labradoodle puppies near chicago il

Prices can vary depending on who the parents are. Do they have photographs of their dogs online? Do they provide descriptions, or can you see photos of parents, grandparents? You might ask to talk to former buyers. These are all good questions to consider when looking for a responsible dog breeder. Not all puppies are cute as youngsters so take that into consideration also. If you want your dog specifically trained for work like Guarding, Search and Rescue, Therapy Dogs, etc. Many times people look for the cheapest price; however, you get what you pay for and this is especially true when it comes to buying a puppy from an irresponsible breeder. The German Shepherd Breeders in Maryland may only breed one or two litters per year and the female dog has just one heat cycle per year. Some breeders will not sell their puppies to just anybody who is interested in purchasing a German Shepherd Dog Puppy. They reserve the right of approval and would like to talk with you on the phone first before they allow you to buy a puppy from them. They may have different methods of doing things and would be willing to show their facilities and adult dogs. You will know right away whether the German Shepherd Breeders in Maryland is reputable or not by how they conduct business and treat their animals. If they are relaxed, relaxed about their dogs and puppies this is a good sign; but if they appear tense, stressed out and impatient for your visit to end then this is definitely not the place for you to buy a puppy from. When most people choose to buy a German Shepherd Dog Puppy , especially as a pet, we want our new furry friend to be part of the family for his entire life. After talking with the breeder on the phone or emailing, have them give you their references. Make sure you call all of them and ask if they were satisfied with the quality of puppies they bought from this breeder. If one person mentions that their dog had health issues then that does not mean it is true for every German Shepherd Dog Puppy this breeder has sold; especially since most breeders do everything Does Your Maryland German Shepherd Breeder Have a Good Vetenarian They Use? Whenever you purchase a puppy from the German Shepherd Dog Breeders in Maryland make sure they give you the name and phone number of their veterinarian. You want to make sure your new pet is healthy and will live for many years before anything serious happens. This is an obvious sign of an unethical. If you ask the breeder if you could meet past puppy owners, see how many people actually say yes. They can quickly cause considerable damage and expensive repairs; not to mention how dangerous that can become if they eat something poisonous. There are different foods that will help him develop into a strong and healthy dog; especially since they grow extremely fast in their first year of life. If your breeder has brand preferences make sure you follow them closely; same goes for how much to feed him each day. If you go against his wishes it could lead to serious health problems down the road. Chew Toys — German Shepherd Dogs like to chew things so make sure you purchase plenty of toys that are made for dogs. The best thing you can do is try to stick with the same schedule each day until your pet gets used to it. You should keep him in one room of the house for a few days and allow him to get used to everything before moving onto another area of the home. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Our dogs are our family. They are raised on our farm and get to interact and play with our young family, run around with plenty of ample space, and are treated with the utmost service and professional care. Showline West German Shepherds of German Championship Bloodlines are wonderful dogs with even disposition with composed confident temperaments, of great intelligence with wonderful formation of the True breed. With years of personal experience owning our own German Shepherds, we are filled with excitement for our loving customers , to now experience the joy and happiness that these beautiful dogs will give you. Please call us at to inquire about more details, pricing, waiting list and securing a spot on our reserved list. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube page for updates. We continue where man and dog have built a strong relationship that lasts a lifetime. We strive to continuously better the beloved breed through a selective breeding program with excellent pedigrees and proven championship bloodlines. We focus on providing German Shepherd puppies with excellent temperaments, that possess the qualifications of the German Shepherd breed standards and physical health to become top quality members of your family or team. German Shepherd dogs are one of the most popular breeds. Known for their intelligence , loyalty , obedience and intuitive guardian awareness. We have imported European German Shepherd females with excellent championship pedigrees. In addition , we have a selection of dogs with V Excellent rating and have achieved their own titles. We have also selectively hand-picked our imported breeding studs who are exemplary of the German Shepherd breed standards with their own wonderful pedigrees , VA Excellent Select ratings and accomplished titles. Our German Shepherd puppies are raised in our home as part of our family for a strong foundation in life. Our German Shepherds are seen for health exams regularly , along with treatment as needed throughout the year. Puppies are provided with Vet examination. If this is so, then congratulations are necessary, the German Shepherd is an incredible Canine breed that is arguably one of the top most loved and popular dog breeds in the United States. They are highly versatile as they can serve a plethora of different uses including being top police dogs, military dogs, therapy dogs, herding dogs, show dogs, family dogs, and a lot more. There are a lot of different processes that go into picking the right German Shepherd puppy, one of these processes would be selecting a breeder to obtain your puppy. Luckily the popularity of the German Shepherd in states like Maryland is quite high, so it should be easy getting a breeder. However, it is essential that you search for a responsible breeder that combines a genuine love for the breed, good breeding practices, and a healthy socialization and training program. In this article, we have provided you with a list of 10 German Shepherd breeders that are residing in the state of Maryland. These are top breeders that possess good breeding programs that help with improving the breed. We have also attached the contact details for these breeders to help you reach these breeders with ease and make your personal, detailed research, so only view this article as a guide. With that being said, I recommend you read till the very end as we reveal our personal pick from the list below. As stated earlier, they offer two major services which are a top boarding service and an equally good breeding service. As breeders, they are focused on the German Shepherd breed. Joyce Burdette is the owner and top breeder at this fine breeding facility. Their German Shepherd puppies grow to become top conformation dogs, companion dogs, family dogs, and working dogs. The breeding dogs are all tested for genetic health defects like Degenerative Myelopathy and each has their OFA certifications to show they have good working hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts. All their dogs are raised on a beautiful acre kennel that also serves as their animal resort in Windsor, Maryland. There, they are given the best of treatment as they get to sleep in comfort, play or socialize and train. They provide adequate activities to keep the puppies mentally and physically fit and each dog is well vaccinated and dewormed to help keep them healthy and safe.

Gallery Pine Winds Pine Winds Labradoodles, located 25 miles north of Kansas City, Missouri, began with one dog and the desire to volunteer as an animal partner therapy team. I retired from teaching after 34 years and with all three children grown I decided to pursue this adventure by purchasing my first labradoodle. Marley joined our home as a puppy, became a Canine Good Citizen, and continued on to pass her evaluation enabling her to be registered as a therapy dog with Pet Partners. Occasionally she was bred and produced puppies with exceptional temperaments, several becoming therapy dogs as well. Most importantly the puppies have become excellent fur members of families. Mia, my second dog, is a puppy from the breeding of Marley to another labradoodle who was a registered therapy dog. Mia became a registered therapy dog as well. Poppy, Mias offspring, is now my registered therapy dog. My dogs are working dogs whether they are visiting, enrolled in agility classes or taking refresher obedience training. Mia, Poppy and Rosie are proven to represent the best of temperaments and mind set a labradoodle should possess. I have two breeding dogs so I am able to spend quality time working with each puppy. I search out the best males with exceptional traits that I can find to breed my dogs to, hoping to continue with a lineage of therapy partners. Raising a litter of puppies is hard work but seeing them with their families certainly makes it worthwhile! Contact Us Welcome to Four Paws I am Holly Miller, owner and breeder of Four Paws Labradoodles, along with my husband and family we have been raising amazing family companions since .We started researching dog breeds that were hypoallergenic or allergy friendly and fell in love with the Australian Labradoodle. Our family includes my husband and I as well as our youngest son who acts as our in-house puppy temperament tester our three other children visit often and we are now thrilled that we have grandchildren who have also become in-home puppy entertainers. Our Australian Labradoodle puppies are born in our home, with our family, under constant supervision and care. All our doodles have plenty of space to run and play which ensures sound mental health and a happy life. We are committed to raising high quality puppies that will be beautiful and loving companions for their future owners. If you have questions please feel free to drop us a email and we will try to help you find out if one of these puppies would be good addition for you and your family. Welcome to Cottonwood Labradoodles. We are a small breeder located in the heartland of America, 30 minutes north of Wichita and 2. Our mission is to raise puppies with individualized care, with a focus towards preserving the health and loving temperament of the Australian Labradoodle. We are member breeders of the ALAA Australian Labradoodle Association of America , an organization diligent in upholding the integrity of the breed and requires genetic testing of all breeding dogs. We are so excited to announce that the ALAA has awarded Cottonwood Labradoodles the Platinum Paw; the highest health standard possible for our dogs, as well as recurring investment in testing the health of our breeding dogs. All our puppies are born and raised in our home. As they mature, we take great pleasure in introducing them to romps and adventures on our five acres of woods, prairie, and pond. We assist with every delivery and therefore handle each pup from the time they are born until they are placed in your loving arms on Puppy Pickup Day. We find this individualized attention and stimulation creates dogs that are better socialized, more intelligent and physically healthier. This care and supervision of puppies is my passion! Please check in with our Cottonwood Labradoodles Facebook page to brighten your day and watch them grow. For more information, please go to our Request A Puppy page to fill out our application. Joy is a Multigen Australian Labradoodle made right here from our beloved Honey and Journey and is our up and coming Mama to be. She has a beautiful Red wavy, fleece coat. Joy has completed all her health testing to Platinum level with flying colors. Joy has completed several training classes, basic manners, obedience, and even an agility class. She has the best eye contact and loves her belly rubs! Oliver has completed all his health testing to Gold Paw level and is the perfect little gentleman weighing just 25 pounds. We are so excited to see the wonderful puppies these two will produce! We expect puppies from this mating to be small Mediums in size with wavy fleece coats in shades of cream, caramel, apricot, and possibly red and wonderful temperaments. Will confirm exact date once pups are born. This breeder raises the pups underfoot to ensure they are well socialized and loved by everyone. They also provide their dogs with great homes that include fenced yards or individual runs , competent owners, and plenty of love. All of their Labradoodle puppies are raised with other dogs and cats as well as kids. They are very proud of the high quality and attention to the dams, sires, and Labradoodle puppies they produce. This firm ensures that every dog under their care receives adequate care. This breeder has a clean, well-kept acre on which the puppies can run and play with the family. To ensure that each puppy gets all of the nutrients it needs to grow into a healthy dog, KC Labradoodles feeds its pups high-quality dog food. KC Labradoodles produces multigenerational mini and standard-sized labradoodle puppies. Each breeder prioritized health, temperament, training, socialization, and individuality to ensure that all their pups go to homes with families who will provide them with love and attention. You can always visit their websites to see if they have any upcoming Labradoodle litters. In that case, we encourage you to contact one of these 5 best Labradoodle breeders in Kansas. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Quality First. Not only do we health test our parent dogs, we also consider their temperament when deciding who to pair together. We will never just breed two dogs for looks. For us, ensuring that we are raising happy, healthy puppies with sound temperaments is extremely important. We pride ourselves in raising some of the best puppies around which means we are dedicated to making sure we are raising the best doodles we can! This starts with our parent dogs that we carefully select and evaluate prior to breeding. They are all health tested to ensure that we are producing top-quality family members with great temperaments. We are also fortunate to be able to raise all of our puppies in our home. We start teaching our puppies to use a potty pad at about 3 weeks old and when the weather is nice they have access to our backyard to go potty! Puppy socialization and enrichment is extremely important throughout the first few months of a puppies life. We are proud to say that our puppies get to be socialized with people of all ages and dogs of different, sizes. They also are exposed to many different enrichment items and sounds! We pride ourselves in raising well-rounded doodles that can fit into any lifestyle! Dedication to raising the best possible puppies that are ready to be a part of your family. Our puppies are handled daily, from the beginning! As they get older, they are also introduced to new textures, sights, and sounds daily. Along with this, we also do tolerance building exercises which include touching their ears, paws, tails, and petting upwards on their back like a younger child may do. Every so often we also have Aussie Mountain Doodles. We Provide We take care of our puppies and prepare them to go home with you in these ways: Three rounds of dewormer. First veterinarian visit for checkup. Final veterinarian checkup before going home. Tons of socialization and love from a family of six. List of suggestions puppy training, toys, food, veterinarian, etc. And lifetime support, should you need it. Our promise to you is simple: We provide incredible companion Bernedoodles, and we do so with integrity, forthrightness, and assistance to find the best furry family member for you. Before they become part of your household, they are part of ours, so we play with them, provide for them, and treat them as family, knowing you will do the same. Mixed breeds cannot be AKC certified, so we do not provide certification. We also believe microchipping your puppy should be your choice, so we do not microchip our puppies but strongly recommend you do. We highly recommend proper puppy training and consistent reinforcement to have the best relationship with your dog. We provide information on a partner puppy training program with lots of online videos. Bernedoodles are not sold with breeding rights. Any breeding of the Bernedoodle, whether by accident or on purpose, is a violation of the contract and will incur an immediate fee of 3x the purchase price. By instituting any step in the process, the customer acknowledges and agrees to these terms and to paying the contract violation fee in full. Bernedoodles are also sold with a list of both requirements and suggestions for the health, safety, well-being, and longevity of the dog. Customers must take these requirements, suggestions, and financial investments under consideration prior to purchasing a KC Bernedoodles puppy. Reservation Deposit Serious inquiries only. Anyone can be added to the Waiting List with a completed deposit, but KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to the first pick of all litters. Puppy reservations are made in order of cleared deposit. Keep in mind that this means if you send a check by mail, another family could move ahead in line if they pay electronically. We will make every effort to help you make the best decision for your needs. The customer further agrees that they have no recourse. Once the customer has decided they want to purchase a puppy, they must email us stating so. Customers must remit the deposit amount in either cash, check, or through digital deposit. We will provide the account information for the deposit. Cleared deposits are the only way to reserve a puppy; no cleared deposit means no puppy reservation. Deposits are nonrefundable. By instituting any step in the process, the customer acknowledges and agrees to these terms. Deposits are considered a commitment, and we understand that the puppy will have a home with your family. Final payment for the balance owed must be cleared before pickup. Unfortunately, we do not accept checks at the time of pick up for the final payment on a puppy because all payments must be cleared. Any daily boarding charges must also be settled prior to pick up. The only time a refund will be given is if KC Bernedoodles cancels the purchase due to unforeseen circumstances, otherwise deposits are always non-refundable. Puppy Selection Anyone can be added to the Waiting List with a completed deposit, but KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to the first pick of all litters. When the puppies are born, they are given a color-coded collar. Puppies are discussed by their collar color, though our kids have a tendency to name them as well. Exact puppy choice happens by video interactions, exchanging photos, or through phone conversations at week six so their personality has time to develop. We will make every effort to help you make the best decision for your individual needs. For the health of the puppies, we do not allow visitors. Exact puppy choice begins on week six. Waiting this long allows us to get to know their personalities and help guide you to make the best choice. Choosing a puppy occurs in waiting list order. To facilitate all families making timely decisions, each customer has 2 hours from when we contact you beginning on week six to choose your puppy. We make every effort to lead you through the process of choosing the best companion for your individual needs and lifestyle, so please let us know your situation and preferences. Failure to choose within that 2 hours forfeits your turn, and you will move to the end of the line. The key is to let the puppy have the time it needs with its mother and siblings, and transition the puppy to its new family as soon as it is properly able, in order to bond with them early and well. This usually happens at around 8 weeks. By pick up time your puppy will not be dependent upon its mother since it will have been weaned starting around week 4. For the health of our family and animals, we cannot take back a puppy once it has left our home, but we can help you find a new home for them. Please contact us first if the need arises to rehome your puppy. Pick up must occur in person. We currently do not ship puppies, but let us know if you have an extenuating circumstance that needs to be addressed. We love discussing our puppies but we are not a pet store, so we do not ever allow visitors. Puppies can readily catch deadly diseases, such as Parvo, kennel cough, distemper, and many others, which are easily spread from one kennel to another or one dog to another. For the safety of our own home, for the puppies awaiting their new homes, and for puppies who already have deposits on them, we cannot allow visitors. Thank you for understanding! This is not an exhaustive list. No refunds will be given and, though this is rare, we reserve the right to refuse sale of our puppies to anyone, at any time, for any reason, or no reason, based on our own judgment. KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to first pick of all litters. All decisions by KC Bernedoodles are final, as are all sales. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Kansas? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Kansas. Our Australian Labradoodles are bred to be even more photogenic and adorable than others, which is probably why lots of our dogs have their own Instagram accounts. When you take home one of our puppies, we consider you our extended family—and we want your life together with your puppy to be long and full of fun! Perfect Family Pet What do retired couples, active outdoorsy types, and families with a lot of kids have in common? Labradoodles fit in just fine with nearly any family, whether you looking for adventure, looking for a friend, or looking for a life of peace and quiet. And one of the best things about working with Uptown is that YOU get to pick! Highest Kansas Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders uphold the highest standards, starting with our mommy dogs. We have both retirement ages and litter limits for our moms, plus we make sure they live in caring guardian homes between litters. And of course, our pups enjoy the best early life we can provide! Elite Kansas Labradoodle Genetic Lines Our Australian Labradoodle lines are truly top-of-the-line, and we work hard so that every litter is as healthy and even-tempered as the last. Besides striving to bring out the best traits in our dogs, we also focus on eliminating harmful genetic illnesses.

