Here are other things you can do to interact with your puppy, strengthen your bond, and help them to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally: Walking Walking can be a good way for your GSD pup to learn more about the world outside of your home. Allow young pups to walk at their own pace and try not to be too harsh on the lead. Let them stop to sniff and interact with whatever they might find interesting. This will form a huge part of their socialization. German Shepherds typically like water if they are exposed to it and learn how fun it can be. Swimming is also an excellent way to have fun with your growing dog since it is easy on the bones and joints. Being in water will also help strengthen muscles for even better skeletal development. Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys for dogs are not only excellent for mental stimulation but also for independent play. Depending on the toy, it could also help prime your German Shepherd for nose work, combat boredom, and control their impulses. They can compete in these companion sports as early as 6 months old or you can simply join local clubs to engage in these activities for fun. This helps avoid issues like hip and elbow dysplasia in the future. Until your German Shepherd has developed into adulthood, you should generally avoid activities that involve plenty of jumping. Staircases and other steep angles are safe enough for regular use but not as a means to exercise. Additionally, when running or walking, opt for turf and soil rather than concrete. Final Thoughts Discovering the best ways to play with your German Shepherd puppy will help you develop a strong bond and learn to communicate with one another. These games will also help stimulate their intellect and develop a love for learning. Learning how to discipline your GSD puppy correctly will teach them to respect your leadership and stay on their best behavior.

Pugs will eat as much as you give them. Measure your pug's food and feed him small meals at scheduled times. As he ages, decrease how often he eats. He should eat four times a day. High-quality dry foods and wet foods are nutrient-dense, so your little guy will not need as much of it as he would lower-quality foods. You can find high-quality puppy foods in pet stores and at your veterinary clinic. Avoid semi-moist puppy foods because they contain high amounts of sugar. Adjust the amount so he is still getting his daily requirement. He may want more; but as long as he is at a healthy weight, don't start giving him extra food. Pugs gain weight easily. Obesity in pugs can lead to muscle and joint problems, diabetes and heart disease. It is doubtful that you will need to increase the amount of food per day even though your pug is growing. Your vet may suggest that you decrease the amount of food if your pug is starting to gain weight. Some owners prefer to continue the twice-a-day feedings because pugs have a smaller stomach than larger dogs. It's hard for them to digest a large amount in one feeding. It is now time to consider adult food. Introduce the new food slowly so he doesn't have difficulty digesting it. If you are concerned that your pug is not getting enough to eat, look at his shape. He should be broad at the shoulders and narrower beyond the shoulders, with a slight widening in the rump area. If his shape is square, he is getting too much food. More Articles. You may find yourself on the dog food isle trying to make sense of all the ingredients, types of foods and categories. And all you want to know is… How often and what should I feed my Pug? Every dog is different, every type of food has its specific quantities and it even varies between brands. Start simple and figure out all the details and methods. I have collected information about the different types, brands pros and cons of dog feeding to try and give an unbiased as much as I can look, so you can make a better-informed choice which will be right for you and your Pug. Remember, people care deeply about their dogs and will often get very emotional about the health and feeding they chose. Having been the owner of a pet store, I have learned that although I have my personal preferences and very good reasons for them, others may have different choices and they believe they are the right ones for them. There are a lot of issues to consider. How Many times a day should I feed My Pug? A mature Pug can easily live a healthy life with one meal which provides all his nutritional needs. In most cases, it is more convenient for both us and the pug to split this to two meals. If your Pug had a full meal in the morning, be sure he will nag you like crazy in the afternoon. Puppies have smaller stomachs and need, relative to their size, a larger quantity of food so it is better to break it up to three or even four meals a day. If you are around your Pug all day and prefer to give 4 meals a day to a mature dog, there is no harm in it, as long as the overall daily quantity stays the same. Free Buffet or Set meals? Pugs are notorious for becoming overweight and need to be limited to a set amount. If your Pug is not typical in that sense, you are welcome to put the full daily portion in the bowl and see how long it lasts. One more reason for set meals is monitoring. You want to know how much you Pug eats. If you want your Pug to lose weight, you need to know how much he is eating in order to cut down. On the flip side, if your Pug is not eating the usual amounts it may be an indication of a medical condition. What food do Pugs Eat? Pugs love food. They love treats, dry food, wet food, table scraps, raw meat, cooked meat, spicy meat and meat gone bad. In rural areas and farms, they may have also got more meaty scraps. Our Pugs who grew up with Emperors and Royalty were probably treated to high quality scraps. Today, dry bagged kibble or canned wet food are the standard for most homes, although there is a growing number of people and companies promoting more natural diets of either raw or cooked food for dogs. Every type of food claims to be the healthiest, more appropriate, tailored and nutritional. Kibble Kibble is the most common dog food available and has become the staple for the average dog. Pros of Kibble The makers of dry food claim it has the most balanced and scientifically based formulas to provide the best nutrition for a dog. They also tailor these formulas to dogs of different size, breed, age or other needs. Even the most discerning dog owners should be able a composition to satisfy them. The ingredient list is unclear and misleading. There are numerous food recalls yearly. There are websites dedicated just to keep up with the recalls. Teeth are going to need cleaning. Wet canned food Aside from the meatier texture and the higher water content, there is little difference between kibble and the canned, wet counterpart. The ingredients can be similar and so are the health benefits. Some dog owners report that wet food makes for softer stools when fed exclusively. Many dog owners will give a combination of wet and dry food. Home cooked As with human food there is a growing number of people fed up Pun intended with commercial and over engineered food. Raw food Also called the BARF Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods , the idea behind it is that the dogs digestive system has not evolved as their behavior, and much like wild dogs or wolves, they should eat the equivalent to small animals they would pray on in nature. Since dogs are also scavengers this diet will include some vegetables, berries etc. The pros As with the home-cooked diet, you have total control of ingredients and quality No preservatives, additives, fillers etc. You need to learn how to make, takes time Ingredients like bones and internal organs may not be available in your area. Can be pricy. Even More expensive if buying ready and frozen. Takes freezer space Raw Disclaimer I am a little bias towards raw food. I used to own a pet food store specializing in raw food for cats and dogs and I have been feeding my own Pugs raw food for over twelve years. Obviously, I am very happy with the raw diet and its outcomes as switching to dry food would have been easy and cheap. I believe it is the better choice for myself and my dogs. I believe I have presented the facts fairly objectively as far as the other feeding options go. There is no standard or way to measure what natural is and what the added value of it is other then the origin of it. Natural color could come from some secretion of an insect. Special Needs Puppies These little ones need the most nutritious and high-quality food you can find. If you want to find an economic way to feed your dog, please do it later in his life. Allergies Pugs are relatively sensitive to allergies. In some cases, this is due to an external source such as home detergents, but more often than not it has to do with their diet. There are a few brands that you can try with low, or no grain. If you are feeding your pug home cooked food or a raw diet, taking the carbs and grain out would be easy. Our Pugs were and are on a raw diet from day one and we never had any issues with allergies, except for one time. We started noticing that Preston had pinkish skin around his paws and around the nose fold. Since we owned a pet food store specializing in raw food, at the time convenient, I know we tried different types of meats, but nothing helped. It took us some time to realize the cause. We had our baby daughter at the time, and since she was very close and intimate with Preston, and he was eating raw, we made sure to wipe his mouth and feet with baby wipes after every meal. The baby wipes were the culprits. We switched them both to hypo-allergenic wipes and the skin went back to normal… Hip Dysplasia Pugs are ranked as one of the breeds with the highest chances of suffering from Hip Dysplasia. This can lead to trouble in walking and running and arthritis may follow as well. If your Pug is suffering from Hip Dysplasia to any extent you may want to either supplement their diet with Chondroitin and Glucosamine or to choose a brand that is made for joint support. Vets and nutrition. Having said that, if I needed nutritional advice, I would go to a nutritionist and not to my Doctor. The nutrition training vets get in many schools is provided by agents of the commercial food companies who are bias at best. Skipping meals Dogs will sometimes skip a meal. It is natural for them as food is not something that was always available on daily base. It is not typical for Pugs but it may happen. If it happens it will probably be a one meal deal. If your Pug misses a few meals in a row you may want to consult a vet. Treats and snacks I try and think of treats and snacks the same way I think of candy for my daughters. If the amount of treats your Pug is rivals the actual food, in quantity, you should reconsider or at least re calculate it. If you are using kibble both at meals and as treats for training, and your stubborn Pug ends up consuming a lot of treats, just take it off the next meal. The same goes for snacks. They should be a part of the total daily feeding and not extra. How long can a pug go without eating? An adult Pug can probably survive many days without food, but no Pug would stand for it. Unless your Pug has a medical condition, he will surely let you know he is hungry. Do make sure that your Pug is not deprived of fresh drinking water at all times. More so if the weather is hot and if he is on a dry food diet and has no other source of hydration. What if my Pug is overweight? Pugs love to eat and have a tendency to eat too much. A chubby Pug is very cute, but at some point, it becomes a health issue. Overweight Pugs may suffer from a wide range of conditions and or aggravate others. Conclusion Food is an important part of your