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I love Working-Line German shepherds and am constantly amazed at what they can do. My wife and I have had German shepherds in our family since the early stages of our marriage 26 years ago and counting. They truly have been part of our family. My job at Brave and Faithful K9 is very glamorous, and I am always in the spotlight:. It is absolutely cool to support my daughter in her dream to train, trial, and raise Working-Line German shepherds. I am the website designer which I have found is just an extension of all those years of manual scrapbooking that I did of my kids and family.This really just means that I work with the dogs in any way that is helpful and that I clean, clean, and clean more: kennels, dogs, crates, vehicle, yard, house, etc. What I have come to enjoy the most are the wonderful people that we have met on this journey. We have been gifted with amazing clients for our puppies. My prayer and heart's desire is that in some small way we have touched the lives we have gotten to serve through our business and that JESUS can be seen in all that we do. For the Glory of Our Lord! I love the German shepherd breed, and it has always been my dream and passion to raise, train, and produce these extremely intelligent creatures. Starting our family business was the beginning of making that dream a reality. It has been a major learning experience for me-almost like discovering a whole new world. There is always a new training method to learn and I am constantly trying to figure out how to perfect each of our dogs in their obedience, tracking, and protection work. My first priority as the dog trainer is to honor God in everything that I do; in the end, it is God who makes things prosper, and that is what I cling to. I am very blessed and excited to be a part of our family business and look forward to what the future holds for us. She loves our country and the ideals that it was founded on and has encouraged all of us to develop the interests and gifts that we naturally have through personal ingenuity. She has traveled with us all over. She is part of our family business in an indirect way…just humbly behind the scenes. We credit her for planting the vision in our minds that we could ever possibly have our own family business one day. What would we do without the generations that have come before us! Now in Oklahoma City, too! We are a foster-based organization working out of Tulsa and now Oklahoma City! Our dogs are cared for in private homes and we do not operate a shelter. We are an all-volunteer organization. We are always in need of more help to answer questions, check applications, socialize dogs, transports dogs to adoption events and much more. Adopt: Fill out our adoption application here. Only approved adopters may schedule meet and greets with our dogs. Even if you are unsure which dog you would like to adopt, we recommend filling out an application and getting approved first so you are ready when the right dog comes along. To ensure your new family member is a good fit, dogs may be returned within 14 days of adoption for any reason. Adoption Requirements: We require all pets in the home to be spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccines and on heartworm prevention. If you rent, we will need authorization from your landlord that German Shepherds are allowed. We also require a fenced-in yard. References may not be related to you. If you have questions, please send us an email! Available Dogs: View dogs available for adoption here. To meet one of our dogs, please fill out an adoption application. Foster: We are in need of folks to provide short-term, in-home care for dogs in need until they are adopted. Veterinary care, food and a large crate are provided. If you can help, please complete our foster application here. Please note, fostering is for those who want to volunteer by providing temporary housing for homeless dogs. If you are planning on adopting and just want to try out a dog in your home to see if it is the right fit, please fill out an adoption application. Only approved adopters can schedule meet and greets with our dogs. All adopted dogs can be returned within 14 days of adoption for any reason. As we work out of Tulsa and Oklahoma City, we prefer fosters to be within a 1-hour driving distance to Tulsa or OKC so they can bring a foster dog to adoption events and veterinary appointments if needed. Online Auction: Over the past few months, our rescue has seen a significant increase in dogs that have been surrendered or abandoned. When we do not have enough fosters, we have had to put dogs in boarding which also is an added expense. To raise much-needed funds, we are hosting an online auction. We will have items such as unique products and services, tickets to special events, art, jewelry, wine, restaurant and hotel gift certificates, dog items, gift baskets, etc. Stay tuned for more information! If you or your business would like to donate an item, please email: oklahomagsr gmail. Every little bit helps and the value of your donation is tax-deductible. Each auction contributor will be recognized in the online event and our Facebook page. Events: Check our Facebook page for a schedule of adoption events. Small donations add up! You may donate online or by mailing a check. Your donation is tax-deductible. Thank you! Donate Here Need to surrender a dog? If you are the owner of the dog you want to surrender, please fill out the owner surrender form. Please contact your local animal shelter or the closest SPCA or humane society for more information. I want to thank God for all that he has allowed me to accomplish with my dogs. I also want to thank all that have purchased from me through the years. While in Honduras our dogs were mainly watchdogs. They acquired quite a reputation. One of the females that we raised there, earned one point towards an International Championship. The first Shepherd I showed and titled in the USA was a very nice male that we bought in the summer of , while back in the states on a visit. When we moved back to the states in I became very interested in showing my dogs. After learning a few things I entered my first show in and have been showing ever since. What I want in my dogs is stability and versatility. I prefer a mixture of American show lines and German show lines. This has worked well for me. My dogs are neither too soft like some American show lines , nor do they have too strong of a prey drive like some German show lines. Most people that want a great companion dog cannot handle the really strong prey drive that some shepherds have, and for that reason I prefer the combination. I believe the combination produces dogs, that can do all the work that is asked of them. If you are interested in one of my puppies, please contact me. I have to warn you, when you purchase a puppy I come with the package!! Smile I will be here for you when you have any questions. If I do not know the answers, I certainly will try to find someone who can help!!
Color variations Blue merle French Bulldog Blue merle French Bulldogs are one of our most sought-after puppies of all the colors. They got their name after the blue patches on their light-colored coat, which are essentially grey with a bluish shine in the light. The shade of the grey parts may vary from very light to almost black, while their base color also ranges from a yellowish cream color to light grey. Lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac merle French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue merle Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac merle Frenchies have very light, almost ashy or silver colored patches on their light coat. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to carry the blue, chocolate and merle gene. Lilac merle French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes which are glowing red. Chocolate merle French Bulldog Chocolate merle French Bulldogs have dark brown mottled patches all over their light-colored bodies. Choco merle pups also have unique genetics so they are quite rare and hard to come by. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but their grey shade is more of a champagne color. Breeders have managed to mix in the merle gene as well producing the Isabella merle French Bulldog, but these dogs are extremely rare. Black merle French Bulldog Black merle French Bulldogs have black mottled patches often covering most of their bodies. Their base coat is also slightly darker than in other merle Frenchies, ranging from light grey to light brown. Fawn merle French Bulldog There are a number of different variations of fawn merle French Bulldogs, like blue fawn merle, lilac fawn merle or chocolate fawn merle. The dark patches these Frenchies have are less distinct looking than in other merles, as they are only a bit darker than their light fawn base color. One of these rare traits is their sparkling blue eyes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Because of how dominant the merle gene is, merle Frenchies should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owners. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a Merle Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. As you might expect, colors that are considered common for the breed have the lowest prices, while colors which are more unique and harder to produce are more expensive as well. When it comes to Merle French Bulldogs, they are already in a higher price range, but depending on the color variation their prices may further vary a lot. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye. Training French Bulldogs can be stubborn, but on the positive side also people pleasers, and therefore not too difficult to train. Early socialization is key, and we do our best to make that happen. After the dog is in your care enrolling in a puppy class would be beneficial. Don't forget to bring snacks - they are very food motivated. Ethical Frenchie Blog French Bulldog blog for new puppy owners. Tips and tricks on care. Home made treat recipes and more. .Adopters Saying Got a puppy from Ethical Frenchie in .My baby is super happy, healthy and no breed related issues so far. Great quality French Bulldogs for sure! We felt very comfortable working with them as such experienced breeders. It was obvious that they care very much about each puppy that is placed and follow up. We are happy to be part of the Ethical Frenchie Family! We absolutely adore our Sweet Violette! They are professional, kind, accommodating and answered all of my questions confidently without hesitation. We still keep in touch and they check on our little boy constantly. Highly recommend. Olivia Patterson Food. Be caring and responsible. Research the breed and make sure you are ready to commit before exploring French Bulldog puppies for sale. Check out to see what we recommend.
In general, the males are bigger and heavier and the females are lighter. During growth spurts , your puppy needs more food, so it will be likely to need more food during its fastest growing time and you can reduce that as growth levels off. Every dog is different, so monitor your puppy. If it looks a little too fat, reduce its food a little. If it looks too thin, increase it. The most accurate way to judge feeding would be to look at calories vs weight. You can weigh your puppy by picking it up and stepping onto the scale. It is! But individual factors like metabolism will also come into play. But as his teeth begin to emerge, momma dog will want to get the weaning process underway, and it will be up to you to help. During her break, soften up some kibble in water or puppy milk formula and place a pan of the mixture within easy reach of the puppies. Show them the mix by putting them in front of the pan. Expect a mess. Set mealtimes for three to four times a day at first. After six months of age, your Boxer puppies are ready to move to feeds twice to three times a day. Keep feeding times regular. Like all little ones, puppies thrive on routine. Take any unfinished food away after the meal. Adult Boxers are prone to bloat which can be deadly. So, although most adult dogs can be fed once a day, it can be dangerous for Boxers. Twice-daily feeds are the best solution. And, if you want to be extra-careful, choose a slow-feeder bowl. No matter how good your Boxer puppy feeding chart is, you may find that there are times when your Boxer puppy needs extra food to thrive. Top times for this are between the ages of three and six months. A sudden growth spurt means a need for extra food to fuel it so that your puppy can develop a healthy body. An adult Boxer may be fine on just three cups of a good brand of kibble every day — but a puppy may need more! But just as there are individual factors that mean some puppies eat more than others, adult dogs vary too. But you might still find that the amount you feed needs to be adjusted beyond that. After all, all that bouncing around is fuelled by food, so a bouncy Boxer may need more food than its lazier cousins. Even among Boxers, you will find different activity levels, and that may mean a need to adjust feeding. For example, as your Boxer ages, he does tend to slow down. The important thing to understand is that their hormonal changes can slow metabolism — the rate at which they burn food. Pregnant And Nursing Boxer Females If you are caring for a pregnant or nursing Boxer female, you need to up the stakes on her nutrition. Puppy food is recommended for pregnant and nursing females. We recommend taking your female Boxer for a checkup once you know she is pregnant, and this will be a great time to get some feeding tips from a veterinarian. However, you can also get a good indication just by looking and feeling. When viewed from above, your Boxer should have a nice, nipped in waist. Next, look at the ribcage. You should not see individual ribs sticking out, but you should be able to feel them beneath the skin. What To Do If Your Dog Seems Under Or Overweight If your dog is suddenly gaining weight despite eating recommended amounts, do remember that thyroid problems are fairly common in boxers and have it checked out. And, of course, when it comes to puppies, they can get a bit skinny during rapid growth and may need a bit extra just because of that. When you know weight and height, you can compare that to age-appropriate breed standards. Remember that your Boxer, both puppy and adult, needs much more than food and water. They need you! Love, affection, play, and company are things that Boxers not only thrive on, but absolutely need. Enjoy your puppy! I fell in love with the breed around ten years ago after seeing some of my friends adopt a Bully. I love the combination of the muscular physique and calm, loyal companionship that the American Bully breed has to offer. My enthusiasm for the breed has led me to train as a dog behavioralist and trainer. Over the last ten years, I have supported many households in raising their American Bully and maximizing the potential of the breed. Recent Posts. Your dog may suffer from indigestion if they are fed too late at night. A Boxer may struggle to acquire weight at times. Having three meals each day, including snacks, can help during this time. Adult Boxers should be fed in the morning, noon, and evening. Scheduled feeding times should be established early on to prevent weight-related diseases. Adult Boxers on a two-meal diet should eat in the morning and evening. Never let your dog exercise vigorously after a large meal, especially if they eat rapidly. This prevents bloating , intestinal obstruction, and other serious digestive problems. Introduce fewer carbs and consider nourishing their intestines and giving them micronutrients that help fight off disease-causing microorganisms. The following is a top-notch selection of Boxer food: Dry Food: Your best bet is to feed your Boxer dog grain-free kibble or dry kibble. Some even advocate dog food with human-grade ingredients. High-quality kibble containing animal protein formulated specifically for the growth and development of lean muscle mass in Boxers. Wet Food: Wet food is another commercial dog food option. If you want raw feeding for your Boxer, be sure to consult a veterinarian first, as raw diets can be tricky to prepare. Home-Cooked Diet: Aside from raw food, you can feed your Boxer home-cooked food as well. Always get your meat and other ingredients from reputable butchers and merchants to avoid potential problems. There are benefits and drawbacks to each of these dog food options mentioned above. But, for the most part, these are the best food options for the Boxer. If you are in doubt, seek the advice of an animal nutritionist or veterinarian. However, Boxers are susceptible to skin allergies caused by these products. To have a grain-free diet for your dog, you should look out for ingredients like brown rice, wheat, corn, and barley. Chocolate: While chocolate is a delicious treat for us humans, it can be harmful to your Boxer. The stimulants in chocolates, known as methylxanthines , make them toxic for dogs. It could be fatal if your dog has consumed cocoa powder, cocoa butter, or cooking chocolate. Fatty Meals: Pancreatitis outbreaks in dogs can be blamed on fatty meals. A veterinarian should always be consulted before feeding a dog a new diet. Call a veterinarian immediately if you believe that your Boxer dog has consumed something hazardous. Some dogs may have stomach upset and even appetite loss if you suddenly switch to a new high-quality food or diet. This shift should occur within a five- to seven-day time window. American Kennel Club AKC advocates starting with 25 percent of the new food for your Boxer and gradually increasing it until all of the old food has been replaced with fresh food, based on the same ratio. Below is a table showing what the AKC recommends as a standard diet transition plan for most dog breeds, including Boxers: Day. Besides a nutritious diet, Boxer owners must know the right time to feed their pups. Boxer puppy feeding schedule is made easy with this Boxer feeding chart. Larger and stronger Boxer pups push their weaker siblings aside to get the most food. This is why many Boxer breeders and owners make sure that all puppies get enough food. Two week old tiny Boxer puppies are new to this world and rely completely on the Boxer mother. They should always stay with their mother because her breast milk is their main and only source of nutritious food. During this period, two week old Boxer puppies open their eyes for the first time. However, they are still dependent on the Boxer mommy. Even though they are double the size at three weeks of age, Boxer pups are still nursing. During the period between four to six weeks, their teeth grow bigger and the Boxer mommy will wean them off soon. At four weeks of age, the Boxer mother starts weaning her puppies. To help the Boxer puppy transition from milk to store-bought puppy food, it is time that you try making puppy mush. Try offering your Boxer pup this mixture up to four times per day but make sure not to overfeed it. Too much puppy mush can cause your Boxer pup loose stools and diarrhea. However, most Boxer puppies will need some time to fully get used to their new diet. That said, you will need to soften the puppy food that your seven week old Boxer puppy is eating. You should give your Boxer puppies high-quality food three to four times a day. Boxer puppies at this age love to eat, so make sure not to overfeed them two cups per day. This means that your Boxer puppy is totally ready for proper mealtime! The feeding schedule should include: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They will also have more energy, which may necessitate consuming more calories or eating larger portions. Its little body needs all the nutrients from high quality food it can get. At this point, your Boxer puppy eats twice the amount of food an adult Boxer dog would eat. Even though your eleven week old Boxer puppy has an enormous appetite, you must not leave food to its own will. So, every time it is done eating, you should pick up the leftover dog food. Make sure to separate the amount of food in 3 to 4 smaller portions through the day. At six months of age, the Boxer puppy is growing rapidly and you might want to consider home-cooked dog food or introducing it to a raw diet. High-quality commercial dog food is packed with necessary nutrients, but nothing can replace a good home-cooked meal! The period between seven to twelve months of age is when you will want to give your Boxer puppy less food than you would feed a 5 month old Boxer. At twelve months of age, Boxer puppies will do well with two meals per day. However, this depends on the health state and development of your Boxer puppy. If the Boxer pup is more on the skinny side, then you should feed it more food than described in feeding charts. Just make sure to ask your vet to help you develop a balanced diet for your Boxer pup. Fully grown male adult Boxer dogs reach between 65 to 80 pounds, whereas adult female Boxer dogs weigh a bit less, reaching anywhere from 50 to 65 pounds. Adult Boxer dogs should be fed two meals per day — breakfast and dinner. The most important thing is to take away leftover dog food when your Boxer dog is done eating. Due to the fact that the Boxer dog breed is prone to bloating a life-threatening condition , owners and breeders should be cautious around feeding them too much food. If you have owned Boxers or if you are currently a proud owner of the Boxer, then you know how highly energetic these pooches are. Well, due to their high energy levels, Boxers require a lot of exercise. With frequent exercise comes heavy calorie burning after which your Boxer dog needs more food! Besides high energy levels, Boxer dogs are medium breed dogs that inherit faster metabolism than an average medium-sized dog. That said, Boxer dogs require food that is rich in calories and nutrients to make up for the energy that they use during the day. The best Boxer food will be one that is made for active dogs and includes all the vitamins and minerals they require to stay healthy and fit. Young Boxer puppies should eat more than a cup per day, while older Boxer puppies can consume up to three cups daily because their nutritional needs are higher. Adult Boxers require about 40 fewer calories per pound of body weight than puppies. That said, daily food intake for adult Boxer dogs typically ranges from 3 to 5 cups, depending on their weight. Adult Boxer dogs should be fed twice a day, while Boxer puppies must be fed 3 to 4 meals per day. All dog breeds require basic ingredients in dog food such as protein, carbs, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. But the Boxer dog breed is a bit different. Because Boxers are hyper dogs with insane energy levels! So, a good diet for a Boxer pup must consist of basic ingredients, but you may also want to boost it with home-cooked food and supplements. This is why you have to choose the best source of protein for your Boxer dog. Poultry, beef, and seafood are excellent sources of animal protein for Boxer dogs because they are easy on their digestive system. Fatty acids like omega-6 and omega-3 are great for your Boxer dog because they give its coat extra shine and make its skin healthier. With a proper diet that is packed with vitamins and fatty acids, Boxer coat colors become more vivid and its coat sheds less! Fruit and veggies are also great for Boxer dogs because they are packed with vitamins and minerals which are essential for a healthy metabolism. Dairy