I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. Their devoted mother, Binky, and proud father, Colt, have gifted us with these wonderful little bundles of joy. These lovable puppies boast a range of captivating skin tones that are sure to turn heads. Additionally, we have two puppies displaying a delightful two-toned blend of brown and lighter lilac. With 7 girls and 1 male, we have a variety of personalities and temperaments to match your family dynamic. These little ones have been lovingly raised in a family environment and have been exposed to children from an early age. They have eagerly embraced their youthful adventures, making them perfectly suited for a loving family home. With their stocky builds, endearing wrinkled faces, and utterly adorable noses, these Old Tyme English Bulldogs are a sight to behold. Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Old Tyme English Bulldogs make outstanding companions. Binky, their nurturing mother, has been a cherished family dog, thriving in the company of children. Each puppy has their own unique personality. The blue, orange, and lime green collars mark the most spirited and energetic members of the litter, while the white, black, and grey puppies tend to be calmer and cuddlier. The father, Colt, is a professional stud dog, this pedigree guarantees both health and functionality in their bloodline. Our family has lovingly cared for these precious puppies over the past 5 weeks, ensuring their well-being and happiness. Next week, they will receive their vaccinations and be microchipped, registered, wormed, and vaccinated, all set to embark on their new adventures. We look forward to welcoming these delightful puppies into their forever homes with loving families like yours. We have answers. What are some fun facts about French Bulldog puppies for sale near Birmingham? French Bulldogs are delightful and dapper dogs that have many quirky and interesting facts. As their name implies, French Bulldogs are a breed that originate from France in the s. They have smushed faces and bat-like ears, making them one of the most recognizable dog breeds. French Bulldogs have a sensitive digestive system, so a special diet has to be followed to avoid digestive issues. Will French Bulldog puppies for sale in Birmingham cause me to have allergies? It is possible that you may have an allergic reaction to a French Bulldog, however, it is not a guarantee. Allergens from dogs vary based on breed and all dogs produce dander, saliva and urine which contain allergens that can cause an allergic reaction. The good news is that French Bulldogs are often bred to be hypoallergenic and have a low amount of dander. Any potential allergic reaction is typically mild and can usually be managed with regular grooming and air filtering systems in your home. Taking these precautions may reduce your risk of having allergies caused by a French Bulldog. Do Birmingham French Bulldog puppies for sale have special dietary needs? French Bulldogs have specific dietary needs that are different from other breeds, so it is important to understand what your Frenchie needs in order to maintain optimal health. Generally speaking, Frenchies should eat a high-quality kibble that has been specially formulated to meet their individual needs. Keep in mind that Frenchies tend to eat more calories than other breeds, so be sure to monitor portion sizes to avoid your pup from becoming overweight. You may also want to incorporate some wet food into your dog's diet, as this will provide additional moisture and can help prevent certain health problems. How can I become the best puppy parent for French Bulldog puppies in Birmingham? To become the best possible puppy parent for your French Bulldog, it is important to keep their needs and behavior in mind. First, it's important to make sure you're providing them with ample mental stimulation such as puzzle toys and playtime. French Bulldogs are highly intelligent and thrive on stimulation. Additionally, it's important to provide them with adequate exercise to keep them fit and healthy. How big do French Bulldogs for sale in Birmingham get? French Bulldogs are considered to be a small breed of dog, and typically grow to a height of inches and a weight of up to 28 pounds. Without proper exercise and diet they can be prone to obesity, so it is important to pay attention to your pup's nutrition and activity levels if you own one. Despite their small size, Frenchies are known for their strength and powerful stature, as well as their mischievous personalities and goofy attitudes. They are affectionate dogs, and thrive on one-on-one interaction and time spent with their owners. Can I take my French Bulldog puppies near Birmingham running? Taking your French Bulldog running can be an enjoyable experience for you both. However, as with any high-energy exercise, there are a few considerations you need to keep in mind before hitting the pavement. French Bulldogs have generally been developed as companion dogs, not sporting animals, so you'll need to consider your pup's age, size, energy level, and whether or not it has any existing health conditions before running together. Additionally, you may want to ease into the exercise gradually to give your pup time to build up stamina. Are French Bulldogs in Birmingham good family dogs? French Bulldogs are popular family dogs due to their kind and loyal personalities. Their natural love for people makes them great additions to families with children who can enjoy playing with the pup. Their small size makes it easier to house train them, and the French Bulldog usually gets along well with other pets. French Bulldogs are also low-maintenance, low-energy, and adapt to nearly any home. They do require routine vet visits, coat brushing, and other basic grooming needs, but overall, these fun-loving dogs make excellent family pets. How do I train my Birmingham French Bulldogs for sale? Training your French Bulldog requires patience, consistency and reward. Start with basic commands such as "sit" or "stay" and be sure to reward them with treats or attention whenever they do something correctly. Ensure that you are reinforcing behavior you like and not reinforcing unwanted behavior. Give verbal cues such as gentle praise or clicker training combined with positive reinforcement. Take your pup out for a walk each day, not only to train them how to walk on a leash, but also to give them the opportunity to discover their environment and socialize with other dogs.

For example, the characteristics of the parent breeds shine through in my bestie — Happy-Go-Doodle Chloe. She is an F1B Goldendoodle who: Is extremely smart. Was easily trained as a puppy and is still easily trained as an adult. Is very active and requires daily walks and games of fetch. Is an incredibly devoted family dog. In addition to personality, you may be wondering about the physical characteristics of F1B Goldendoodles. The reason for such a range of sizes can largely be attributed to the variation the Poodle parent breed brings to the party. Since the Poodle breed standard includes three official sizes—toy, miniature, and standard—the Goldendoodle gets the benefit of a wide variation in size too. They weigh about 25 pounds. They weigh 26 to 35 pounds. They weigh 36 to 50 pounds. They weigh 51 pounds and up. F1B Goldendoodles will require regular brushing and grooming. F1B Goldendoodle coat colors Based on the variety of coat colors of the Poodle black, white, cream, apricot, to name a few and the range of shades of golden the Golden Retriever heritage brings to the mix golden, light golden, and dark golden , the F1B Goldendoodle can sport a rainbow of colors. They require energy burns and mental stimulation. This makes sense since both of the parent breeds are smart and active. They need attention and like to be part of the pack. Goldendoodles are eager to fit in with the entire family and adapt to life with you. They are often recommended for families and make wonderful companions. However, they are not some sort of wonder dog, either. Also, Goldendoodles are social dogs and may show anxiety or boredom if left alone for long periods of time. As puppies, they may be pushy or mouthy want to chew on everything or zoomy. However, with proper care, socialization, love, attention, training, and exercise, an F1B Goldendoodle is more love than you could ever imagine. That why, you could also say F1B stands for… 1 Forever Bestie…for ever and always by your side. Did you enjoy this article? Join the happy pack! Get the latest Happy-Go-Doodle stories delivered to your email inbox. Please comment below. It has been updated to include more information on the F1B Goldendoodle along with additional pictures. Conclusion What is an F1b Goldendoodle? Looking at Goldendoodle puppies can be a little confusing when there are a whole bunch of different letters before their breed. This Chocolate F1b Goldendoodle has a clear Poodle muzzle shape The F is a genetic term that stands for filial which in biology means the offspring of a cross-breeding. They use the term for both plants and animals when trying to make a new hybrid. In this case, F1 would be a breeding between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. F2 would be a breeding between two crossbreeds so both parents would be Goldendoodles. The b in an F1b Goldendoodle stands for backcross. This means that one of the parents is an F1 Goldendoodle while the other is either a purebred Poodle or Golden Retriever. Most breeders breeding F1b Goldendoodles will choose the F1b breeding with the Poodle being the largest genetic influence because of the desired non-shedding coat properties. F1b Goldendoodle Size Expectation Generally, any crossbreed of a Poodle comes in different sizes because Poodles themselves come in different sizes. There are three sizes of Poodle: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The Goldendoodle is generally bred from either the Miniature or Standard Poodle just because the Toy Poodle is much smaller than a Retriever. Goldendoodle puppy standing in the grass. The size range is still quite wide depending on each individual breeding. They may grow to be as little as 15 inches tall or as large as 25 inches tall. Health of Your F1b Goldendoodle When it comes to crossbreeds, you will usually find yourself with a healthier dog than if you buy a purebred dog. All breeds of dogs tend to be more inclined toward certain health issues. When you take a breeding pool of animals and reduce it down to breed certain traits to get different breeds of dogs, we are making them look similar but also as a side effect breeding some common health issues into them. Goldendoodle puppy is not feeling well. When you get your Goldendoodle puppy , you should only buy from a breeder who has done the right genetic and health tests on their breeding dogs. While your wallet may be a bit lighter from visiting a good breeder initially, it will save you lots of vet visits in the long run by making sure your puppy is from a reputable breeder. F1b Goldendoodle Temperament Goldendoodles take the best parts of two hugely popular breeds and create a cute, hypoallergenic , and super trainable family pet. While they are active and energetic, they have the soft characteristics of Golden Retrievers which make excellent family pets with the quick learning of the Poodle. Teacup Labradoodles are a miniature size petite dog. They can be easily carried around even as full grown Teacup Goldendoodles. To make sure your Doodle can take everything in their stride, introduce them to lots of new experiences early on. Exercise and Training Needs Retrievers and Poodles are both highly active breeds and can easily walk upwards of two hours a day. Both are highly trainable but the Poodle tends to have an independent streak. The more Poodle content they have in them, the more drive they have and usually the more complex tricks they can do. Early training on your Doodle is super important when they have the intelligence and independence of a Poodle. Creating a good working relationship between yourself and your puppy will help build the foundations for a long and happy relationship. Ways to Keep a Big Brain Busy With genetics that make them super bright dogs, sometimes it can be difficult to find the off switch for your Goldendoodle. Training is a great way to tire them out and keep them busy because it makes them use their brain. Food is a great way to keep dogs entertained, be that with a long-lasting chew like a bone or antler or even some enrichment games. When dogs have to work for their food it tires them out a lot more than just eating from the bowl. Many owners have scrapped using bowls altogether and instead find fun ways to feed their dogs every day and make them work for it a little more. Intelligent dogs like Doodles really enjoy the extra enrichment it offers them. You can try things as simple as throwing their food all over the lawn or you can even get crafting and make your own snuffle mat out of rubber matting and old blankets! A snuffle mat, similar to grass, creates an uneven texture for you to hide food in and get their noses working during meal time. Every dog is an individual including puppies from the same litter but understanding their lineage may give you some clues as to what to expect from your new addition. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. No one really knows exactly when the first goldendoodle was created, but this mixed breed began finding popularity among breeders in the late s. It is believed that the success of the labradoodle led to the conception of the goldendoodle. F1Bs are created by crossing a first-generation F1 goldendoodle with a purebred poodle or golden retriever. Usually, breeders choose the poodle as the purebred parent in order to achieve a coat that is less irritating for people with allergies. F1B goldendoodles usually have a curly coat that is more reminiscent of the poodle than the golden retriever. The color of the coat may take after the golden retriever in hue, but doodles can come in many different colors. These dogs have floppy ears and may have either curly hair or long straight hair on their muzzles. They come in a variety of sizes, too! The poodle itself comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. There is even such a thing as a teacup poodle, which is the smallest of the four sizes, though the AKC does not recognize this size. Because the goldendoodle is not purebred, there is no uniform size that these dogs are expected to be. There are no guidelines. However, you can find goldendoodles in all size categories except for giant simply because purebred poodles exist in each size category. So, if you want a smaller dog, look for smaller parents and vice versa! Wavy and curly coats tend to be more common, but anything is possible as this is a mixed breed. F1B goldendoodles make wonderful family dogs as they are super friendly and do well with children. They are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families. They definitely have what is often considered the ideal temperament for a dog! Are F1B Goldendoodles Affectionate? F1B goldendoodles are generally a great choice for families with kids. They also tend to be gentle and tolerant. This is because these types of pets are seen as prey animals. The goldendoodle is bred from two hunting breeds. If you do have small pets, make sure to keep them safe from your dog. Are F1B Goldendoodles Aggressive? F1B Goldendoodles are not at all aggressive! They love meeting new people and are great with other dogs. Of course, every dog is an individual, and socialization during puppyhood is vital. Dogs that do not receive proper socialization are far more likely to become fearful or aggressive as adults. We would consider them the type of dog that barks to alert their owners. As we said before, every dog is an individual, and some dogs may bark more than others. Some doodles may only bark at strangers, whereas others may bark at animals in the yard or cars on the street. Are F1B Goldendoodles Intelligent? F1B goldendoodles are considered an intelligent mixed breed because they are quick learners and have superb observation skills. In fact, they are so good at observing that many people believe they can even tell what emotions their owners are feeling! If you want a dog that is easy to train, you should definitely consider the F1B goldendoodle. This breed learns quickly and is eager to please. Their affection and loyalty often result in them being quite obedient once trained. Because they are so easy to train, hiring a professional is not necessary. However, we always recommend that people join a group class of some sort as it provides opportunities for their dogs to learn how to ignore distractions and listen instead. Though doodles are already eager to please, using reward-based training will motivate them even more. Using positive reinforcement is the best way to train a goldendoodle. Are F1B Goldendoodles Energetic? F1B goldendoodles of any size have a fair amount of energy. After all, they are born of two hunting breeds that need to have the endurance to spend hours in the field. Luckily, many goldendoodles enjoy playing games like fetch. Fetch is a fantastic way to help your dog burn off some energy. Of course, doodles will also love joining you in activities like walking, hiking, swimming, or even biking make sure to talk to your vet before involving your dog in any strenuous activities. They may try to get your attention and get you to play with them, bark more often, or turn to take their boredom out on something else. Regardless of size, goldendoodles can do well in apartments as long as they get enough exercise. Apartment living may be easier with smaller goldendoodles than with larger ones. If that can be done, then goldendoodles can live anywhere. Many goldendoodles will bark to alert you of the presence of a stranger in the vicinity, which can make them good watchdogs. This is because the goldendoodle is just far too friendly. They will be more likely to greet intruders with wagging tails than anything else. F1B goldendoodles do make good service dogs. This is in part because of their eagerness to learn. Service dogs must be smart and obedient, and goldendoodles are prone to being both. They have an easy time providing the support someone needs because of their stellar observation skills. How to Care for an F1B Goldendoodle F1B doodles will need at least weekly brushing, and most owners prefer to keep their coats trimmed. Otherwise, they require the same type of care as other dogs: they need their teeth cleaned regularly, nails clipped as needed, and ears checked for infection regularly. Like all goldendoodles, F1Bs also require a decent amount of grooming. Their coats need to be brushed at least once per week, but more frequent brushing is required for longer coats. Most doodle owners prefer to have their coats trimmed regularly so that they do not need to brush them as often. If you like the look of a grown-out coat, then you will need to brush almost daily to prevent the hair from clumping and matting. Do F1B Goldendoodles Shed? How much a doodle sheds really depends on which breed it takes after more: the poodle or the golden retriever. If the F1B has a purebred golden retriever crossed with an F1 doodle as a parent, then you may expect it to shed more. The doodle would not shed very much in this case and may be a good option for someone with allergies who hopes to own a dog. Do remember, however, that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. An F1B goldendoodle should eat the highest quality food you can afford. The best dog foods follow AAFCO guidelines, have been formulated by a veterinary nutritionist, and have undergone feeding trials. To determine how much to feed your doodle, you can start by checking the recommended serving size on the bag. Otherwise, you can calculate the number of calories your dog should eat on a daily basis. You can do the math yourself or use an online calorie calculator. Because F1B goldendoodles inherit genes from both golden retrievers and poodles, they are at risk of inheriting the diseases of both breeds. Doodles who are similar in size to a standard poodle or golden retriever are also at risk for bloat. Smaller doodles may be at risk of inheriting patellar luxation and Legg-Calve-Perthes. Because we have to consider the health issues of two breeds instead of one, it may seem like the F1B goldendoodle is at a higher risk of inheriting problems than its purebred parent. There are some studies that suggest purebred dogs are more likely to inherit 10 out of 24 diseases, with mixed breeds only being more likely to inherit 1 out of the 24 the other 13 diseases were just as likely to be inherited by mixed breeds as purebreds. However, you could sink hours into this debate and still feel unsure about which side is right. Instead of getting caught up in debate, we suggest that if you want to add an F1B goldendoodle to your family, you should choose a responsible breeder who health tests their dogs. These tests ensure that the parent dogs are without disease that they could pass on to their offspring. F1B goldendoodles live about 10 to 15 years on average, though smaller doodles may live a year or two longer. Are F1B Goldendoodles Expensive? Be cautious if you see a doodle being sold for a low price. These dogs may have been bred by puppy mills or backyard breeders who simply want to turn a profit but do not care for the health of their dogs. Always make sure to ask breeders numerous questions so that you know they have health-tested their dogs and are caring for them properly. However, how frequently you want to do this is up to you. Some people have their doodles groomed every 8 to 10 weeks, whereas others may prefer more frequent grooming. If you wanted to save money, you could learn how to trim your doodle yourself. Similarly, smaller dogs may be less expensive when it comes to their kibble and even medical expenses. Therefore, if you want a more budget-friendly doodle, consider a smaller size. We know you already know how to use Google to search for puppies. What are your credentials? You should learn about how long the breeder has been in business as well as how familiar they are with F1B goldendoodles. Have the parent animals undergone health testing? Ask to see these tests. Can I see where the dogs are kept? Can I meet the parent? How do you socialize your puppies? Socialization is important for puppies to become friendly and confident. Are the puppies up-to-date on vaccinations? Do you offer a health guarantee with a contract? Some breeders guarantee the health of their puppies: should your puppy come down with a serious illness early on, the breeder may offer to reimburse the purchase price of the dog or even take