Pugs life and will directly affect his health and well-being. Do make sure you know what your Pug is eating, the quality as well as the quantities. Actually, yes. This is an actual condition called Eye Displacement or Proptosis. It is not a common occurrence but with extreme trauma or circumstances it may happen. In most cases the condition is treatable. More on the condition here… Are Pugs Loving? Pugs have been bred as companion dogs for over two thousand years. Being with people is almost in their DNA. So yes, Pugs love to cuddle, snuggle and just be in contact or as close as they can to their human friends. More on Pug Love here. Still, you may discover information about how much to feed a Pug puppy here if you were unaware of the specifics before. Pugs are very food-motivated and will do just about anything for a tasty treat. Unfortunately, pugs gain weight as fast as any other dog breed. You are, supposedly, what you eat. The pug is a little dog, so even a slight increase in weight might be noticeable. Because of their tiny stature and low activity levels, pug pups have a lower caloric need than puppies of other breeds. Because of their unique nutritional needs, small-breed puppies should be fed food that has been developed particularly for them. Furthermore, make sure the puppy food you choose has all the nutrients it needs, and ask your physician for recommendations on how much and how often to feed the puppy. By the age of three to four weeks, you may begin feeding your puppy solid food. Mix equal parts of puppy chow and milk replacer as a first step. Give a little bit teaspoons many times a day. Weaning off of milk and onto solid food is complete when a pug puppy reaches this age. Independence from their mother and siblings and other littermates may begin to emerge. Puppies may start interacting socially and maturing rapidly at this age. Water should be kept fresh at all times. This is a good age to start teaching children to use the restroom without assistance. At this age, pug pups are full of energy and wonder. As they become older, puppies often become more receptive to training and socializing. There may be a period of boundary testing when they need constant guidance in training and socializing. Baby teeth may start falling out and adult teeth emerging in puppies. Proper potty training should have been completed. They may begin to express themselves more openly and build their own identities. Get started on the changeover to puppy food for adult dogs. They may test limits and need ongoing socialization and discipline. Make sure they get lots of exercise to keep their weight in check. Their interests and preferences in playthings and other pursuits may become more clearly defined. Maintain a high volume of physical activity and intellectual challenge. Pug pups achieve their full size at this point, however they may continue to gain weight. As puppies become older, they often become more devoted to their families and develop stronger bonds with them. The amount they eat should be adjusted based on their weight. At reaching adulthood, pugs often slow down and spend more time lounging. They may set in their ways, but they can still be taught new tricks with enough repetition. Aging symptoms in adult pugs include the development of gray hair and a general slowing down of activity. Understanding Pug Puppy Nutritional Needs Depending on factors including their age, weight, and level of activity, the calorie needs of Pug puppies might change over time. Pug puppies, on the whole, may need anything from to calories each day. The food of a Pug puppy should consist of between 22 and 25 percent protein, since this is the macronutrient most crucial for promoting healthy muscle and tissue development. Consuming between 8 and 10 percent of their calories from fat is recommended for optimal health and energy levels. To maintain a healthy skin and coat, they need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well. High-quality commercial puppy chow designed for pups is what you should be feeding your Pug. The growth and development of pug pups may be supported by feeding them multiple little meals throughout the day. Feeding them three to four times a day till they are roughly six months old is the norm. To figure out how often and how much to feed your Pug puppy, talk to your vet. Having access to clean water at all times is also crucial. Puppies of the Pug breed need three meals every day. For ages 8 weeks to 6 months, try to stick to this schedule for feedings. As soon as your Pug reaches 6 months of age, you may begin reducing the number of times each day it is fed to twice. Kibble is practical since it may aid in the prevention of tartar accumulation and can be stored easily. Yet, the added moisture provided by wet foods may aid in the fight against dehydration and support efficient digestion. Wet food may have a better texture and flavor for certain Pug pups, while kibble may be a better choice for others. You should talk to your vet about what kind of food and how often you should feed your Pug puppy. Yet the specific time might vary from dog to dog based on their nutritional requirements. To prevent stomach trouble, the change should be made slowly over the course of a few weeks. Puppy anorexia may be caused by several things, including sickness, dental issues, stress, and dietary or habit changes. In the meanwhile, you may try introducing a new kind of food or moistening their normal kibble with a little quantity of wet food or broth to pique their interest. Do not feed your Pug puppy any human food or table scraps since this might cause gastric discomfort and other health issues. Pugs have a tendency toward becoming overweight and overeating, which may lead to a host of medical complications. Instead, you should make sure your Pug puppy is receiving the right quantity of food by sticking to a regular feeding schedule and controlling portions. This may improve general conduct and aid in the process of teaching toilet independence. This formula is designed for purebred Pugs. Little dogs with short muzzles may easily pick up and chew the kibble design. This meal supports Pug immunological, skin, and digestive health with antioxidants and important nutrients. Supports digestive health 2. Calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins strengthen bones and teeth in this specifically prepared combination. Vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants for immune system, Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for skin and hair No corn, wheat, soy, or chicken or poultry by-product meal Cons May contain artificial flavors 3. This puppy chow supports strong muscles and a healthy heart by starting with high-quality protein. Antioxidants and natural glucosamine will maintain his joints for a lifetime of sports. Pros Protein-rich chicken is the first ingredient DHA aids puppy brain and visual development Four antioxidants boost immunity Omega-6, vitamins, and minerals for skin and coat No artificial flavors or preservatives. Best Dog Foods for Pugs Choosing the right dog food for a Pug is essential as this will ensure that it gets proper nutrition. However, this can be challenging and time-consuming, considering that there is a lot to choose from. Whether you choose to feed your Pug commercial, homemade food, or raw food, make sure that they are of good quality and recommended by a trusted veterinarian. Proper nutrition is one of the factors that affect their lifespan. Below is a list of the best dog food choices for your Pug: Dry Food: One of the best options for Pugs is dry dog food as it is widely available, cheap, and has a long shelf life. These are packed with all the nutrients essential for your Pug. Wet Food: Wet dog food is another good option for Pugs. Its flavor and texture make it more appealing to Pugs than dry food. Wet food contains fewer grains, making it healthier and easier to digest. However, wet canned food has a shorter shelf life and should be consumed immediately after opening. Wet foods are also more expensive than dry foods. Homemade Food: Your Pug may benefit from cooked food consisting of chicken, eggs, fish, rice, and vegetables. The process is time-consuming, but it is less expensive and more convenient in the long run, especially if you plan on giving them a grain-free diet. Raw Food: Raw food diet for most Pugs results in better digestion, healthy skin, and a stronger immune system in Pugs. Mixing any of the aforementioned food choices is also good. Hence, you may want to try dog food alternatives to fit your budget. With their sensitive little stomachs, some foods can be poisonous, cause allergic reactions, and can even be lethal. Below is a list of food that you should completely avoid feeding to your Pug: Alcohol: Any amount of alcohol is hazardous for Pugs. Pugs do not have the enzyme to metabolize alcohol. Ingestion can cause hypoglycemia , metabolic acidosis , breathing problems, and central nervous system CNS impairment. Avocado: Avocado contains persin , a fungicidal toxin that has been linked to the death of many animals, including Pugs. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart damage in large quantities. As a result, even small amounts of chocolate can cause poisoning. Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins contain tartaric acid , which causes vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and kidney failure among Pugs. Unfortunately, even one whole grape can cause irreversible damage and death in small breeds like Pugs. Macadamia nuts and walnuts: While the exact reason why they are poisonous is unknown, it is best to avoid giving them to your Pugs entirely. In Pugs, macadamia and walnuts can cause diarrhea, weakness, breathing problems, and pancreatitis. Onion, garlic, leeks, and chives: All these vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide , which damages the oxygen-carrying substances in red blood cells. Ingestion of these vegetables can eventually lead to hemolytic anemia. Xylitol: In Pugs, xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia, lethargy, collapse, and seizures. It is frequently found in gums, candies, syrups, and toothpaste. Pugs should avoid the foods listed above at all costs. Food with high sugar content: If your Pug consumes too much sugar, it is more likely to develop health problems such as diabetes, obesity, and tooth decay. Food with high sugar content can also give Pugs an upset stomach. Salty food: Just like sugar, too much salt can cause health problems in Pugs. If left unchecked, it has the potential to poison your Pug. Excessive salt consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and kidney failure. Milk and dairy products: Because the majority of Pugs are lactose intolerant , dairy products can make them sick. They will have digestive problems because they are unable to break down lactose. This causes gastrointestinal blockage and death if left unattended. If you think your Pug has accidentally ingested any of the aforementioned foods, bring your dog to the nearest veterinary clinic for appropriate treatment. Transitioning to a new brand or type of food may be beneficial to their well-being and development. For most dogs, transitioning to new dog food can be difficult. Fortunately, Pugs are not born picky eaters, so changing their diet will be easier. The ideal transition for Pugs should be gradual changes spread over three weeks. Do this until they are comfortable with the new food. Below is a more detailed breakdown of how to transition your Pug to a new food: Days. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. This feeding routine should be followed from 8 weeks to 6 months old. But how much food should that be exactly in each feeding session. How many cups of food should I feed my Pug puppy and adults? Before you check out this Pug feeding chart below, you may just want a quick reference to how many cups of food you need to feed a Pug. The common guidelines say you should feed a Pug puppy of 8 to 20 weeks different cup sizes depending on their weight and age. You can see the cup amounts in the chart here: Puppy feeding amounts This Pug puppy feeding chart explains just how many cups of food you should give them and the regularity. It will be 3 times a day, then twice a day as they get older. As your Pug ages, the number of cups of food you need to him or her will change, as will the regularity. Take a look at the guidance in the graphic below. Adult feeding amounts This is feeding chart for adult Pugs explaining how many cups and how often in the day the feeding times should be. The Pug feeding charts you see above have been scanned from the Royal Canin brand of dog food. This is a very trusted brand, and you will find it being sold in vets all over the world. It contains all the nutrients your Pug puppy will need and is great for starting out with and into adult ages. Almost every time, this happens by the age of 3 weeks; and puppies should not leave their mother until at least 8 weeks of age. They will be like eating machines at this age because they have so much energy to burn. You could also try to sit your Pug down on some scales, but good luck with trying to make them sit still. Instead you can weigh yourself if you have accurate scales, and then get someone to pass you your Pug puppy to see what the difference is. The age of your Pug You might find it hard to get your Pug used to commercial dry food at first. The commercial puppy food should be high enough in calories and nutrients to make up for what they used to get from their mother. In terms of adjusting for their ages, Pug puppies of 8 to 12 weeks old can have one and half cups of food each day, split into 3 servings. By the ages of 6 to 9 months, Pug puppies will be in a regular eating routine where they drop to two meals a day — and this is how it will stay as adults. The dangers of over-feeding Some Pug owners might decide to go to 4 meals a day, but still with the same amount of food. This is because tinier Pugs might find the half a cup 3 times daily, too much of a large meal. Overfeeding is something to keep a strict eye on. If you feed your Pug puppy too much, he could get gastric dilatation-volvulus see definition on ACVS. This is the medical term for a twisted gut and can actually be fatal. Feeding more senior Pugs As Pugs get older, they will start to get less active. With reduced levels of energy comes the need for a lower calorie intake. But only if they are reducing their exercise due to age. With an older Pug you might start to see them putting on weight. If you do see weight gain, start to pull back on the portion sizes. Sometimes your vet may even recommend you go to a higher frequency of daily meals albeit smaller portions , almost like they are puppies again. With senior dogs this can help with weaker stomachs. Overweight or underweight? The average Pug puppy will weigh between 2 and 4 pounds at 8 weeks. These are healthy weight ranges. If you do have a Pug puppy who is clearly underweight, start to add a little bit more food to each of the daily meals until they come back into the health weight range. With overweight Pugs you do the exact opposite but mix more exercise into their daily routines as well. Handy Hint: If your Pug is losing or gaining weight and how much food they eat makes no difference, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Health problems related to Pug feeding Not all dogs are the same, and all the guidance on this page is very generic towards how much you should feed a Pug. The bottom line is that your vet will be able to properly tell you how much your Pug should eat due to their age and weight. Raw food vs. I understand why people feed their dog raw food though; they say commercial food has too many additives plus preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and proteins. Consult with your vet for a professional opinion. Pugs that eat their food far too quickly You should also monitor how quickly your Pug is eating. Puppies are used to having to compete for food, and even when they are home alone with you, they will still have an instinct to wolf their food down. This can cause indigestion and vomiting, so there are a few things you can do to slow their intake down. Use a muffin tin evenly spread the portions throughout the tin. The best dry dog foods should have a high percentage of meats and fish in. Omega-3s are healthy fats, so those will also be a good sign if listed. All of the notes and guidance are based on my own personal experience of raising puppies, with exception to the feeding schedule which is from the Canin dog food brand. However, the Canin Pug feeding charts you see, are exactly how I have fed my puppies and adult dogs. Once your dog reaches adulthood, the best times to feed your Pug will be breakfast and dinner times. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Pug will stay at healthy as our dogs have! You might also like… If you have found this useful and are new to Pug ownership, you might find these other handy guides useful during the puppy phase:.

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You can enjoy all the unique qualities of a Labradoodle in your own home. Why Choose Us? We do our best to ensure your Labradoodle puppy is cared for before you take them home. We provide quality nutrition and necessary shots to keep your future friend healthy and growing strong. Plus, on our property, all our puppies have ample room to explore and run around, which gives them plenty of exercise. Our puppies also receive countless hours of socialization with other puppies as well as with us to ensure they are as friendly as possible. Look t hrough our available Labradoodle puppies today to find your forever friend. Hello and Thank you for visiting Brookside! We breed puppies for Excellence, with Wonderful Temperaments and Superior Health being our top priorities! All our puppies are born and expertly raised inside our home. We are a small family in home breeder of Australian Labradoodles in Sacramento California. We have a passion for our puppies! Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are from parents that have been tested to the highest level for superior temperament, health and structure. We are very proud of our allergy-friendly, non-shedding Labradoodle puppies that make wonderful family companions! We strive for and specialize in puppies with Therapy Quality Temperaments. Our Mama dogs come to our home to deliver and raise their puppies until the weaning process is appropriately completed. Your puppy will come with a 2 year health warranty, pedigree, Veterinarian exam, shot record and will be micro-chipped. In addition, we provide a lifetime of support for all our Brookside Labradoodle puppy Families. Labradoodle puppies for sale in California and Nation Wide. We are proud of each and every one of our Health tested Labradoodles! We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Sacramento California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. We breed, show and sell Australian Labradoodles , Goldendoodles and Poodles. Valencia Poodles specializes in breeding healthy, beautiful, happy and smart puppies. At Valencia Poodles , we work with a small group of breeders that home raise their puppies to produce puppies that are well socialized, that are bred for temperament, and conform to the breed standard. We specialize in Australian Labradoodles, Goldendoodles and Poodles. We offer a one year health guarantee. We are devoted to our puppies and we treat each and every one as if they were going to be ours for life. Because of our dedication to our babies, you can be confident that you will go home with a beautiful puppy that is right for you. Valencia Poodles has been breeding and loving Australian Labradoodle puppies since .As a top-rated Labradoodle breeder, the Labradoodle dogs live in our home or with a guardian and are part of our family. Australian Labradoodles are funny, intelligent, loving, playful, eager to learn, and fun. They love people and are good with children of all ages. Our Labradoodles are available to people who love to have new puppies. Contact us today to learn more about our wonderful Australian Labradoodles. Standing around 15 and 19 inches tall and around 25 to 30 pounds, they are a perfect size for any size family. You will find their temperament to be gentle, loyal and very sociable. We consider them to great family dogs since they are not known as an aggressive breed. They are natural quick learners and relatively easy to train. Most owners are extremely happy with their Australian Labradoodles since they are known to be on to low shedders. Past Australian Labradoodles Litter Submit Application About Australian Labradoodles Australian Labradoodles naturally have the traits that make them the perfect breed for a high-quality, loving family companion. Our Labradoodles are as smart as poodles, and are able to learn and remember many words and they have fantastic looking coats that are non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Sacramento CA? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Sacramento CA. Australian Labradoodles are different from American Labradoodles because they have six parent breeds instead of two. How can I find a Labradoodle for sale in Sacramento at Uptown? Then get ready because you could be meeting your adorable new puppy very soon! If I search for Labradoodle puppies in Sacramento now, will I find any? The Sacramento Labradoodle breeders and companies in our network have a lot of litters to choose from. Do the Labradoodle breeders in Sacramento here provide puppies in good health? All the Labradoodle breeders Sacramento here ensure that you know what you are getting with your new puppy. Does a Labradoodle need more than one walk a day? A walk of about half an hour or so is normally fine, and these dogs do not have huge exercise requirements like some other breeds. If that sounds like what you want, start looking for Labradoodle puppies Sacramento and find your new dog today! Why should I use Uptown to find Labradoodle puppies for sale in Sacramento? What is the best food to give my Labradoodle? You may need to try a few different types of dog food when you get your Labradoodle until you find one that he or she likes. However, the most important thing to keep in mind is that the food you give to your dog should be healthy and nutritious. Ask your vet about dog food and find out if they have a recommendation. Do purebred dogs differ much from mixed breed dogs? Yes, purebred dogs are bred to meet very specific standards and have a documented pedigree. Mixed-breed dogs, on the other hand, have more than one parent breed. Neither is better or worse than the other, and it all depends on what you want. If you want to find a Labradoodle for sale Sacramento, start here today! Do Sacramento Labradoodles for sale shed at all? This is true of Australian Labradoodles rather than American Labradoodles. They have been bred over a number of decades for this trait, and it makes them particularly suitable for people with allergies. Can I get a Labradoodle if I live in a small apartment? There is no problem with getting a Labradoodle if you live in a small home, and they are happy wherever they are near their owners. They have perfect personalities for apartments.