products like whipped cream and blue cheese should either not be given at all or given in very small amounts. Grain-Free Diet What makes the Boxer dog breed different from other medium-sized dogs is that they are prone to developing Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus bloat. This means that the majority of Boxer dogs will have to go on a special diet. Grain-free diets are usually recommended for adult Boxer dogs in order to avoid bloat and other digestive system issues. We can say that Boxer dogs have more sensitive stomachs than other dog breeds. Not only can these ingredients trigger canine bloat, but they can also cause food allergies. Supplements Sometimes a simple diet for your Boxer dog is simply not enough. Due to their rapid growth and high activity levels, Boxer dogs need to keep their joints in tip-top condition. So, you want to search for food supplements that contain glucosamine chondroitin — compounds that are essential to joint health. Moreover, Boxers are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia which is why these supplements are of utmost importance. But, the Boxer dog breed is a bit different than the rest. Now, I know that this is an ongoing dilemma to the majority of Boxer owners, as there is no correct answer. Dry Dog Food Despite the fact that many Boxers dogs may prefer wet over dry dog food, dry kibble is preferable to keep their teeth and gums healthy, and their jaw strong. The crunch of a hard kibble will help to some extent to remove plaque, but you will still need to provide some at-home dental care. Pure kibble diets are perfectly acceptable to give to your Boxer dog. Additionally, you can boil some chicken or give your Boxer dog some raw meat. Boxers love those! It is perfectly fine to feed your Boxer dog a pure kibble diet. But, you will want to make it a bit more interesting by adding some dog food toppers, cooked or raw meat, fish, and vegetables. Wet Dog Food Wet food has more water, which keeps Boxer dogs hydrated throughout the day. Compared to dry dog food, wet food has higher fat content which is a no-no for Boxers that are prone to canine obesity. For most Boxer dogs that are prone to heart disease like cardiomyopathy, wet food with high fat content may be too much. Different Boxer dog life stages require different food amounts. Besides the life stage your Boxer dog is in, we should take into consideration that Boxers are medium-sized dogs, which means that they require a healthy diet that is specially designed for medium breed dogs. Age Earlier in this article we have mentioned that Boxer puppies need a special diet that consists of a higher percentage of protein, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. This is perfectly understandable because Boxer puppies need a healthy diet to grow. Additionally, Boxer puppies are always on the go and their bodies burn calories like crazy! In contrast to young Boxer puppies, old Boxers need to be fed a healthy diet that has a lower content of protein and fat. Naturally, the metabolism of a Boxer dog slows with age. So, due to the fact that many senior Boxer dogs are less energetic and more on the lazy side, they burn fewer calories. A slower metabolism is one of the main reasons why older Boxer dogs become obese because excess calories from high-calorie dog food are converted into fat. Failure to feed a diet designed for the unique requirements of medium to large-breed puppies like the Boxer can lead to health issues such as canine arthritis , hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy, and obesity. This is why you have to choose Boxer food that is designed to control the amount of calories and calcium consumed in order to reduce the risk of these health issues. Gender Regardless of the gender, all Boxer dogs need the right nutrients that will help them stay healthy and strong as they grow. However, the nutritional needs of male Boxer dogs greatly differ from those of female Boxers. Research shows that intact male Boxer dogs eat more than their neutered counterparts. Which is pretty obvious due to the fact that intact male Boxer dogs go crazy when they show signs that they want to mate. In fact, intact male Boxer dogs are known to roam and jump fences in order to get to their ladies. Roaming and chasing those female Boxer beauties burns away all the calories! So, intact male Boxer dogs are always hungry! Neutered Male Boxer Dog Upon reaching sexual maturity, intact male Boxer dogs often become restless and impossible to handle. This is the period when you can see signs that your male dog needs to be neutered. Neutered male Boxer dogs have lower energy needs than their intact counterparts. After having your Boxer dog neutered, you have to put it on a special diet to ensure a fast recovery. In fact, you will need to cut the food portion in half because neutered Boxer dogs require fewer calories. If your neutered male Boxer dog starts to lose weight, you can reintroduce a gradual increase in food. Intact Female Boxer Dog Intact female Boxer dogs typically need fewer calories than both intact and neutered male dogs. Intact female Boxers that are fed the same diet as intact male Boxer dogs are more prone to obesity and heart problems. Spayed Female Boxer Dog Boxer dogs that have been spayed or neutered have lower levels of estrogens and androgens, which, just like in neutered male Boxer dogs, lowers their metabolic rate. Therefore, the spayed female Boxer dog requires less energy. After surgery, the appetite of a female Boxer dog might increase because estrogen has been shown to suppress hunger. To ensure that your spayed female Boxer maintains a healthy body constitution and condition, the amount and type of food must be changed. Pregnant Female Boxer Dog Once your female dog starts showing signs of pregnancy , get ready to learn more about what a feeding schedule for a pregnant pooch looks like. Start by offering your pregnant Boxer dog smaller and more frequent meals rather than large portions. Pregnant Boxers will have less space in their tummy for large amounts of food so make sure to keep the balance between small meals. Additionally, her diet should consist of a lot of soluble carbohydrates along with a little fiber. One of the most crucial minerals for pregnant Boxer dogs are calcium and phosphorus. These minerals support healthy bone development of unborn Boxer puppies. Activity Levels Boxer puppies, adolescents, and young adult dogs that are in perfect heath have insane energy levels! This means that their activity levels are high and they need regular exercise. When your Boxer pup runs all over the place, it needs a lot of nutritious food to feed those muscles! Boxer dogs that receive these optimal levels of dietary protein are more likely to perform to their full potential. Besides healthy protein intake, active Boxer dogs need a bit of carbohydrates. If you notice that your Boxer dog is gaining more weight , simply feed it less, and if they are becoming underweight, feed more. Lazy Boxer Dogs Adult Boxer dogs differ from one to another and have different activity levels. While active adult Boxer dogs normally active require 30 calories per pound of body weight, lazy Boxer dogs require less calories per day to maintain their overall health and avoid becoming obese. Senior Boxer Dogs The majority of senior Boxer dogs frequently prefer canned or raw food over dry dog food. Maybe it is because their teeth are not as strong as before, or simply because of the added moisture found in canned dog food. Even though senior Boxer dogs tend to eat less because they are less active and have slower metabolisms, they require dog food that is high in energy, antioxidants, and fatty acids. This is why senior dog food for Boxers features a healthy balance of antioxidants and fatty acids. Senior Boxer dogs typically prefer smaller portions that are given more frequently throughout the day rather than two fully loaded bowls a day. What Foods Should Boxers Avoid? As we mentioned in the grain-free diet part, Boxer dogs should avoid any dog food that contains wheat, corn, or soy. These ingredients are merely fillers for your Boxer dog, offering little to no nutritional value. In fact, the majority of food allergies in dogs are triggered by grains such as wheat and corn. Besides these common dog food ingredients, Boxer dogs should avoid human food like chocolate, macadamia nuts, milk, avocado, candy, and spicy food. Cooked bones should never be given to Boxer dogs. So, when cooking bone broth for your Boxer dog, make sure to get rid of all cooked bones. Boxer dogs are known to have sensitive stomachs. If your Boxer dog ingests food that is toxic to its digestive system, chances are that it will throw up yellow or develop diarrhea. It is best to consult with your veterinarian and go over any worries you have about what foods your Boxer dog should avoid. While many Boxer dogs simply have an insane desire for food, an increased appetite also known as polyphagia can also indicate a number of health problems. For example, Boxers with diabetes often show signs of polyphagia or an insatiable appetite. These can be signs that your senior dog with diabetes is dying. Besides health issues and all that serious stuff, Boxer dogs can simply inherit a faster metabolism which makes them always hungry. Owners are understandably worried when their Boxer pup abruptly stops eating or gradually loses interest in food. In the absence of other symptoms of health issues, a Boxer not eating is typically not a cause for concern. Normally, stress, reaction to medication, and changes in their environment, can all cause a Boxer pup to stop eating. Boxer puppies that are in their teething period like to nibble on people or objects, rather than consuming their puppy food. Some Boxer pups experience severe discomfort and pain while teething which reduces their will to eat. A Boxer puppy may frequently stop eating due to intestinal parasitic infestation or infections that cause upset stomach. The lack of appetite in Boxer puppies could be a sign of a serious issue like a blockage or poisoning. In other cases, Boxer dogs can lose their appetite due to internal obstructions, pain, and dental issues. The best food for your Boxer dog is usually food that is made for active dogs. While most Boxer owners prefer the Royal Canin brand, there are other commercial dog foods across the U. The majority of Boxer dogs inherit a sensitive stomach, so it is best to avoid bad food brands and to consult your veterinarian about the best dog food that you can find. Conclusion Give your hungry Boxer pooch all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and live a long life! The best way to keep a Boxer pup happy is by giving it nutritious food and lots of exercise. This Boxer feeding chart explains how much food a Boxer needs based on its activity levels. So, I believe that you have gotten the hang of this feeding guide! Make sure to ask your Boxer breeder for additional tips and tricks. Even though this Boxer feeding chart answers the most common questions about Boxer diet and feeding schedule, in case your Boxer puppy is showing signs of health issues, call your veterinarian for a check-up. Related Content. Yet underneath that strong and active exterior is a lot of labor and commitment to protecting their loved ones. When it comes to maintaining their health, you need to understand how much to feed a Boxer puppy. We have included a Boxer puppy feeding chart to help you take care of this breed. The daily food intake for a Boxer may range from one cup to four cups. Meal sizes for Boxers depend not just on weight but also on the sort of food they eat. Due to their medium size, boxer puppies need three daily meals and around four cups of food every day. Keep in mind that RER is only a rough estimate of how many calories your dog requires per day; other variables, including their age and activity level, will need to be included in as well. Keeping the puppy clean and warm is essential during this time, as is giving it enough milk or formula to help it thrive. Choose a premium puppy food that has been developed with their unique nutritional requirements in mind. Provide modest, regular meals three to four times a day. At the beginning, feed the puppy just a quarter to a half cup every day, and gradually increase the quantity as it grows. Always have clean water available, and keep an eye out for any symptoms of food intolerance or gastrointestinal distress. To keep them healthy, give them high-quality puppy food in many little meals throughout the day. Exercise, socializing, and the introduction of obedience training should all be high priorities. Keep a close eye on their eating habits and weight gain, and alter their food intake accordingly. This is a pivotal time for training and socializing, so be sure you provide lots of both. It is important to keep feeding them three times a day, and to stick with a high-quality puppy food. Provide around 2 and a half cups of food daily, split between three meals. Starting now is a great opportunity to introduce more advanced training methods like obedience or agility programs. Throughout a day, give them around 2 and a half cups of food. This is a pivotal time for further education and integration into society. Feed them around two and a half to three cups each day. Throughout this phase, they are still learning new skills and interacting with others, making it an essential part of their development. Provide two meals daily, adjusting the quantity of food based on their weight. Maintain a program of regular exercise and training, and watch out for any signs of age-related health decline. Boxer pups need a high-protein, moderate-fat diet for optimal growth and energy. Bone health may be supported by making sure the meal has enough calcium and phosphorus. Depending on its age and degree of activity, the calorie requirements of a Boxer puppy may range from around to 1, per day. A Boxer puppy requires between — calories per day when they are 8 weeks old, and — calories per day when they are 6 months old. Authentic meats and seafood, whole grains, and produce should all be included as ingredients on the label. Puppies of different ages have different dietary needs and feeding schedules. A Boxer puppy of 6 weeks old has to be fed times a day, with each meal consisting of only a few bites. Puppies need to be fed three times a day until they are three months old, then twice a day until they are 12 months old. Training and housebreaking are aided by establishing a consistent eating pattern. Yet, the two are not identical. Dry kibble offers the advantages of being portable, simple to store, and lasting for a long time. Crunchy kibble is good for your teeth because it encourages chewing, which may reduce plaque. Yet, some pups may prefer wet food because to its increased moisture content and inherent tastiness. In addition, it may help you stay hydrated, which is crucial to your health. The preference and dietary requirements of each puppy are unique, thus the choice between kibble and wet food must be made carefully. An animal hospital is the best place to get advice on what to feed a Boxer adult dog. Many factors might be at play if a Boxer puppy suddenly stops eating. Illness, stress, dental issues, and even just a change in habit may all cause lack of appetite in Boxer pups. Sometimes getting a puppy to eat may be as simple as presenting a more appetizing food, feeding it by hand, or making mealtime less of a stressful experience. Leaving food available for a puppy to graze on all day is considered free feeding, which is not advised for Boxer pups. Since free-feeding might induce overeating and weight gain, it is not recommended for Boxer pups. High-quality protein from genuine chicken initially supports muscular growth. This natural dog food has all the nutrition your puppy needs with whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruit. Pros Real chicken first ingredient for protein Contains DHA and ARA for cognitive function Wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit A blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals No chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy 2. Real chicken is the first ingredient in this tasty, nutritious puppy chow, delivering protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart. It also has a SmartBlend of high-quality, readily digested omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals for a lustrous coat and healthy skin. Four antioxidant sources for strong immune system High-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Delicious crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels. Cons Contains some corn and wheat 3. This high-quality kibble for pups under 1 year old has actual chicken as the first ingredient and no chicken by-product meal, maize, wheat, or soy. Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA help brain and ocular development and deliver protein. Pros High-quality protein for muscle development and growth No GMO, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy. Brain and eye growth from omega-3 fatty acids like DHA. This formula contains high-quality protein from lamb and omegarich fish oil to create lean muscles and enhance brain and eyesight development. Pros Protein-rich lamb is the first component. Omega-3 fish oil DHA for puppy brain and visual development. Calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals for bones and teeth, Vitamin A and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat Cons Lamb, may not suit all pups 5. Pros Flaxseed and salmon oil contain omega-3 fatty acids Grain-free Created by vets with protein, fat, and minerals Cons Not for ingredient-allergic pets. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy is a contentious issue with no clear consensus on whether or not it is healthy for the dog. Yet, some owners and vets are worried about the potential for bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances in a raw diet, despite the fact that others feel it might give advantages including better digestion and coat health. Also, choose a reliable raw food supplier. The typical growth rate for a Boxer puppy is pounds per week for the first several months of life. A Boxer puppy, depending on its size and gender, may gain pounds by the time it is 6 months old. To make sure your Boxer puppy is developing normally, keep an eye on his or her size and weight. A constant supply of cool, fresh water is essential for the health of a Boxer puppy. Puppy development necessitates that they consume more water than an adult dog would. Puppies need half an ounce to an ounce of water per pound of body weight every day. A Boxer puppy weighing 20 pounds, for instance, should need 10 to 20 ounces of water each day. Puppy water consumption should be closely monitored to prevent dehydration. 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. Your vet can run the necessary tests and examine your puppy to determine the cause. Male Adult male Boxers are slightly larger than females. Males weigh an average of 60 to 70 pounds, requiring 3 to 5 cups of food. This weight range requires 2 to 4 cups of food per day. On top of a caloric increase, an active Boxer will also need a protein-rich diet to feed their muscles. A protein-friendly, calorie-dense dry kibble should be offered, and you should follow the instructions based on their weight. Image Credit: boxerdogmadness, Pixabay Sedentary Boxers tend to become overweight quickly if you overfeed them—blame their voracious appetites and love for snacking. This food offers a low-calorie alternative without skipping out on necessary nutrition. However, what really happens is that it decreases their metabolism rate, slowing their energy. This slowing process can cause weight gain if you continue to feed them the same amount of food. The puppies always get the nutrients first. So, if you have a food that is lacking in certain areas, the mother will suffer. Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock Boxer Feeding Guide for Seniors Just like puppyhood has special dietary requirements when dogs reach a certain age, so does old age. Seniors need to eat foods that cater to their life stage to keep them capable, happy, and healthy for their remaining years. A Boxer transitions into the senior category, usually around 6—9 years of age. If you have your dog on dog food for all life stages, it might be appropriate to continue this diet. A lower-calorie food will also help to prevent your dog from becoming overweight. If your senior has specific health issues, it might be best to feed them a specific diet that helps with their condition. As time goes on, you can work with your vet to accommodate their special dietary needs. It is formulated specifically for later years. Some dogs have voracious appetites that are never satisfied. It seems like you barely get it into the bowl before they suck it up like a vacuum cleaner. Free-Feeding—this practice involves making food available to your dog at all times. The danger with this method is that large dogs like Boxers are susceptible to bloat, or gastric dilation-volvulus GDV. Bloat happens when the dog eats too quickly, causing gas to fill the abdomen. It can be fatal. This method can also make overeating seem like the norm, which causes bad manners. Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals is a better alternative to free-feeding. Slow-Feeder Bowls—a great way to slow your pooch down, allowing them to digest their food properly, is to give them food in a slow feeder. It gives your Boxer unique designs to eat around, stimulating their mental curiosity while slowing them down. What Foods Are Bad for Boxers? Some things to look out for are: Corn. Male boxer puppies would be around 17 inches or more during their 6th month while females will be slightly smaller at around 16 inches. Birth to 3 weeks old When your boxer pup is still very young, they should be with their mom and be nursed properly. Keep in mind that your boxer should get equal amounts of milk, especially if they belong to a large litter. Observe the litter for any signs of bullying or some puppies being overpowered. This is also the case if the mother is too thin to supply milk to all of her pups. When your puppy reaches 3 weeks of age, you might start to notice rapid growth. That is normal for boxer puppies since the breed tends to grow faster than most dogs. Boxer pups of this age still need to be nursed. To do this mix 1 part puppy food with 3 parts water in a bowl and offer it to them. It also helps to train your pups to only eat when they are hungry. A good rule of thumb in terms of scheduling for the water and puppy food mixture would be 3 to 4 times a day. You want the process to be a pleasant one for your boxer pup. This is when the weaning process becomes slightly visible. The mother dog will slightly let go of her little ones for them to be independent. Keep them away from dangerous objects and supervise them as much as possible. Ensure that their food is easy to chew to avoid eating problems. If your vet allows for it, you can add some veggies or other food ingredients that are deemed safe for pups as advised. Your puppy will need more nutrition by this time so they need to learn to eat solid puppy food. After all, 6 weeks old is a time for exploration, playtime, and energy bursts whether indoors or outdoors. You may also want to feed them more if they spend a lot more time playing or running around. Once your puppy reaches 7 weeks old, they should already know how to eat their solid food. Give them the serving somewhere between 3 and 4 times a day depending on your available time and their hunger pangs. Your boxer pups will also get nursed less often during this time, as the mother will likely just stand up while giving milk reluctantly to her little ones. She might even run away from them at some point, allowing them to become more independent. Keep their meals served at 3 to 4 times a day, with at least 2 or more cups per day, divided equally. You can also follow the chart that we mentioned above, especially if your boxer pup is quite the active fellow. Having more cups a day is important for puppies that have far less weight than others. You can also ask your vet about how many calories they need depending on their energy levels. Know the activity levels of your puppy and adjust accordingly. If your boxer pup is always on the go, they might need more calories than usual. Moreover, a 9-week-old boxer pup might also roam around and pick various objects to ensure that their surroundings are kept puppy-proofed. Bloating comes from excessively gobbling food so make sure they only get equal portions for their daily meal schedules. While we did say that boxer pups during this period are likely to eat twice as much as a regular adult boxer, always observe if your puppy is getting overweight by checking their waist. Talk to your vet if you suspect your pup might be gaining too many pounds. Always keep in mind to avoid bloating problems with your pup by ensuring the schedule gets followed. Continue with the usual puppy food or as instructed by your vet. Recommended Food Now that your boxer puppy has a set schedule, what should you feed them? Here are some suggestions: 1. Quality Kibble Like most active breeds, dry kibble is the way to go if you want affordable and easy-to-store food for your boxer puppy. Worry not — there are grain-free options in the market. Wet or canned food If you want added calories for an active boxer puppy, consider wet food. After all, canned puppy food is tasty to most dogs, especially during their puppy years, since the smell is enough to get them eating. Omega fatty acid foods Boxers are prone to cardiomyopathy, which can be lessened if they take foods and supplements rich in omega fatty acids, such as fish. Talk to your vet for a diet plan that will help lessen the likelihood of such eye problems. Glucosamine foods Hip dysplasia is common in boxers so we recommend foods that are rich in glucosamine, such as chicken feet and seafood. Consider looking for either kibble or canned puppy food that has glucosamine to help prevent hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Look for primarily meat-based puppy food rather than cheap commercial brands. Commercial brands out there may have more corn and wheat than protein from meat. Instead, look for slightly pricier yet more quality brands of puppy food for your boxer. And, as usual, you should also stay away from human foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and the like. FAQs on Feeding a Boxer Puppy Boxer pups need extra care when it comes to their diet — here are some frequently asked questions with regards to feeding them properly: When do I switch to adult food for my Boxer puppy? By this time, you can slowly transition your puppy to adult food in portions. Should I give my Boxer puppy supplements? As a workaholic dog breed, boxer pups need protein and other nutrients, which are fortunately already in most quality dog food brands. Raw feeding a Boxer puppy A raw diet is okay for boxer puppies provided that you get expert advice from your vet about it. Raw feeding is no walk in the park since you need to do the math on calories and nutrients as compared to commercial food. Also, take note of food handling to avoid bacterial infection, especially if you live in areas where humidity is high. If you need help, talk to a breeder or someone you know tried raw feeding before — especially for puppies. Conclusion A healthy and energetic boxer puppy will be a satisfied life companion if you feed them properly. All you need to know is that boxers are typically workaholics so they need to have a balanced diet with sufficient calories based on their activities. We hope this helped you figure out how much to feed your boxer puppy! Every bite of food will be detrimental or beneficial to this breed's health. Overview Food is fuel both for a growing Boxer pup and large strong adult Boxer dogs. The type of food that you offer for both meals and snacks has a direct affect on your Boxer's health both now and in the future. Also of importance is a feeding schedule and making sure that you offer the proper amounts. This section will cover everything you need to know in order to provide a well-balanced, nutritious diet for your Boxer puppy, adult, or senior. How Often to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog Let's look at a summary and then the details: Puppies under 12 weeks: free-fed Puppies and up to the 2-year mark: 3 meals per day Adults 2 years and up: 1 to 2 meals per day Young pups 8 to 12 weeks old: Very young pups, and particularly those that are a bit underweight, should be free-fed for at least the first month at their new home. This is the method of having fresh food accessible at all times. For a pup still trying to gain their bearings, you may need to lead them to their bowl throughout the day. Note that food should be thrown out and the bowl washed and then refilled several times per day as opposed to just topping off the food since pups may not be interested in stale food. Growing pup to 2 year mark: It's best to get a Boxer onto a feeding schedule as soon as possible. Schedules of anything feeding, exercise, sleep time, etc. Young Boxers often struggle a bit to fill out and during the 1 to 2-year mark Boxers can go through a 'skinny phase', so 3 meals per day, plus snacks, can work well during this time. Adults 2 years and up: Most adult Boxers that have reached their final adult weight and height do well with 2 meals per day, plus snacks. If snacks are regular and of substance, a Boxer may be perfectly content with 1 main meal per day. Note that this breed is prone to bloat, so you want to avoid letting a Boxer get so hungry that he rapidly gulps his food down. If that is the case, increase the frequency of meals or use a slow-feed bowl; stainless-steel is best, something like Mr. How Much to Feed a Boxer Puppy or Dog The exact serving size that is appropriate for each Boxer varies and depends mainly on age and current weight but also is affected by activity level, health status, type of food wet vs dry , and individual metabolism. This said, there are general guidelines: Puppies usually require about 55 calories for each pound of body weight. Young pups might eat a bit over a cup a day, older pups can eat up to 3 cups a day. Adults need fewer calories per pound of body weight than their younger counterparts, about .Depending on an adult Boxer dog's size, food is usually in the 3 to 5 cup per day range. To know exactly how much to give your Boxer, know your dog's weight. Don't guess since that can be wildly off. Then, look at the feeding guidelines on the bag of kibble; these are listed by age and weight and are usually pretty spot on. Dry Kibble vs Wet Canned Though many Boxers may prefer wet canned food, dry kibble is better to maintain healthy teeth and gum and a strong jaw. You'll still have to provide some level of at-home dental care , but the crunch of a hard kibble will work to some extent to remove plaque. Additionally, dry food seems to keep the stools firmer and healthier. If your Boxer is a finicky eater and balks at dry food, try mixing in just a bit of canned stick with the same brand or add just a bit of water or low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Grain vs Grain-free It's wasn't that long ago that putting a dog on a grain-free diet wasn't much of a big deal. Some grains, especially those with gluten, can cause excessive gas , upset stomach, and other issues. And, some dogs are allergic to wheat or gluten which can manifest as itching and other skin problems. But recently, a suspected link between certain grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy DCM, a canine heart disease caused veterinary experts to take pause. And, since Boxers are one of the breeds prone to DCM, it's important to understand where things are on this. Though it was first thought that any grain-free diet may be the cause, the current thought is that it is a BEG diet, meaning boutique small specialty brands that have exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, kangaroo, bison, venison, etc. Many more studies need to be done for conclusive answers to be found. For now, it is recommended to offer healthy grains and this can be done while avoiding gluten if your Boxer has an issue with it. Navigating the Many Choices of Dog Foods What to Avoid: Many brands are guilty of having at least one of these elements that you do not want your Boxer's food to have: No grains at all. Until conclusive studies are complete, play it safe and offer a kibble with some level of healthy grains unless the veterinarian recommends otherwise Boxer needs to be on a specific grain-free diet, etc. Synthetic preservatives. These can be toxic. Butylated hydroxyanisole BHA , butylated hydroxytoluene BHT , and ethoxyquin, just to name a few, are linked to behavioral issues, organ damage, and some forms of cancer. Artificial coloring. Common dyes like Yellow 5 and 6 and Blue 2 are linked to behavioral and health issues. Artificial flavor enhancers. MSG is one of the worst, it is linked to anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and breathing issues. Generic animal digest, meats, oils, or fats. When anything is listed as 'animal', it is derived from a 4-D animal: dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals and can literally be any meat from any animal at all: minks from mink farms, roadkill, zoo animals, expired meats from supermarkets and butcher shops, etc. Fillers are cheap ingredients that are put into dog food to bulk it up but they have little to no nutritional value. The 'food' goes right through their system; a dog will eat but be hungry again soon afterward and this is one cause of coprophagia eating feces. These are the animal parts that are not fit for human consumption and includes such things as spinal tissue, lungs, spleens, hooves, tails, undeveloped eggs, etc. Made outside North America since meats from overseas can be questionable. The kibble will be preserved using a vitamin blend often listed as mixed tocopherals and will be naturally flavored and colored. Some level of grains. Grains that are generally well-tolerated include rice, oatmeal, and quinoa. Wholesome real meats, veggies, and fruits. Some ingredients sourced from Norway are fine; this country has very strict guidelines. If you are not sure what is in your Boxer's food, investigate it. Know about grain content and the presence or lack of additives and subpar ingredients. Recommended Dog Food for Boxers Please note that the following recommendations are formulas with some level of healthy grains; if you did not read the previous ' Grain vs Grain-free ' you may wish to do so before continuing on. This meets all of the requirements of what you're looking for. There are no synthetic preservatives; vitamins are used instead shown as mixed tocopherals. The grains in this formula are generally very well tolerated: quinoa technically a seed , oatmeal, and barley. There are 3 different recipes to choose from: beef, chicken, or lamb. Other ingredients include peas, salmon, carrots, apples, blueberries, and flaxseed. There are good levels of glucosamine chondroitin vital for joint health , antioxidants, and omega fatty acids important for skin and coat health. There are no by-products, fillers, or generic meats or oils and this is sourced and made in the USA. For this one, the base is chicken a very classic tasty protein that most dogs love , along with oatmeal, brown rice, ground barley, peas, flaxseed, carrots, tomato pomace, spinach, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. All other ingredients shown on the label are either vitamins and minerals or natural preservatives. This has no wheat, corn, soy, meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and this is made in the USA. This brand offers a top-quality formula that is gluten-free. There is no wheat, corn, soy, by-products, artificial flavors, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives. The base is chicken and brown rice and other ingredients include white rice, oatmeal, rice bran, avocado, flax seed, herring, and kelp. It has good levels of omega fatty acids and antioxidants. The one trade-off for having it be gluten-free is that it does not contain any fruit; however, it does have all required vitamins and minerals and you can always offers a small amount of fresh fruit as snacks. Homemade Vs Commercial Commercial dog food is convenient and, if you choose a superior brand, it will ensure that your Boxer receives all needed nutrients and is on a well-rounded and well-balanced diet. And, home cooked food gives you complete control over what your Boxer eats and does not eat and can be tweaked to satisfy a finicky eater. So, there are pros and cons to each. Whether you opt for a top-quality kibble or you use good cuts of meat and fish and fresh produce in homemade meals, neither option is super-cheap. Because, of course, you get what you pay for. But, if you buy in bulk and lean toward frozen vegetables and fruits, home cooking may be a bit less expensive. That said, when you prepare meals at home, you'll need to offer a good daily vitamin and mineral supplement even good brands of kibble need to add this in because it's nearly impossible for a dog to receive all nutrients just from food alone. Some of the foods that can be incorporated into meals include: Proteins: Chicken, turkey, veal, beef, fish mackeral, haddock, salmon, whitefish, cod, and others , eggs, and certain beans kidney, lima Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli in moderation , potato, sweet potato, sugar snap peas, green beans, spinach Fruits: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, pumpkin Grains: Quinoa, oatmeal, rice Related Articles: Best Snacks, Chews, and Treats for a Boxer - A great rundown of the difference between these 3 things and top recommendations. How many calories does a Boxer dog need - Requirements based on age, size and activity level. Recommendations to lower or raise intake. Boxer dog weight issues - This breed can become overweight, usually due to a combination of eating too much and being sedentary. Boxer begging behavior - Boxers are pretty good at playing their humans and it's easy to fall into the trap of giving in to begging. Read how to stop the cycle. Choosing the Best Bowl for a Boxer - Size, height, material and design are all important.
Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Here at Frenchie Kisses Kennel you will not find "a breeder. We maintain a small Hobby program and breed for quality, rather than quantity. This ensures that you get a puppy that is healthy, beautiful, and has a great temperament. It is very convenient being close to Portland, Oregon because it makes for a nice day trip for our adoptive families in the Portland area to visit their puppy regularly as it grows. Since My son and Daughter In Law work at home we are able to spend time both indoors and outdoors with all of the animals. However, French Bulldogs are more suited for indoor living as opposed to outdoors. We do like to bring them out when the weather is moderate. At Frenchie Kisses Kennel we keep a close watch on the dogs as we wander about and if they seem a bit tired we simply return them to our air conditioned or heated in the winter home. Luckily the weather here in Washington State does not have horrible extremes so air conditioning and a good wood stove keeps their life very comfortable. French Bulldogs overheat easily because of their overly large chest and compacted air way, along with their insistence on being active. Their bulk and being Brachycephalic makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. In addition, Frenchies are top heavy and therefore have a difficult time swimming. We are very cautious when exercising them during hot or humid weather, and at times must insist they take a break. Though they tend to love the water, they must not be left alone in water as they may not be able to get out after exhausting themselves trying to swim. French Bulldogs are known as non swimmers. That's not to say that they are dogs of little brain. It's more like their "can do," can't keep up with their "want to. We love that the dogs want to be with us, very close by when we are walking around on the property. Washington is Cougar country and we would not want them to wander far so we do keep a close watch on them when we have them out. They all tend to get along with the cats and we are working hard to convince them that all animals are our friends. Since the Frenchies are so rambunctious it is hard to convince all of our pets that they are sweet, friendly dogs. I have my mind set that all my pets are going to get along and I am hoping that my will is stronger than a Bulldog! The puppies are exposed to the cats at a young age to instill a respect for other animals. Our cats are everywhere we now have five the puppies can have access to. We also have volunteer feral cats, that we are pretty sure come from a catch and release program in our area as they just appear with ears notched and previously spayed or neutered. The puppies only meet one of them He has become an outside pet only does not like to be confined kitty and occasionally comes to the door to see what is going on. He is friendly with the dogs and puppies. Three of our cats are both indoors and outdoors so the puppies learn early on that cats are their friends. We now have three Chickens that wander the property during the day. We hope to also use them to condition the puppies to being comfortable with birds. This makes for very sweet gentle puppies as they mature. We are also able to care for them individually if they become sick and give them excellent medical attention. We have a wonderful vet who has taught us how to do much of the necessary medical care at home since we are 45 minutes from any Veterinarian. Sometimes without the training he has provided us we would lose puppies due to no access to immediate care. We can and do give mouth to mouth resuscitation if needed. We will do anything necessary to save a puppy or dog. We love them for the wonderful little family additions that they are. We now offer training packages for our puppies: Child Tolerance. We respect your privacy. Thank you! As a reputable and compassionate French Bulldog breeder, we pride ourselves on the health testing, beauty, and personality of our Sires and Dams. Thoroughly vetted breeding stock, along with over a decade of experience, research, education, and a dedication to bettering the breed, sets our puppies up for success with their new families. We incorporate the principles taught by Dr. Gale Watkins through the AviDog University, cultivating our puppies' confidence through proper socialization. Meaning, that our puppies grow up in my, and my children's arms. They are provided with age-appropriate enrichment which ultimately gives you the most balanced and well-behaved adult French Bulldog. We dedicate our lives to cultivating a well-behaved and loving member of the family that will provide you with comfort, humor, and companionship for many years- and this is priceless. NW Frenchies offers stud services to approved females. Our Sires offer the finest combination of bloodlines and are fully health tested. He has completed and is cleared for hip and elbow x-rays, thyroid blood panel, patella grade, heart auscultation by a veterinary cardiology specialist, and eye exam by a veterinary optometry specialist in accordance with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals guidelines health testing. He is the ideal representation of every quality a French Bulldog should have. Misha has fathered many healthy litters. Eager to bring a French bulldog puppy home? For a number of years we have wanted to expand our breeding program to the Non-Sporting Group, specifically French Bulldogs. After several years of detailed research and thorough groundwork, Affinity French Bulldogs was born! Excellent health, stable temperaments and winning confirmation is our goal! At Affinity French Bulldogs, we lovingly hand-raise each of our puppies in our home where they are broadly socialized to both humans and other animals, exposed to a variety of age-appropriate stimuli and experiences and the foundations of crate training and litter box potty training are started. Our puppies are thoroughly examined by our on-site veterinarian at birth and again at 8 weeks of age, de-wormed and vaccinated and come with our comprehensive health guarantee and life-long breeder support. We also provide micro-chip services to our customers. The most wonderful experience from start to finish! Thank you so much! Affinity French Bulldogs focuses on superior pedigree, stable health and excellent temperament. While our goal is for many of our dogs to go on to distinguished show careers, our Frenchies also make the perfect family companion and will change your life forever with their bright, affectionate and playful personalities. They happily adapt to life with individuals and families, do well with children of all ages, get along well with other pets and they adore making new friends — both of the human and K9 variety! French Bulldogs are easy keepers, do not require a lot of exercise and do not bark excessively although their naturally observant tendencies make them quick to alert to strangers or unusual activity around the home. They are well-suited to apartment life and are patient and affectionate with their owners and especially children. We are honored to be a part of so many wonderful families and would love to match you with your very own loving and vivacious Frenchie! I now x-ray the trachea's of all the dogs in my breeding program, so I produce dogs that are not exercise intolerant or have BOAS issues like the countless dogs being produce by backyard breeders, who do not breed with Purpose, they breed solely to produce pups. All my dogs live in my home, are a "BIG part of my family" and are spoiled with love and attention every day. When my girls have a litter, the pups are whelped beside my bed and monitored 24 hours a day. Training starts at birth with lots of handling and as they grow, we get more involved in desensitizing, obedience and house training. My pups go to the very best pet homes that are looking for quality before quantity. Puppies are like children and require A LOT of care, exercise, training and love. Owning either of these breeds is expensive! Everything costs more for a big dog: food, crates, bedding, medicine, veterinary care, toys, and when they chew on something with their large sharp teeth, it will most likely be destroyed in seconds. Puppies can have health issues just like children and when these breeds age, like any elderly person, they will need medical care to help them through their twilight years. Please understand the commitment you are taking on and don't take this commitment lightly, your new family member will be relying on you to love and provide for them until the very end and will love you with every ounce of their being in return.