the puppy back. This will also help you avoid purchasing from breeders who are irresponsible. What do you require of potential adopters? Many breeders want to make sure their puppies are going to homes where they will be treated well and kept for life. Therefore, breeders may ask a number of questions about you, your situation, and your experience as a dog owner. It will not be easy to find an F1B goldendoodle to rescue. While the goldendoodle mix itself is popular enough to have rescues dedicated to it, the F1B is an even more specific mix of golden retriever and poodle. This is why they are harder to find at shelters. Even if it is clear that the dog is a doodle, the shelter may not know if the doodle is F1, F1B, or some other generation of doodle. Still, if you are interested in adopting, the best place to look will be a rescue dedicated to saving and rehoming goldendoodles specifically. Are F1B Goldendoodles Purebred? F1B goldendoodles are not purebred dogs. Goldendoodles in general are considered designer dogs because they are a mix created by crossing two purebred dogs. However, the F1B goldendoodle is a cross between a doodle and usually a purebred poodle though in rare cases, the purebred parent is a golden retriever. Either way, the AKC does not recognize these dogs, and there is currently no standard for breeding them. Because F1B goldendoodles are so friendly, loving, and obedient, they tend to be a great option for first-time dog owners. However, as long as someone can offer enough exercise, they should have no problem raising and caring for an F1B goldendoodle. Goldendoodles are playful, energetic, and super friendly. This makes them great family dogs who get along swimmingly with kids. By now, you probably have an idea of whether or not the F1B doodle is the right dog for you or not. Millie is pounds an inches at the withers, Jax is pounds and inches at the withers. The offspring are expected to be 20 to mini pounds. The puppies will go home October 7th. Females Males 1 Francis, GH purple 1 Open 2 reserved for GH 2 Open We take a processing fee of now by PayPal, zelle, venmo, cash, credit card or personal checks to secure your pick position, which comes off the total when you pay your balance at puppy pick up. Puppy selection and go home is hosted on the same day. The processing fee is refundable until puppy births or you are not provided a puppy from your designated litter due to our part. Otherwise the processing fee becomes transferable to a future litter of your choosing. Paymet for balance at time of pick up is accepted by cash, venmo, PayPal, zelle and all major credit cards only, no personal checks accepted at final payment. Puppies go home at 8 weeks on utd on age appropriate shots, dewormer, veterinarian checked, micro chipped, potty training to a doggy door beginning at 4 weeks of age, puppy food Purina Pro Plan lamb and rice formula small bites , blanket with litter scent, snuggle puppy, benebone puppy chew toy, tick flea and heartworm preventative for the first month and intestinal parasites preventative for the first three months, completely loved and pre spoiled with a 1 year health guarentee. We offer a discount for puppy training through Baxter and Bella and 1st month free for puppy insurance through Trupanion. Our puppies are raised by the puppy culture protocols. We do a weekly updates with photos, weights and progress reports. Each puppy is cleared by our veterinarian prior to leaving Texas Doodles. Puppy selection process is hosted at our home in Kountze Texas in person or via FaceTime if distance is an issue. Puppies are picked up in person at our residence unless prior arrangements have been made. We offer puppy ground transport through reliable carriers, meet at Houston area airports, fly in cabin with Southwest Airlines or American Airlines via cargo. We can quote rates for all options. We use Embark and OFA when health testing our parents. This is a pet price only with no breeding rights. Breeding rights are considered after an approval process.

By Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Jun. Today, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are in the herding breed group, which means they are high-energy and love having a job or an outlet for regular exercise. They are known for their confidence, loyalty, and bravery, as well as their ability to thrive with expert levels of dog training and obedience. German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs in the military and police for patrolling, bomb sniffing, and search and rescue. This large dog breed has an average weight ranging from 65—90 pounds. They are typically 22—26 inches tall with a life expectancy of 10—12 years. Caring for a German Shepherd German Shepherds are incredibly active dogs that require intense training and regular exercise to keep them out of trouble physically and mentally. They are best for active families and experienced pet parents. Socialization and consistent training will be essential when a German Shepherd is a puppy. This will help them to grow out of unruly behaviors such as nipping and jumping. German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds a lot. They will also typically go through a molting, which is a period of excessive shedding, one to two times a year. German Shepherd Health Issues While German Shepherds have a long life expectancy for a large breed dog, they are prone to several health problems. A trustworthy breeder will screen both male and female dogs being bred for health conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. German Shepherds commonly also get gastric dilation and volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat, as well as cancer, allergies, heart disease, and a few other conditions. Pet parents of German Shepherds should be highly educated on the symptoms to look for, as early detection is the key to a good prognosis for any serious condition. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a neurologic disorder that affects the spinal cord, slowly causing paralysis of the back legs. Early signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind end and difficulty standing up. Watch your dog carefully for signs of pain and discomfort that come on gradually rather than suddenly. Check their claws at least once a month to watch for signs of uneven wear which would indicate a subtle lameness. There is no treatment for this condition, but physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and protect their ability to use their legs. While there is no cure, you can test for this condition using a DNA-based blood test submitted to the University of Florida or the University of Missouri. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease that can cause lifelong pain in the front limbs. Hip dysplasia is another degenerative joint disease that affects the hind end. Clinical signs include limping, decreased range of motion, and other signs of pain—especially later in life, as arthritis sets in because of this disease process. The treatment for all degenerative joint diseases includes weight loss, reduced activity, joint protection supplements, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, or surgery. Cancer Cancer can develop in German Shepherds at any age, but usually occurs later in life. Common cancers include hemangiosarcoma and bone, lung, and intestinal cancers. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that is most often detected in blood-rich organs such as the spleen and the heart. The signs of hemangiosarcoma are usually related to internal bleeding, with symptoms such as weakness, white or pale gums, trouble breathing, a distended abdomen, and collapse. Other signs are usually nonspecific and indicate overall malaise, including lethargy, panting, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. Depending on the extent of the cancer, treatment plans can include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Bloat Gastric Dilation and Volvulus Bloat, or gastric dilation and volvulus GDV is a sudden life-threatening condition when the stomach enlarges with gas bloat and then twists upon itself GDV. This happens commonly in deep-chested, large-breed dogs such as German Shepherds. To limit the risk of GDV, German Shepherds should wait at least 30 minutes to one hour after eating to resume exercising. Another way to help prevent your German Shepherd from developing a life-threatening GDV would be via gastropexy. A gastropexy permanently attaches the stomach to the inside body wall. This fixation of the stomach prevents the stomach from being able to twist upon itself. Allergies Allergies in German Shepherds can be first seen with symptoms such as itchy skin, skin infections , ear infections , or digestive upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. A thorough medical history and physical examination, diagnostic testing of skin and ears, blood work, and fecal tests are warranted if you suspect that your dog has allergies. Allergies in dogs can be treated by avoiding the cause and the allergen and managing the symptoms that exist with diet therapy and medications. Heart Disease Heart disease, specifically DCM dilated cardiomyopathy , valvular disease, and heart murmurs, can be common in German Shepherds. A special diet should also be considered to restrict sodium intake and to increase the amount of certain amino acids to promote heart health. Dogs with significant heart disease should not be pushed to exercise beyond their limits. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI is a digestive health issue that occurs when the cells of the pancreas do not produce enzymes and hormones normally. The most common symptom is weight loss, despite your pet having a ravenous appetite. Other symptoms of EPI include soft stool or diarrhea; excessive gas; desire to eat feces and other unusual objects; flaky skin; or rough coat. Once the pancreas is damaged to the point that symptoms of EPI develop, you must give your dog pancreatic enzyme supplements and other treatments for the rest of their life. Nevertheless, with proper management, your dog can still live a happy life with this condition. Pannus Pannus, or superficial keratitis, is an immune-mediated painful eye condition that can cause blindness if not managed properly. It occurs more often in dogs that live at high altitudes, those with increased exposure to UV light, and in areas with severe air pollution. Keeping dogs indoors during the sunniest part of the day, providing a doghouse shelter, or trying a specialty pair of doggie sunglasses like Rex Specs may prove very helpful in preventing this issue. Most of these conditions have a genetic component and can be avoid by good breeding and preventive screening practices. They require a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to meet their nutritional needs. These diets are usually labeled puppy, adult, or senior. Offering table food and animal bones should be avoided, as they can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia, and they also have a much higher fat content than dog food. High-fat foods can also cause pancreatitis. How Much to Feed a German Shepherd In general, puppies should be fed 3—4 times per day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. How much you feed is determined by the specific food your German Shepherd eats. You can ask your veterinarian, follow the package instructions, or contact the dog food manufacturer, as AAFCO-approved diets have veterinary nutritionists who help determine these requirements. There are some theories that German Shepherds that are fed smaller, more frequent meals have a lower incidence of bloat and stomach problems. How to Feed a German Shepherd Although there is a genetic component, science shows that rapid long bone growth in puppies such as German Shepherds and other large- and giant-breed dogs contributes to development of joint and bone conditions. Rapid bone growth is suspected to be caused by overfeeding and calcium supplementation. German Shepherds that are fed free-choice or overfed are at higher risk of rapid bone growth. Maintaining lean body weight will also help to decrease the rate of bone growth. Calcium supplements and adult dog foods rich in calcium should never be given to German Shepherd puppies under 6 months of age, as they cannot absorb calcium appropriately when they are that young. Conditions caused by rapid long bone growth and excess calcium supplementation can include: Hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondrosis dissecans of the shoulder, knee, wrists, and ankles. This is improper growth and blood supply in a joint, which requires surgery to prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy HOD. This is inflammation of the bone under the growth plate; it can cause severe joint swelling, pain, fever, anorexia, lameness, and not wanting to move. This is an inflammation of the long bones and associated blood vessels. Joint swelling is uncommon, but the symptoms are similar to HOD. MSM has all-natural anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids high-quality fish oil are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties as well when given at appropriate doses. Research shows that reducing inflammation helps to control pain associated with osteoarthritis , which is a common problem in dogs with joint issues. Probiotics Probiotics such as Purina Calming Care can be helpful not just for digestive issues, but with minor behavioral issues as well. Digestive enzymes come in powdered form to assist dogs who have pancreatic issues, such as German Shepherds with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Other vitamin and mineral supplements are generally not needed for healthy puppies and adults, as they get all they need from their AAFCO-approved diet daily. The breed is considered to be smart and easy to train. They are known to be gentle family dogs and loyal protectors of those they trust. This loyalty can make German Shepherds seem more standoffish around strangers. It does take them some time to gain the trust of other people and other pets. German Shepherds are a very active and athletic breed that require a ton of exercise for both their physical and mental health. Without exercise they will develop unfavorable behaviors, due to irritation and pent-up energy. Controlled leash walks and supervised free play in safe, fenced-in areas should be started when they are puppies. Keeping a German Shepherd on a leash at all times when in public places is a good rule of thumb, as even the most well-trained dog can be distracted and not follow regular commands, leading to a possible confrontation. These results should be provided to a pet parent by the breeder of the German Shepherd before the dog is purchased. Not all temperament and behavioral issues are evident in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether a dog will be free of these problems. Find a trustworthy breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. German Shepherd Behavior German Shepherds, like other herding dogs, tend to be on the nippy side. They have very powerful jaws, and unfortunately, they frequently bite. Most aggressive German Shepherds are aggressive because of their owners. The German Shepherd dog is a pack animal. They need you to be the leader of the pack, providing structure and guidance. The key to success is consistency and practice; you will get the behavior you reward. German Shepherds from working lines have an extremely strong drive to work and may be more dog than most people can or want to handle. German Shepherds are very smart companions and exceptional workers. This helps you build the right foundation for your puppy to evolve into a well-adapted and well-mannered adult dog. Conversely, when your dog barks at you to pet them, do not start petting them until they sit down and quietly wait for you to do so. Soon they will learn that they get what they desire without the excessive, unnecessary behavior. German Shepherds thrive on consistency, positive reinforcement, and a reward system, such as a treats or toys to help strengthen the human-animal bond. They become very bonded to all members of the family and will be willing to participate in many family activities. Fun Activities for German Shepherd Herding. As a breed, however, German Shepherds often show these other traits: Easily bored if not given something to do, which may lead to barking or chewing Can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a younger dog Overprotective of family and territory if not socialized properly Can have an unstable temperament if not bred properly, including excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression Suspicious of strangers Prone to a number of health problems She is a faithful companion that can excel at most anything. With early socialization and confident leadership, she is a cheerful and dependable addition to any family. The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany in .The German Shepherd has consistently been one of the most popular breeds in the United States since the early s with a rise in fame then attributed to canine film stars Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart. GSDs are favored working dogs because of their strength, intelligence, versatility, and obedient natures. The German Shepherd is unmatched in her devotion and courage. She is eager to serve a greater cause with her human companions. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Shepherd Dogs. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your GSD looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your German Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Shepherd Dogs. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. The Vida Veterinary Care doctors will also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep her healthy. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Shepherd is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Shepherd is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Digestive Disorders Several inherited conditions can cause recurring vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss in your Shepherd. These conditions include pancreatic or intestinal disease, food sensitivities, and food allergies. Some of these problems may begin very early in life. To help prevent these conditions, feed only a high-quality pet food we can help you choose the right diet and, most importantly, avoid snacks and table food. The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific digestive disorders your pet may encounter. Bleeding Disorders Your breed is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency The pancreas has two major functions: regulating blood sugar and helping digest food. Digestive enzymes are produced by the exocrine part of the pancreas. GSDs are at an increased risk of having too few digestive enzymes, a disorder called exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This causes inadequate digestion and absorption of nutrients leading to weight loss; foul-smelling, greasy diarrhea; and a dry and flaky coat due to his inability to absorb dietary fats. Lifelong dietary supplementation of digestive enzymes is an effective therapy. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. The disease is caused when the jelly-like cushion between one or more vertebrae slips or ruptures, causing the disc to press on the spinal cord. If your dog is suddenly unable or unwilling to jump or go up stairs, is reluctant to move around, has a hunched back, cries out, or refuses to eat or go potty, he is likely in severe pain. He may even experience sudden paralysis—he may drag his back feet or be unable to get up or use his back legs. Call us or an emergency clinic immediately! For less severe cases, rest and medication may resolve the problem. And as with so many other diseases, weight control helps reduce the risk of IVDD. You should also provide ramps or steps for your pet from puppyhood on to prevent your dog from stressing his back by jumping on and off of the furniture. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Growing Shepherds can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs called eosinophilic panosteitis, or pano or eo-pan for short. It usually starts around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg. Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication. If your dog has this condition and develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg s , rehabilitation exercises may be required. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and German Shepherd Dogs are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease German Shepherd Dogs are prone to multiple types of heart disease , which can occur both early and later in life. Veterinary dental care and weight control also go a long way in preventing heart disease. Unfortunately, German Shepherd Dogs can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs for concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Shepherds. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. In affected breeds, inflammatory cells infiltrate the cornea the clear part of the eye , which then darkens with exposure to ultraviolet light, and may lead to complete blindness. Doggie sunglasses are also an option to help reduce sun exposure. Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your GSD will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! The healthcare chart included in this care guide lists the specific cancers your pet may encounter. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Shepherd is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite, and reduced activity level followed later by a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss. Treatment usually includes oral medications and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, causes a wobbly, drunken gait in affected pets. Wobbler disease is the result of a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. When pinched, the nerves do not send signals to the brain as they should causing the pet to be unable to feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice with wobbler disease are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Treatment options include medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery. It affects GSDs more frequently than other breeds. If your dog has this disease, he will become increasingly weak and disabled in the hind legs, eventually suffering from paralysis in his hindquarters, which also leads to incontinence. Rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture , and dietary supplements can be helpful, but there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for this heritable disease. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but German Shepherds have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Anal Gland Problems German Shepherds are prone to a painful, longterm condition in which the area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. Signs include bleeding, constipation, licking of the area, smelly discharge around the rectum, and straining or apparent pain when defecating. This condition can be difficult to treat and requires lifelong medications, prescription food, and sometimes even surgery. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Taking Care of Your German Shepherd Dog at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your GSD live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. German Shepherd Dogs generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She has a high prey drive, so she needs to be leash walked and a fenced yard is a must. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your German Shepherd Dog needs help. They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Dog Breeds Background The name is literal: German Shepherd Dogs were born and bred to herd and protect sheep in nineteenth century Germany. Before , many towns in Germany had their own version of a German Shepherd Dog. Eventually, a group of breeders led by Captain Max von Stephanitz created the current German Shepherd breed by combining dogs from several different towns. Today, German Shepherds are a favorite breed — in fact, they are the second most popular breed in America. Sizing Up German Shepherds are pretty large dogs. Here are some common physical traits: Weight: lbs. Like a lot of dogs that were originally used for herding livestock, German Shepherds are alert, active, and athletic. German Shepherds are also confident dogs —fearless but not hostile, they hold their ground and are considered reliable guard dogs. German Shepherds bond well with others, especially the leader of the household, thought they are a bit shy around strangers and it can take some time for them to warm up. Given the right amount of training and attention, they can be great family dogs! The German Shepherd breed is not considered unhealthy. However, German Shepherds are prone to a variety of medical conditions: Bloat , due to his size and deep chest. However, this breed does have several common health issues that owners should be aware of. The more extreme conditions are a result of inbreeding, so responsible breeders take special care to trace the genealogy before breeding. The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 10 to 12 years old, but certain conditions might shorten that. Here is a look at some of the most common types of health problems that German Shepherds have and how to recognize them. Diabetes Diabetes is not something that we think of when we think of canine ailments. However, it is not unheard of for German Shepherds to be diagnosed with this health problem. If your dog has one or more of these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean that they have diabetes. However, they should be checked out to ensure that they do not have diabetes or another serious illness. However, it is much more serious than the average bloat that humans experience after eating too much. This is an extremely painful experience for your dog and also very dangerous. The condition can sometimes come on very quickly. Some of the symptoms that your dog may experience with GDV include: Gums are pale or almost white in color Excessive drooling Gagging and retching. If this happens on a weekend or some other time when your regular vet is closed, look to see if there is an emergency animal hospital nearby. With these conditions, dogs will start to go downhill very quickly. In order to give them the best chance at survival, treatment must begin quickly. Perform an X-Ray to get a better look and see if the stomach is twisted. Perform surgery. The only way to fix a twisted stomach is to perform a surgery. Depending on what goes on during the surgery, your dog will need a lot of time to recover from such an invasive operation. While your dog is recovering, it is imperative that he or she gets a lot of rest and refrain from physical activity. Your dog should be monitored closely for the first few days. If they start to vomit or show any signs that their health is deteriorating, you should call the vet immediately. Hip Dysplasia This is a common problem for German Shepherds and other large dog breeds. This is a genetic disorder that usually happens while the German Shepherd puppy is still in the growth stage. The hip socket is more shallow than usual and it causes the hip joint to become loose, which can cause a lot of pain for the dog. Sometimes, hip dysplasia can go unnoticed, but over time, it can cause a dog to develop other problems, such as arthritis and muscular issues. Some of the most common signs that a dog is experiencing hip dysplasia include: Limping for seemingly no reason Hopping when running Popping sounds coming from the joint Slow to stand up Slow to lay down Difficulty getting on and off beds, couches, and other furniture If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it is a good idea to schedule a vet visit for your dog. There are a few different treatment options available for dogs with hip dysplasia, including surgery. Your vet will examine your dog and determine the best course of treatment. Elbow Dysplasia Elbow Dysplasia is just like hip dysplasia, except for the fact that it affects the elbows and not the hips. The symptoms are also going to be similar. You may notice your dog limping or not wanting to run. Just like with hip dysplasia, surgery is also a treatment option. But sometimes, a vet will try to just manage the pain if the dysplasia is not severe. Cataracts Sometimes it seems like these dogs grow up so fast. In truth, when German Shepherds stop growing is at 18 months. As German Shepherds age, some have been known to develop cataracts. This is the same eye disorder that humans can get as well. It is pretty easy to tell if your older dog has cataracts as you will be able to see a noticeable white film develop on the lens of their eyeball. If left untreated, cataracts can cause your older dog to go completely blind in that eye. Another thing to note is that German Shepherd skin issues are fairly common. This breed is prone to yeast dermatitis, moist dermatitis, and allergy dermatitis. Make sure to have these conditions treated by a vet as soon as you spot on your pup. Having a German Shepherd can be a rewarding experience. They are a playful, protective, and loyal dog breed. As long as you stay vigilant and monitor any unusual symptoms, you should be able to have your playful pooch around for years to come. Check out Vetericyn if there are products that can alleviate the symptoms of any of these conditions. Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm. Sources: Pet MD. Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperosmolar Coma in Dogs. Canine elbow dysplasia. Cataracts in Dogs. Know symptoms of oral issues bad breath, redness, swollen or bleeding gums, and plaque Proper Socialization Early socialization is essential for German Shepherds. It helps introduce them to new people and situations, which can help significantly reduce issues like excessive barking, anxiety, and aggression later in life. One tip: Pick a responsible breeder. The best breeders socialize pups before they go to their forever homes. Early socialization can ease the transition from breeder to forever home. Regular Health Visits Find a good veterinarian for your German Shepherd and schedule regular appointments. Yearly or twice-yearly is ideal. Also, make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and X-rays. Shots help protect your pup from disease, while X-rays can help catch illness early. Canine hip dysplasia, for example, is a hereditary disease that becomes more common with improper breeding practices. German Shepherd puppies also have special needs early in life. Socialization, dietary and exercise considerations are all critical as puppies. The best breeders provide their puppies with the important care that they need early in life. Avoid Overheating in Summer German Shepherds have heavy, dark-colored coats. In summer, make sure you protect your pup against heat sickness and heat stroke. Provide ample access to shade and water, and never leave your animal alone in the car. A few tips: Avoid heavy lifting — When your German Shepherd is a puppy, you should avoid heavy lifting. Wait until the joints are fully mature, which usually occurs around years old. Supplements may help — Supplements can help promote good joint health. Recognize symptoms — Arthritis, hip dysplasia, and joint discomfort become more problematic as your pet gets older. Find a Reliable Trainer German Shepherds are so intelligent. But when that intelligence is left to its own devices, problematic behaviors can materialize. In addition to regular exercise, obedience training, Schutzhund competition, and agility training are all great activities for your pup. One tip: Provide regular physical challenges for your German Shepherd, like hiking, swimming, and open running. German Shepherds are so athletic; these sorts of activities allow your pup to put its athleticism and intelligence to good use. Bloat is a digestive disorder, in which the stomach twists and fills with gas, causing discomfort and, in severe cases, death. Knowing the symptoms — a distended abdomen, difficulty breathing, drooling and pain — can help you seek early care for your animal. Contact us for more information.

The good news is that they eventually should calm down and become the tranquil, loveable doggies we all know and adore although their puppy-fueled energy can be endearing at times. Generally, excess excitement in your French Bulldog will gradually decline over time. Many French Bulldog owners notice their dogs begin to calm around 2 to 3 years of age. But it can take until 4 to 5 years of age for bouts of hyperactivity displayed to end. A common way to calm down dogs with excess energy is to provide them with calming chews every so often. I think this calming chew available at Amazon is one of the best. While that might be bad news for, say, your new slippers or your ability to watch a TV show in peace without being interrupted, it is also a sign of good health. A French Bulldog pup who is running around, getting into trouble, barking up a storm and generally being a pain in the proverbial butt is also a very healthy, happy pup. The truth is, once they do calm down you might long for the days when they had more energy instead of less. Have you ever noticed how much your French bulldog sleeps after a day of excitement and thought to your self, how many hours is my French bulldog sleeping per day? We created a recommended products page which links to every product we personally use for our bulldog. Yes, occasionally you might have one that is a bit more aggressive, but that is a relatively rare occurrence among the breed. That being said, Frenchies are a bit more boisterous as puppies and, as adults, quite a bit more calm than other dog breeds. On the other hand, the occasional French Bulldog is timid and will bark at anything that scares them or agitates them in some way. If your French Bulldog is home all day doing very little they will certainly appear to be hyperactive when you get home because they have tons of pent-up energy waiting to spring forth! Like a child asking hundreds of questions your French Bulldog puppy will, please forgive the term, hound you, until you give them what they seek; attention. French Bulldogs when younger are just like teenagers, full of spunk, back-talk and wanting to assert themselves, behavior that can seem hyperactive but is more a sign of their age than anything else. At least most humans. Both of these situations require two things; love and compassion. With a French Bulldog in its golden years. Here are 5 of them. Exercise can be an easy cure. Mental stimulation- Giving your Frenchie tasks to do, like finding something, learning a new trick, and other forms of mental stimulation are a great way to use up some of their excess energy Training- If you train your dog every day for a set amount of time they will start to calm down commensurate with how much you train them. Change their food. If it is, change it to something more natural and less sugary. Here are some of my favorite Dog and Bulldog Products Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful for your dog and bulldog questions. These are affiliate links, and I am compensated for referring traffic. But in all honesty, these are the exact product that I use or recommend to everyone. Food For Bulldogs: Royal Canin Bulldog was the dog food our breeder recommended for our bulldog with a bit of canned pumpkin added for each meal to give a bit of extra fiber Poo Bags: For poo bags we use Greener Walker poop bags. We have used them for over a year without having a single leak. Also, these bags are made to be friendlier for the environment. They are good for sensitive skin which bulldogs are known to have. I love this dog bed because it has an outer liner which can be replaced if it gets too beat up. To see all our most up-to-date product recommendations , check out this resource that I made for you! French bulldogs are known as a lazy breed, but some Frenchies just won't stop acting hyper. If your french bulldog constantly runs in circles or barks at your guests , you may want to take steps to help them calm down. Why is your french bulldog acting hyper? Your french bulldog is acting hyper because they need more exercise. Frenchies are a naturally energetic species, and many of them want to spend all day running and playing. If your french bulldog has behavioral issues, they may need the training to help them calm down. French Bulldogs Are Energetic The pet experts at DogTime say that Frenchies have a medium level of energy and a high potential for intensity and playfulness. These dogs love to run around, but they're also likely to wear themselves out and nap for the rest of the day. Every french bulldog is different. Some Frenchies seem like they have an endless amount of energy. Others are lazy and love nothing more than napping on their owner's lap. All french bulldogs like to talk. Although they don't bark as much as other breeds, Frenchies are known for snorting, huffing, and making their opinion known. French bulldogs are often said to have huge personalities in tiny bodies. This can translate to overly social, playful, or inquisitive behavior. If you have a hyper French bulldog, you should realize that their energy levels are completely normal. There's no such thing as a dog that's too playful. However, some Frenchies need to learn to use their energy in a more constructive way. Hyper Might Mean Behavioral Issues If your french bulldog spends all day running in circles, you might be annoyed, but you won't need to correct the behavior. However, many french bulldogs owners say that their dog is "hyper" as a way to describe unwanted behaviors like barking, chewing, or terrorizing other pets in the house. FrenchieWiki notes that many french bulldogs tend not to listen to their owners. A huge personality can result in a stubborn dog who wants to have things their own way. Your dog may prefer to keep causing a ruckus no matter how many times you call their name. Many hyper french bulldogs also bark at or jump on their owner's guests. French bulldogs are small, so some owners aren't sure if this behavior is a problem. All dogs need to learn proper manners so that they can properly socialize with guests. A Frenchie who scares away every potential friend will end up lonely and anxious; in response, they will engage in even more hyperactive behaviors. French bulldogs are highly inquisitive. A french bulldog with too much energy might get into the trash or their owner's possessions. If your Frenchie keeps chewing on your shoes, they definitely need more mental stimulation. Bored dogs like to entertain themselves, and french bulldogs get bored very easily. All of these behaviors are the result of a dog who needs more exercise and more guidance from their owner. Your french bulldog doesn't actually have an endless amount of energy; if you help them burn through it, they will definitely calm down. Your French Bulldog Needs Exercise In almost all cases, a dog with too much energy is a dog that needs more exercise. Frenchies are small pups that are often seen as lapdogs. Although they love cuddling on your lap, french bulldogs also need a regular exercise regimen to keep them healthy and happy. The dog experts at Barkercise note that french bulldogs are often thought to be a lazy species. Frenchies get tired easily. Many french bulldogs will stop playing after around 30 minutes of exercise. French bulldogs have compressed air passages. They don't have an easy time breathing, so they'll get exhausted much more quickly than other dogs. A hyperactive french bulldog will be able to play for longer periods of time, but they'll still become exhausted after a full hour of playtime and human interaction. If your french bulldog is acting hyper, take them for a long walk. Play fetch in the back yard or at the dog park. If it's raining outside, play a game of fetch in the living room with a soft toy. Chase your dog around the house in a game of tag. The goal is to help your Frenchie feel tired and relaxed. Once they have had their fill of exercise, most french bulldogs are happy to obey commands, meet new people, and stay out of the trash. Remember to take a break when you notice that your french bulldog is getting tired. Between breathing problems and potential spinal issues, french bulldogs can pick up health problems if they are allowed to exercise past their limits. Watch your dog's energy levels, and use your best judgment. They want to spend all day with their owners; if they don't get to do this, they might cause a ruckus in a bid for extra attention. Take a moment to think about your daily schedule. You obviously make time to feed your dog and let them outside; you probably also pet them frequently throughout the day. However, you should consider whether you're setting aside time to give your dog direct attention. Direct attention means turning off the television, putting down your phone, and interacting with your dog. Energetic Frenchies might want to chase you around the house. You can also play with a rope, throw a ball, or go for a walk. On the less exhausting side of things, consider just lying on the couch and talking to your dog. French bulldogs love to have conversations; if you listen, they'll be happy to talk back. You should spend at least twenty minutes interacting with your dog every day. Set a timer, and forget about everything but your pup. The result will be better dog behavior and a stronger bond between you and your best friend. Your Frenchie needs to know the proper way to act when guests come over or when you try to get their attention. If you haven't trained them, they will come up with their own answers to these problems. An untrained french bulldog is likely to jump on guests, bark at strange sounds, and act wild or hyper in new situations. In order to correct this behavior, you need to teach your dog how you want them to behave. Cesar Milan recommends that you avoid giving your dog attention when they act hyper. Most dogs see any engagement from their owner as a reward for their most recent behavior. If you shush your dog or call them over whenever they get excited, they will not learn to calm down. Cesar also notes that as the owner, you need to maintain your sense of calm. Your dog looks to you for guidance; if you are stressed, they will mirror that stress in their own way. Ignore your dog when they are acting hyper, but keep an eye on their behavior. As soon as they calm down, reward this behavior with a word of praise or a pat on the head. By rewarding calm behavior and discouraging excited behavior, your dog will quickly learn how you want them to act. Once your Frenchie calms down a little, you may want to take them in for professional training. A dog trainer will be able to address your dog's specific behavioral issues and help you find a long-term solution. This training video by Ty the Dog Guy shows how to help an aggressive or scared french bulldog calm down. Your dog may be hyper for different reasons, but the steps in this video can help you teach them to act the way you'd like. Your french bulldog needs toys that they can play with when they have too much energy. Well-chosen toys will keep your dog entertained throughout the day and give them a good reason to stay out of the trash. Frenchies are small dogs, so choose toys that are a bit on the smaller side. Every dog needs a rope to play tug-of-war, a ball to play fetch, and a plushie to cuddle with. You should also look for toys with interesting materials and textures that your dog would like to interact with. Find a good chewing toy for your french bulldog. Some dogs like rawhide stripes or bones from the local deli. Almost all bulldogs, including Frenchies, love to chew on antlers; you can usually buy these at your local pet store. A rubber chew toy may also be a great option. Interactive dog toys are intended to give your dog an extra level of stimulation. Treat dispensers will release pieces of kibble whenever your dog flips, rocks, or shakes the toy. Treat dispensers can keep your dog entertained for a significant amount of time. Hidden plushie toys are another great interactive dog toy. These toys feature several small stuffed animals stuffed within a larger plush toy. When your dog tries to pull the toy apart, they'll find other toys hidden inside. Toys will help your Frenchie channel their hyper behavior into something constructive. You can never have too many dog toys. Buy fresh ones when your dog's old toys become worn out; you can also surprise them with new toys if they've been especially good lately. Your French Bulldog Might Need a Friend French bulldogs become hyper and anxious when they don't get enough exercise or attention. As their owner, you may be too busy to continually give them the attention they need. In some cases, the solution might be to get a second dog. The dog breeders at French Bulldog Breed believe that another dog can help keep your french bulldog busy while you're at work or at school. Another dog will act as a canine role model and teach your Frenchie the right way to act. Getting a companion dog may not be the right choice for some french bulldogs. Some Frenchies are jealous of their owner's attention; if the other dog does not mesh with their personality, you could end up with a canine conflict in your home. Many owners who decide to get a companion dog for their french bulldog often choose another Frenchie. French bulldogs all have the same habits and needs, so they tend to get along with each other extremely well. Always consider the situation carefully before bringing a second dog into your home. If your french bulldog is perpetually lonely, bored, and misbehaving, a friend might be exactly the extra stimulation that they are looking for. Tired Frenchies Are Happy Frenchies In general, a hyper french bulldog is not getting nearly enough physical and mental stimulation. They may be acting up because they feel excited, restless, or anxious. Exercise is usually the right solution, but other forms of stimulation can work as well. Direct attention, extra playtime, more toys, and even another dog can all help your Frenchie calm down. Your main takeaway should be that tired french bulldogs have an easier time doing what they're told. If your dog hasn't gone for a run in a week, they will be thinking about nothing but exercise until they get a chance to let that energy out. Exercise your Frenchie until they feel more relaxed. Then, use training methods to communicate the calm behaviors that you would like them to display. Remember that calming your french bulldog isn't just for your comfort; a mellow attitude is important for your Frenchie's social success. A calm and composed dog will be able to make friends and enjoy a variety of new social situations. Adopt the same calm attitude that you want your dog to have. If the two of you work together, you can help your french bulldog act less hyper so that you can enjoy more activities together. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. When Buster was a pup I would say yes he was hyper as he used to jump up all the time and just found everything you did to be a game, but with some training put in place and buster learning, we soon had him under control. I think I like throwing a ball down the garden more than him these days. Are French Bulldog Puppies Hyper? In fact, the breed is one of the most energetic in its young stages! And who can blame them? French Bulldogs are known for being hyper and energetic, but how long they stay that way can vary. This is due to genetic variation in temperament as well as environmental factors like diet or exercise which may cause them to get more excited than others at different rates overtime periods of years old for instance. However, it will still probably feel like an eternity before you ever catch your little pup calm enough again after all that running around! French bulldogs are usually hyper for about 2 to 3 years, but it can take until 4 or 5 before their excitement fades. Are All French Bulldogs Hyper? No, not all French Bulldogs are hyper. Some have the energy level of a pinata on freedom night! Why Is my Frenchie So Hyper? It may mean they are stimulated from the exercise and mentally it will have an effect. Keep in mind every individual dog is different and will have different needs, so if you have an older dog compared to a pup, then the older dog will probably want a little less exercise than the pup. Destructive Behavior Could destructive Behaviour be classed as hyper activate, I would say so. I have heard of dogs destroying pillows, ripping up bins, and just obliterating the household when being left alone. These are signs that you need to take action on. This behavior could be from what I mentioned above, possibly down to lack of exercise leading to frustration and pent up energy that needs to be released. Although this behavior could be down to lack of exercise it could be something else that is causing this. There might be the possibility that your dog is suffering mentally from a problem called separation anxiety or fear, these can both trigger destructive behavior. This might be the case and I would recommend seeing a vet to determine the issues. Outward Hound Nina Ottosson.This level 4 puzzle requires your dog to complete a series of steps in the correct order to keep discovering more hidden treats! Dog treat puzzles are a great way to reduce boredom and provide mental enrichment for your pup. The MultiPuzzle is perfect for ultra smart dogs that have already mastered levels .Slide the center covers and outer tiles over the compartments to hide the treats. For an extra challenge, put the ridged orange locks in place to secure the green square tiles. Encourage your dog to seek the treats and let the games begin! Between the moveable green tiles, spinning wheel, orange locks, and center sliders, your pup will stay busy working for those treat for a good while! After the treat compartments have been emptied, this durable dog puzzle can be hand washed with warm water and mild soap. Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged. Also when referring to a French bulldog you have to consider that they are part of the brachycephalic breed which means they have a shorter muzzle resulting in more strained breathing and they will find it harder to pant and cool down. So take into consideration not to overexert your Frenchie when introducing more exercise, with each day and introducing the extra exercise you will find the sweet spot, and not only will you have a fitter, healthier dog but this may help you calm down your hyper dog. French bulldogs are very social dogs and do love fuss and attention. If your Frenchie is hyper think about how much time you give them each day, they might feel lonely or not stimulated so maybe a bit of interaction will calm your hyper companion. Direct attention means stopping absolutely everything your doing and putting your pure focus into your Frenchie, turn off all distractions like your phone and tv and have a play together and have a chat, you might sound mad having a conversation with your Frenchie but they are inquisitive little dogs and will take it all in and might even have a little bark back. All of this helps with mental stimulation with your dog and also building a better bond, more understanding, and maybe a better-behaved dog. I would try and give your dog at least 20 to 30 minutes of direct attention each day. In the situation of unwanted behavior, the best solution I have found is to ignore them and give them no attention, Most dogs find that any engagement is a reward to their behavior. When your dog is being hyper, ignore this behavior, wait and monitor until they are calm, as soon as they are, reward with a treat and good praise. Your French Bulldog needs stimulation Another factor if you have a hyper French bulldog is that they are not stimulated. French Bulldogs are inquisitive, intelligent, playful, and sociable dogs so they need stimulation to avoid depression, becoming withdrawn, and possible hyperactivity. You can do this by having plenty of playtime and lots of toys, it might be worth looking into getting some toys that challenge your dog like the puzzle or toys that have treats and food stuffed in the middle, not only does this keep them occupied for a while, they will also use a lot of energy and tire them out so a good bit of exercise. Toys that you can interact with your dog are also great for stimulation like playing fetch with a ball and a tug of war rope, these are great activities for releasing a bit of energy while providing good exercise and some quality interaction and attention. Another great toy option is the interactive range these are a great stimulation and will keep your dog happy for hours, you can fill them with treats and your dog will have to work out how to get the food out they might have to bite, chew, flip, throw in the air or shake the toy to get some food out these are a great source of entertainment for your pooch. Toys will help stimulate and keep your dog very happy, this may result in a less hyper dog and once playtime is over they may calm down and be relaxed for the rest of the day. A new toy might reignite that fire. To combat this you may want to consider getting your Frenchie a friend for some extra company, this may help the situation and calm your hyper dog down. It will also take the worry off you leaving your dog knowing that they are at home with their new best mate and also a new companion and family member to you, So there are two positives to this solution and twice the fun. Conclusion From my personal experience and research, not all French bulldogs are hyper, some are lazy and dislike going for walks or even exercising, but the majority of Frenchies are energetic, playful, and very social dogs. It could be anything from introducing more exercise, more playtime and maybe introducing some more quality time and interaction. Recent Posts. Pin 0 Shares Owning a French Bulldog comes with a high level of commitment. You are bound to have seen all of those funny videos online of French Bulldogs acting all hyper and destructive, especially as puppies. Are French bulldogs hyper? French Bulldogs can be very hyperactive as puppies and sometimes into adulthood too. They require a lot of stimulation and exercise in order to curb destructive behavior. Whilst they do sleep a lot, when awake they will require a lot of attention from their owners. Our own personal experience We brought Claude home when he was around 9 weeks of age which is just around the right time to take a Frenchie puppy from his mother. Whilst we thought we knew what we were letting ourselves in for, nothing really prepared us for how high energy this breed can be. Continue reading to see what we learned about owning a hyper destructive Frenchie puppy. In the rest of this guide I am going to explain how we got on, what we learned, when our Frenchie finally calmed down, and particularly how destructive French Bulldogs can be without the right care and attention. How hyper are French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are a hyperactive breed and will run and run until they can run no more. They love to play and will act like clowns even until their adult life. In the first few months of owning Claude meant we were constantly on our toes and having to put things out of reach that he wanted to chew and destroy. I would say that the puppy phase is without doubt the most hyperactive and destructive phase. Below you can see some examples of what we had to put up with and how we learned to cope with in the first few months of ownership. Are French Bulldogs hyper as puppies? Oh yes, French Bulldogs are hyper as puppies. During the puppy phase expect to have to deal with a lot of high energy and destructive habits. Their senses are developing, the world is a great big adventure, and they will be testing their own limits… and yours! However, there is such thing as hyperactivity in dogs which is medically known as hyperkinesis. Frenchies who display over hyper behavior, are frenetic, have short attention spans and act on impulse can be given medication. Your Frenchie could be hyper due to a mix of their genes, training, and how well they were socialised. After all, many Frenchies are extremely excitable. This is what to expect from the majority of Frenchies though — all of which is perfectly normal: 1. With Claude it would start by him running really fast down the corridor on the top floor in our house between rooms. He would also do it in out lounge by running around in circles, jumping up and down onto the couches at super speed. He actually hurt himself a few times doing this, so you need to puppy proof your environment where possible. French Bulldog owners have their own name for this hyper behavior; the Frenchie s. He would do it when anyone came into our house and also outdoors when being taken for a walk. There was one walk I took him on when he jumped up at a toddler and pushed the kid down due to being too hyperactive. That incident led me to working on this habit with some intensive training. You can see how I stopped him jumping up in this guide. Claude knew that once he was on his leash it meant he was off to the the local park for some excitement. However, having to walk with a Frenchie that would pull on his lead constantly did become very tiresome. We would also have problems where we could not get him to come back to us when it was time to go home. Claude would pull and strain at his leash for quite a few months until he was trained correctly. We ended up taking Claude to puppy socialisation classes which let him learn how to behave when being walked, despite the presence of other hyperactive puppies and people. I recommend that you take your hyperactive French Bulldog puppy to socialisation classes near you. This will help you to train them for not just leash walks, but also recall once they are off the lead. Are French Bulldogs destructive? As well as the hyperactive nature of a Frenchie puppy, you also need to be prepared for how destructive French Bulldogs can be. French Bulldogs are destructive when they are younger, and without training and care will continue these traits into later life. This breed needs a loving home to grow up. If you do leave them alone for long periods of time, especially when puppies, then you will see destructive habits that can be hard to break. Biting and chewing French Bulldogs puppies are big chewers, make no mistake! The puppies use their mouths to taste and test out everything they come across. This is what the end of our dining room table looked like after being chewed by our hyper destructive French Bulldog puppy. During this phase I recommend you invest in chewing and teething toys. I have put together a short list of the teething toys we used with Claude. The good news is that your French Bulldog puppy should stop the chewing behavior at around 8 months of age. For more advice on how to curb biting and chewing which is the main complaint new owners have about French Bulldogs being destructive, please read these guides: How to stop a Frenchie from chewing 2. Digging up your yard or garden French Bulldogs also love to dig. When we got Claude, I had only recently re-done our garden lawn and had to constantly chase him off the grass to stop him digging holes. One way you can stop your Frenchie puppy destructively digging up the lawn is by giving them something else to distract their attention. The reason Frenchies dig are wide ranging, including: They have an urge to escape and explore. They dig to find critters and interesting smells. They will occasionally dig when they are bored. They might even want to eat the dirt. They will also dig when they are anxious. I ended up building a small fenced off area to prevent this destructive behavior. If you want to read more tips on why they dig and how to stop it, read my guide to Frenchie digging. Peeing on the floor indoors Another piece of destructive behavior you need to be prepared for is the toilet training aspect. French Bulldog puppies will pee and poop on the floor in your house for often as old as 8 months. We developed a potty training guide which contains all the information you need to cope with this. Crying when left alone One of the harder aspects to cope with is how much attention Frenchie puppies need from you. They have been taken from their mothers and siblings, so of course, will want to get that reassurance and comfort from you. I can only compare it having a baby. If left alone for even short periods of time, your French Bulldog with exhibit destructive behavior such as chewing and sometimes even eating their own poop. French Bulldog separation anxiety is an actual thing click that link for advice on how to manage it. Are French Bulldogs high energy as adults? The good news is that things will get better providing you have socialized and trained the puppy as best you can. We also found that once Claude had been neutered at 8 months of age , he got a lot better and the hyper high energy reduced dramatically. Do French Bulldogs ever calm down? Yes, French Bulldogs do calm down eventually. The high energy behavior will reduce as they approach adulthood. Frenchies that are neutered or spayed between 4 and 9 months will also start to calm down and exbibit less high energy behavioural patterns. We learned that whilst French Bulldogs will sleep for 12 hours a day you can see the sleeping schedule in the graphic below , when they are awake they need lot of activity. French Bulldogs are high energy when they are awake so make the most of the time in the day when they will be sleeping — which is a lot as you can see here. We take Claude for two walks a day; one in the morning and one in the afternoon for around 25 to 30 minutes each time. My son also has a laser pen and plays with Claude in the kitchen with that to further wear him out. By doing so, our Frenchie is still hyper, but at the right moments and in the right way. One way you can do that is to make sure they have plenty of toys and fun things to do. Check out this list of Frenchie play accessories for more information. Want more advice on YouTube? There is a huge amount of advice on the French Bulldog Owner website about how to care for your dog from puppy through to adulthood. But if you want to see actual real video footage, I would recommend subscribing to our YouTube channel as we release weekly updates and episodes. Conclusion To conclude, French Bulldogs are hyperactive. French Bulldogs are destructive. However, the majority of this behavior will be curbed as they grow older providing you train and exercise your dog as you should do. Our own Frenchie did calm down eventually as he grew older. Owning a French Bulldog is a privilege, not a right. There are pros and cons to owning this breed so before you decide to buy, make sure a Frenchie is right for you: read the pros and cons to owning a Frenchie here. A sad and unhappy Frenchie will be a destructive one. If you have any concerns that your Frenchie could be depressed, read this guide to the signs of depression. Her guardian called us to schedule a puppy behavior training session to stop her from getting over excited, barking, biting and pulling on the leash. To say that Gracie was excited would be a bit of an understatement, lol. She jumped up, barked, and ran about as she had real difficulty controlling herself. I sat down with Gracie and her guardian to discuss the problems she wanted to work on. The priority was to teach a puppy to calm down, stop barking, stop biting and some leash training. I was hoping that Gracie would calm down enough to work with but after about ten minutes it became clear that we needed to drain excess energy before we could effectively do any puppy training. I strapped on a pair of roller blades and spent 20 minutes dog skiing with Gracie to burn excess puppy energy. Once she stopped pulling on the harness, we finished our last lap and headed back to her home. I made a number of suggestions to help the puppy start to see and identify as being in a follower position. Its not unusual for puppies to push the boundaries to test the resolve of their guardians and learn where the rules, boundaries and limits lie. I stressed that its important for her guardian to correct or reward the puppy within 3 seconds for her to understand what her guardian is saying. I also showed her how to pet Gracie with a purpose and use passive training to reward her for desired actions and behaviors. Gracie responded really well to the positive puppy training techniques and exercises. This is why I only use positive dog training. This way, the human and dog are all on the same page. Share this:. Are French Bulldogs Hyper? There are a number of reasons your adorable fur baby is full of energy, and there is a number of tricks for getting it to calm down. Are French Bulldogs Hyper as Puppies? But, as with any other puppy, French Bulldogs are quite hyperactive when they are young. Not many! Frenchies are no exception, even though they have less energy than many other breeds. Puppies who are new to the world have lots to see and learn. They are active and full of curiosity. For the first year or so, it might seem like your new puppy is really trying to test the limits. There are several reasons this may be. They need stimulation through human and other animal interactions, toys, and some exercise. It wants attention French Bulldogs were bred to be companions , and they thrive off of attention. However, we all know life can get busy for humans, and finding time for additional tasks can feel impossible sometimes. As you make time to feed your Frenchie and take it outside for potty breaks, know that quality time is just as important. Pencil in some time each day to give your pup your undivided attention by going on a short walk, throwing a ball, or snuggling up. This really can make all the difference for them! However, short walks a day and playtime indoors are needed in order to get their energy out. When dogs are put into an exciting situation, they often show their emotions through a burst of energy. If you think about it, Frenchies have to find a way to communicate with their human. Sometimes this may mean they make a song and dance to let you know they need food. Remember when we said when Frenchies enter the world, their exuberant and curious? It needs a friend. As mentioned, two needs of your French Bulldog are exercise and attention. This mate could be another dog or another human. If you think another fur child is in the cards, you could look into giving your Frenchie a sibling. You could first see how your Frenchie does with other dogs and you could look into having the two pooches meet once you find a potential new dog. What about another human companion? You could look into a dog walker or sitter to give your Frenchie another person to get love and attention from. Apps such as Rover and Wag provide the convenience of finding someone for this job in your area. Ways to calm a Frenchie down: Exercise French Bulldogs should not go on very long walks because of their disposition to breathing issues, but short walks and play sessions can work wonders for a hyperactive dog. Not only does exercise keep their energy at an appropriate level, but it provides health benefits such as a reduced risk of obesity, healthy joints, and proper bowel functions. Create Routine You may find that, in many ways, dogs are like humans. Having a routine to provide comfort is one of those similarities. How about a simple routine like this? Morning: potty break, breakfast, walk During the Day: lounge and gnaw on bones Afternoon: walk and play a game of fetch Evening: cuddle with humans, eat dinner, potty break Show Calmness A lot of times, dogs respond to the vibe of the environment and people around them. If you are laid-back, your dog will feel this energy and alter theirs accordingly. Provide Toys and Puzzles Frenchies are quite easy to please, and usually, a few toys will get them to lie down and be entertained for a while. Some mental stimulation from time to time is great for fostering critical thinking skills as well.