Phone lines open everyday from 8. We're a happy, friendly team and would love you to come and visit us at the centre to see our fantastic facilities and all the waggy tails of our doggy guests. We can care for up to 55 dogs in our 37 kennels, and we make sure our residents get plenty of enrichment in our training barn, and walking areas. We also have a garden with a log cabin, and an on-site vet room. By public transport: Nearest train station is West Calder , which is a short five-minute drive away. There are no bus links from the station to the rehoming centre but taxis operate at a very reduced rate within two miles of the centre. Call to book a taxi. The centre is also 20 minutes from Edinburgh Airport. By road: Parking available on site. Local supporter relations If you are interested in donating In Memory, have questions about our Canine Care Card service, leaving a Legacy or if you would like to book a guest speaker for your Community Group, then please get in touch with your local Supporter Relations Officer Danielle McNally , or call on .Supporting us Donate your pre-loved items. Signage outside will make it clear where you can drop off your donations. We rely on your kind support to continue our vital work, please donate today. French bulldogs are a breed usually associated with breathing problems A faulty gene might explain why some dogs develop poor breathing. Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have discovered a DNA mutation linked to breathing problems in popular dog breeds. Breathing difficulties are most often associated with flat-faced breeds, such as French bulldogs and pugs. But the team found the mutation is also carried by Norwich terriers, which have proportional noses. Researchers at The Roslin Institute, which is part of the university, say the findings shift our understanding of breathing issues which afflict some dogs. They suggest that, while skull shape remains a risk factor, fluid retention in the tissue that lines the airways could also make it more likely that dogs with the mutation will develop breathing problems. French bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK but underneath their prized features can lie a life-threatening health problem. The breed - and others such as English bulldogs and pugs - is commonly affected by a condition called Bracycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS - which leaves dogs gasping for breath. Scientists had thought their short faces were the only explanation for their breathing problems. However, Norwich Terriers, suffer from a similar breathing problem called upper airway syndrome despite having proportional noses. Vets also carried out clinical examinations of the dogs to check their airways for signs of disease. The researchers pinpointed a DNA mutation in a gene called ADAMTS3, which is not linked to skull shape and has previously been found to cause fluid retention and swelling. The mutated version of the gene was also common in French and English bulldogs, which may help to explain why some dogs of these breeds develop breathing problems and complications after surgery to treat them. The clinic's senior specialist surgeon Dr Jon Hall said "This discovery is a step change in our understanding of upper airway problems in dogs, which we hope will allow us to identify dogs at greater risk of catastrophic airway swelling before it happens. These events are a very important part of our charity. All monies raised go directly towards the upkeep of the dogs and helps to ensure that the Second Chance Kennels are maintained adequately for the job. If you think you can help in any way with our events, please contact us. We really appreciate it. We are in need of donations for the Tombola, anything is suitable believe me we have even had roller skates in the past as long as it is new so get clearing out those cupboards for unwanted xmas and birthday presents! We will be having try a go agility and flyball along with our Dog Show and various other surprises along the way! We would like to thank them for thinking about us. It is very much appreciated. It was very kind of them all to donate and we are very grateful. Very busy thanks to everyone who came along and supported us on the day we really appreciated it. Great to see so many of our past residents. To all our wonderful volunteers we couldn't have done it without you. Which will go a long way to help our work here at Second Chance. She stays at Lomond Hills near Falkland. Pat has even named a wee dog for us she called her Lucy which really suits the wee one. We all had such a lovely time chatting it was good to see them.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Do further research into these local German Shepherd breed clubs in your area. Whether you get information from their websites or contact them directly for help, local breed clubs are a great way to get the names of reputable breeders in your area. Veterinarians come into contact with a lot of different types of animal care-givers, from breeders to shelters to individual owners. Because they know so much about animal issues in the community, it's a good idea to talk to a few vets in your area for ethical breeder recommendations. Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they've had good or bad experiences with. A good breeder won't have a variety of breeds available for adoption. Look for a breeder who specializes only in German Shepherds. Your best option is to find a breeder who has years of experience with the German Shepherd breed. They should be able to answer your questions about development, temperament, and training easily and without hesitation. A key marker of a good breeder is the amount of effort they put into early socialization. Puppies need to be taught from an early age to live harmoniously with humans. If a breeder keeps litters isolated away from the home, the puppies will not be used to the sights and sounds of a normal household, and won't be used to human interaction. This can become a problem by the time they are old enough to be adopted. Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders' home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder. An ethical breeder will never try to breed a female who hasn't reached sexual maturity — about 2 years of age. Mothers should also be given enough time to recover from pregnancies and being separated from their litters as they get adopted. Females should be healthy and alert. Never adopt a puppy from a breeder who breeds a young or unhealthy female, or who doesn't give mothers time to recover before breeding them again. Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. The breeder should have begun the puppies' vaccination and deworming processes before adopting them out. Make sure that's happened, and ask about any health problems the vet may have reported in these early checkups. Ask if the breeders have their dogs tested for the Degenerative Myelopathy DM gene. This can determine whether a common inherited disease in German Shepherds is present in the litter's bloodline. Dogs with DM suffer from progressive paralysis, particularly in the hind legs. Note that being AKC-registered does not mean that you are getting a healthy animal. It means that the owner paid money to the AKC to register the dog. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there's no guarantee of health in any animal. There's always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems. The breeder should be evaluating you as a potential owner, just as you're evaluating him or her as a breeder. No good breeder will just hand over a puppy without being sure that the new owners will be able to provide it with a good, healthy life. Ask the breeder what they look for in a good owner, and whether they've ever turned potential owners away. The breeder should be able to answer these questions without even having to think about it. You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters. A reputable breeder should ask questions about your dog background and experience, your lifestyle, and your family to guide you in making the best decision. As difficult as it may be, a good breeder will be willing to turn you away if they think you're a bad fit for their particular puppies. For example, if the litter has particularly inactive parents, the puppies may not be a good fit for your highly active lifestyle. If you get turned away, ask if the breeder can point you to other options and litters so you can expand your search. Also ask if they have any unborn litters coming up that may be a better fit for you. Be patient and don't get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you'll find the right puppy. Don't lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder's decision-making process. You don't want to end up with a dog who doesn't fit your needs. Avoid any breeder who offers to cut you a "deal," who has unclean or smelly kennels, or who acts suspiciously in any way. Trust your instincts. A breeder who's in it just for the money has the wrong motivation, and likely isn't interested in the welfare of their dogs. Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn't been cleaned recently. If a breeder doesn't have a return policy, it suggests they don't really care what happens to their dogs once they leave their property. That's not a good sign! Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers? Negotiate for what you want if it's not included in the contract. Be very wary of a breeder who will not discuss the chance that a puppy may need to be returned. Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What does the breeder agree to offer? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings or even bans about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science? Are you at home to devote time and training to their growth? What open space environment is your home? German Shepherds are on the no dog list in apartment buildings. Do you have a family with other pets? Also, a good breeder will ask you why do you want this particular breed? The breeder should be concerned that a German Shepherd puppy is being placed within the best living environment. Here are some insights to help you bring home the perfect German Shepherd puppy: Types of German Shepherd Puppies Pure-bred German Shepherd puppies are available in a variety of colors and built. The typical description is light brown and black. Black: Rare and beautiful. Their coloring is either all black or a deep dark bluish hair tint. Panda: their coloring consists of black, white, and tan. This is their natural coloring, not contributed to being a mixed breed. Sable: A unique coloring of this breed consists of light black, grey, tan, or gold. As puppies, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are fully tan. As they age, fur begins to develop stronger natural colors. White: No, this German Shepherd breed is not due to albino coloring. Though rate, white is their natural coloring. This German Shepherd puppy will be smaller in size, whether male or female. The reason for this question is that German Shepherds are intelligent and engaging breeds. They can be trained to thrive in any situation and climate. Their ability to cope in any situation is amazing. German Shepherds make great companions, protective family pets, and they are hard workers. Knowing how to choose a German Shepherd puppy, you are wondering what things you should look for. In other words, you are looking to see if it has a good temperament. German Shephard puppies demand and exhibit affection rather aggressively. Parental Traits If you are choosing a puppy from a kennel or a breeder, inquire about its parental background. You want to know if both parents were healthy and friendly. Carefully Examine the Puppy You want to look again for a puppy that is active and healthy. To choose the best German Shepherd puppy, you must become an amateur canine detective and examine the puppy closely. Here are things to look for: A German Shepherd puppy should not look thin. Instead, they should