Thank you for your interest in our AKC Goldens. See below to join our Farm News for updates on new litters. We accept deposits right here on our website to Hold the Gender of your Choice first paid-deposit, first reserved basis. If you have a preference for which momma you'd like, you can make note of that when placing a deposit. Otherwise, we will notify you when the next litter is available and confirmed through ultrasound! Your new fur baby will be ready to go home at 8 weeks old. The final payment must be made before taking the puppies home. Please join our email subscriber's here. Each puppy has such a precious, unique personality, so we like for our families to have time to interact with them and pick them out in person. We will schedule 1-hour appointments when the puppies are ready to be picked up 8 weeks old. Deposits are non-refundable. You or a flight nanny will need to meet us outside of the airport for puppy pickup. Additionally, If you are unable to fly to pick up the puppy or arrange a flight nanny , we are happy to provide the flight nanny service for you. The Flight Nanny charge is outlined below. Please feel free to message with more questions. We are happy to offer flight nanny service, though! The nanny is either ourselves or someone we personally know and trust. The flight nanny is attuned to your pet's needs and will give special attention to a smooth, caring transition from our farm to your arms. Flight Nanny fee must be paid ahead for scheduling purposes. We are happy to speak through these detail specifics with you. Be sure to watch for our mahogany. We now offer shipping in the USA and Canada! Feel free to email or call us at if you have any questions, or are interested in a puppy from one of our upcoming litters. We have several litters currently and have some availability left for these pups who will be ready for their new homes late June and early July. English Cream Puppies! August 24, English cream puppies are not actually completely white. They still have just a little bit of color. Did you know that when an English Cream golden gets older, you can actually see completely white hair around the muzzle? But only slightly.Anyway, these puppies from Snowflake and Lance.They are quiet, calm, and friendly with very good people interaction skills which is very important for family puppies. All our goldens receive individual handling at least 3 times per day by adul.We managed to get a few pictures the other day and wanted to share them with you! Both Clover and Charlie are very gentle, quiet, and calm. All their.Growing Up the Golden Way August 19, Is it any wonder that goldens are one of the most sought after breed in America? They are happy, content, bright and full of fun. Elemay and Freddy's puppies fit that description and then some. These puppies are going home on the 2nd of September! Searching for some new adventure May.Our goldens come in all different sizes starting with Susie who is the mother of these two weighing in at fifty-five pounds and working up to our heaviest male, George, the.Feel free to click the Reserve button to learn more about puppy availability and our reservation process! But the truth is, as puppy buying rises, so do puppy scams. A few quick ways to identify a scam: Scammers will not allow you to speak with them on the phone Copycat or Stock Photos Unusual payment requests instead of credit cards or checks Price is too good to be true Read more about this on the AKC website. Make an Appointment.
Many pet owners, especially those who are the lucky recipients of a golden retriever's love, make sure to honor their birthdays as well. And what are some ideas on how to throw a golden retriever birthday party? Imagination is the key. A sense of humor goes a long way. But most of all, recognizing your golden retriever's special day is much like planning a human birthday party! The most important thing to do when planning a party for your golden retriever and his or her golden retrievergie friends, is to find a secure area. Area where DOGS won't run the risk of getting away from owners, lost or confused. Don't invite every friend in your Golden retriever birthday party. Don't invite every friend and neighbor who has a DOG to your Golden retriever birthday party. But invite only the DOGS that your own pooch is familiar with. No sense in testing fate, so keep it simple and golden retrievergie-friendly for the special birthday boy or girl. Remember to keep the size of your birthday area in mind when inviting other DOGS as well as their owners to your party. Other ideas of throwing a golden retriever birthday party encompass decorations and food to be served at this special event. When decorating with lights, crepe paper or ribbons, streamers or balloons, keep such items away from DOGS that may want to eat them. Some DOGS love to pop balloons. So you may want to keep a few extra balloons blown up for the games portion of the party. But make sure that you retrieve plastic discards as soon as possible. This will prevent DOGS from eating or chewing on plastic or rubber parts and strings. Remove items that you don't want damaged before the golden retriever birthday party. Remember, as with human children, DOGS can make a mess, so make sure you remove items that you don't want damaged from the 'play area' before the golden retriever birthday party. When DOGS start playing, everything in their path is fair game. So take a look through the area beforehand to save yourself frustration or grief. Remember, this was your idea, so don't leave anything to chance. This is a special day for your golden retriever and guests. So no one should be punished if anything gets broken. Guests may even take turns with Frisbees and other activities in birthday golden retriever party. DOGS are easy to entertain, and guests may even take turns with Frisbees, tennis balls and other activities for the birthday golden retriever party. In summertime, a small wading pool provides plenty of amusing entertainment for DOGS and people alike. But be forewarned that when they shake, you may get drenched. Dont forget the golden retriever birthday cake. The birthday golden retriever and guests, as well as human counterparts, are likely to be hungry, so make sure you have food for both available. If you wish, bake your golden retriever birthday cake made of various, DOG friendly ingredients. But remember to avoid chocolate Chocolate is poisonous for Golden retriever dogs. And keep plenty of water on hand for the thirsty participants. No matter what, have fun, make sure that your golden retriever and guests are safe, and enjoy the celebration! Well why not make their day extra special with a Golden Retriever birthday card? Delight a dog lover or your precious pup today in a few simple steps. You can always make sure you celebrate every birthday in great style with our range of personalised Golden Retriever birthday cards! Personalised Golden Retriever Birthday Cards Finding a unique and thoughtful Golden Retriever birthday card has never been easier, with our wonderful selection to choose from! Impress the dog lovers in your life with a Golden Retriever birthday card that is bound to be the centre of attention, just like your pup! Make sure to expect smiles and tail wags all round, when you give your loved one a personalised Golden Retriever card. Finding the pawfect personalised card is a little way to make a big impression, and we have more personalised Golden Retriever cards than you can shake a stick at! Personalised Golden Retriever Birthday Gifts Why not go the extra mile and pair your personalised Golden Retriever card with a matching personalised Golden Retriever gift? Explore our fabulous range of Golden Retriever birthday gifts that are bound to delight any dog lover in your life! Kick back and relax with your favourite personalised Goldie mug whilst you unwind after a busy day. Run With The Pack.
We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Have you always wanted a Labrador retriever, but are you worried about the common health problems of the breed? Someone might have recommended that you go for a Pit Bull-Lab mix. Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers began to be deliberately interbred in the s as a way of minimizing the health problems that are common to both pure breeds. The result is usually a gorgeous, medium-sized pup with the strength and loyalty of a pit bull and the intelligence and affection of a Labrador. But wait, you might be wondering if these dogs are highly aggressive, since pit bulls do have a reputation for being a pretty aggressive dog. While exactly what you get with a mix-breed pup is always unpredictable, the aggressive reputation of the pit bull is undeserved. They are, in fact, intelligent and affectionate canines. A word of warning, while pit bull-Lab mixes are highly affectionate and highly trainable, they are not generally recommended for first-time dog owners since there is quite a bit of work involved in looking after these special dogs. But whatever you call them, they are a mix between a Labrador retriever and an American pit bull terrier. Labrador retrievers are medium-large gun dogs that were initially bred to retrieve game. But over the years, they have also become incredibly popular family dogs. They are also highly intelligent, trainable, and friendly, so they are also often used as disability assistance dogs, for example working as guide dogs for the blind. American pit bull terriers are solidly built medium-sized dogs. In the early 19th century, they were often used in blood sports such as bull and bear-baiting, and after these sports were outlawed in , they were also often used in dogfighting. This is why the breed has a reputation for being aggressive, but they are not naturally aggressive when properly cared for. They are, in fact, strong, confident, and lively, and make excellent family pets as they love children and are protective of them. Pit Bull-Labrador Mix Characteristics Unlike with pure-bred dogs, which tend to have a fairly predictable appearance and temperament, you can never be sure exactly how the characteristics of parents will combine in a mix-breed dog. But it is possible to generalize about the most likely characteristics of a pit bull-Lab mix based on the characteristics that appear most often, and characteristics that breeders will often try and control to produce the best possible pups. Labrador-Pit Bull Mix Appearance Most pups that are a mix between a Labrador retriever and a pit bull can be characterized as medium in size. They usually range from between 17 to 25 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 90 pounds. Male Lab-pit bull mixes tend to be significantly larger than their female counterparts. They will almost certainly have a strong and muscular physique. Labradors are fairly strong to start with, and this is only enhanced by the extreme muscular nature of the American pit bull terrier. Their facial features generally fall between those of a Lab and a pit bull, and they will have a broader forehead than a Labrador retriever, but it will be narrower than that of a pit bull. They usually have a relatively long muzzle and long pointed ears. Your pitador might also come out with the classic Labrador retriever double coat that sheds a lot. Breeders will often try and control for this characteristic, but there are no guarantees. There is no way of knowing what kind of coat they will have when you adopt a puppy. Coat colors vary from classic Labrador colors including black, chocolate, and golden yellow, but you can also expect to see white, spotted, brindle, and cream. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Temperament When you adopt a Labrabull, you can expect a dog that is affectionate, intelligent, and energetic, as these are characteristics of both Labrador retrievers and American pit bull terriers. Lab-pit bull mixes are very affectionate and bond quickly with new families. They are incredibly friendly with children and will be both careful and protective of them. While you can trust a pit bull-Lab mix with children, small children should never be left alone with any dog unsupervised. While they do get on with other animals, this breed does have a need to be dominant. They may engage in behaviors you consider aggressive or undesirable to assert their dominance over other dogs or household animals. They crave to be included in everything the family does and to be the center of attention. These dogs are very intelligent and also eager to please, which makes them highly trainable. They are just as capable of being trained as working dogs as their Labrador retriever parent. They are motivated by praise and reward, and training should always utilize positive reinforcement. When your dog is frustrated and confused by what you want from them, that is when they can become aggressive. But pit bull-Lab dogs are not naturally aggressive; they actually have a calm and fun-loving temperament. But they are also high energy and need a lot of exercise. They are highly alert and will bark a little to let you know if guests arrive at the door or strangers are lurking near the house. Lab-Pit Bull Mix Health These crossbreed dogs generally live for years and within that time are likely to have fewer health problems than either purebred Labrador retrievers or American pit bull terriers. Nevertheless, they can be inclined to develop some of the joint conditions that are common in Labrador retrievers, such as hip dysplasia. They can benefit from glucosamine supplements to help keep their joints supple and healthy. You can find our recommendations for the best glucosamine supplements here. These dogs are also more inclined to developing epilepsy and hyperthyroidism than some other dog breeds. You should monitor your dog for seizures to identify the onset of epilepsy. You can read more about seizures in dogs here. Finally, dogs that are a mix of Labrador retrievers and pit bulls can be inclined to develop skin conditions and allergies. For this reason, it is important to choose a good pH-balanced shampoo for your dog, and try to keep their food and environment free of toxins that can trigger or exacerbate allergies. These might help you to decide whether they are the right breed of dog for you. Exercise Lab-pit bull retrievers are energetic dogs that need lots of space to play. They need a yard to give them space to run and play throughout the day. They need a lot of exercise each day. They need at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise, such as running or playing catch, each day. On top of this, they will need hours of moderate exercise such as walking and playing. This exercise is best when split into at least two exercise sessions each day. It is advisable to keep your pit bull-Lab mix on the leash when in public parks as they have a high prey drive. Attention These dogs thrive on love and attention, and since they are so intelligent, they also need a lot of mental stimulation. This means that it is not appropriate to leave them alone for long periods of time. If you leave one of these dogs alone for ten hours a day while everyone is at work, you will come home to a lot of destruction and a frustrated dog that may become aggressive in their need for your affection. Grooming Most Lab-pit bull mixes have the short-haired, low-shedding coat of a pit bull, which only needs brushing once a week. But if they turn out to have the high-shedding coat of a retriever, you may find that you need to brush them every day to keep on top of their shedding. You will also want a powerful vacuum cleaner that is designed to pick up dog hair. You also need to pay a lot of attention to dental care, as Lab-pit bull mixes are prone to tartar build-up and gum disease. Diet Since these dogs are highly muscular and full of energy, they thrive on a diet that is high in animal-based proteins and high in healthy fats. You do need to be careful how much food you give them, as they will usually eat even when they feel full, and they are prone to put on weight when they overeat. So, feed them a diet that is low in carbohydrates and put food out at regular times rather than leaving food in their bowl for them to graze throughout the day. Since these dogs are prone to allergies, it is important to invest in high-quality food that does not contain any artificial additives that can be toxic for dogs. It is also a good idea to vary their diet, and ensure they are not eating the same type of meat every day. Dogs are most likely to develop allergies to the foods they eat the most. So, if you feed your dog the same chicken-based dog food every day, it is likely that over time they might develop an allergy to chicken. Varying the protein that makes up their diet can help prevent this. Where To Adopt There are many reputable breeders out there breeding top-quality pit bull-Labrador retriever mixes. Generally speaking, you will find that the Labrador is the mother, as they are a slightly larger breed, and it is safer for the dog when the mother is a bit larger than the father. So, if possible, look to adopt rather than buy. A great place to start looking for adoptable dogs is at Petfinder. We found our Australian Shepherd Labrador Retriever mix through petfinder. FAQs Is a pit bull-Lab mix an aggressive dog? No, pit bull-Lab mix dogs are not aggressive. They can have a reputation for aggression because pit bulls have traditionally been used in blood sports, but the breed is not naturally aggressive. They can be dominant among other animals and may engage in classic alphamale behavior to assert their position in the animal hierarchy. When do Lab-pit bull mixes stop growing? Lab-pit bull mix dogs will usually keep growing until they are about three years old, which is around the same time as they start to lose their puppy energy. You can expect them to grow between 17 and 25 inches tall and to weigh between 45 and 90 pounds. Are pit bull-Lab mixes a good dog breed for families with kids? Yes, Lab-pit bull mixes are excellent kids. They are gentle and playful and will also be highly protective of their young charges. While they will give you a bark to let you know that strangers are around, they are actually very good with strangers as well. Can you have a pit bull-Lab mix with another dog? Pit bull-Lab mixes are highly dominant animals, so they will try and assert their dominance over any other animals you have in the house. For this reason, they need to be well-socialized from a young age to ensure they learn appropriate behavior. So, while you can introduce a Lab-pit bull mix puppy into a home that already has a dog, you might want to be wary about introducing an adult dog into a household that already has another dog. Do pit bull-Lab mix dogs bark a lot? No, these highly intelligent dogs are not the type to bark continuously or for no reason. They might give you a bark to let you know when something has happened or if someone is approaching. When do Labrador-pit bull mix dogs calm down? From about the age of one year, these dogs begin to calm down and have less energy. The Verdict Labrador retriever-American pit bull terrier mixes make excellent pets for anyone with an active lifestyle and lots of space for these dogs to stretch their legs. They combine the intelligent and friendly temperament of both breeds in an adorable dog that is less likely to suffer from some of the serious medical conditions that are common in both pure breeds. They are also highly trainable and have a calm and friendly temperament as long as they are getting the physical stimulation and the attention that they need. You will need to be prepared to make the time commitment to keep these dogs healthy and happy. Do you have any experience raising a Lab-pit bull mix pup? Share your thoughts with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. White Any combination of the above Certain coat colors from either parent breed overlap such as brown, yellow, and black. This means that these colors are more likely to appear in the Lab Pit Mix, though this breed can really show any combination of the colors seen in either parent breed. This video features a young Labrador Pitbull Mix named Rocky enjoying a warm summer afternoon in the pool. Rocky has a beautiful black coat and a friendly, fun-loving personality characteristic of the breed. The temperament of this crossbreed dog will be some combination of the character traits that you see in the American Pitbull Terrier and the Labrador Retriever. Labrador Retrievers or Labs tend to be very energetic, friendly, and playful — they also tend to be a little bit goofy now and again. Labs are smart and mischievous — they have been known to escape from fenced yards with ease. The American Pitbull Terrier sometimes has a bad reputation for being aggressive or mean, but that is not the case at all. According to the UK Kennel Club , these dogs are one of the gentlest breeds on the planet and, while they may be a little protective, they will never hurt you or your family. Pitbulls have big, open hearts and they make excellent companion pets. This unique breed will inherit some combination of these character traits. For the most part, pitbull lab mixes are friendly and affectionate with family, but they can also be a bit of a handful with their high energy level. The pitbull breed can also be a little dominant at times, so look out for this kind of behavior with your dog. If you allow your dog to become dominant, he may not listen to your commands and could develop aggression toward other dogs. Whether or not your Labrador pitbull mix gets along with children will depend on several factors. Early socialization and training is essential for all dogs — especially for a breed like this that has a lot of energy and can sometimes develop dominant tendencies. Socializing your puppy from a young age will help him get along with kids better. In determining whether your mixed breed dog will get along with other pets, you have to think about the two parent breeds. Labrador retrievers, for example, get along with just about anyone — human or animal. These dogs can be a little overzealous with small dogs but they would never intentionally hurt anyone. The American Pitbull Terrier is a different story. While these dogs are not inherently dangerous, the terrier in them means that they have a strong prey drive — this as an instinct to chase small animals. Raising your pitbull mix from a young age will help him get along with other pets but you should always supervise any interactions between your dog and other pets. Both parent breeds for this crossbreed are known for their intelligence, so the Lab Pit Mix is a smart dog as well. The smarter the dog, the easier it is to train him, as long as you go about the training in the right way. Dogs get bored with repetition sometimes so you need to keep your training sessions short and sweet. There are conflicting opinions out there regarding the health of mixed breed dogs compared to purebreds. Some experts believe in hybrid vigor — the idea that mixed breed dogs are inherently healthier than purebred dogs because they have a lower risk for inherited health problems. However, if you breed two dogs that have a genetic predisposition for the same disease, the chances that the puppies will inherit that condition is much higher. When it comes to the pitbull labrador mix and its health, you have to consider the health of the two parent breeds. Labrador Retrievers live for 10 to 13 years and they are prone to certain diseases like: hip dysplasia, Protective yet friendly, the Pitbull Lab mix has a range of reputations to live up to. These breeds were used in bloodsports until the practice was banned. Sadly, the stigma attached to being used as fighting dogs has stuck with Pitbull-type breeds through the years. Labrador Retrievers were originally bred as hunting dogs. They are also commonly used as therapy dogs, in search and rescue missions and as seeing eye dogs for the blind. When you make a Pitbull and Lab mix, any of the qualities of the parent breeds can be passed on, in any combination. Growing controversy over American Pitbulls in recent years has led to a lot of misinformation about the breed. Pitbulls are banned in several countries because of their reputation as a fighting dog. However, if properly bred, socialized and trained, these are wonderful dogs with a warm, loving and affectionate temperament. What Do They Look Like? When buying a cross-breed there are no guarantees. Puppies can resemble either parent, or a combination of both. There can even be big differences within the same litter. But, Labrador and Pitbull breeds do have some similarities that are likely to appear in your Pitador puppy. Pitbull Lab Mix Size Both have medium-sized, athletic frames. Pitbulls are quite muscular, with wide chests and broad, flat heads. But, Labs are taller, with a slimmer shape and a longer nose. So, Labrabulls will range from 50 to 90 pounds. Labrabull Coats