Listed below are answers to the most common questions I receive as you are preparing to take your puppy home: 1. What is my puppy eating? We are feeding your puppy PawTree. They have a multitude of other flavors you can try out after your puppy comes home too. You can buy this food by clicking the PawTree picture at the bottom of any page on our website. You can find out more information at www. We also encourage you to set your order to their EZship so you never run out. They also offer personalized food by filling out a pet profile so we encourage all families to head over to fill out their pet profile for personalized food plan as well as personalized bags of dog food when they arrive. How many times per day should my puppy be fed? We feed puppies, weeks old 3 x per day. We try to keep them on a schedule such as: a. Once the puppy reaches 12 weeks, we cut them back to eating 2 x per day, eliminating the noon feeding. Increase the amount you feed based on the recommendations you will find on the dog food bag as suggested by weight of the puppy. We do not recommend free feeding — give your puppy about 20 minutes to eat, then pick it up and put it away. Water should be provided at all times, except during the night. Wet the food for about 30 minutes prior to giving it to the puppy so it softens to aid in digestion. However, if you see loose stools it is almost assuredly overfeeding so back it off until the stool is firm and then slowly add back in. When can I start training my puppy? We like to see training start as soon as you pick up your puppy from my home, or your puppy arrives via car or airplane. We recommend transporting your puppy home in a crate that is lined with a bath towel. Feeding time is a fantastic opportunity to train as you can spend a few minutes several times per day with teaching the basic commands of sit, stay and come. We provide a helpful training booklet with detailed information on training on our Puppy Tips page. What size crate should I buy for my puppy? Most puppies that will mature to a medium size will need a large crate once they have reached maturity. Plastic crates are an option as well. If you have any questions please ask us. What type of collar and leash do I need and what size is best for my puppy? We like to buy the less expensive, adjustable-type of collars and a nylon leash. We do not care for the expandable leashes that allow the puppy to walk way out in front or way off to the side of you. The smallest setting for the collar would be about 8 inches and expanding out from there. We use small carabiners to attach the stretched chain between the collar and the leash. This will prevent your puppy from chewing your new leash. If you are reserving a small size pup then I would suggest an XS collar. Another option while they are very young is a slip leash style. Some families like to train in harnesses. This is also a tool you can use. Sizes will vary from company to company, but most go off of weight. Ask us the estimated weight of your future puppy at the time they will go home so you will have a rough idea of what to purchase. It is never a bad idea to weight to buy until you can size your puppy in person though as each harness will fit differently. You can play the radio softly if your puppy is in a different room from you as this is how they were raised with us. You have to find a system that works for you. However, keeping consistent for the first few nights will build a sleep pattern in your dog you will enjoy for its entire life. How many times per night will my puppy need to go out to go potty? We suggest you feed your puppy dinner no later than p. Make sure that you see puppy go potty and poop before putting him to bed for the night. If your bedtime is p. Then only if puppy is whining, let him out very methodically to potty no playing and put him right back to bed. How many times per day should my puppy need to go potty? Puppies will always go potty right away after they wake up and after they eat. If you take puppy out right after eating, see him go potty, then allow about 30 minutes of some free time in your home before making his world small using a temporary fence or leash. On average they can typically hold their bladders for 2-hours, but every puppy will react differently to stimuli in your home. Should my puppy have contact with other vaccinated dogs? We like to make sure other dogs have not only been vaccinated, but are also free of parasites. Worms of all sorts can live in feces and it just take a quick second for your puppy to ingest enough to get a parasite. This product should be alternated every 6 months. There are countless natural remedies as well as chemical based options you can find at your vet. We always prefer natural options first, but in some cases the chemical based products are needed. Check with your vet or trainer for their recommendations in your area. We strongly suggest topical or collar options only. How often should I give my puppy a bath and what should I use? We do not bathe our puppies unless they are dirty and we use baby shampoo or something gentle. We usually suggest people decide what they like in the look of their Labradoodle. Do you like the longer, shaggy look, or do you like the shorter, more manicured coat? If you leave the coat longer, you will need to keep it combed out and mat free. Do you have recommendations for where to stay when we pick up our puppy? We are located only 20 mins from Lebanon, Oregon. There are numerous hotel options in Albany, Springfield, or Eugene that you can explore. Be sure to measure the food using a standard 8oz measuring cup, which holds 4. The Importance Of Water Intake Adequate water intake is crucial for the overall health and well-being of your Labradoodle puppy. Water plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including digestion, absorption of nutrients, circulation, temperature regulation, waste elimination, and maintaining proper hydration levels. To ensure that your Labradoodle puppy gets enough fluids to meet its nutritional needs, you should provide clean and fresh water at all times. One guideline suggests providing an ounce of water per pound of body weight daily—for instance, if your pup weighs 10 pounds; it would need about 10 ounces of water each day. Keep an eye on the water bowl throughout the day and refill it when necessary. Age And Weight Labradoodle puppies have different nutritional needs than adult Labradoodles, and their age and weight play a huge role in determining how much to feed them. Puppies younger than 12 to 18 months old require higher levels of protein and fat to support their growing bodies. Large breed puppies, including Labradoodles, should not be overfed because too much food can lead to obesity or other health problems later on. On the other hand, underfeeding can also cause issues such as stunted growth or malnourishment. Activity Level The activity level of a Labradoodle puppy is an important factor to consider when determining how much food to feed them. Active puppies burn more calories than those who are more sedentary, so they may require larger portions. For example, if your Labradoodle puppy enjoys long walks or playing fetch in the yard, they will have higher energy needs compared to a puppy that prefers napping on the couch all day. This assessment helps determine whether they are carrying excess fat, which can lead to obesity and other related health problems. It is important for Labrador owners even more so because this breed has been known for gaining weight easily when not fed right and exercised regularly. Puppies with sensitive stomachs or allergies may require a specialized diet that excludes certain ingredients. Dogs with medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, or gastrointestinal issues will have specific dietary requirements. Instead, opt for high-quality commercial dog food or homemade meals that meet their nutritional requirements while avoiding excessive calorie intake. Nutritional Requirements Labradoodle puppies have specific nutritional requirements that must be met to ensure healthy growth and development. These pups need a balanced diet with macronutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, and fat, along with micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. Look for commercial dog foods formulated specifically for growing puppies that meet the minimum protein and fat requirements. Feeding Guidelines For Labradoodle Puppies Establish a feeding schedule for your Labradoodle puppy and measure the amount of food to maintain balanced nutrition, with wet and dry food options available. Types Of Food Wet, Dry, Homemade Labradoodle puppies can eat different types of food such as dry, wet, semi-dry, raw, dehydrated or freeze-dried food. It is essential to note that not all dog foods are created equal — some contain artificial additives while others may lack essential nutrients necessary for optimal growth and development in puppies. Meal Frequency Labradoodle puppies have specific dietary needs that must be met in order for them to grow and develop properly. Meal frequency is an important consideration when feeding your Labradoodle puppy. Puppies under the age of four months should be fed small, frequent meals throughout the day, as their tiny stomachs cannot handle a large amount of food at once. Generally speaking, most Labradoodle puppies should be fed three to four meals per day until they are six months old, after which time two meals per day will suffice. Many owners choose wet or dry dog food that comes with detailed recommendations on how much food should be given based on these factors; others opt for homemade diets or mixtures of both types of food. Here are some best practices for managing their weight and ensuring proper development: Choose a high — quality puppy food brand that is specially formulated for their growth needs. Measure out the appropriate amount of food based on their weight, age, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. Stick to a consistent feeding schedule, with small meals per day until they are around six months old. As they grow older, you can reduce the frequency to two meals per day. This involves assessing their body shape and feeling their ribs without excess fat. Consider supplementing with omega — 3 fatty acids or other nutrients if recommended by your veterinarian to support healthy joints and brain development. By following these best practices, you can help ensure that your Labradoodle puppy is getting the nutrition they need for optimal growth and development while avoiding potential health problems in the future. Tips For Feeding Your Labradoodle Puppy Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Labradoodle, monitor their weight and adjust food intake accordingly, stick to a consistent feeding routine, avoid overfeeding and feeding table scraps, and consider training treats as part of their overall daily food intake. Consultation With A Veterinarian It is important to seek advice from a veterinarian when determining the appropriate feeding guidelines for your Labradoodle puppy. Regular check-ups can ensure that your Labradoodle stays healthy throughout their life stages, receiving all necessary nutrients while avoiding overfeeding or undernourishing. Here are some tips on how to monitor and adjust their food intake: Use a Digital Scale: Weigh your puppy every few weeks using a digital scale and keep a record of their weight. Also, note if they have noticeable waist or tuck up. By monitoring their weight regularly and making adjustments as needed, you can ensure that your Labradoodle puppy receives the right amount of nutrition for healthy growth without becoming overweight or underweight. Stick To A Consistent Feeding Routine Labradoodles thrive on routine, making it essential to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Feeding your puppy at the same times every day helps them maintain healthy digestion and prevents accidents in the house. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems down the line. Make sure everyone in your household knows when mealtime is so that nobody gives your pup any extra treats or scraps outside of those designated times. Giving in to their begging eyes with occasional treats is fine, however, too many high-calorie snacks or meals from the table can lead to obesity, which can cause joint problems and shorten their lifespan. Instead of giving in to those pleading brown eyes with human food or extra treats that are not part of their balanced diet, try rewarding them gradually throughout training sessions. Choosing low-fat dog treats that are healthy for your pup provides an appropriate way to reward good behavior while keeping them on track towards healthy growth. Training treats provide an excellent incentive for good behavior — they can reinforce positive habits such as potty training or leash manners. However, overfeeding these treats can lead to weight gain and other health concerns in puppies. FAQs: 1. The amount you feed your Labradoodle puppy will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule of thumb, puppies under six months old should be fed three times per day while those over six months can be switched to two meals per day. It is recommended that you give your Labradoodle puppy high-quality dog food specifically formulated for puppies. Look for foods that contain a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to meet their nutritional needs at this stage in their development. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems while underfeeding can result in stunted growth and malnourishment. Some signs that you may be overfeeding include excessive weight gain or difficulty breathing while underweight dogs may have low energy levels or seem lethargic. Conclusion Feeding your Labradoodle puppy the right amount of food is crucial for their growth and development. With the help of a veterinarian, you can determine how much to feed your furry friend based on their age, weight, activity level, and nutritional needs. Establishing a feeding schedule with appropriate portion sizes and meal frequency is also important. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. The difficult part is deciding which one will have the greatest positive impact on their well-being. The following are some of the top options for dog foods for your Labradoodle: Dry Food: Due to its affordability and accessibility, dry dog food is a preferred option for Labradoodles. The nutrients in high-quality dry food are appropriate for a different life stage of your Labradoodle. Dry food has the greatest shelf life when compared to other types of dog foods. Wet Food: Wet food or canned food is another option for owners. Labradoodles enjoy the variety of flavors in canned food that come in interesting shapes like other meaty foods. Owners may combine wet food with dried food because wet food alone is typically more expensive than dry food. While it can be costly, doing so guarantees that their pups receive high-quality food. If you only give the same food to your Labradoodles, they could develop picky eating habits. Hence, it makes sense to follow the advice of the majority of veterinarians to combine kibble and wet food with a ratio of 20 to .Make sure the food you choose is sustainable and highly recommended by experts. Ensure that it will suit your needs, those of your dog, your financial situation, and your way of life. The average price of a Labradoodle is already costly. Hence, it is important to choose the kind of diet that will also suit your budget. Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Labradoodle Dog owners must be aware of the foods that can be harmful, poisonous, or trigger an allergic reaction in their Labradoodles. The following is a list of some harmful or poisonous foods that you must never give your pet Labradoodle: Alcohol: There is no enzyme that can digest alcohol in Labradoodles. Hypoglycemia , metabolic acidosis , respiratory difficulties, or central nervous system CNS impairment could result from ingestion. Avocado: Avocados contain the fungicidal toxin persin , which has been linked to the death of many dog breeds, including Labradoodles. It can cause vomiting, loose stool, and heart damage when taken in large doses. Chocolate: The major alkaloid in cocoa and chocolates, theobromine , cannot be broken down by an enzyme found in the stomachs of Labradoodles. As a result, even small quantities of chocolate can cause toxicity. Additionally, they could become uncontrollable, have convulsions, throw up, and have diarrhea. Grapes and raisins: As a result of the tartaric acid found in grapes and raisins, Labradoodles experience diarrhea , vomiting, dehydration , and kidney failure. Unfortunately, even one full grape can cause fatal injuries and irreversible harm to Labradoodles. Onion, garlic, leeks, and chives: All of these vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide , which robs red blood cells of their ability to carry oxygen. Consuming these veggies over time may cause hemolytic anemia. It is frequently present in toothpaste, gum, candies, and syrups. Listed below are foods that may seem harmless but are actually hazardous for Labradoodles: Cooked bones: Cooked bones are prone to shatter into shards. They can hurt your Labradoodle as well as obstruct its mouth, throat, and stomach. High-sugar foods: Your Labradoodle is more likely to develop health issues, including diabetes, obesity, and teeth damage, if it consumes too much sugar from other dog foods. Avoid cheap dog food, which usually contains too much salt. Consuming too much salt can result in seizures, renal failure, diarrhea, and vomiting. If ignored, this results in gastrointestinal blockage and death. Bring your Labradoodle to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately if you think they have accidentally ingested any of the aforementioned foods. A smart technique to make sure that their nutritional demands are being satisfied is to switch to a new food. If you want to gradually introduce a new food to your Labradoodle pup, make sure to introduce it in little amounts every day. The timeline provided below will help you introduce a new food to your Labradoodle: Days. From left to right here are some examples of faucet lixits, an adapter to allow for a Lixit to always be on a faucet without need for removal, and then indoor or traveling Lixits. Over the years, with many conversations with Vets, that I respect, I've learned that puppy food is essentially a marketing ploy. In fact, when we first found Life's Abundance they didn't even have puppy food. It was redundant for them to carry puppy food. However, after pressure from so many customers that had decades of "Puppy Chow" commercials engrained in their heads, Life's Abundance decided to include a puppy food. If you prefer to feed the puppy food for the first couple of months we understand and feel is your decision to make and we do support you. We just ask that you stay with Life's Abundance as it's the best dog food and it's what your puppy has been consuming it's entire life, as well as, it's mother's entire pregnancy and life. This video is a great video to explain how to compare dog foods. First, I have strong opinions about most things, it's just my personality. I'm a Momma Bear type with my doodles. Some of my insanity I was just born with and the other sixty percent was gained by enduring some tragedies I don't ever want any of my families, including you, going through. In case you don't know, Life's Abundance, the company that makes all our food, supplements, treats, grooming products, and cleaning products are all delivered right to your front door for a very affordable amount. Life's Abundance food is very affordable and I will include a video at the bottom for you to watch. The dog food is made fresh every two to four weeks then immediately shipped out so your doodle's food isn't sitting on some shelf, on some semi-truck, in some warehouse, who knows where , and for who knows how long. Instead, we know where the food is being made and it's then on our front door step. Why does this matter? Well, your doodle can't say to you, "Hey, my food tastes moldy and I think it's why my liver and kidneys are hurting me but you won't know until I have bloody urine or I'm really sick. Do you think you could get me some fresh food? Many years ago I had a lab mix that was getting really sick and after being diagnosed with terminal liver problems did we realize the food was moldy. Next, one of our doodles many years ago got into a bag of China made chicken treats and ate more than the recommended serving and within four days she was dead. It was the worst tragedy that even writing about it now makes my stomach ache and my eyes tear up. My doodle was a normal, happy, fun loving doodle then suddenly the next morning she was so severely ill we had