look full-bodied. Their eyes should appear bright and clear. Also, you must invade their personal space by examining their butt area to make sure it is clean. Their nose should be clean and not runny. Their teeth and gums look healthy. Their hair coat should not have bald spots and should not be matted. Your German Shepherd puppy should be free from odors. Pick a puppy that has a good gait, and their tail is up and actively wagging. All puppies need their mothers when they are very young. A German Shepherd puppy can be purchased when they are between the ages of eight and twelve weeks old. If you decide on an older puppy, just make sure that it has retained its socialization skills with both people and other animals. Make sure that the puppy has gotten all its vaccinations and deworming medication. However, within 48 hours of purchase, take your German Shepherd puppy to your vet for a complete exam. The Kennel or Breeder Environment Whether you are purchasing your German Shepherd puppy from a kennel or a private seller, look at the conditions of both. How does the kennel look to you? Both kennels and private breeder yards should be clean, and all puppies should have clean water. Please do not buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder where the conditions are unclean. How Instinctive Are You? Many potential dog-owners state that they knew that this was the one when they first saw their puppy. We all have instincts; therefore, you will know what the right buying environment is when you look at the puppies. If you get a feeling that something is not right, leave and find a different breeder. When you purchase your German Shepherd puppy and bring that bundle of joy home, you want to feel confident that you have made the best decision. After all, the relationship with your German Shepherd puppy can last easily for up to thirteen years. Male vs. Female German Shepherd There are many people who only choose a German Shepherd puppy because of their gender or appearance. What is most important in purchasing any puppy is their physical and mental stability. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. Please perform thorough breeder research so that you can choose the right German Shepherd puppy that will fit into your living lifestyle for years to come. Do you want to select a female puppy for future breeding? If not, both your male and female German Shepherd puppy should be spayed and neutered. Female German Shepherds are found to have a sweeter temperament than their male counterparts. Male German Shepherds are more territorial. They also are a little more stubborn and proud. Male German Shepherds are generally larger than their female counterparts. The male can grow to a height range of up to 26 inches. Meanwhile, the female can grow to a height of up to 24 inches tall. Their weight will range from a full-bodied 75 to 95 pounds. When you are trying to decide whether to purchase a male vs. They make excellent watchdogs. Socialize Therefore, if you are going to be around other individuals each day, your German Shepherd puppy must be trained to accept people outside their family unit. Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to strangers so that they will feel comfortable in front of people. By introducing them to strangers, will help them stay calm. They do not like to be left alone for too long. Because they were originally bred for herding, German Shepherds have high energy and thus require physical and mental stimulation. Make sure you have the time and patience to own a German Shepherd puppy. In patiently taking time with their active habits, it will work out to your benefit. They become loyal and loving breeds, especially when raised in a family setting. Remember the TV show Dog Whisperer? The host always referred to a dog requiring a pack leader. German Shepherds must learn that you are the pack leader. If not, they will take the dominant lead, and this is not good. They must be trained and actively exercised to be happy. German Shepherds love to explore and investigate everything. If you live in an area where there are porcupines, lookout. Young German Shepherd puppies will probably come home with quills all over their body. Well, you would be wrong. A German Shepherd puppy will want to correct this wrong and approach another porcupine! Grooming a German Shepherd puppy is simple and easy. Yes, they do shed year-round, so brush them occasionally. But mostly keep their nails trimmed, their teeth and ears cleaned. Dog breeders believe that to help your new German Shepherd puppy adjust from a litter to your new home, they should be crate trained. They need to feel safe and comfortable. Crate training is a learning experience for a German Shepherd puppy, but it eventually helps them get used to a family who perhaps must go off to work every day. Further Reading. Of course, you have already read a lot of books with advice on how to choose the right puppy of a German Shepherd, east European, as well as a Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Spaniel, or Spitz puppy. You understand what is the fundamental difference between these breeds and why a Retriever puppy will never become a VIP bodyguard, and a black terrier will hardly ever pass for a draft husky. Why Opting For a German Shepherd Puppy Is a Good Choice The German Shepherd is prone to learning from a very young to deep old age, while many other breeds cannot boast of this, even if their appearance is more perfect than that of a German Shepherd. The most well-known characteristics that a German Shepherd owns are: pronounced protective and guarding instinct; the ability to make independent decisions, and active actions, and at the same time be completely submissive to the owner; sociability, playfulness, and curiosity; lack of aggression signs towards others and deep affection for the owner; a willingness to happily take on tasks, learn, and remain completely fearless when faced with unfamiliar surroundings or unforeseen difficulties; In addition, the Shepherd dog is calmly confident and features strong nerves, combativeness, and assertiveness which are the main qualities of a good service dog. Perhaps, due to this set of breed characteristics, few larger and more ferocious breeds can compete with a GS, both for guarding the house and as a personal protector. It is not recommended to take puppies under 4 weeks old from their mother. This applies not only to GSs but other breeds. At the age of one month, the baby has already been given all the necessary vaccinations. However, only a person who can devote a lot of time to raising a puppy can afford to take a Shepherd at such a young age. In addition to 6 meals a day, and socialization, the new owner will need to complete 1, different tasks, which require, above all, a lot of time. If there is no time, it is worth finding a puppy aged 4 to 6 months. And it is advisable to take such a teenager from a nursery that focuses on breeding German Shepherds and not all the breeds at once. It happens that a puppy stays in the nursery because the money deposit was given for it but, for some reason, people could not pick up the reserved puppy. If the grown-up German Shepherd puppy constantly lived in an aviary and was deprived of close contact with people and the outside world, owners who have not previously dealt with this breed should not choose such a youngster. These young dogs are for experienced cinologysts. Lack of socialization can be corrected but it cannot be fully eliminated. Testing for the Puppy and Its Future Owner You may already know how to choose a purebred German Shepherd by external signs under the age of 3 months. Simple tests will help you choose a puppy with the desired character. Visit the breeder at a predetermined time when the puppies do not sleep or, conversely, are not hungry. You are taking a future friend for life, and enthusiastic emotions with such a choice are inappropriate. When buying a new friend, inspect the litter meticulously. Pay attention to the following: eyes do not water; traces of diarrhea under the tails are not observed; wet noses are without purulent crusts; legs are straight and strong; fur is clean, reminding of the plush; on the skin under the coat, there are no signs of peeling and scabs; all puppies are active and well-fed; the body is elastic and strong to the touch; the puppy has a pleasant dog smell; the mother is not exhausted; bowls and bedding are clean; there is enough heat and light. Of course, the owner of the dog mother has already taken her to the next room. Those who paid attention to the unusual sound are yours. Throw carefully, of course a tennis ball at the puppies. Those who were not afraid and did not try to escape are yours. Those who, having scouted the situation, did not begin to whine , pressing themselves onto the floor, but hurried towards the bedding are yours. Pay attention to those who have shown interest in a new object. The best are those who took and dragged it. Keys and money are the dirtiest household items. This testing method was used 20 years ago. Today, it is dangerous for the health of puppies! Invite those who dragged the rubber duck to pull a piece of fabric. If the baby dog willingly starts the fight, not letting the cloth go when you pull it towards you, they are good boys or girls. Turn the puppy you like on its back and hold it with an open palm for a few seconds. A clear alpha leader is easy to identify by its non-calming behavior for seconds, and even trying to bite you in this position. It may not be your choice! You will get too many problems associated with the puppy, or it will never be possible to completely subdue it. The puppy that squealed, pulled back its paw, and did not lose its interest in you is yours. The one who barks trying to drive brothers and sisters away from the bowl is not for you. The one who gives up its place at the feeder is also not yours. Yours is the one who, regardless of the obstacles, has taken its place and calmly devours food, without moving from its point, snapping, and running around the bowl. Now, you have at best 2 or 3 puppies left in front of you. You need to select the fat-footed one who will try to get out through the opening without panic and squealing. The tests are simple, but they will allow you to select a good puppy and raise a real working German Shepherd from it without unnecessary costs and nerves. Talk to the breeder. Such puppies are sold at a more reasonable price, but the puppy card for them is mandatory to be filled out as well. If you are given puppies for free, in the absence of their mother, there is a reason to seriously consider whether it is a Shepherd dog at all, even if their mother has pedigree documents. This is not a dog of one owner! The versatility and flexibility of this breed are proven by the fact that GSs accept a new family and a new environment without any problems. The main thing for it is to have its own business — to serve a human! Of course, parting with the former owner seriously affects the condition of the dog, but it will not have a destructive effect on its psyche. And the sooner you engage the German Shepherd in work, the more chances you will have to become a new God for it. If the German Shepherd was properly brought up and grew up surrounded by people, it has working characteristics in good conditions, and the reputation of its previous owner is beyond all questions, such a dog will be quite useful to your family. Finding out the previous story and background of an adult GS why it is refused, what the complaints about its behavior are, and other prompting questions is a must! The reason may be the saddest and most trivial — the previous owner died, and relatives are not able to either support or care for the dog. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. This guide will help you learn how to select the best German Shepherd puppy to add to your family. Is a German Shepherd right for me? This is the first question you should ask yourself before you even consider bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy. You need to evaluate your personal and family lifestyle by asking yourself the following questions: Where do you live? German Shepherds are often on the restricted breed list for apartments. Do you spend much of your time at home, or do you have an active work and social life? Are you willing to spend more time at home on the weekends and evenings during puppyhood, even if it means missing social events? Do you love traveling a lot? If so, will you take your puppy with you? If not, do you have someone or someplace you trust to watch your dog when you travel? Is your whole family excited about the idea of a new German Shepherd puppy? Are you already active or willing to become more active? Do you have time in your schedule to devote to training? Knowing the answers to those questions will help get you a couple of steps closer to deciding whether or not a German Shepherd is the right choice for you. Important things to know about German Shepherds: German Shepherd dogs are sometimes affectionately known as German shedders. German Shepherds shed all year long , however, they blow their coats twice a year during which time they will shed exponentially more. When considering getting this breed, you should be comfortable having a dog that sheds. Trimming their nails , cleaning their ears, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat regularly is sufficient. Of course, during the shedding seasons more frequent brushing will be needed. German Shepherds were originally developed for herding sheep. Accordingly, they have the desire to work and respond best to proper training from a young age, and an active lifestyle. German Shepherds are known to be clingy, so be prepared to have a shadow following you around the house and maybe even in the restroom. German Shepherds are good with kids and are great family dogs. However, they need proper socialization and training at a young age so they can learn how to behave around both kids and adults. German Shepherds require a lot of mental stimulation and have high energy levels, especially as a puppy. As much as I love Allie, she was more than a handful as a puppy. I have seen instances where people underestimate the time, energy, and training a German Shepherd puppy requires and get overwhelmed after bringing their puppy home. These people end up giving up their puppies. It breaks my heart to know these awesome dogs are given up because of a lack of knowledge when selecting a breed of dog. Although they are a handful if you are willing to put in the effort they are in my opinion one of the best breeds of dog to own. German Shepherds are too smart for their own good. They learn things scary fast and sometimes get themselves into trouble because of how smart they are. They learn your routine and habits, and they also learn when and how they can get away with mischief. German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and become very connected to their owners and family. German Shepherds are typically loving and affectionate. From the second I met Allie she greeted me with a wet tongue to the face. That is still her favorite greeting she will kiss anyone that will allow her to get close enough. German Shepherds need training. They need to know that you are the leader and in charge. If not, they will quickly take over the role of being in charge and that is where problems arise. A bored, untrained, not active German Shepherd can become one of the stories you sometimes hear on the news about a GSD being aggressive. In most of those cases, the problem was with the owners and not the dog breed as a whole. Adoption or Breeder? First, you need to decide if you are going to adopt a German Shepherd puppy or buy one from a breeder. Here are some of the benefits of adopting: Rescue puppies are often already sociable, at least partially trained, and loving dogs. Therefore, you will save a lot of time on house training your new puppy. Older puppies or dogs are likely to be calmer than a younger puppy. You are saving the life of a dog that might not have otherwise found a home. The cost of adopting is typically much cheaper than buying a puppy from a breeder. If you decide to get a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, here are a few things that can help you identify a good, ethical German Shepherd breeder: Ethical breeders care about the health and wellbeing of the puppy and are not just in the business for money. Ethical breeders always make sure that only healthy dogs breed together and follow a strict breeding program where they ensure that breeding and puppy spaces are clean. They should also have papers showing the age of the parent and the family tree of the puppy. Ethical breeders will happily show you around their entire setup; they should have nothing to hide. Ethical breeders will happily answer as many questions as you have to ask. You want to select one that will be compatible with you and your family. Consider the following when picking a puppy from the litter: Choose a puppy that is sociable around you and other puppies. Pick a puppy that walks confidently with its head high and tail up and wagging. Choose a puppy that has clear eyes, ears , and teeth, walks evenly, and appears clean. Basically, choose a puppy that looks healthy. Look at the personalities of the puppies. Choose a welcoming puppy that wants to greet you as opposed to one that retreats or appears shy. Ask to interact with each puppy one by one after seeing them with their littermates. That way you can get a better sense of how the puppy responds to you without distractions. If possible, visit the litter at least three times before making a final decision, this will allow you to determine the personalities of each of those little fluff balls, and see which would best fit into your family. How old should a German Shepherd puppy be when you take it home? Any puppy should be at least 8 weeks old before being separated from their mother. By this timeline, their sensory organs will have also developed fully which will help you to spot any deformities or medical issues. Be wary of any breeder that will allow you to take your puppy home before 8 weeks old. How do you puppy proof for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are naturally active and tend to explore the world with their mouths, especially during their adolescent period. So, before you can bring your new puppy home, there are a few things you can do to puppy-proof your house: Get rid of any poisonous plants or put them out of reach of your new puppy. Cover electrical cords with cable wraps or PVC pipes. Buy a new laundry basket that has a lid, no holes, and is tall. Make sure both your kitchen and bathroom trash cans have lids. Your new puppy will dig around for anything to bite, like chicken bones, diapers, used hygienic products, or even a disposable razor. If possible, you should buy new trash cans that only open when a button is pressed. Store all the chemicals in secured cabinets or even better on high shelves. German Shepherd puppies have strong teeth and can open plastic containers by biting through even the toughest of plastic! Put away any small items or toys that are small enough for your puppy to swallow. Think of small kid toys like Legos or dollhouse furniture that could be dangerous for a curious puppy. Find a safe spot for your shoes. Whether in a closed closet or in the laundry room behind a closed door. I remember losing a pair of brand-new shoes because I forgot to put them away and Allie thought chewing them was a fun idea. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy The period of bringing a new German Shepherd puppy home and introducing them to your home and family takes time and above all, patience. If possible, plan to take off work for at least a few days after bringing your puppy home. I picked up Allie on a Saturday, and then took most of the following week off to spend time getting her adjusted to her new home. Remember, your new puppy has been taken from the only family it knew, and you are now their new family. That first week home was a good week of bonding with Allie. It helped her feel comfortable with her new life and allowed me to really get to know my new beautiful energy filled puppy. The best tip for a smooth transition when bringing your German Shepherd puppy home is to begin crate training and potty training as soon as possible. As a breed prone to separation anxiety , you want to give your GSD a zone to feel safe, comfortable, and content to be on their own. While the initial steps of crate training can be time-consuming, it can make the difference between a dog that is a joy to own, and one that can never be left on their own — so, be the dog parent your pooch deserves and put the time in! New German Shepherd puppy checklist and things to buy It is important that your new puppy feels welcomed into their new home. Some items are ok to be left with your puppy, and other items are more dangerous or will be destroyed. This checklist will help you to know what to buy when getting a puppy. New German Shepherd Puppy Checklist. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a German Shepherd puppy is what their personality and temperament are like. German Shepherds are just like people. They each have their own personalities, and some are able to get along with other dogs better than others. In fact, how your German Shepherd puppy interacts with other dogs and people will mostly come down to their individual personality. This will mean that your German Shepherd puppy will need less training, and a lot of your interactions with one another will come more naturally. The best puppy for your home may not be the biggest, prettiest dog in the litter! How to get started Before you can worry about choosing the best German Shepherd puppy for your home, you will need to find a breeder. You will need to opt for a German Shepherd breeder who has a good reputation. So you will need to do your research to find the right breeder for your needs. You may even need to travel a fair way to find the perfect breeder. Even if your German Shepherd breeder is located several states away, it will be worth the trip. If you put in the right amount of time and effort now, it should pay dividends throughout the next few years. Here are a few handy tips to help you find the right breeder to buy a German Shepherd puppy from. Talk to your German Shepherd breeder One of the first things you should do is to give the German Shepherd breeder a call. You may be surprised to learn that quality breeders will actually require this to ensure that the puppy is going to a good home. They may not be as interested in the health of the puppy and their new home as they should be, and are more concerned about making a profit from their dogs. The breeder will want to ensure that you have the right space to accommodate your German Shepherd puppy. Have you got any kids? Training your new puppy and giving them the right amount of socialization will be essential for keeping your family safe. Do you have a fenced outdoor space? Your puppy will need to have a good amount of room so they can run around and play. They will need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Why do you want a German Shepherd? The breeder will want to know what purpose you want a German Shepherd puppy for. It could be as a pet, for added protection, or to show competitively. Do you have any other pets? This will be an important factor as you will need to know how to introduce your new puppy to other animals. It will also be crucial