and Colors They have a short and silky coat and come in a variety of colors. Coat colors include brindle, brown, black and white and tan. You may also find a black Lab and Pitbull mix or a chocolate Lab Pitbull mix. Another popular variety is the yellow Lab Pitbull mix. For example, your glossy black Lab Pitbull mix puppy will likely get some gray around his muzzle and eyes as he gets older. Grooming and Shedding Thanks to its parents short-haired genes, the Labrador Pitbull mix is fairly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Just bathe when necessary and brush as needed. But, during shedding season you might find you are grooming a lot. Labradors are very high shedding dogs, and as such your puppy could be too. Make sure to get him used to being groomed regularly. This will make your job easier when he starts to molt! So you can expect your Pitbull Lab mix to be the same. Many Pitbull advocates praise their intelligence, willingness to learn and love for their families. Labrador Retrievers are known as excellent family pets. They are friendly and outgoing and play well with other dogs. So, a Pitbull and Lab mix is likely to be a people-pleaser when it comes to his family. This super-smart mutt will do anything for praise and attention. But, they will need company for much of the day, due to their strong bonds. They are therefore not an ideal pet for anyone who works away from home. Or who cannot bring their dog along with them during the day. Intelligent dogs can become bored and destructive if left to their own devices too often. This can also result in barking. Are They Aggressive? A genuine concern about Pitbulls is their bite reflex. Compared with bites from other dogs, the damage that they can do is much more severe. In a study of over bites over a period of 15 years at one trauma center, 30 injuries were by Pitbulls. The level of injury caused by them was far greater. If you are bitten by a Pitbull you are more likely to have a worse injury, and more likely to die from it. According to its results, the American Pitbull passed the test with a .So, this makes it more even-tempered than Cocker Spaniels and Beagles! However, the CDC itself admits that these numbers are culled from media headlines that could potentially misidentify the breed. A more recent study by Dr. James Serpell at the University of Pennsylvania ran different breeds through a series of tests and found that the top three most aggressive were Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Jack Russell Terriers. Cautions For Pitbull Owners Pitbulls might not be the most likely dog to bite you. But if they do, it is much more likely to lead to severe injury or death. But you need to throw yourself into socialization and definitely meet the Pitbull parent to assess their temperament. Being a responsible owner means giving your dog the tools to curb his anxiety. This involves training, socialization, and lots of praise and support. Given its extremely intelligent parentage, this hybrid responds very well to instructions and can master the basics in no time. Both Pitbull and Lab breeds work best with positive reinforcement. They love to please their owners and are extremely willing. Using punishment to train your puppy is not advised. This can destroy the trust between dog and owner. In addition, it can lead to problems in the future with aggression. Punishing a dog causes them to hide the warning signals that they are unhappy. Use reward-based methods and train together every day to build an even stronger bond between you. Your Labrabull will definitely need regular exercise. As it will be on the larger side and quite active. Importance Of Socialization While Pitbulls have a bad reputation that is not entirely fair, there is some truth to it. The risks of biting is higher than with some breeds, the severity of bites is far worse. Plus, Pitties can be territorial and display some guarding characteristics. So, when you buy a puppy with a Pit parent, you need to commit to socialization as a number one priority. A confident dog is a safer, happier dog. And dogs become confident through early exposure to the situations which have potential to worry them as adults. It is very important to socialize a Pitbull Lab mix puppy as early and often as possible. But there are some serious genetic health conditions that your puppy could inherit. So health screening of both parents is essential. The breeder should provide you with evidence of good hip and elbow scores for both the Labrador and Pitbull parent. They should also show you an eye test for each of them, carried out less than a year ago. The Labrador parent should have no family history of exercise-induced collapse or cruciate ligament problems. The Pitbull parent should have no history of skin problems. Labradors live on average .Pitbull lifespan is around the same. This is about the average lifespan for medium-sized to large breeds. You need to feed your Bullador a well-balanced diet to ensure he gets all the nutrients he needs. Especially because these dogs require so much exercise! Although Pitbull dogs are often great with the kids in their families, the nature of their bite and severity of the injuries they cause is something you need to seriously consider before you bring one into a home with children. Never leave a Pit mix alone and unsupervised with kids, and make sure that they treat him with respect. Well-bred, well-socialized Labrador and Pitbull mixes are a breed that give as much as they get. But giving a rescue Pitbull Lab mix can be very rewarding. For both pup and owner. Check with your local shelters to see if they have any mixed breeds. Some may inherit more Lab genes, others will favor Pitbulls. The only way to know what you are getting is to meet your puppy first, and talk to the breeder. But, there may be additional costs for health check-ups and official documentation. From day one make sure you have visitors to the house at least four times a week. Make sure there is a range of adults and children, and that each new person gives the puppy praise and treats upon arrival. Take your pup to every type of location you think you might visit together. And make sure lots of people say hello to her. Again, if possible, they can give her treats to reward her and help build a positive association. Supervised interaction with other dogs will teach your dog how to play properly, and respect his furry friends. Organised play dates or behaviorial classes can help your puppy learn to be a calm and happy part of a pack. You will never know if your puppy is going to look more like a Lab or a Pit in the future. Pit Lab Mixes are black, brown, tan, white, and yellow. Some Pit Lab Mixes are solid in color, while others have distinctive white marks just like a Pitbull. Originally, all Labradors were black. When a litter is influenced by the predominant features of the Black Lab, it is very likely for you to have a litter of jet black Lab Pitbull pups. A majority of Lab Pitbulls are actually black in color with distinctive white marks on the face, on the chest, at the tips of the paws and tail. Its spectrum of rich brown hues can be passed onto its offsprings. Brown Lab Pitbulls usually have markings, too. Labradors with orange hues to their coats are also classified by the American Kennel Club as a yellow Labrador. Pitbull Lab Mix Looks Generally speaking, Pitbull Lab Mixes have the following features: a broad head a pair of almond-shaped eyes small droopy ears a long tail a smooth, dense coat But as with any crossbreed, there is no way you can accurately guess how your puppy is going to turn out. You will just have to wait until he is fully grown. A Pitbull Lab can grow to a height between 30 cm. As always, this breed sits in the grey area between the Pitbull and the Labrador even in size. Their weight also depends on how much Labrador or Pitbull genes they have in them. Pitbull Labs in general, weigh around 45 lbs. However, a Pitbull Lab with dominant Pitbull genes can weigh up to 95 lbs. Pitbull Lab Mix Character Traits We all know that the Labrador Retriever has a playful, friendly spirit while the Pitbull has a bold, courageous demeanor. So, what could be the personality of a Pitbull Lab mix? Read on to find out! Pitbull Lab Mixes are family oriented and will protect their humans at all costs. These courageous canines will stand up to any threat! Pitbull Lab Mixes are highly protective of their pack, which is often displayed as an aggressive behavior. When given proper training, the Pitbull Lab mix can easily distinguish between threat and unusual stimuli, so he can exercise restraint. The Pitbull Lab mix is usually quiet, which makes them the ideal pet for apartment living or for close-knit subdivisions. Likewise, Pitbull Lab Mixes are great watch dogs as they always keep their eyes peeled. They can sense danger from afar, be it a wanted criminal or a teenager who is up to no good. A big softie Another remarkable trait that Labrabulls have is their ability to connect with their owners. They can sense if you are sad, troubled, or in pain. These dogs will snuggle next to you and give you wet licks — the canine equivalent of hugs and kisses. So, the next time you are about to cry, you can count on your tail-wagger to comfort you during hard times. This is certainly a trait that they have inherited from Labradors. After all, Labradors are notably known as therapy dogs. A goofball Pitbull Lab Mixes are ever-ready to face any danger that represents itself. But these fearless dogs also melt easily into a jiggly pile of face-licking love around their beloved humans. Pitbull Lab Mixes love to run fast, tug hard, jump high, play games and solve doggie problems like the smart and creative creature that he is. Clingy Although the Pitbull Lab mix is a big softie, this breed does have a tendency to develop a neurotic behavior if left alone for long periods. Encourage him to be a little more independent by allowing him to explore the world a little further away from you. Docile Pitbull Lab Mixes are notable for their obedient demeanor towards their owners. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. Be sure to establish yourself as the Alpha of the pack, especially when your Pitbull Lab Mix is still a pup. Lab Pit Mix Temperament A majority of dog owners are not yet convinced with the Lab Pit Mix temperament, which mainly harks back to the reputation of its parent breed, the Pitbull. So, why are these dogs depicted in a bad light? But truth be told, the tiny Chihuahua is actually more threatening than the hulking Pitbull. James Serpell, a renowned professor from the University of Pennsylvania, conducted a series of tests to determine which canines are the most aggressive. Furthermore, the American Temperament Test Society performed a study in to evaluate the temperament of the controversial breed. According to the results, the American Pitbull Terrier has a temperament passing rate of .In other words, many canines that share Pitbull-like characteristics are quickly categorized as a Pitbull Terrier. Likewise, the CDC stated that there is no scientific proof that shows Pitbulls are more involved in fatal attacks compared to other breeds. But of course, any dog that was cultivated for aggression can terrorize a whole neighborhood. This applies to all dogs, not just for Pitbulls. Therefore, an angry Pitbull is not the closest thing you will encounter next to a Great White Shark. While its parent breed has proven itself a true fighter, a Pitbull can only be aggressive if the dog was bred for the wrong reasons. Undesirable traits are rooted in improper training and lack of socialization, regardless of which breed you have. This means a Labrador, which is easygoing and gentle by nature, can get into a bevy of troubles if he has no concept of right and wrong. Unfortunately, the Pitbull Terrier remains a cult favorite among irresponsible owners. Therefore, it is imperative that you take the time to ensure your canine buddy gets properly trained and socialized. Despite their undeserved reputation, a Pitbull or a Pitbull Lab mix can respond well when training is done the right way, especially when you shower your pets with tender loving care! Are Lab Pitbull Mixes Sociable? Dogs are social creatures and are happiest when in contact with others, so yes, that includes the Pitbull Lab mix. But just like any other dog, your Lab Pit Mix must learn social skills at a tender age to keep fighting at a minimum. Socializing allows your tiny pup to get used to various settings and be comfortable towards meeting new people and animals. Keep in mind that Lab Pit Mix sometimes love to play a little rough. However, this should not be mistaken as a high prey drive. As a fur-parent, you also have to be well-balanced as the dog you seek. If you have a grumpy canine with a killer glint in the eye and a growl to match, step back and consider whether you are teaching your dog the right lessons. If not, get professional help! Establish yourself as the Alpha First of all, you have to firmly establish yourself as the leader of the pack. It means you have to set boundaries, stick with your own rules, and avoid doing things out on a whim! Otherwise, your growing pooch would think you are weak and inconsistent. A successful relationship depends upon you being in control. If your little Pitador does what he wants in small, harmless ways, it is likely for him to do what he wants in big, annoying ways. Nevertheless, be sure to be fair and calm when correcting your furry sidekick. Pitadors are among the most obedient dogs but they can also be very sensitive. Employ positive reinforcement Pitadors care about praise… and yummy treats! So, be sure to hand out some tasty dog biscuits to your pup for his little accomplishments. You can also alternate it with praises and belly rubs. Positive reinforcement is absolutely crucial, especially during the first weeks of potty training. When your Pitador goes potty outside instead of your hardwood floor, make a fuss and reward him. Considering how the Pitbull Lab mix is extremely intelligent, your pup is quick to understand which of his actions are good and desirable to you. Thus, he will repeat the behavior as often as possible. Correct your dog the right way Punishment is often associated with physical harm, such as hitting your dog with a stick. This method is not only harsh but also counterproductive. So, how do you correct your canine lout without making him anxious or wary of you? Since it is no good trying to reason with your dog, the most efficient and humane way to teach him is through constructive punishment. You can confiscate his favorite toys or simply ignore your dog for a certain period of time. Physical punishment only hampers the relationship between you and your beloved pet. Explore new grounds Take your furry sidekick as many places as you can go. You can stuff him in a pet carrier while he is still a puppy and have him walk beside you when he is finally bulky. Having your little Pitador tag along with you provides him with a spectrum of experiences with various people, animals, and objects. This is the best way to shape his behavior towards boisterous children, unusual structures, and fast-moving vehicles among many others. The more exposure he has as a puppy, the calmer he becomes as an adult. Provide mental and physical stimulation Both parent breeds of the Pitbull Lab mix requires tons of mental and physical exercise, so it is quite unsurprising for their offspring to have the same demands. Regular exercise is paramount if you want to keep your furry sidekick fighting fit. Otherwise, your Pitador is bound to carry extra weight that can have a huge impact on his overall wellbeing. Dogs are rarely lazy but if the exercise is boring, dogs are as likely as humans to refuse to do it. However, simply letting your dog chase squirrels out in the backyard is not going to cut it. So, what are your options? Walk your dog Walking your canine buddy is the most commonly performed exercise. Ideally, active dogs such as the Pitbull Lab mix should be taken out for a long walk twice daily. To make this a viable solution for busy fur-parents, choose to walk around the neighborhood a couple of times or go to a park that has a decent distance from your home. Try to change the route of your walks from time to time, so your Pitador has a new battery of smells to get excited over. You can always count on the treadmill if it rains cats and dogs! It gives your dog the workout he requires in a playful manner, while you just sit and relax. It would be wise to come equipped with a nifty device, such as a toughened tennis ball with a long-handled launcher that sends the ball flying into the far distance. Dog Frisbees also fly long distances to be retrieved by your pet. Go out for a swim A lot of dogs are afraid of the water but once they get the hang of it, they will paddle like a wild duck! Swimming is also one of the most enjoyable activities you can do with your dog. There is a plethora of toys from pet stores, such as a Kong floating toy to encourage your furry pal to swim. Your fun-loving Pitador will surely jump right in and retrieve the object for you. Find out what reward motivates your canine buddy and include some of that reward for him in your exercise regime to encourage him to be more active. Even racing up the stairs with your dog can be a fun and effective exercise, as well. The simplest forms of exercise can deliver amazing results. In fact, running up and down the stairs is the quickest way for obese dogs to lose weight! They will chow down anything delicious, whether it is the best dry dog food for small dogs or the best large breed dry dog food! So, it is up to you to provide your canine buddy the balanced diet he needs to stay hale and hearty. Go for the best dry dog food and keep them away from the nutrient-deprived worst dry dog food. His choices are:. Loyal and easy to train, the Pitbull Lab mix will make an excellent addition to any family and provide great companionship. History Of The Pitbull Lab Mix Both the Pitbull and the Labrador Retriever are historically working dogs , so it comes as no surprise that the Pitbull Lab mix likes to keep themselves busy and entertained. They were originally bred to combine the most desirable characteristics from both parent breeds into one dog — the temperament of the Labrador and the loyalty of the Pitbull. Breed Origin The breed origin of the Pitbull Lab mix is actually unknown and we cannot be sure when these dogs first appeared. However, we can look at the history of both parent breeds so you get an idea of where these pups originated from. The Pitbull parent in the Pitbull Lab mix can actually be any of four types of Pitbull. The Pitbull was created in early 19th-century England for the popular spectator sports of bull and bear baiting. They were thought of as aggressive fighting dogs but it was also known that they were very gentle with humans and made excellent family dogs. Later, these Pitbulls accompanied immigrants to America and they began new careers as all-around farm dogs. Their jobs included hunting wild game, guarding the property from animal intruders and providing companionship. The Labrador, as we mentioned above, is the most popular breed of dog in America. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs in the s and used to accompany hunters and retrieve animals that had been shot. They were also used in Newfoundland to retrieve fish that came in off the trawl, which is why they love the water. Their loyal and loving nature mean that they quickly became a very popular family dog and are still used today as working dogs, such as guide dogs. Characteristics Of The Pitbull Lab Mix Because the Pitbull Lab Mix is not a purebred breed and it is not recognized by any kennel clubs, this means that there is no definite breed standard for these pups. This means we cannot be sure how each litter of puppies is going to turn out. However, we can guess based on previous litters. These dogs are normally born in litter sizes of 5 to 10 puppies, with the average being 7. It is not normally an issue which parent is the sire or the dam when breeding. Appearance As we have said above, you can never be sure what your Pitbull Lab crossbreed will look like. They may look more like their Pitbull parent or more like their Labrador Retriever parent. The Pitbull Lab Mix is classed as a medium to large breed dog, and they can weigh anywhere up to 80 lbs, with females generally being smaller than males. These dogs will likely have floppy ears and will be muscular yet lean in statue. Coat A Labrador Pitbull Mix will generally have a short, smooth coat and they will not require too much grooming. We will go into more detail about grooming later on. Color The parent breeds of the Pitbull Lab Mix dog can vary greatly in color, which means your designer dog will likely vary greatly too. A Labrador can be yellow, brown or black and a Pitbull can be a huge range of colors — especially because there are four different breeds of this dog! If you want a good indication as to what your Pitbull Lab may look like color wise, you should take a look at the parent breeds. Temperament The Pitbull Lab Mix is a friendly and sociable dog that loves to be around people. This is particularly true for the Pitbull in them, who can become feisty when bored or not stimulated. Therefore, they will do well when they are around a lot of people and are being given lots of attention! This could not be further from the truth. When raised properly and socialized well, these dogs are sweet-natured and loving — traits which are passed down to the Pit Lab Mix. They are not known to bark and will alert you when there is anything wrong, making them a great guard dog or watch dog. The intelligence level of this mixed breed dog means they are easily trainable and will be top of the class at puppy school. They will also happily learn tricks and engage with their owners! Lifespan The Lab Pit Mix has a relatively long life expectancy and can live, on average, anywhere between 10 and 14 years. These are normally the same health issues that their parent breeds are predisposed to. However, there are two health problems that are seen more frequently, both of which are seen in Labradors. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any issues to offspring. Daily Life While the different traits and characteristics that your Pitbull Lab Mix may inherit from their parent breeds can be somewhat of a mystery, fortunately taking care of these dogs is pretty straight forward. Below we discuss their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. As an adult, this should be anywhere between 1, to 2, calories a day, which equates to four cups of kibble a day. You should always check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding them of a particular food based on their weight. When they reach maturity, this should be reduced to 2. As an adult, you should try to feed them three times a day. Always remember to feed your Pitbull Lab Mix nutritious, high-quality dog food. We have included a food that we recommend below. This food is formulated with protein-rich chicken as the first ingredient, ensuring your doggie gets all the nutrients they need to keep their muscles healthy and strong. Designed specially for large dog breeds, this food contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and overall mobility of bigger dogs. There are also antioxidants, vitamins and minerals to support immune system health, life stage requirements and a healthy oxidative balance. Exercise A Pitbull Labrador crossbreed is a medium to large breed of dog and therefore has high exercise needs. A dog of this size should be exercising for around minutes a day, so you must make sure you have the time to dedicate to this breed before buying. When the Pitbull cross is a puppy, you should remember the 5 minute rule. Therefore, if your pup is four months old, you should only be exercising them for around 20 minutes. These pups will love to join you on a hike or a run or, like their Labrador parent, they also love to swim. Because of their intelligence, they can also learn different dog sports such as flyball or agility, so this is something to think about. Check locally to see whether your area has any restrictions. You may need to keep your dog on the leash or have them wear a muzzle. Loving and friendly, these pups thrive when they are around people and like to be right in the middle of everything, getting all the attention! They do not do well when left alone and can exhibit destructive behaviors and signs of separation anxiety. Therefore, you must make sure you are not going to be out for hours at a time if you are thinking about bringing one of these dogs into your home. These dogs need to be kept entertained and stimulated mentally, which is why they can be such a good playmate for children. They also get on well with other family pets, so there is no need to worry about their reaction to other dogs and cats. The Pitbull Lab Mix is a very intelligent dog, which means training them is very easy. Training and Socializing We have mentioned above that the Pitbull Labrador crossbreed is a very intelligent dog. This means that training them is easy and is one of the reasons they are recommended as a good first dog. These pups respond best to positive reinforcement training. This includes verbal praise and reward-based training such as treats. Socializing your Pitbull Lab cross is also not difficult. They get on well with children and other animals, so there should be no issue within the family home. You should start socializing them from a young age and introduce them to new sights, sounds, places, smells, people and animals when you are out and about. Grooming Fortunately, your Lab Pitbull Mix will not require a lot grooming. You will need to brush them roughly two to three times a week to ensure that shedding stays at a minimum. Unfortunately, as they have a Labrador parent, they will shed a lot! You will need to invest in a good vacuum cleaner if you want to keep your home fur-free. Bathing your Pitbull Lab is also important, but this can be done as infrequently as times a year. You should also check their ears regularly to spot any signs of infection, and ensure their nails are clipped as needed. We touched on this above but the answer is no. There is a common misconception that all Pitbulls are dangerous, but when trained properly and brought up in a loving and caring environment, Pitbulls are affectionate, loyal dogs and love to be around people. Are Pitbulls illegal? In some areas of the United States, Australia and the UK, Pitbulls and other related dog breeds are under breed-specific laws. These laws prevent residents in those areas from owning these dogs, except from under special circumstances. Pitbulls in these areas are seen as a danger because of their reputation and dog fighting background, even though there is a huge amount of evidence to show that when trained properly Pitbulls make great pets. How much does a Pitbull Lab Mix cost? If this is out of your price range, you can always check your local shelter to see if there is a pup there that needs a loving home! Summary The Pitbull Labrador Mix breed was created to cherrypick the best traits from each parent breed — the temperament of the Labrador and the loyalty of the Pitbull. These loving, friendly dogs make excellent family pups who just love to be around people, both adults and children, and other animals too. While the Pitbull has a reputation for being aggressive, this could not be further from the truth and, when put in the right home, the Pitbull Labrador Mix is a companion for life. What do you think, is one of these dogs right for you? Other Pitbull Related Guides. .Pitbull Lab mix puppies, breeders or adoption? The Pitbull Lab Mix can be a great pet for the right home. In this article we will look at how well suited the Labrabull is to your family, and give you tips for finding the perfect puppy. We will also give you the information you need to properly feed, care for and groom your dog. And explore their behavior traits and training, exercise and socialization requirements. This guide is packed with information and will help you decide whether an adult Lab Pitbull mix will suit your home and lifestyle. Pitbull Lab Mix Origins? Labradors and Pitbulls have been being bred together informally for years, for pet homes and as ranch dogs. But in recent years with the rise of the designer first generation dog mixes, then are gaining more of a following. Labs are one of the most popular breeds in the US. Their ancestors originated in Canada and they were bred there in the 18th century to aid fisherman who needed a trusted and reliable helper dog. On the flip side, this hard-working, rough and tough canine also has a sweet personality. Today Labs are best described as loyal, intelligent, friendly and eager-to-please. Labs can co-exist with various age groups as well as with a cross-section of other animals. They take to training easily and make Labs a popular choice as police dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs. The Pitbull originated from crossing Bulldogs with Terriers back in the s. Breeds used for fighting, bullbaiting a ratting. Despite their lurid beginnings, the Pitbull is actually an affectionate breed with a fierce loyalty to their owners. Once brought over from the UK to America, Pitbulls were commonly used as farm dogs to protect livestock and herd sheep. They were known for their docile temperament with people and children and were not just working dogs but family pets. Pitbulls are strong, athletic, and courageous dogs, but underneath it all, they are often big softies looking for the same love and attention as any pet. They have expressive eyes, pointed ears and a long fairly straight tail. In other words, given his parentage, your pup can be counted on to be one of the most handsome dogs zipping around the dog park! How Big is the Pitbull Lab mix? The Labrador Pitbull mix is a medium to large, powerful, dog that can reach up to two feet in height and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. The fur is smooth and shiny, and not difficult to maintain. You can expect the common coat colors to be a solid tan, black, white, yellow, or brown. However, the Pitbull Lab Mix can also come with various colors like the Pitbull; so a brindle is entirely possible! Pitbulls tend to shed on the low to average end of the spectrum. However, a Lab Pitbull Mix could well take after their Labrador parent in the molting department and be more of a heavy shedding dog. Either way they are not a hypoallergenic dog and are not recommended for allergy sufferers. They can also need quite a lot of grooming in the shedding season, despite their short coat. Pitbull Lab Mix Grooming A Pitlab has a silky, short, and dense coat that benefits from brushing to keep it shiny. The Labrador undercoat is not common in this particular mix breed. Due to being a high shedding dog Labs need a good grooming tool for the heavier shedding parts of the year. A weekly brush the rest of the time should be fine. Use a doggie toothbrush and toothpaste to keep his pearly whites clean. And at the same time check for any signs of infection. The Pitbull Lab Mix grooming needs range from low to moderate. The latter was bred in the 19th century to be used in physically punishing ways, such as dogfighting. In America, this tenacious and strong dog was bred with larger canines and was used as a farm dog, who was also called upon to aid in hunting large game. Today, the American Pitbull Terrier retains an alert and protective nature. He is known for his courage, determination, and loyalty, but also comes with a reputation for being a naturally aggressive breed. This is not entirely unfounded. And according to one source on dog bites, in there were 22 Pitbull dog bite fatalities in the US. For the same year, Labradors and their mixes were responsible for 3 deaths. The Pitbull is a banned breed in some countries including the United Kingdom. In regard to this particular mix breed, one source reports that between and , 46 Pitbull Lab Mix attacks had been recorded. Are Pitbull Mixes Aggressive? However, a lot of people believe that this loyal dog has been maligned. Counter-arguments regarding the dangerousness of this breed highlight the fact that until the mids, the Pitbull was not a feared dog. And was actually considered a friendly family pet. This argument identifies the change in attitude as a social construct and media bias rather than any actual increase of aggression in this breed. The unreliability of victim and witness memory and accuracy of identifying dog breeds correctly has also become an area of interest in the Pitbull debate. Some believe that attacking breed is often misidentified when victims report dog bites. It is important to note that it is only the American Pitbull Terrier under scrutiny. Temperaments of other Pitbull breeds, like the American Staffordshire Terrier, have never been called into question. However, we would add a note of caution here. There are plenty of sources now that argue that Pitbulls are less likely to bite than previously thought. Bite Type and Frequency The Pitbull Lab mix is not much more likely to bite than many other popular breeds. However when weighing this up it is important to bear in mind the possible consequences of a bite, should one happen. While no dog bite is pleasant, the American Pitbull has been bred with the physical structure needed to bite hard. With big canine teeth and strong jaws. It holds on. The damage done by their bite has the potential therefore to be far greater than that of a typical dog bite. This is especially relevant in families with small children. This trait could be passed to your Pitbull Lab mix. They will likely be an energetic and loyal dog that loves attention from their owner. If there is more Pitbull temperament in them, your dog will be more reserved and docile. Thorough socialisation will be essential for this pup. If they inherit more Labrador personality they will probably be very social and exuberant. With socialization and good breeding practices, you can have a reasonable expectation that they will get along well with children and possibly other dogs. And will make a good family pet. When it comes to other pets, the Labrador side of your Pitbull Lab Mix has a better chance of getting along with them than the Pitbull does. You should take caution with strangers and other dogs until you know how your animal typically reacts in such situations. Although a pup with a very friendly Pitbull parent, that is well socialized, could be a very friendly and cuddly companion indeed. It is advised to start training young, as early as 8 to 12 weeks old. The longer you wait the more strong-minded your dog will become. With consistent and positive reinforcement training methods, they can be a terrific and well-mannered companion. It should be noted that punishment based training is not recommended as a modern training method and it has the potential to mask problems and cause or exacerbate aggression. Therefore access to things like a yard for self-exercise, fetch with the owner, and space and time to run around is important. Owners should be aware of health issues discussed below such as Hip and Elbow Dysplasia and Exercise Induced Collapse EIC and adjust exercise routines for their dog in consult with a vet. Larger dogs generally have greater issues with hip and elbow dysplasia, and both parent breeds are prone to hip dysplasia. In addition, gastric bloat and hypothyroidism may be potential issues for your pup. You should inquire with your breeder about heart, eye, skin, and ear issues. Purchasing your puppy from a reputable breeder decreases the chances of owning a dog with unexpected, surprising health problems. You should test both parents for health conditions that commonly affect their breed. Like any breed, they have some minor health issues to be aware of, like skin problems and allergies. The Pitbull Lab cross has a similar life expectancy to that of the parent breeds. Labradors are one of the most popular family dogs. They have a friendly and affectionate nature. On the other hand, Pitbulls have had mixed reviews in this department. You probably associate Pitbulls with dog fighting and aggression. Historically, though, they are known for being loyal family dogs that are good with children. This mixed-breed would make a good family pet if bred and socialized properly like any other dog. When visiting a litter, be sure to observe the temperament of the Pitbull parent and socialize your pup early to help increase the chances of a friendly, gentle companion. Unlike Labs, Pitbulls do not get on well with other animals so your pup will do best as the only furry child. Another option would be to get a purebred Lab or another kind of mix. Rescuing a PitLab All too often designer dogs end up relinquished by owners who were ultimately unable to care for their needs. Not all mixed breeds have their own specific rescue. However, breed rescues for the purebred parents often take in related mixes as well. Pitbull Lab Mix Puppies With the increasing popularity of mixed-breed puppies, it is important to find a responsible breeder that follows the recommended guidelines for all health testing. Make sure they provide a clean and loving environment for their dogs. Working with a good breeder is the best way to increase your chances of a healthy and happy Pitlab Mix Puppy. Pet stores and puppy mills have a reputation for producing unhealthy puppies, sometimes with more challenging temperaments. Unethical breeding practices and poor treatment of the parent breeds, especially with the Pitbull parent, will not produce the desirable traits you are hoping for in your new Pitbull Lab Mix Puppy. Labrador Pitbull Mix Breeders It goes without saying, but you should only deal with an ethical, reputable breeder that can ensure your Labrabull was crossbred from parents free of medical issues. A good breeder is happy to provide evidence of clean health checks and to answer all of your questions about the Bullador. Plus, your breeder should be asking you questions to make sure you are equipped to handle this large, energetic breed. If you buy from a breeder, ask about the temperaments of your Pitlab parents. You can also ask to see the bloodlines of both of the parents for any clues. And If possible, ask to see the parent so that you can observe their temperament for yourself. Any sign of aggression in the parents is a red flag. Unfortunately, unethical breeding practices go hand in hand with the increase in demand for designer dog breeds. Do your research and ensure you are choosing a responsible breeder that can provide you with a healthy and happy pup.
Also known as the Bull Pug, this medium-sized dog has a stocky and muscular build that is brought about by crossbreeding. Oftentimes, it is referred to as a miniature Bulldog because it is the spitting image of its parent. Note that this is just a nickname. This Pug Bulldog mix is the offspring of two popular dog breeds. You may be familiar with the English Bulldog and Pug because they are unique in terms of their physical appearance. English Bulldog History You probably know the English Bulldog as it is quite remarkable because of its wrinkled face. This medium-sized Mastiff-type dog traces its roots back to England, as its name suggests. Originally bred for bull-baiting in the s, the naturally nice English Bulldog was forced to be aggressive to fit this extreme sport. In bull-baiting, a dog is pitted against a bull inside a ring. After the ban of this sport in , breeders changed their attitude towards this breed and started to care for English Bulldogs so they may be good canine companions. Fast forward to the present, the English Bulldog is now known as a sweet and dependable dog great for families and children. Gone is its former aggressive reputation. Pug History The Pug is just as remarkable as the English Bulldog because of its similarly wrinkled face and sociable and charming temperament. Known as the pampered pets of Chinese rulers, the Pug breed was brought to Europe in the sixteenth century. This breed was equally treasured by nobles throughout the Western continent. It was popularly bred with one goal: to be a companion dog. To date, it is still a popular companion dog as it was centuries before. One thing is for sure, though. Putting together its two parent breeds was intentional, thus making it a designer breed. The English Bulldog and Pug were so popular that breeders wanted to have the characteristics of both breeds in one canine. The result of this crossbreeding is a playful companion dog with a wrinkled face which is known as the Pug English Bulldog mix. Some breeders and dog owners also wanted to have an English Bulldog that is smaller in size. One way for breeders to develop smaller versions of purebred dogs is to mix them with a smaller breed. Other examples of this crossbreeding practice are the miniature Rottweiler and the miniature Collie. Many names have been given to this hybrid like the mini Bulldog and Bull Pug and they are recognized by canine organizations like the American Canine Hybrid Club and Designer Breed Registry. As I mentioned earlier, the English Bulldog Pug mix is sometimes called a mini Bulldog and one look at this pup will tell you why. Most Bull Pugs come with a round head, broad shoulders, and a muscular and stocky body like that of their parents. In terms of its face, it has the signature wrinkles of both parents, a medium muzzle, and eyes that are black and shaped like almonds. It falls under the brachycephalic breed group which means that because of its skull, it will have a flat face and squished nose. This mix may even come with an underbite! The English Bulldog is medium-sized, typically 14 to 15 inches in height, while the Pug is around 10 to 13 inches. Putting these two together will give an offspring smaller than a regular Bulldog but bigger than a Pug. Your English Bulldog Pug mix may grow as tall as 10 to 14 inches and as heavy as 20 to 45 pounds. It does not need much space to move around. For as long as you take it on walks, it is good to go. These are coat color traits they inherit from their parents. A litter of five to seven can have a mix of these coat types. Fawn is light tannish yellow that may manifest in a wide range of shades. Dogs with this coat color may have a light shade like pale tan, dark shade like deep deer-red, or other shades in between. There are crossbreeds with fawn coats that have black areas around their muzzles like that of Pugs. There are also Pug English Bulldog mixes that have black coats. Mixed dogs with black coats typically have a solid black color throughout the body. The usual patches of piebald Bull Pugs are white with a red or fawn backdrop. There are dog owners who use the term piebald to refer to two-toned or bi-colored coats. The crossbreed that inherits this coat from the English Bulldog parent has a colored base with a striped pattern that resembles tiger stripes. Usually, brindle coats come in color groups like black and fawn, white and red, and other combinations. Both parent breeds of the English Bulldog Pug mix are great for families, making their crossbreed offspring a perfect family dog. Playful, affectionate, and sweet best describe the English Bulldog Pug mix as it enjoys being in the company of its loved ones. If you are a dog owner of this crossbreed, expect to have a loyal companion who loves having you around. In fact, it can go on without getting any attention from you for a certain period of time. If you have a laidback and sedentary lifestyle, this pup is for you because it does not move around so much. While it can get playful and energetic especially during playtime, this dog also enjoys chilling on the couch with its fur parents. Take a look at this video of a Bull Pug playing calmly with a bug: English Bull Dog Pug mix playing with Bug When it comes to children, this mix is also a good choice. Its English Bulldog parent has a reputation for being aggressive. However, this is just a misconception due to its bull-baiting history. The truth is that the English Bulldog is sweet-natured and gets along with kids. The Pug breed is also sociable which makes their mixed pup good with the little ones. Aside from kids, the English Bulldog Pug mix also enjoys mingling with other dogs. To ensure that your dog will be as friendly, start introducing other people and dogs even at a young age. Early socialization can help them turn into nice-mannered dogs. This pup may need a little bit of time for adjustment, though, when meeting strangers. Its parent breeds handle stranger dogs and humans differently. The English Bulldog may be wary of strangers and exercises caution when being approached. Quite the contrary, the Pug is friendly, sometimes to an extreme level. How your pup will react will depend on its training and the inherited temperament. Your crossbreed pup may get more temperament traits from either of its parents, but rest assured, you will get a pleasant-tempered pup that is a perfect addition to your family. To give you a peek of what an English Bulldog Pug mix is like, here is a video compilation done by a fur parent. English Bulldog Pug Mix Lifespan and Health Issues As fur parents, we all want our beloved pooches to live healthy lives and spend more years with us so we should be well-aware of the health risks that come with their breed. Several health issues concern the English Bulldog and Pug which their crossbred offspring might inherit. Most conditions are related to the respiratory system, bones and joints, and skin. The result is a pain in the limbs which may cause your dog to start limping. Patellar Luxation: Another orthopedic issue, patellar luxation concerns the patella or kneecap. Dogs with patellar luxation experience discomfort in their knees and in some cases, loss of function. This is because during knee-flexing, the patella rides outside the femoral groove. Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome: The Brachycephaly Airway Obstructive Syndrome is a common health problem in brachycephalic or short-nosed dogs. Both parents of this mix have this flattened skull so they are prone to this. Symptoms include difficulty in breathing, vomiting, and loud snoring. Pug Dog Encephalitis: The neurological disease called Pug Dog Encephalitis happens when brain tissues are inflamed causing pups to experience seizures, behavioral changes, disorientation, and more. This usually hits Pugs that are two to three years of age but may also occur as early as six months or as late as seven years old. No known cause has been found for this kind of encephalitis. Cherry Eye: Dogs have a third eyelid called the nictitating membrane. Diabetes: Diabetes is a common problem in dogs, but there are more incidents in Pugs. Because diabetic dogs are unable to regulate sugars in their bodies, they need insulin shots to help them do so. Canine Atopy: Getting allergies is common to Pugs and in some cases, they have a hypersensitivity reaction when exposed to allergens called canine atopy. Affected areas are usually the paws, abdomen, face, ears, chest, armpits, and flanks. Basic needs for canines are food, shelter, grooming, and training. However, these needs vary from one breed to another. What the Chihuahua needs may not exactly be the same as what your English Bulldog Pug mix needs. Knowing what your pup needs allows you to give it the best care possible. Feeding and Diet To ensure that you have a healthy pup, only give good quality dry dog food to your Pug Bulldog mix. On a daily basis, this crossbreed needs about calories to be served in two split meals. You may also consider giving homemade food. Cooked vegetables like spinach, carrots, asparagus, and sweet potatoes are good for your crossbreed dog. You may also give fruits like bananas, apples, and mangoes. Always remember to remove pits and seeds before serving. Besides giving your English Bulldog Pug mix the right kind of food, you should also monitor its food intake. Both parents are prone to obesity. While a chubby pup looks very cute, it is not healthy and may lead to many problems and complications. If you are starting to notice that your pup is getting underweight or overweight, consult your vet to get a diet recommendation. Cleaning and Grooming Short coats can be seen in both the English Bulldog and Pug and the same for their crossbreed pup. Use a soft brush to keep the coat beautiful and healthy and to avoid hurting your dog. Aside from its coat, you should also pay attention to the wrinkles on its face and body. Bacteria may start to build up when left unclean so be sure to wipe and bathe when necessary. This is also to avoid infections and allergies which they may be prone to. On top of that, regularly trim the nails and clean the eyes and ears. Brushing is also important and should be added to your grooming routine. Doing all these will help prevent infections and keep your dog healthy and happy. Training and Exercise English Bulldog Pug mixes are laidback and chill. If you do not enjoy too much physical activity, this crossbreed is for you because its exercise needs are not too high. A minute walk is already enough for this mixed breed plus enough playtime and bonding. Early morning and evening are said to be the best time for walks and exercise. Remember that both parent breeds are brachycephalic which means their offspring will be too. They cannot handle heat well and are prone to overheating. When walking, ensure that you have drinking water ready. In terms of trainability, this mix can learn tricks and commands. However, you need to have patience during training as it can get a little too stubborn. This is probably a trait inherited from its parents. Be firm when you train your pup but also not too strict. Have fun and consider training as bonding time. Do you know that the secret to successful training is positive reinforcement? Dogs listen and obey more when they are rewarded for good behavior. Prepare those treats for your training time! There may also be more expensive ones especially when you buy from a reputable breeder. Factors that may affect cost include size, health, breeder reputation, and lineage. There are also mixes from champion bloodlines but prepare to shell more. When choosing a breeder to buy a mixed pup from, consider a lot of things such as the affiliation of your breeder. Puppy mills are everywhere and they have poor practices and little care for their dogs, thus, low prices. Avoid them as much as possible. Caring for a pup entails other expenses aside from the cost of the dog itself. Prepare for one-time costs such as a leash, harness or collar, bed, toys, and the like. You also have regular expenses such as food, treats, and grooming items. For new pups, you have to spend for neutering or spaying, vaccinations, and deworming. However, they are also not highly common so you have to check the availability of this crossbreed: Greenfield Puppies — Fur parents have been trusting Greenfield Puppies since .They connect reputable breeders with interested soon-to-be owners and carry both purebred and mixed puppies. Adoption is also another option for those looking for an English Bulldog Pug mix. There are mixed breeds, puppies and full-grown dogs alike, that need a home. They have been saving Pugs and Pug mixes and helping them find a family that will give them the love they deserve. This group also provides education and guidance to adoptive families. Adoptable breeds include Pugs, English Bulldogs, Frenchies, and their mixes. Petfinder — With their vast database of dogs and cats, Petfinder can link you with animal shelters and adoption organizations so you can find your furry companion. Before buying or adopting a Bull Pug, you must know what you are getting into. Caring for a dog is hard work but more than that, it requires love and attention. Check out these dogs that you may want to consider. Frug: The name may sound funny but the Frug is an actual crossbreed. Both crossbreeds share some physical characteristics and low exercise requirements. Puggle: A mix of the Pug and Beagle, the Puggle is a smart crossbreed that likes playing. It is also good for families because it gets along well with kids. Unlike the Bull Pug, the Puggle does not enjoy staying put and is highly active and energetic. Poxer: The Poxer is the offspring of a Pug and a Boxer. This medium-sized designed breed is charming and lively. Fit for those with active lifestyles, this crossbreed loves physical activities. Both parent breeds of this mix are brachycephalic which also makes this dog one. Since a mix can take on any combination of traits from their parents, you want to make sure you ask the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix. Should an English Bulldog Mix take after their Bulldog parent, they will be sweet-natured, affectionate, and playful dogs that love being with their families. English Bulldogs are companion breeds that are known for being sweethearts. As long as they are socialized properly, they tend to be excellent with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although watchful, they are even agreeable to strangers once they have been introduced. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent as they are likely to introduce their own quirks. Meeting the mother in person can give you an idea of her temperament and the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. Although the breeder should have started some training and socialization, it is your responsibility to continue training and socializing a puppy once you get them home to ensure they grow into a well-rounded, well-behaved dog. Although English Bulldogs adapt to most living situations, they are sensitive to hot and cold, and are particularly sensitive to heat. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. This makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. The other parent breed could introduce some traits that affect adaptability so you do want to ask the breeder about them. A mix could inherit conditions common to neither of their parent breeds, one of them, or even both of them. From the English Bulldog, potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Bulldog Mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Entropion, and Cherry Eye. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to prevent passing issues to puppies, so make sure you are asking about the health history of both of the parents. Although English Bulldogs can be stubborn, they are generally eager to please and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels and respond well to consistent training that is focused on positive reward and praise. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you should be able to expect the same from an English Bulldog Mix. The other parent breed could also introduce the potential for an English Bulldog Mix that is more difficult to train. Mixed-breed dogs can inherit a coat that is a carbon copy of one of their parents or they can end up with a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should an English Bulldog Mix end up with a Bulldog coat, they will shed moderately year-round, require brushing a couple of times a week, and the occasional bath. If they have face wrinkles, you will need to make sure they are clean and dry regularly to prevent skin irritation. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful ear cleanings as needed helps prevent ear infections. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste is ideal dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. English Bulldogs tend to be lower-energy breeds that only require daily walks and some playtime to be happy. But, they will be energetic when they play and might be up for more activity if you are. The other parent breed can affect this. If they are a low-energy breed, then you can expect an English Bulldog Mix to be the same. If the other parent breed requires more daily activity, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in an English Bulldog Mix puppy. Because they may still be a brachycephalic dog breed, they can overheat, so you want to be careful of overexertion. There are many safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs to help your English Bulldog Mix get the exercise they need. Fully-grown English Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. An English Bulldog generally lives for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span in an English Bulldog Mix. Featured English Bulldog Mix Article. The Bull-Pug is dependable, sensitive and great with children. This dog strongly attaches to people, is very well-mannered, and has a sensitive nature. It is a breed that does not do well when left alone for long periods of time. The Bull-Pug relishes attention from its owner but also has a willful side. Bulldogs are known for being strong-willed, so you need to begin training as a puppy — and the best type of training for this breed is using positive reinforcement. As long as you maintain a firm and gentle hand in training, your Bull-Pug should learn quickly. Discover more about our Bull-Pug puppies for sale below! Temperament Bull-Pugs have a lot of energy as puppies but calm down a lot as they get older. They can be messy eaters: they tend to slobber and even snore, but these are traits that bulldog owners usually find endearing. The Bull-Pug will make a great family pet as they are wonderful with children and do well in apartments since they only have a moderate need for exercise. See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Hybrid Club.
With their funny, squishy faces, wrinkled skin, and short, stocky bodies, Bulldog puppies bring a lot of love—and smells—to your home. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, bone and joint health, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed Bulldog puppy. Whether you call yours an English Bulldog or British Bulldog, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Bulldog puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their body growing strong. High-quality proteins and prebiotics help promote optimal stool quality. And for healthy growth, this calcium- and phosphorus-fortified diet helps your Bulldog pup develop strong bones and healthy joints. Once your Bulldog puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Bulldog Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Ingredients Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, oat groats, pork meal, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, potassium chloride, monocalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Guaranteed Analysis. We recommend that you keep your pet in ideal body condition and not allow them to become overweight. The amount of food your pet needs can vary based on age, activity level or other food and treats given, so be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate weight for your pet, and to make any necessary adjustments to their feeding. Information Ingredients Guaranteed Analysis Royal Canin knows what makes your Bulldog puppy magnificent is in the details. With their funny, squishy faces, wrinkled skin, and short, stocky bodies, Bulldog puppies bring a lot of love—and smells—to your home. They can benefit from the right growth formula to provide immune system support, bone and joint health, and digestive care as they take on puppyhood. Royal Canin Bulldog dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your pure breed Bulldog puppy. Whether you call yours an English Bulldog or British Bulldog, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Bulldog puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their body growing strong. High-quality proteins and prebiotics help promote optimal stool quality. And for healthy growth, this calcium- and phosphorus-fortified diet helps your Bulldog pup develop strong bones and healthy joints. Once your Bulldog puppy is over 15 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Bulldog Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, brown rice, chicken fat, wheat gluten, oat groats, pork meal, natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, pea fiber, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, potassium chloride, monocalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , salt, DL-methionine, choline chloride, glucosamine hydrochloride, marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Ingredients Tailor-made food for Bulldog puppies from 2 to 12 months. Encourages a good balance of intestinal flora and ensures optimal digestive tolerance thanks to an exclusive combination of prebiotics and L. P proteins of very high digestibility. Natural Defences This formula helps support the Bulldog puppy? Bone and Joint Health Contributes to supporting the Bulldog puppy? This exclusive formula also helps maintain ideal weight. Exclusive Kibble: Special Brachycephalic Jaw A kibble exclusively designed to make it easier for the Bulldog puppy to pick up and to encourage him to chew. Most orders take working days to deliver and are dependent on where we are delivering to. Outlying areas can take longer than city centres. Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery. For more information about how delivery works please read our delivery terms and fees page. If you need to return a purchase you can do so by completing our Return Request Form. Got a question about this product? Just fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. Alternatively you can call us on .Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.
labrador puppy howling - The Australian Labradoodle originated in Australia hence the name in the s and was intentionally bred for service and therapy work. They should also not be confused with an American Labradoodle which is the cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle only. Their eager to please attitude and high intelligence makes them easy to train. As with any breed though, you will need to be consistent! They do best with positive reinforcement and a gentle trainer. Basic training should begin as soon as you bring your Australian Labradoodle puppy home. While Australian Labradoodles are known to have a low to moderate energy level, they are an intelligent breed that requires mental simulation and physical exercise in order to keep them happy and healthy! Their exercise needs can typically be met with about minutes of exercise playing, walking, etc. It is important to remember that not all Australian Labradoodles are the same and some may enjoy more or less exercise to keep them happy and healthy! Australian Labradoodles are a very friendly, social breed that loves everyone making them great family dogs. They are sensitive and can be very in-tune with their humans, who they love to be with! The do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. Australian Labradoodles are happy go lucky dogs that are playful and smart. Always keeping their humans on their toes! The life expectancy of an Australian Labradoodle is between years. In general, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. It is important to keep in mind that many factors can affect their life expectancy such as diet, exercise, injury, genetics, etc. Australian Labradoodles are known to be gentle, mellow cross that is smart and eager to please. Their happy go lucky personality makes them great individual or family dogs. Australian Labradoodles come in several different sizes micro mini, mini, medium, and standard which means there is the perfect size for everyone! Australian Labradoodles have been intentionally bred for several generations making their traits and characteristics more predictable. Australian Labradoodles have three main coat types: Fleece: A Fleece coat can either be wavy or curly and will have a silky feel. These are typically non-shedding and relatively easy to maintain. Wool: A wool coat is curly, with a Poodle-like texture, has a cotton-like feel. These are usually non-shedding and can be a bit harder to maintain if kept long. Hair: A hair coat can be either straight or have a slight wave and is comparable to a lower generation ie F1 Labradoodle. These have are typically easy to maintain and have higher chance of shedding, but will vary by puppy. Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles that have been intentionally bred for several generations are typically non-shedding or very low-shedding. However, it is important to note that some breeders we do occasionally will do infusion litters with one of the parent breeds ie the Lab or Cocker Spaniel. These infusion litters may produce some puppies that are low to moderate shedding depending on their genetics. Australian Labradoodles can come in very wide variety of colors and patterns! Below are some examples of the colors and different patterns that we produce. Please note that not all colors and patterns are included! Welcome to Magnolia Australian Labradoodles! Magnolia Australian Labradoodles was created to breed exceptional Labradoodle puppies to carry on the traits that make this breed so wonderful! We only have a few litters a year as we truly put our heart and soul into each of our puppies, as well as, the dogs that live here with us. At Magnolia Australian Labradoodles we consider each of our dogs a member of the family and we treat the puppies no differently. From day one, the Labradoodle puppies are in our home, being handled, played with and loved every single day. Someone is with them the majority of the time, making sure they are well cared for and interacting with them throughout the day. What makes us different? Through this method your new puppy will be calm and confident from day one. Your new puppy will be introduced to sleeping in a crate and beginning house training. This way your first night home will be a smoother transition for your puppy. We believe that attention to every detail is important. We are very approachable and when our materials do not answer a question you might have, we are committed to answering all your questions and fully preparing you to bring home your new family member. Our Goal is Excellence! Our goal at every point in the process is excellence. When you decide that Magnolia Australian Labradoodles is the best choice for your family, we take your decision very seriously. You become part of our family! We are passionate about sharing this exquisite breed with others, and providing wonderful homes for our pups. Once we decided to get an Australian Labradoodle, we then set out to find the best breeder we could find. We spent several months trying to find a breeder with not only good reviews, but also one who would understand our needs having a son with autism. We thought we had found a good breeder but they were not responsive and their contract was crazy long with some pretty crazy requirements. Right from the start, Judy was very responsive to ALL our questions. She understood our concerns about getting the right dog for our son. Once we decided to go forward with it, she even let us come visit to get to know our soon-to-be new family member. She has been so responsive to our questions and concerns even after bringing little JoJo home. Her training program has made such a huge difference and has taken away so much of the normal stress of having a new puppy. Thank you Judy. We are so in love with our sweet little JoJo. We elected to do bring our pup home around 12 weeks so he could do the advanced training and it was the right choice. Our pup did amazing in his crate, adjusted quickly and was comfortable going out on a leash to learn his bathroom spot at this new house. He did great with a 18 month old and 5 year old without any nipping. Chris Beck The decision to add a dog into our family was a big one. We took our time researching, with the selection of a breeder being a huge factor. I stumbled upon Judy at Magnolia Labradoodles and was instantly intrigued. I liked that she only had one litter at a time. I knew my puppy would be getting attention and care. I liked that past customers said she was responsive and the experience was personal. My telephone conversation with her was also critical. I had lots of questions and she had answers for all of them and gave me all the time I needed to feel comfortable. I could tell she loved what she did and it was personal to her…not just a business. We opted for the additional training and felt this made the transition home for our dog go smoothly. He did not nip at us, knew his name, how to focus on us, how to sit and was happy in his crate. We had to wait quite a while to bring our dog home, but Judy kept us updated with photos and videos. She even face-timed my children twice so they could see their dog. It was a great experience and worth the wait. I highly recommend Judy and Magnolia Labradoodles. We have always had English Labrador Retrievers, but due to us getting older we wanted something a little smaller but also hardy. Lexi is everything you could ask for: intelligent, kind, loving, good with people and children, loves all dogs, loves to play with our cat, walks and hikes great and the added bonus if the above items are not enough they are absolutely gorgeous!!!! We had an amazing experience with Judy!! Judy was always there to answer all my questions and she still is a year later!! That in itself is an outstanding quality, not to mention the wonderful job Judy does getting them ready for their forever homes. If you are skeptical about doing the 3 week training…DO IT!!! It was well worth it. We put Lexi in her crate the first night and she went right to sleep. I will never forget when we went to pick Lexi up. Judy let us in and there in the living room was this gorgeous, well behaved dog that just sat there until I went over and picked her up. I started crying and as I turned around, so was Judy!! That just showed me the love and compassion she has for raising these outstanding dogs. If after reading this, if you are still unsure, please feel free to contact me. Judy has my contact information. Debbie Stierly Working with Judy was fantastic. Cadbury Harmony and Rhett is as perfect a puppy as you could imagine. From the beginning, Judy helped my daughters face their fear of dogs and see how kind and loving puppies can be. This is absolutely a much better way to ensure success. Judy treats her pups with love and kindness. She dotes on them! When we brought Cadbury home, family and friends could not get over his calm and loving personality. He adjusted immediately, slept well on the first night, and already had learned manners. While it is hard to wait the extra 3 weeks, it is so nice to have a puppy that has learned basic obedience, crate training, and potty training! If you plan to add a puppy to your family and want a dog that will be sweet, obedient, and gentle, look no further! Judy was excellent throughout the process and was responsive, organized, detailed and passionate. Lucy was the smallest in the litter of Harmony and Rhett and needed a lot of extra care just to be able to make it to our home. Judy spent many sleepless nights to make this happen. Lucy is…. She is a kind and gentle puppy with a great spirit for adventure. We are enjoying her everyday! I highly recommend working with Judy if you are looking for a great addition to your family! The puppy that we recently got from Magnolia Australian Doodles was worth the wait and cost for such a lovely little addition to our menagerie. He was introduced to numerous adults, noisy children, other dogs, a cat, sweeper, hour car ride home and multiple other stimuli and he was unfazed. And this was just during the first two days. Not to mention a huge thunder and lightening storm. He is going to one of those special dogs, you talk about. PK Pamela Kratzer Five stars are honestly not enough! Judy made the experience of getting a puppy so easy and stress free. She was always available, and answered my thousands of questions. She sent us updates and photos weekly too! You can tell Judy puts her heart and soul into caring for each litter. Our puppy is almost 3 months old, and we are so happy we chose Magnolia Australian Labradoodles! Our puppy slept the whole first night, and is the most loving and fun puppy ever! Despite the pandemic going on, Judy did her best to socialize the puppies. She sends you home with a complete binder with everything you need to raise your puppy! Duke has been a great addition to our family and I highly recommend Magnolia Australian Labradoodles if you want a caring and knowledgeable breeder!! You guys are truly incredible. Thank you. He really brings a smile to all of us, all the time. I had done a lot of research on the web of this breed. Judy welcomed my questions and answered with obvious knowledge of having done her own research. She was able to answer any question or concern that I may have had. I highly recommend Judy and Magnolia Australian Labradoodle kennel to anyone looking for a beautiful Australian Labradoodle. I would also highly recommend the additional 3 weeks with Judy as she trains and teaches confidence. Ella came to us, confident and well adjusted. She was able to be in her crate all night 9hrs without even a whimper. She was able to sit and layed down on command. She is a lovable, sweet, attentive and is so well adjusted from the minute we brought her home. Without any hesitation, I give all the credit to her first human mommy, Judy Adams of Magnolia Australian Labradoodles. We adore our Little Miss Ella!! Joyce Rusin. We have had Australian Labradoodles in our family for years. Our children growing up, had severe allergies and asthma, but wanted nothing more than to have a dog in our house. We came upon the Australian Labradoodles and fell in love. Their non-shedding hypoallergenic coat along with their amazing, loving and playful personalities was the perfect fit! As time has gone on we could think of nothing more rewarding than being able to provide these wonderful dogs to families. Our puppies are born and raised in our home with our family and dogs. We take pride in following all the guidelines regarding health testing and preserving the integrity of the breed. Our dogs are bred for health, temperament, and the unmistakable beauty of the Australian Labradoodles! We have puppies available!! Sign up now for our upcoming litters!! Information on Maggie and Ivy available by following the link below! Find out more information on how you can secure an Australian Labradoodle from our next litter to bring into your home! Puppies Available We Proudly use Paw Print Genetics Paw Print Pedigrees allows breeders to show the world that they care about the genetic health of their dogs and that they screen for known diseases.