to go straight to the vet. Our doodle had no appetite, didn't want to move, was non-stop vomiting, with increased diarrhea with blood in it, she kept drinking water despite her belly looking so full, and she was constantly peeing and it was text book for poisoning from these treats. Telling this story has done me in for the night and I'm going to continue with my site later. I only explained this to help you from experiencing the heartbreak our family endured. From our experiences we searched long and far for a USA made dog food that never had a recall. When we did this search we found Life's Abundance. I checked and double checked this company. We learned it was started by a Vetrinarian which really impressed me from the beginning. Our doodles tested the food and loved it. We tried all the products and loved them. I searched all the dog food review websites and found rave reviews with an average of 4. I love that it was made fresh and never sat in a warehouse or on a store shelf for months, in most cases. I've heard of some big box companies buying tons of food from different companies to get discounts and most of the food sits and waits, in some random warehouse that isn't temperature controlled, for the food to sell so it to can make in onto a shelf at your local store to then be purchased by you. The question remains, how long has that food sat from when it was first made? With Life's Abundance, I know the answer, it was made fresh then shipped to you and I. Without a doubt, I will continue to find good products for our doodles and I will passionately share them with you, our doodle families. If for some reason Life's Abundance changes their quality or their product goes downhill or there is a better product then I will change our website and I will tell you why. I take being a "Full Service Breeder" seriously. I believe that my job begins once you adopt one of our doodles. When you adopt your doodle and take it home you are also gaining a doodle friend and confidant that you can call and get support from for life. I'm here to help you so you can just enjoy your doodle and come to one place for sound, honest advice. As my mother used to say, sometimes I'm too honest so be careful what you ask : lol. Dog owners often get bombarded with endless choices as well as countless adverts from the dog food companies, who all claim that theirs is the best. When it comes to dog food, the simple answer is no one food is best for all dogs. But the question is: which diet is the best for your Labradoodle? Luckily, there are many different options when it comes to dog food. The most popular manufactured foods include a complete diet dry , with or without a biscuit mixer and semi-moist. Some dog foods contain only natural ingredients. Then there is the option of feeding your dog a home-made diet. Some owners swear by a raw diet while others feed their Labradoodles vegetarian food. Within the manufactured options, there are many different qualities of food. Usually, you get what you pay for. Expensive ones are more likely to provide better nutrition for your doodle in terms of minerals, nutrients, and high-quality meat, whereas the cheap ones will most likely contain a lot of grain. Dried food also called kibble in the USA tend to be less expensive than other dog foods. They have improved a lot over the last few years, and some of the more expensive ones are now an excellent choice for a healthy, complete diet. Dried foods also contain the least fat and the most preservatives. Often semi-moist foods contain a lot of sugar and artificial substances, which is why some dogs seem to love them. Choosing the right food for your Labradoodle is very important. The diet influences his health, coat, and even temperament. It can have an effect on his health, coat , skin, energy levels, and temperament. There are several different types of food that you can feed your labradoodle — dry, semi-moist, canned, frozen, or freeze-dried are just some of the options. You can also feed him a home-made or raw diet. Many owners of labradoodle with allergies or skin conditions are now considering this option. Dry Dog Food for Labradoodles Dry food is a popular choice for Labradoodles, especially for large dogs who get through a lot of food. It is also less expensive than other dog foods. It is worth paying for a high-quality dry food as cheaper ones may contain a lot of cereal. It also means that you have to feed larger quantities to ensure your dog gets sufficient nutrients. Canned Dog Food for Labradoodles Canned food is another popular choice. Dogs also love them. They love the taste, and it generally comes in a variety of flavors. Canned food is often great mixed with dry kibble. If your labradoodle has lost interest in food and on a dry food diet, then you can add a small amount of canned food. Canned food tends to be more expensive than dried food. Many owners do not like the mess that it makes. If you store a part-opened tin in the fridge, then it can have an overpowering smell when you open the fridge door. Semi-Moist Dog Food for Labradoodles These are the commercial dog foods shaped like pork chops, salamis, burgers, or other meaty foods. They are the least nutritional of all dog foods. They are full of sugars, artificial flavorings, and coloring. You may give your doodle one as an occasional treat, but they do not provide the nutrition that your labradoodle needs. Freeze-Dried Dog Food for Labradoodles The frozen food manufacturers often make this for dog owners who like the convenience of it. You can store them for six months to a year. They do it to make sure that their pets are getting the right nutrition they need. Feeding your doodle a home-cooked diet can be time consuming and expensive. The tricky part is sticking to it once you have started with the best intentions. Raw food for Labradoodles If your doodle is not doing well on commercially prepared dog food then you might need to consider a raw diet. There is evidence that they are becoming increasingly popular among the Labradoodle owners. Raw food diets emulate the way dogs ate before the existence of commercial dog foods. After all, dry, canned, or other styles of cooked food for dogs were mainly created as a means of convenience. However, raw diets are not without controversy. Supporters of the raw food diet argue that a carefully planned raw diet gives the dog numerous health benefits, including a healthier coat, more energy, cleaner teeth, and get rid of bad breath and doggy odor. But the critics say that the risks of nutritional imbalance, intestinal problems, and food-borne illness caused by handling and feeding raw meat outweigh any benefits. Scientifically, the jury is still out. This is one of the most frequent questions that all the Labradoodle owners ask. But there is no easy answer. The correct amount of food for your labradoodle depends on several factors such as: Breed. As they grow you will move from four meals per day at 8 weeks old, to just one or two in adulthood. And you will want to use as much of their daily kibble as you can in training. Helping to strengthen the bond between you, as well as to teaching them which behaviors you want to see in your home. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy When it comes to feeding your new Labradoodle puppy there are plenty of options to choose between and a number of things to consider. Puppies grow up fast. The first thing to keep in mind is that puppies have different dietary needs to adult dogs. Getting too much of some nutrients, and not enough of others can lead to developmental problems. Growing pups digest food and absorb nutrients differently than adult dogs too. Their gastrointestinal system also works much faster than that of an adult dog. Puppy Nutrient Requirements Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, relative to their size. In fact, they need about twice as many calories in relation to their body weight compared to that of a full grown Labradoodle. Compared to mature dogs, puppies also need: more protein to support growing muscle more fat to fuel growth and a different mineral balance to aid in the rapid development of their bones. For example, one study showed that puppies fed a low phosphorus diet suffer from impaired appetite and growth, diminished skin and fur quality, and a disturbed musculoskeletal system. Too much calcium can also negatively affect bone development, by accelerating it. This is a serious joint condition that leads to painful arthritis and lameness. The smaller and younger your puppy is, the more often they need to eat, since their stomachs are too small for big portions. Labradoodle puppies that are 4 months or younger should have their food split into 4 meals a day. When they reach 4 and 6 months old this can be reduced to 3 meals. Knowing how much to feed your Labradoodle puppy can be tricky. So the feeding charts on the packaging are a good place to start. This basic pet calorie calculator can help determine how many calories a puppy needs. Overfeeding Labradoodle Puppies Canine obesity is a big problem for many dogs and the Labradoodle is no exception. Some Labrador Retrievers are known to have a genetic mutation that causes them to have an insatiable appetite. But there are plenty of genetically normal dogs who will always want more food. If your puppy is constantly hungry you can try giving him smaller, more frequent meals. In fact, for training purposes we recommend using as much of each of the meals rations as you can as training treats between meals. These days there are a lot of brands vying for space in the dog food market. So deciding what to feed your Labradoodle puppy might be the most difficult question of them all. Puppies that are 8 to 12 weeks old should continue eating the same food they were eating at the breeders. If you want to change their food, wait until they are fully settled at home. Then transition gradually to a different diet to avoid causing an upset tummy. You can do it over the course of a week, like this: Feed 1 part new food to 3 parts old food on the first two days. Equal parts old food and new food on days three and four. And three parts new food to one part old food for two more days after that. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy Dry Food Most puppy parents choose one of the many commercial dry puppy foods available. There are many reasons why these diets also known as kibbles are so popular. They are. Is kibble, cans, raw or homemade food better? Swapping Puppy Food Brands Moving into his or her new home is a challenging and exciting time for your Labradoodle puppy. Keep feeding what your pup is used to for at least two weeks. Then, slowly start mixing in the new food you have chosen for your pup. Labradoodle Puppy Diets Puppies have lots of growing to do. This means that they need more of certain minerals and nutrients for example calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. Your labradoodle pup will also need a higher amount of good quality protein. This is definitely not the case, though. This—among other things—can cause joint problems, such as hip dysplasia. Labradoodles are a cross between two breeds that are both already at high risk of developing hip dysplasia. The most important thing of all is to avoid overfeeding a Labradoodle puppy, as we will see later in this article. This is called hypoglycemia. Generally, a feeding schedule for your Labradoodle pup can look like this: 2 — 4 months: 4 meals daily 4 — 6 months: 3 meals daily 6 — 8 months: 2 — 3 meals daily Older than 8 months: 2 meals daily. Just make sure to divide the total daily amount onto multiple feedings. You can make slight adjustments to these amounts if your pup is looking a little slim or chunky. The number of calories your pup needs will also change as he or she gets older and heavier. There are a couple of different options out there. Commercial dog foods offer complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup — this means that they have all the right nutrients in all the right amounts and ratios. If a puppy is fed an inappropriate diet, this could lead to long-lasting growth defects or other malnutrition diseases. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy Kibble Kibble is the most popular type of dog food out there. There are only two things you need to pay attention to when choosing kibble: It should be designed specifically for puppies, and it should be high-quality. Research shows that higher-priced dog foods tend to have higher nutrient digestibility than lower-priced kibble — so it might be worth spending a bit more. Choose a kibble that contains a meat protein source as the first ingredient, and steer clear of ingredients like corn, soy, and cereals. Due to its high water content, the aromas and taste of the meat unfold better, making wet food the most palatable food there is. This comes at a bit of a cost, though: Wet food tends to be more expensive than kibble, and of course it spoils more easily. To get the best of both worlds of commercial dog foods, you can combine or alternate between kibble and wet food. The BARF diet consists of lots of raw meat and bones, as well as some veg and fruit. Supporters of raw feeding think that it will make your dog healthier, although there is no solid evidence for this yet. Raw meats are often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter. These bacteria could potentially cause diseases in your pup. However, this is extremely rare, as the digestive tract most dogs can handle these bugs just fine. This means that there is a lot less danger of bacterial infections from raw meats. Keep in mind that cooking for a dog is not the same as cooking for yourself. Avoid spices, onions, garlic, cooking oils, and too much salt. These are dogs that will always want more food and are prone to obesity. It can help to space out meals or add one or two feedings a day if your dog is constantly hungry. Another option is to make your dog work for small amounts of food throughout the day — be it with puppy training, food balls, or puzzles. The possibilities are endless.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Abstract Background Weight at birth is an important predictor of neonatal mortality and morbidity in dogs. In addition, the birthweight of the puppies in a litter influences the decision to perform a cesarean section. The goal of the present study was to estimate heritabilities for the puppy birth weight in Labrador retrievers. Results Of the Labrador retriever litters whelped at the Guiding Eye for the Blind between September and February , were included in the analyses after data editing. Puppy weight at birth was the target trait, measured on a continuous scale in pounds, and converted to grams. Linear mixed models were used to identify factors influencing puppy weight at birth. The analyses showed that the sex of the puppy, litter size, length of gestation, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficient of the puppies and dams contributed to the variance of the puppy birth weight. Dam and litter effects were included as random effects. A multiple trait derivative free restricted maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate variance components and genetic parameters with two animal models, one without covariates Model 1 and one with covariates Model 2. Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects. Estimates for Model 1 and Model 2 were 0. Conclusions In order to estimate reliable breeding values for puppy weight at birth, sex of puppy, litter size, length of gestation and the adult weight of the dam should be included. Estimates could benefit from weighing the dams prior to each mating. Background The size or weight of puppies at birth is an important parameter, which influences neonatal mortality and morbidity and is a predictor of puppy survival [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. After a physiological weight loss within the first three days post-partum the growth curve reverses and birth weight is doubled after two weeks [ 4 ]. Breeders should weigh the puppies daily for at least the first three weeks [ 5 ] and provide each puppy with an individual feeder bowl. In this way, problem puppies are recognized early and the breeder may seek advice from a veterinarian. A recent publication proposes health monitoring for newborn puppies by assessing blood and other parameters to reduce neonatal losses [ 6 ]. Factors with an influence on the birthweight have been reviewed for domestic animals [ 7 ]. Among them are year and season of birth, sex, age and diet of the dam and fetal environment. Possible influences on gestation length in dogs including breed, litter size, parental age and size or parity have been investigated in different breeds [ 2 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], but were not conclusive. A recent genome-wide association study revealed six canine SNPs associated with gestation length [ 14 ], which may lead to the identification of genetic variants influencing this trait. Birth weight is not only determined by the genetic makeup of the offspring and its environment, but also by the maternal genetic composition and environment provided by the dam [ 15 ]. Estimates for genetic parameters for the birth weight in dogs are scarce. Nielen and coworkers [ 16 ] estimated the direct heritability for birth weight in Boxers to be 0. Helmink and coworkers estimated direct heritabilities for German shepherds GS and Labrador retrievers LR to be in the range of 0. In the same study the maternal additive genetic heritabilities were estimated to be in the range of 0. Estimation of maternal effects may improve breeding value estimation. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a non-for profit organization that breeds and trains mostly LR and a few GS to provide guide dogs to people who are blind or have visual impairment. The breeding strategy and detailed procedures of Guiding Eyes for the Blind have been described [ 18 ]. The aim of the present study was to identify factors that influence puppy weight at birth which can provide insights for improvement in the Guiding Eyes for the Blind breeding program. Results To reliably estimate parameters levels of covariates with less than 30 litters were not included in the analyses. As a result of this restriction, 91 litters with a litter size smaller than four puppies or larger than eleven puppies, 15 litters with a gestation length shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days and 19 litters with parities larger than six were dropped, leaving litters with puppies in the study. The average puppy weight was g, and males were heavier g than females g. The fixed effects of season of birth of the litter, inbreeding coefficient of the sire, as well as adult weight of the sire did not have a significant effect on PWB in LR. Table 1 Effects influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates Model 1 and a model with covariates 2. The direct-maternal covariance was held at zero Full size table Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects Table 1. Estimates of variance components Table 1 and genetic parameters Table 2 for PWB are shown for models 1 and 2. To make the individual effects of the covariates model 2 more tangible, detailed information about their magnitude are given in Additional file 1. Table 2 Proportions of variance components influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates 1 and a model with covariates 2. The aim was to measure the genetic correlation between the two traits Additional file 2. The genetic correlations of the direct effects as well as the one of the maternal effects reached almost unity. These results indicate that the architecture of the direct as well as the maternal additive genetic effects of PWB should be very similar in both sexes. These findings allowed for jointly analyzing the PWB of both sexes and to run a univariate mixed animal model with sex as covariate. Discussion Birth weight is a complex trait and influenced by many factors. PWB and post-natal weight gain are important parameters to recognize problem neonates and puppies deviating from normal development, respectively. Variation in size is desirable for Guiding Eyes for the Blind client placements. Dogs provided to people who are blind or visually impaired and also have difficulties with balance require a larger dog to aid in stability. In contrast, many guide dog users prefer a smaller more compact dog to easily fit in smaller spaces available when using commercial means of transportation. However, too heavy or too large guide dogs may be a hazard for the user [ 17 ]. Avoiding the birth of puppies with extreme birth weights is desirable in dog breeding and enhances welfare of the animals in general. In dogs, season of birth was associated with risk for cardiovascular disease risk [ 21 ] and fertility