to know if you have any other pets which could pose a danger to the puppy. What do you do for a living? If you have to work away for long periods of time so that your puppy is left alone for large portions of the day, the breeder will want to know this. Can you afford the financial responsibility of this puppy? Dogs are a financial commitment. This may seem like too much of a personal question, however, it will be important to establish that you can properly care for your new dog. Questions you can ask your breeder There are far too many unethical breeders around. Some irresponsible breeders will take shortcuts when it comes to breeding, which will leave you with dogs who have behavioral and health issues. Do you raise other breeds of dog? This can show you whether they have been bred from healthy dogs. Have you got any references? A good quality breeder should be able to give you these easily enough. Have you got a pedigree for the puppies? This is essentially a family tree of the puppies. A good quality breeder should be able to produce the proper lineage of your new puppy when asked. If the breeder attempts to charge you for this, or says they will give it to you another time, be very wary. Every breeder worth their salt will give you this guarantee as a written contract. How often do you breed your females in a single year? This will allow them to properly recover from giving birth, and help to maintain great health. Have you got a detailed medical history for the puppies? A reputable breeder should be able to give you proof of any health screenings that their puppies have had. This is essential for healthy dogs. Could you explain to me if German Shepherds have any health issues they may suffer from as adults? Puppies should never be taken home if they are less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in America have laws to prevent this from happening. There are several laws which dictate how old a puppy needs to be before it can be adopted or sold. There are only 3 which actually allow puppies to be sold under 8 weeks old: D. These laws are in place for a reason. This is to ensure that all puppies have been properly weaned from their mothers and that they are able to eat without help. Puppies will also need to have been properly socialized before they can leave their mothers. Their mothers and siblings can help to socialize the puppy properly. Most of the behavioral problems in adult dogs can be traced back to this lack of discipline and not having been socialized properly. To make sure that you have a healthy puppy, you will need to choose a puppy that is being sold in accordance with the laws of their state. This will mean buying a puppy that is at least 8 weeks old, if not older. Even if you happen to find a puppy in D. Male or female puppy Perhaps you already have a preference for the gender of your puppy. You will need to understand that the two genders actually have distinct differences. Here are a few things for you to consider to help you make a fully informed choice. Female German Shepherds 1. Physical appearance Typically, female German Shepherds will be much smaller than males. They will also have a less muscular stature. Dominance A female dog will display less behavioral dominance than a male dog will. Family bonding Female German Shepherds are more likely to bond with the whole family rather than a single individual. Territorial A female German Shepherd will be much less territorial than a male dog will be. Male German Shepherds Male dogs will tend to be much larger than females. They are also more muscular. Dominance Males will display a lot more dominance than females. Single person bonding A male German Shepherd is more likely to bond very closely with a single person instead of a whole family. Territorial A male German Shepherd is more likely to be territorial. This means they could be more likely to wander off in an attempt to expand their home turf. Possessive These males tend to be on the more possessive side than their female counterparts. This could be over their food, their favorite toys, or even you. It will be important to give them correct training to teach them not to be aggressive towards you. They should be able to socialize better with others, too. But the best way to find out if your prospective puppy will be the right fit for your home is to do some proactive investigating. This can also be a great indicator of their future behavior, too. You should never force the interaction. If the puppy is reluctant to come near you and interact with you, then you will be better off choosing a different pup. Tests for your German shepherd puppy 1. Eye contact When you look directly at your puppy, does it look back at you? If your puppy stares back at you, this is showing confidence. If your puppy avoids eye contact then it may be anxious, scared, or have a vision issue. Clapping your hands This can indicate how social your puppy is. If it comes towards you and tries to interact with you, this is a great sign. This shows that the dog is eager to socialize with people. Call out to the puppy Do they come towards you at the sound of your voice? This is a fantastic sign. Pet the dog It will be important to note how the puppy interacts with your physical touch. If the puppy is affectionate and loving, this will be another great sign. If they bite or growl at you, this will likely be an indication of a bad temperament. The dog will have to be trained out of this. Play ball Bring a ball with you when you meet your puppy. Roll this towards the dog and see how the puppy interacts with it. Does the puppy follow the ball? Bring it back to you? Or does the dog keep the ball for itself? Puppies that are more dominant will keep the ball for themselves. They will also be reluctant to give the toy back to you. A more submissive puppy is likely to be frightened of the ball coming towards them. A more independent dog will likely show very little interest, if they show any at all. Puppies with an even temperament will show some interest in the ball, will play with it, but will also be willing for you to play a part of the game without showing any aggression. Searching for a more sociable dog? Keep an eye out for the puppy that brings the ball right back to you and asks you to play more. This puppy will be a fantastic candidate for training as well as other exercises. Roll the puppy When the puppy has come over to you, you can try to gently roll them onto their back, then hold them in place. Watch how the puppy reacts to you. Do they relax under your touch, or do they resist you? A dominant puppy will be more likely to resist you. It could even try to bite you or growl at you. An even-tempered puppy will resist at first, but will submit to you after a short time. Pick up your puppy You can physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it under its chest with an open hand. Lift the puppy up, and see what it does. Does the puppy stay relaxed or does it struggle? A struggling dog is likely to be dominant or scared. A puppy that stays perfectly relaxed is showing that it trusts you and that it is confident. This is a similar test to holding the puppy on its back. Chances are the puppy will react immediately. Any resistance or trying to pull their paw away from you could be a sign of an aggressive temperament or dominance. A puppy that accepts your actions will show a more submissive temperament. They could even lick you! Create an unexpected noise This could just be a sudden shout or banging some pots and pans. The important factor will be watching how the puppy reacts to a sudden noise. Do they show interest? Are they scared? Aggressive puppies could try and bite you and growl at you. Visit the puppy parents Most breeders will have both puppy parents in the same place. Some of them may only have the mother with the puppies because the father was on loan from a stud or a different breeder. Either way, the mother of your puppy should be with them when you pay the dogs a visit. If one of the parents appears aggressive, this could show you that you need to do some more training with your new puppy. A dog that displays more dominant tendencies will need proper training to take the edge off these behaviors. Choosing a female German Shepherd will also be a good choice. Puppies will have their off days, just like humans do. It will be important to visit your new puppy a few times and spend at least 30 minutes with them so that you can see what they will be like. They will likely prefer it to someone who only pays their puppy one visit before collecting them! This is a good indicator that the breeder wants their dogs to be matched with the right owners. If there are other people in your household who will be living with the German shepherd puppy, such as kids or a partner, you will need to bring them along, too. Your new puppy will need to get accustomed to the people it will be spending time with. It will be much easier to transition your puppy to living in your home. You should also bring some treats along for your new puppy each time you visit. These are all positive reinforcements that can allow your new puppy to get used to you and encourage them to bond with you. It will also be a good idea to bring something with you that you can leave behind for the puppy. This could be a new toy or a blanket that smells like you. This will allow the puppy to get used to your smell, which can also make the transition easier. They will also be very well acquainted with the mother of the puppies and have knowledge of the father. So your breeder should be able to help you choose the right puppy for your needs, and match the right personality to you. In summary So there you have it! Choosing the right German Shepherd puppy for your needs is certainly more challenging than it first appears. The most important goal is to choose the right dog that will fit in well with you and your family. As long as you do the proper research beforehand, you should be able to find the right dog for your home. Remember to ask the right questions when you find your breeder to make sure that they are a good person to buy a dog from. Be sure to visit your new puppy several times before you bring them home. As long as you take this responsibility seriously, you will have laid the perfect foundation for a fruitful relationship with your new puppy. Final thoughts Where do I start? The first thing that you have to do before you can pick out the best puppy, is to pick out the best breeder. This may come easily, as you may already have a breeder in mind that you trust and who has a good reputation. But chances are that you will have to do your research. And there is also a good chance that you may need to travel some distance to the right breeder. Even if the breeder is several states away, consider making the trip. Getting a new GSD puppy is a significant life commitment. The effort and time that you invest now in going about this properly will pay off for years to come. Here are some important things to look for in a breeder once you locate one that you are interested in pursuing. Call the breeder and have a conversation The first thing to do is call the breeder and have a conversation. A quality German Shepherd breeder will actually require this. They will not permit someone to just show up and purchase one of their dogs and take it home. They will ask you questions such as: Why do you want a GSD puppy? This will aid them in helping you choose. Where do you live, in an apartment or in a home? They will want to ensure that the puppy will not be in a cramped space. Do you have a yard, and is it fenced-in? They will want to make sure that the puppy will have adequate room to exercise as it grows. Do you have children in your home? They will want to make sure that you understand the importance