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labrador puppy howling - When you think of a GSD, the short-haired variety is probably the one that comes to mind. These dogs are distinguished by their double coats that are only about an inch in length. Short-haired GSDs are robust dogs that are very athletic. These obedient working dogs are easy to train and highly intelligent. Aside from being family companions, they are also used as police dogs and guide dogs. On the other hand, a recessive gene causes the long coats on other GSDs. Short-Haired vs. Obviously, the coat length is the most striking difference between the short-haired and long-haired German Shepherd. For short-haired GSDs, their thick double coat grows slightly longer around their necks and legs. On the flip side, long-haired German Shepherds have single-layered coats that hang from their bodies. When standing, the GSD with longer hair will have the coat near its belly hang closer to the ground. This is probably one of the easiest ways to tell them apart. The coat textures on these dogs also differ slightly. The coat on the short-haired GSD is coarse and dense, while the coat on the long-haired GSD can either be wooly or wavy in texture. Both variants are loyal, intelligent, and trainable. Both dogs can also be friendly and docile, especially if they are socialized early on. Health-wise, short and long-haired GSDs are pretty much on par. Both dogs are at risk of hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, common eye problems, and a few others. It is worth mentioning that German Shepherds with short hair are more robust when exposed to the elements. These dogs have double coats that can protect them better under extreme heat or cold weather. No, short-haired GSDs are not rare. According to a list made by the AKC, the German Shepherd is the third most popular dog breed, and it goes without saying that many of these GSDs are short-haired. After all, short-haired shepherds make up most of the population of the breed. Furthermore, because long-haired GSDs are not accepted in breed standards, many breeders are nudged towards raising and selling short-haired GSDs instead. As a result, there are more short-haired variants of this breed. Similarly, most breeders avoid producing long-haired GSDs because they aim to meet the breed standards. Meeting breed standards means getting kennel club accreditations, which is always good for the business. Of course, some breeders still breed long-haired GSDs. Because of their perceived rarity, these shepherds are usually sold for a higher price. If anything, long-haired GSDs are the rare ones! German Shepherds with short coats have strong and athletic bodies. These dogs are medium to large in size, and they come in a variety of coat colors. In terms of height and weight, short-haired German Shepherds measure 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. In reality, males are larger than their female counterparts; however, the difference is not substantial. Males also have a tougher appearance, thanks to their well-defined muscular structure, longer noses, and a slightly taller pair of ears. The topline of the short-haired GSD is straight, although a slight sloping is still acceptable from time to time. German Shepherds with overly sloped backs are results of irresponsible breeding and should not be condoned. Their outer coat is dense and sits close to the skin. Although it is desired to be straight, the breed standard allows for a slight waviness. These dogs have a thick, woolly undercoat. This is what gives them robust protection against the elements. The possible colors of the short-haired GSD are completely black , black and tan, red and black, sable , and grey. These dogs can also sport pale coat colorations, but these are not accepted by most kennel clubs and breed standards. This means, if nature takes its course, almost all German Shepherds will have short hair. However, they come by less often than short-haired GSDs. The short fur on most German Shepherd Dogs is caused by a dominant gene, while the long coat on some is a manifestation of a recessive gene. Scientifically speaking, the chances of a recessive trait surfacing is slimmer than a dominant trait. Breeders do this by performing tests on parent dogs to find out which carries the recessive gene. Because of how genetics play out, the process of breeding long-haired GSDs is more deliberate than breeding short-haired ones. In fact, it is estimated that only 10 to 15 percent of the GSD population is long-haired; the rest is short-haired. Regardless of coat length, German Shepherd Dogs shed frequently. For any German Shepherd, regular brushing will always be necessary. For the long-haired German Shepherd, most of their loose hair gets caught up on their fur. This means these dogs do not have as much hair fall as their short-haired counterparts. On the other hand, short-haired GSDs tend to have loose fur everywhere. You should expect their fur on your sofa, carpet, and all over the house! This will also help your dog maintain its attractive looks and eliminate random clumps of fur in the house. Brushing frequency should be increased during shedding seasons such as spring and fall. Usually, these pooches will shed their thicker undercoat and replace it with a thinner undercoat during summer. You should also invest in a high-quality hairbrush for your pup, preferably the ones designed for their coat texture and coat length. This is when your pup begins to smell or gets too dirty. Some disqualifications include cropped or hanging ears, a nose color that is not black, and docked tail. AKC also specifies that any dog that attempts to bite the judge will be subject to disqualification. Aside from these, other disqualifications are linked to the color of the dog. Pale colors, blue shades, white, and liver , for example, are considered undesirable flaws. Long-haired GSDs, on the other hand, do not fit the breed standard. These dogs will never be able to participate in any AKC dog shows. However, other kennel clubs might still allow them. Hair length is not a big deal when it comes to the temperament of the German Shepherd breed. These dogs make excellent family members regardless of whether they have long or short hair. Like most breeds, the German Shepherd can get along with other pets and children. Of course, this is provided that they are socialized and trained early on. One area where the short-haired GSD excels over other breeds is in working. This pup is a working dog that loves challenging tasks! That said, their exercise and training requirements might be a bit demanding compared to other dogs. The best way to train a short-haired German Shepherd is by using the so-called positive reinforcement training. This is a scheme that uses treats and praises as encouragement for your pup. This is not a dog to be left behind for long hours as it is prone to separation anxiety. As long as you can provide for its emotional and physical needs, this pup will prove to be a fantastic pet for your family. The life expectancy of a short-haired German Shepherd is between 10 and 13 years. On some occasions, a German Shepherd Dog can even live past 15 years old! Needless to say, the German Shepherd is a healthy pup that lives a pretty long life. However, their health is not perfect. There are a couple of things to watch out for if you wish to own one of these pooches. Hip dysplasia affects the area near the pelvis, whereas elbow dysplasia affects the elbows. A dog with dysplasia will experience pain when moving and will have poor posture. Cataracts: Cataracts in German Shepherds are most commonly caused by old age. Proteins cluster together and produce a cloud-like fluid in the eyes, causing this disease. While dogs can live a complete life without their eyesight, cataracts should be prevented if possible. Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis in German Shepherds is usually caused by a poor diet. The main culprit of this health condition is eating too many fatty foods. Some symptoms accompanying this condition are nausea, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Bloat: Bloat, also known as gastric dilation-volvulus , is a fatal health problem that affects GSDs. Bloat, if left untreated, can result in sudden death. As you can see, some of these health issues are caused by environmental factors, while others are genetic. Luckily, all of these health concerns are avoidable or, at the very least, preventable. If you see anything suspicious about your dog, visit the vet immediately. Because while this guide might be helpful, this is no veterinary advice. At this range, these dogs are priced relatively lower compared to other similar dog breeds. Of course, you should expect to pay more if you are looking for a GSD from a champion line. Aside from the price of the dog itself, there are also costs to consider. You must keep these in your budget before rushing out to get your own GSD dog! This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. Lifespan Sociability Since the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, there are plenty of reputable breeders, and finding a puppy is usually not a problem. That said, they can vary fairly widely in price, as some are bred purely for the pet trade, while others are bred as working dogs and will cost a fair bit more. While the German Shepherd is one of the most recognizable breeds in the world, they are actually a fairly recent breed. German Shepherds as we know them today were first bred in the late s by Max von Stephanitz, with a dog by the name of Horand becoming the first officially registered German Shepherd. They have American Kennel Club recognition. They go by several names. During World War I and II, both Americans and Europeans sought to get rid of the German part of the name due to its association, and the dog thus became known as the Alsatian in most of Europe. Image Credit: Pixabay 4. They are highly intelligent. German Shepherds are widely considered among the most intelligent dogs on the planet. They are immensely popular. According to the AKC, since , German Shepherds have consistently ranked second in the United States for the most popular dog breed, with only the family-favorite Labrador Retriever above them. They served in both World Wars. During World War I, German Shepherds were used by both the Germans and Allied forces for carrying messages and distributing food and as rescue dogs and as personal guards. After the war, soldiers were impressed by the capabilities of the breed. They are Hollywood stars. German Shepherds have long had starring roles in many Hollywood movies, with Rin Tin Tin being the most well-known, with dozens of movies throughout the early s. They were one of the first seeing-eye dogs in the U. Dogs are commonly used as an aid for people with visual impairment or complete blindness. Although this role is now often associated with Labradors or Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds were among the first. There are few dogs more adorable than German Shepherd puppies, and there is no shortage of homes for them. They come in eleven recognized colors. The classic black and tan German Shepherd is the color most associated with the breed, but these dogs actually come in 11 different colors. Their loyalty, intelligence, and versatility are almost unmatched by any other breed, evidenced by their use in so many ways. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The black German shepherd is a rare and highly sought-after variety of the standard German shepherd dog breed. Although multiple color variations of GSD exist, black German shepherd puppies are one of the most popular thanks to their sleek, handsome coats. The pitch-black color that gives these dogs their magnificent appearance is the result of a naturally occurring recessive gene. This means black German shepherds have naturally existed for quite some time, but they are much rarer than their black and tan counterparts. When properly socialized from a young age, black German shepherds make wonderful companions and excellent guard dogs. These large doggos are best suited for experienced owners with large homes and fenced-in yards. If you are looking for a handsome companion that can double as a guard dog, the black German shepherd is a fantastic choice! Keep on reading to find out more about this rare variety and decide if it is the right canine for you. Black German shepherds are a color variation of the standard German shepherd dog. While they may look completely different, these dogs are the same breed, and the black variety is recognized in the official GSD standard. While purebred black German shepherd puppies can compete in dog shows, they are often overlooked in favor of the classic black and tan look. These dogs were later used by the military as messengers, sentries, guards, supply carriers, and rescuers. Black shepherds tend to be slightly larger than the average GSD, and most have a straighter back. When it comes to features, you can expect your black German shepherd puppy to have a clear-cut head, pointed ears, a long snout, almond-shaped brown eyes, and a black nose. Males are usually around 24 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds. Female dogs are typically smaller and stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh from 50 to 75 pounds. The average GSD can be black and tan, black, sable, grey, red and black, or even black and silver. In German shepherds, black coats are caused by a recessive gene. This means a puppy needs to inherit two copies of a recessive gene from both mom and dad in order to have a black coat. For example, if you mate two sable German shepherds that carry this recessive gene, a quarter of their puppies will have a black coat. However, if you breed a black German shepherd with a sable dog that carries the gene, roughly half of their litter will be black in color. Breeding two black German shepherds is the only guaranteed way to produce a litter of completely black puppies. Bear in mind that all German shepherd puppies change color as they grow. Coat Texture These pitch-black canines have a medium-to-long double coat. The coat can be either straight or wavy and will shed all year long and go through two blowouts — once in the spring and again in the fall. If you decide to welcome a black GSD into your home, be prepared to welcome lots of loose doggy hair as well! Since these doggos shed a lot, invest in a powerful pet hair vacuum cleaner and be prepared to vacuum every day to keep your home clean and tidy. Black German Shepherd Temperament And Character Black German shepherds are best known for their loyal, courageous, obedient, and watchful temperament. Thanks to their protective nature and working history, they make amazing guard dogs that will fiercely protect your family and your home. A properly trained and socialized black GSD puppy will get along well with people outside the family but remain a loyal guardian and protector. They are naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization and consistent training are a must! Although they are working dogs at heart, black GSD make wonderful companions and even get along with children and other pets when properly socialized. An anxious or stressed black shepherd will turn to destructive behavior to relieve their frustrations. As a result, your black German shepherd pup may decide to chew woodwork , destroy your home, or bark loudly. While they are not the best choice for first-time owners, black shepherds make fantastic family pets and companions when properly trained and socialized. Because they tend to get so attached to their people, these pups are better off in homes where someone is usually around to keep them company. Activity Level Highly energetic and agile, these handsome solid black pups need regular exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Apart from at least two daily walks, your black German shepherd pup will also enjoy running, jogging, hiking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that allows them to spend time with you. Caring For Black German Shepherd Puppy While they are not harder to care for than standard German shepherds, your black GSD still needs a lot of love, care, and affection to stay happy and thrive. It is crucial to design a consistent care routine for your pooch and keep track of regular veterinary check ups to detect any health problems early on. When creating a care routine for your GSD puppy, pay special attention to the following factors: Exercise The black German shepherd is a highly energetic dog that needs at least one hour of intense exercise every day. Enrolling your puppy in agility classes is a great way to keep them exercised and can be a fun and entertaining experience for them. Games such as fetch, flyball, Frisbee, tug-of-war, and hide and seek are also great options and will keep your pooch exercised and entertained. Intellectual Stimulation Black German shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that can easily become bored, frustrated, and destructive when not mentally stimulated. A bored or anxious black shepherd can cause serious damage to your home and belongings. Companionship Loyal and devoted to a fault, black GSD puppies make superb family dogs and companions. They form strong bonds with their people and are happiest when they can spend time and interact with their families. While they are large and intimidating at first, these pups are loving companions that crave affection and attention. Black German shepherd puppies need company and are best suited for homes where someone is around all day. Grooming The black German shepherd is a high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. If your pup has a medium-length coat, brush them two to three times a week to remove loose hair and keep their coat in pristine condition. Use a de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and minimize the shedding during spring and fall. To further reduce shedding, bathe your GSD with an anti-shed dog shampoo every two months or as necessary. You should also brush their teeth at least three times a week and trim their nails every other month. Diet An ideal diet for black German shepherds should be formulated for a large-sized dog with high energy. When choosing the best food for your pooch, make sure it contains higher levels of protein, a moderate amount of fat, and easily digestible complex carbohydrates. Keep in mind that black German shepherd puppies grow extremely quickly between the ages of four and seven months, which makes them susceptible to bone disorders. Feed your pup high-quality, low-calorie food to prevent them from growing too rapidly. Known Health Problems As a breed, German shepherds are considered generally healthy. Black GSD and all other German shepherds are prone to the same health problems, including: Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition that causes malformation of a hip joint. Affected dogs may or may not show clinical signs of this condition, but in most cases, dogs experience pain and lameness in one or both hind legs. Elbow Dysplasia: This is another hereditary condition commonly seen in large breeds. This condition is caused by varying growth rates of the three bones that make up the elbow, resulting in joint looseness. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus: Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dog breeds, particularly if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink a lot of water after eating, or exercise just after a meal. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. This condition affects the part of the cord that gives information to the brain regarding the rear legs. Lifespan The black German shepherd has an average lifespan of around 9 to 13 years. With proper care and regular veterinary checkups, these pups can reach their senior years in good health. Training A Black German Shepherd Puppy Black German shepherd puppies are highly intelligent and obedient, which makes them very easy to train. These pups are fairly easy to housetrain, and they also learn obedience commands after just a few repetitions. Like all other dogs, black German shepherds thrive on reward-based training and a lot of praise. Positive reinforcement training techniques are highly effective for training puppies and adult dogs and are much more reliable than dominance training. Besides training, you should start socializing your black GSD puppy as soon as you bring them home. Since these pups are naturally aloof with strangers, early socialization is essential and will help your dog to become friendlier to other people. Try to expose your puppy to as many people, places, situations, animals, children, and sounds from a young age to help them grow into an outgoing dog. Properly trained and socialized black German shepherd pups make wonderful companions to people of all ages and families with children. Due to their large size and highly energetic nature, these dogs are best suited for large homes with spacious, fenced yards. While they can live outdoors, black shepherds should primarily be kept indoors so they can regularly interact with their people and stay close to them. In addition, because of their high social needs and potential to develop separation anxiety, they thrive in families where someone is at home often and able to keep them company. However, when compared to other varieties, black German shepherds are quite rare and hard to come by. Finding a reputable breeder might require a bit of research on your part, but all the extra effort will pay off in the long run. Since black German shepherds are rare and in demand, be mindful of puppy mills and unethical breeders who just want to make a quick buck. However, the exact price depends on a lot of factors, namely the breeder, supply and demand in your area, and pedigree and quality of both parent breeds. Black German shepherds make wonderful family pets and companions. Naturally loyal and devoted to their owners, they like to be close to their people and spend lots of time by their side. Plus, due to their protective nature, black German shepherds make excellent watchdogs and will always feel the urge to watch over you and your family. The black German shepherd is a rare and absolutely stunning color variation of a standard German shepherd dog. Loyal and protective of their owners, these dogs make fantastic family companions and can also serve as vigilant guard dogs. If you want to bring a black shepherd pup home, be prepared to: Exercise your pooch for at least one hour every day Start training and socialization from a young age Groom your dog at least three times a week Do you own a black German shepherd dog? What do you like the most about your pooch? Share your experience owning this gorgeous dog with us and our readers in the comment section below! Related Article:. However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. 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