in bitches kept in tropic countries [ 22 ], however, the authors are not aware of any work reporting a seasonal effect on PBW. This is in contrast to findings in humans where the season of birth was strongly associated with birthweight and adult weight, as well as health outcomes in later life [ 23 ]. Seasonal effects on birth weight were found in horse or sheep [ 24 , 25 ]. Sex of the individual affected birth weight in LR. On average, female puppies were 24 g lighter than male puppies. This effect of the sex of an individual confirms the results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 26 ] and may reflect physiological differences between the sexes. In our data a genetical sex dimorphism could not be detected. As in full sib families dominance effects could affect the estimation of additive genetic effects [ 27 , 28 ] we also investigated possible dominance effects in our data using WOMBAT together with the R-package NADIV [ 27 ]. With the same approach we also assessed possible sex chromosomal influences usually not considered in variance component analyses. Our data revealed neither substantial dominance effects nor sex-linked effects Additional file 3. The antagonistic relation between litter size and PWB is well known for domestic animals [ 7 ]. In LR, an increase of the litter size by one puppy resulted in a moderate decrease of PBW of 11 g in average confirming results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 29 , 30 ]. However, the effect was small with an increase of about 6 g for an additional day in the length of gestation. Whereas the adult weight of the sire did not influence PWB in LR, offspring of heavier dams showed a slightly higher PWB, on average by 5 g per kg adult weight, which confirms a previous report [ 3 ]. In a study of Great Danes with a rather restricted data set, the maternal and paternal adult weight had a positive effect on the PBW. Furthermore, higher adult weight of the sire increased neonatal weight gain in this breed [ 29 ]. In LR, up to about parity two to three the PWB in LR increased about 4 g in a linear fashion whereas from about parity two to three to parity six the PWB decreased about 4 g in a non-linear fashion. A similar observation was made in humans [ 31 ]. Although the PWB was fluctuating over the years there was a very small increase of 2 g per year from to .It is well known, that the year of birth may lead to variation of the birth weight by differences in the climate, management and selection of breeding animals in domestic species [ 7 ]. The reason for this very small increase of PWB in LR remains unclear but may be related to the selection of breeding animals. Inbreeding may affect many traits including birth weight [ 32 ] and litter size [ 33 ] in domestic animal species. In the present study, PBW was only marginally influenced by the inbreeding coefficient. Inbreeding of the puppies and the dam had very small but opposite effects. The residual variances are not different but the environmental variance of the litter in model 2 is less than half of that in model 1 and the direct genetic variance in model 2 is close to half of that in model 1. The differences of the maternal genetic variance and the environmental variance of the dam are much less pronounced between the two models. These observations are reflected in the estimates of heritabilities and proportions Table 2. The maternal heritability 0. The residual is larger in model 2 due to the smaller total variance. In Boxers, estimates for heritability of birthweight corrected for litter effects and sex were much higher 0. This discrepancy may be explained by the fact that for our study maternal effects were included in the models. Helmink and coworkers estimated heritabilities for birthweight in German shepherd dogs and LR [ 17 ] by using the following bivariate models: birth weight — 42 days weight and birth weight - mature weight accounting for the litter. For birthweight in LR they found similar direct genetic heritabilities 0. Our results suggest that the inclusion of covariates may lead to better estimates although standard errors of heritabilities and proportions are only marginally smaller in model 2 than in model 1. However, the knowledge benefits anyone especially the working dog community who wants to investigate birth weight in a specific population, canine or not, or improve the situation with respect to birth weight in specific populations. Results suggest that the inclusion of covariates in the model improves the estimates of variance components. The magnitude of the heritabilities indicates that estimation of breeding values could improve breeding program with respect to PWB. Whether our findings help to improve the situation with respect to the stabilization of PWB in guide dogs depends heavily on how they can be implemented in a breeding strategy that is focused on the guiding abilities of the dogs. To evaluate the impact of our results on the general LR population, reliable data on PWB need to be collected. Most of the covariates included in model 2 could also be recorded in the field. The target trait, individual puppy weight at birth PWB was measured in pounds and converted to grams. The final data set comprised puppies in litters by dams and sires, born from September to February Additional file 4. Potential predictors were chosen based on literature [ 4 , 11 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 37 ]. Breed, a well-known factor influencing PBW [ 6 ] was not relevant for the present study because all animals were LR. The diet of the dam during pregnancy can influence the birth weight of puppies [ 26 ], but was not included in the analyses, because keepers of pregnant dams adhere to the feeding regime recommended by the Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Descriptive statistics for PWB and variables in the analyses are given in Additional file 5. Prior to the estimation of variance components, the significance of factors was evaluated and correlations between explanatory variables estimated Additional file 6. Litter size ranged from 4 to .Litters with less than four puppies and litters with twelve or more puppies were excluded from the analyses. Parity ranging from 1 to 6 and parity squared, as well as length of gestation were included. Litters with gestation lengths shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days were excluded. Litters after cesarean sections were included in the analyses, because the gestation time was known. Year of birth was a possible predictor and encompassed the years to .Further possible predictors were the inbreeding coefficients of the puppies and their parents, as well as the sex of the puppies. Finally, adult weight of the dam was measured in pounds then converted to kg. Model 1 contained no covariates, because covariates are not always easily recorded in the field, and Model 2 included the covariates identified to influence PWB Additional file 7. The covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects fluctuated around zero and was never different from zero. Therefore, it was fixed at zero for both models. For both models the following variance components were estimated: direct genetic variance, maternal genetic variance, maternal environmental variance, environmental variance by the litter and residual variance. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! When weighing your puppies try to be as consistent as possible. Weigh your puppies the same time every day. Weigh your puppies right after feedings. We prefer doing it this way because puppies are usually more docile and easier to weigh. Be consistent with your weighings and it will be much easier to analyze your puppy weight chart. When we have a litter of newborn puppies we weigh each puppy every day for the first 8 weeks as you can see in the above puppy weight chart. So, just look at the above chart and you can see how much each puppy gained each day. Somedays I weighed the pups before feeding and some days after. If a puppy does not gain or loses weight one day then monitor him very closely and make sure he gains weight the next day. Yes, yes we did. First, you have to join our email list to get access to our Resource Library. Conclusion Okay guys and gals, does that answer your questions? However, you might take the information with a grain of salt. Be consistent when weighing your puppies. Thus you see days of huge weight gains and the following day very little gains. If a puppy is not gaining or losing weight then monitor him closely and consider taking him to the vet if he continues to lose weight. Have you ever cared for newborn puppies? Do you keep a puppy weight chart when raising a litter of puppies? Do you have any tips for weighing and tracking your puppies? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. This information is for entertainment purposes only. If you have questions about your dogs or puppies please consult with your veterinarian. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining. Possible Common Thus, a black or yellow Labrador can belong to either breed. It is more likely for chocolate or white Labrador to belong to the English Labrador breed, and it is more likely for a fox red Labrador to belong to the American breed. Singe English Labradors frequently weigh more than American Labradors; these colors may give insight into heritage lines and reasons for differentiating weights. Physical Condition Even though these figures are universal amongst Labradors, it can be challenging to decide whether your Labrador is healthy solely based on weight. Fitness and physical capacities will have a considerable influence on whether or not their weight is healthy. Many Labradors may be over or under the healthy weight range, but they may be fit and active. This means they may weigh less due to being lean and toned without much body fat, or they may weigh more due to increased muscle mass. To assess the health of your Labrador , their weight will need to be compared with their fitness levels as well. Labrador Gender Weight Differences Generally speaking, male Labradors weigh more than female Labradors since males grow faster and typically grow larger than females would. While Labrador puppies may have similar figures on the scale at very young ages, their average weight may begin to diverge as they draw closer to the cusp of adulthood. Average Labrador Puppy Weight Irrespective of the breed and gender, ensuring a healthy weight as your Lab ages will rely on observation and care from a very young age. Weight is typically very similar during this time irrespective of differentiation, affecting their average healthy weight ranges into adulthood. They should be gaining approximately 2lbs per week up until they are 6 months old. Once Labrador puppies reach adolescence, inherent differentiations will begin to affect their average weight, after which owners will need to assess their weight maintenance according to their breed and gender. However, gender plays a prominent role in determining healthy weight in maturing Labrador puppies, and males typically weigh more and grow faster than females. Owners will need to ensure that their weight is maintained through exercise and adequate dietary compositions. Nutrition, physical activity, and a balanced diet will all play a role in supporting a healthy weight as they grow into full adult Labradors. How much should a Purebred Lab weigh? Purebred Labradors still experience a diverse range concerning their weight. However, numerous purebred Labrador owners have come together and created an average healthy weight range from adolescence to adulthood, based on experience with their fit and healthy purebred Labradors whether male or female. Labrador Age months.

Labrador Retrievers: Everything you need to know about this kind and gentle breed These loveable pups are our Dog Breed of the Month Published: 02 September Getty Images Each month we will be shining a light on different dog breeds in our brand new series, Dog Breed of the Month. First up, we look at the high-spirited, loveable Labrador Retriever. Are you looking for a loyal companion? Here's everything you need to know about Labrador Retrievers, including need-to-know facts, size, life expectancy, origin and temperament. Are Labrador Retrievers good pets? Labrador Retrievers are energetic, beautiful and rewarding pets that will enrich their owners' lives in an instant. They make excellent companion dogs, as well as brilliant assistance dogs, too. Other things to know about Labrador Retrievers include.They work well in a household with other pets They do well in a family but with those living alone also Labradors love to cuddle their owners They have webbed toes which means they're great swimmers The dogs love to be around large groups of people they adore attention! Labradors are among the world's most versatile workers and can do almost anything Though they are famously laid-back, this breed has heaps of energy that will keep their owners on their toes Is a Labrador Retriever a good family dog? Labrador Retrievers are easy-going and rewarding pets with a slow temperament and a big heart — perfect for families. No, Labrador Retrievers are not aggressive dogs. They are generally famous for having a patient, friendly and lovable personality — and are brilliant to consider if you have children. Bill adds: "They're instinctively friendly and get on with anyone they meet, including people and other dogs! Really, as a breed, they are known as an affectionate and loyal all-rounder. Just like many other dog breeds, Labradors bark for a variety of reasons — whether this is to get the attention of their owner, alert someone they love or to greet another pup. You may find that Labradors do bark more than other breeds, but this is only down to their active personality. If they aren't mentally stimulated, these dogs can get bored pretty quickly — and they'll be sure to let you know. If you are considering adopting a Labrador Retriever, remember that they love plenty of social interaction. Related Story What health problems do Labrador Retrievers have? Some problems Labrador Retrievers may encounter include: Joint problems, such as hip or elbow dysplasia. Labrador Retriever puppy breeders. The Labrador Retriever breed have a medium sized physique, a short coat that sheds, floppy ears and soulful eyes. They are a gentle, clever, high energy, breed that needs attention, training and love. Your Labrador Retriever will need lots of exercise and plenty of training. Regular brushing will help with shedding, but expect some fur around your home. Training and socialization helps prevent jumping up, pulling on the leash, chewing and separation anxiety too. They are also unlikely to be a guard dog, with greater chance of your dog jumping up and licking a burglar on the face than growling them away from the door. Our gorgeous fox red Labrador Retriever invented a funny game! From growing baby Labrador Retriever to a healthy, happy adult dog. We will also help you pick a Labrador Retriever from show ring or fieldwork lines, select the right color, as well as manage shedding. And train that high energy personality and those active Labrador Retriever breed traits, into a perfect family pet. The Labrador Retriever is a popular family pet, but they have a strong working background. And many pet Labs are still also working sporting dogs today! Due to being bred to work well with their human handler, they are incredibly clever and cooperative. The Labrador Retriever has had a well earned place the most popular pedigree breed for years. From a rich history as a working companion to finding their place in modern homes around the world, this lively, dog makes friends wherever he goes. Labrador Retriever History and Origins. Labrador Retrievers have an amazing history. They came from humble beginnings as a sporting companion, spending their days diving from boats to retrieve nets and even fish. The breed was brought overseas by visiting nobles. Labrador Retriever breeders then continued to standardise them into the dogs we know today. Average Labrador Retriever Size? Labrador Retrievers were bred to carry out a job, which required them to be strong and athletic. They needed to be able to run for long distances while carrying game, and to cope well in the water too. The Labrador Retriever is a well-proportioned dog with a broad head and long legs. Pups from show lines tend to be stockier, with working bred Labrador Retriever dogs maintaining a slimmer shape. Labrador Retriever Coat Colors! Black coats are the most common, with chocolate and yellow Labs being a little less frequent. Although these colors are the only official colors, there are a huge amount shades and genetic variations. Yellow Labs are also found in fox red , golden and white shades. And then there are the dilute genes! These make the standard colors more pale, and result in charcoal , champagne and silver Labrador Retriever dogs. Labrador grooming is an important part of their ownership. As these dogs tend to be rather prolific shedders. The right brushes, a good vacuum cleaner and a regular cleaning routine will help you to stay on top of it. Although they have a short coat, the Labrador Retriever needs brushing at least once a week. This will help you to keep on top of their heavy shedding. Are Labrador Retrievers Hypoallergenic? Labrador Retrievers are not hypoallergenic. They shed a great deal, and produce lots of allergy inducing dander in their coats and saliva. Typical Labrador Retriever Temperament Labs are well known for being friendly dogs that crave human company. They do not tend to have aggression problems, provided that they are well socialized and bred from friendly parents. Most Labs are confident and friendly. But some can be nervous, so make sure to socialize from a young age. The issues most owners have with Labs are to do with over friendliness and too much enthusiasm. Running off to greet strangers, jumping up and chewing are big issues that some homes contend with. Fortunately, training from an early age can help a lot with running away and jumping up. And chewing can be managed with toys and distractions. Are Labrador Retrievers Good Pets? The Labrador Retriever is a great pet for active families, who are around for much of the day or are able to put in place effective cover plans during the working day. Although generally good natured, Labs can be quite bouncy and pushy and knock over very small children or the frail. They do best in a home that has someone in the house for most of the day, and where they get lots of short training sessions as well as a significant period for exercising. With the right training and environment, a Labrador Retriever will make an excellent pet. Labrador Retriever Training Tips! Due to their history as cooperative working companions, Labs are fortunately fairly easy to train. If you know what you are doing, of course! The best way to motivate a Labrador is through food. Although some dogs will happily work for praise alone, food is always a winner with a Labrador Retriever. Positive reinforcement methods are used by all the top dog handlers now, and are the best way to form a strong bond and have a well behaved dog. Labrador Retrievers can inherit a few nasty diseases from their parents. And the breed is also prone to a few conditions. Through parental testing before breeding most are avoidable thankfully. Labrador Retrievers are also prone to cranial cruciate ligament disease and obesity. Feeding your Labrador Retriever is an important part of their care. Follow the instructions on the packet for amounts, because these vary from brand to brand. If your dog is looking too skinny or a little overweight , you can then adjust this amount to suit their physique. Finding a Labrador Retriever Puppy? These days a good Labrador Retriever breeder is relatively easy to find, if you know what you are looking for! Although you will probably then need to go on a waiting list until their next litter arrives, because they are in high demand. The best dog breeders health screen both parents. They will be happy to show you clear certificates for PRA, a recent eye test and great hip and elbow scores. The breeder might also have tested for the dwarfism gene. And it will be clear that they have a really strong bond with their dog. They will also have plenty of questions for you, to make sure you are right for their puppies. They want to know how often you are out of the house, where the dog will sleep and what you plan to do about training and exercising. Consider a Shelter Dog? Rescuing an older dog can be a great way to bring a new pooch into your home. You will be able to meet your adult dog and get to know their personality and make sure that it matches with the environment you would be able to provide. However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on.