of socialization and training to keep your family safe. Do you have other pets in your home? They will want to make sure that you know how to properly introduce the puppy to other animals, and whether any other pets you have may actually be a danger to the puppy. What type of work do you do, does it require you to be away from home for long periods of time? Because GSDs do not do well alone, they will want to make sure that you have adequate time to devote to your dog. Are you financially prepared to take on a GSD? While this may be a bit of a personal question, it is important to know that you are financially able to care for a GSD. They are expensive to care for, and it is fair for a breeder to ask this question. If a breeder does not ask you some form of these questions, then perhaps think twice. It may be an indication that they are more interested in profit than raising a quality puppy that they care will go to a quality home. Questions for you to ask the breeder: How many different types of dogs do you raise? Can you provide me with a pedigree of all of your puppies? A pedigree is essentially a family tree for your puppy. A good breeder should have a detailed pedigree for any dog they sell. Beware of any breeder that wants to charge for this or says that they will provide it at a later date. Do you have references? They should provide you with several without thinking twice. All reputable breeders will offer this guarantee in the form of a written contract. Do you breed your females more than once a year? Female GSDs should not be bred more than one time per year. This allows for adequate recovery time and maintains good health. Can you provide me with a detailed medical history for your puppies? Health screenings are essential for puppies, and a reputable breeder should be able to provide proof of these. Can you explain any potential health issues for GSD which may come up later in life? A knowledgable breeder should be able to clearly explain conditions like hip dysplasia and other health issues more common in GSDs than other dogs. If the answer to any of these questions comes up as unsatisfactory, move on. It is simply not worth the risk of pursuing the breeder any further. Unfortunately, there are far too many unethical breeders who take a lot of shortcuts which results in dogs prone to both health and behavioral issues. Why is this? You should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. More than half of the states in the U. And out of those states, only 3 permit a puppy to be offered for sale under the age of 8 weeks. The reason for these laws is primarily so that puppies are properly weaned from their mothers and able to eat on their own. In addition to weaning, puppies need to be initially socialized by their mothers as well as their siblings. So a puppy will be taught that these things are bad during these 8 weeks. If you remove a puppy from the litter too early, they may not learn these lessons and develop behavioral problems as they get older. Much like a spoiled child that never learns, often times the source of an ill-behaved puppy can be traced to a lack of discipline at a young age. So to ensure that you have a healthy puppy, that is also sold in accordance with state laws and regulations, understand that it must be 8 weeks old see link above for exceptions — regardless of state law exceptions, waiting 8 weeks is good practice. Decide whether you want to male or female You may have a personal preference for either a female or a male German Shepherd puppy. It is important however to not necessarily just go with your gut on this one. Take a moment and understand some general differences between the two genders. I will explore this issue more in-depth in another post, but here are some important general points to consider. Territorial: Males are naturally more territorial than females. This may give them more of a tendency to wander off in an effort to broaden their territory. Very possessive: Male GSDs are generally more possessive than females. They may be possessive over food and bones, toys, and you! Dominance: Male German Shepherds tend to be more dominant than females. This may result in more of a proclivity towards aggressive bullying behaviors to make sure that it is understood that they are the boss. Dominance requires training to keep it in check. Singular bonding: Male GSDs tend to bond more closely with one person rather than a group of people like a family. Territorial: Females are therefore more welcoming and less territorial than males. They are also less likely to wander off as they have no desire to expand their territory. Dominance: Females display less dominant behaviors than males. Non-singular bonding: Females are more likely to bond with a number of people in a family rather than an individual person. So, how do I choose between the two? This question comes down to the purpose for which you want a German Shepherd. If you are looking for a dog to have trained in protection and are looking primarily for a four-legged security system for your home, then a male is a good choice. However, if your primary interest is to just have a family pet that socializes well with others, then a female is probably right for you. Testing the puppy There is no better way to determine whether or not a specific puppy is the right one for you than to actually get hands-on and doing some investigating. However, even before you begin any interactions with a puppy, make sure that you are testing the correct one. Never try and force any interaction, begin with puppies that are naturally drawn to you. Just like with people, you cannot force a match and expect fruitful results. So be patient and make sure at very least that the puppy is not aversive toward you before you being. The tests: Clap your hands: Does it run away or does it come? A more timid dog may, however, be apprehensive to approach. Make eye contact: When the puppy is looked at, does it stare back at you? If the puppy looks directly at you, it is showing confidence. Vocally call the puppy over to you: Does it come to you right away? If it does how not, however, this could show a behavioral issue or hearing problem, or it could be an indication of another illness as well. Pet the puppy: How does it respond to your touch? However, if it meets your touches with biting or growling, then this is likely an indication of an uneven or bad temperament. It will not just grow out of this, it will have to be trained out of it. Bring a ball with you to test with the puppy: Roll the ball and see what the puppy does. Does it follow it and then bring it to you? Or does it take it away for itself. A more dominant puppy will just take the ball and keep it for itself, reluctant to give it back to you. On the other hand, a more independent puppy may show no interest at all. And one that is submissive may actually be frightened. If you are looking for a very sociable puppy, look for the one that brings the ball right back to you to play some more. The puppy that brings it right back is also an ideal candidate for training in retrieving and other exercises. An even-tempered puppy will show interest in and play with the toy, but it will also allow you to participate and take the toy back without showing you any aggression. Roll the puppy over: Once the puppy comes over to you, gently roll it onto its back and hold it in place. Do not be forceful but be firm. See how the puppy reacts. Is it resisting, or is it just relaxing? A puppy with a more dominant personality will take the path of most resistance, and it may growl or attempt to bite at you. And the even-tempered puppy is the one that may resist for a short time but then submit to what you are doing. Pick up the puppy: Physically pick up the puppy by gently holding it underneath its chest with an open hand. Lift it up high, even above the height of your head and hold it there. What does the puppy do? Does it struggle, or does it stay relaxed? A puppy that struggles may be fearful or dominant. On the other hand, a puppy that stays absolutely relaxed is displaying confidence in itself and trust in you. Hold on to a paw and press it gently: This is somewhat similar to holding it on its back. If there is a response to be had, it will happen immediately. Resistance or pulling the paw away may show dominance and temperament towards aggression. The even-tempered puppy will be you curious as to what you are doing. It may investigate a little and might even lick you. Make an unexpected noise: Whether it is banging a pot and pan together or just yelling, create an unexpected noise. See what the puppy does, does it show fear, interest, or aggression? A fearful puppy may run away or even whimper. While an aggressive-tempered puppy may actually growl and try to bite you. An even-tempered puppy will simply look surprised, and may even want to investigate a little bit further. Meet the parents A lot of breeders will have both the father sire and the mother bitch of the puppies on site. However, some of them will only have the mother because sometimes the father is on loan as a stud from a different breeder. But the mother for sure should be on site, and you should get an idea of what she is like. In the case of my last German Shepherd, I was able to meet both parents. His mother was very kind and sociable and eager to be petted. While on the other hand, his father was clearly dominant, and not a dog to be messed with. Because of my prior experience and knowledge, my GSD turned out exactly as I thought he would — fairly sociable yet wildly protective of me. This was all right because I knew what to expect and I was able to train my dog properly to take the edge off of some of his more dominance behaviors. However, my choice was an informed decision based on years of experience. If you are new to owning a German Shepherd, this may not be an ideal combination. I would recommend for a new German Shepherd owner to consider making sure that both parents are more docile, and possibly even lean towards acquiring a female for your first German Shepherd. Visit the puppy on more than one occasion Just like people, puppies have their on days and their off days. You will not be able to get a very accurate picture of how your puppy will be on one short visit. In fact, with my last dog, I visited him at least 4 times and stayed for at least 30 minutes with him each time prior to taking him home. A good breeder will have no issue with you doing this, and in fact, will prefer it. They want their dogs to be well-matched with their new owners, so this is common practice. The puppy should become accustomed to the people it will soon be spending its entire life with. So the more familiarity that you build now in this phase, the easier that puppy will transition to home life with you and your family. All of these steps are positive reinforcement for your new puppy and will build familiarity and a bond even before you arrive home. Also, bring a small blanket or clothing item and ask the breeder to leave it with the puppy. This will allow your puppy to become familiar with the scent of you and your home. Making for a better transition. So by default, this knowledge enables the breeder to be very good at placing the proper puppies with the proper personalities. Remember to stay focused and not lose sight of your primary objective, which is to select the right puppy for you and your family. If you take the time and care to do your research and ask the right questions, you will come together with the right puppy for you. But remember, this is just the beginning of a major life commitment. So take this step of choosing the right GSD puppy seriously, and you will have laid the foundation for a loving and rewarding relationship for years to come. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.