labrador retriever puppies for sale san antonio tx
Photo by lyla. It usually starts on their face, neck, chest, and gradually to their whole body. Since these isabella German Shepherd dogs are already light-colored, you may not recognize the color change instantly. This happens when the fur of an isabella puppy is brushed off, and the adult fur settles in their body. The same thing happens when they are shedding. Usually, it starts at around two months until two years of age. Watch this cute video to see a stunning lilac German Shepherd puppy enjoying the great outdoors: Izzy the Isabella German Shepard dog. River Humber. They may excel like standard GSDs, but they are still considered faults and heavily penalized during shows despite their intelligence and unique appearance. In addition, they are protective and loyal to their owners. However, they need to learn to be independent since they are prone to be overly attached to their families. They can further develop separation anxiety and destructive behavior if left alone for long periods. An isabella German Shepherd requires a firm owner during training since they tend to be stubborn despite being highly intelligent. They are one of the fastest learning dogs, so training them will be swift. Overall, they are great family dogs. However, it is also important to note that they have a high prey drive. Isabella German Shepherd Lifespan and Health Issues Isabella German Shepherds may not be in the same color as the traditional GSDs but they are similarly healthy and can live up to 10 to 14 years on average. However, like other dog breeds, health problems can sometimes be inevitable or genetically linked. To help you get an idea of what they could be prone to health-wise, here are some common health problems your isabella German Shepherd puppy may encounter: Hip Dysplasia: As large dogs, isabella German Shepherds can be prone to hip dysplasia. Bloat: This condition is also known as gastric dilation volvulus GDV , and it happens when the stomach gets filled with gas, fluid, and food, which results in twisting. Pet owners should always take this as an emergency as it progresses quickly and can sometimes be fatal. Progressive Retinal Atrophy: PRA in dogs occurs as a group of degenerative diseases that affect photoreceptor cells, resulting in deterioration and blindness. There are no treatments available for this condition. However, vitamins and antioxidants may reduce eye stress and delay the formation of cataracts. However, this condition is successfully managed through monitoring, maintenance meds, and regular vet visits. These issues can be prevented and are manageable as long as you keep your eye on your isabella dog. Taking them to regular vet check-ups and keeping their vaccines up-to-date will keep them healthy and improve their quality of life. Brushing their hair regularly can keep their coats shiny and healthy, and it can significantly contribute to the severity of shedding every time the climate changes. Giving them sanitary hair trims can help maintain their cleanliness, too. In addition, wiping and washing their paws is necessary after walking or strolling outside. Chew toys or chew treats are a great way to strengthen their teeth and gums, on top of regular teeth brushing. However, we should always be mindful of the number of chew treats we give our dogs since giving too much can be unhealthy for them. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are a must. Note, though, that finding a lilac German Shepherd may be pretty challenging, considering it is rare. There are a lot of factors surrounding puppy prices. It is also essential to know that having a puppy is not a one-time purchase. You have to look through imperative needs and expenses before you decide to open your home to your new isabella German Shepherd. He is the total package of beauty, brains and health! Bo has the typical old fashioned straight-backed structure that we strive for. He has great bone and a beautiful classic GSD head. Bo is always happy to go places with us. He frequents local stores with us all the time and is a perfect gentleman. He is always looking forward to accompanying us for daily ranch chores too. He is great with all the animals. He especially loves puppies and is so gentle with them, he is a great helper in socializing our litters with big dogs. He has great food drive, loves learning new things and always does his best to please you. He also loves doing scent work and I hope to get him entered into some trials soon. He is naturally protective of our home but as soon as I give him the okay he will be the first to greet you for pets and is known to try and sneak in your lap if you sit down! He is an easy-going, gentle, super sweet boy who is always steady and fearless. Like our other boys he can also have a goofy streak at times and he can always put a smile on your face! We just love Bo and are really looking forward to incorporating his lines into our breeding program.
Coated metal bar construction protects against rust due to outdoor elements and the heavy duty wire is chew-proof for even the most rambunctious puppies. Panels for this dog exercise pen can be constructed in a variety of configurations and are easy to set up and FXW includes ground stakes with metal rounded tops so that the pen stays sturdy and safe for your pet. Like many traditional dog crates, the FXW dog pen folds down flat for storage when not in use. This one folds down from its full size into an easy-to-carry bag, making it a breeze to store or pack for a weekend trip. Outside pockets make it easy to store other pet accessories like poop bags or leashes for easy access and mesh windows ensure airflow no matter what the temperature may be outside. We would choose this as more of an outdoor bedding option when camping opposed to a playpen. Due to the structure of this dog pen it may tip if dogs bump or lean against its walls. The EliteField includes a two-year warranty with purchase, which offers peace of mind on any adventure. Stability and durability. This is especially crucial if you have a larger dog. You may want to look for a playpen that has special features to keep it in place, such as ground stakes for outdoor use or stabilizing feet for indoor pens. To minimize the risk of your dog climbing or jumping out, consider a pen that includes a cover. The first few times you put your dog in the playpen, stay nearby to monitor them. This will allow you to assess if they try to climb out of the pen, jump over the panels, or chew on the walls. Finally, keep in mind that while playpens can help keep puppies and young dogs out of trouble, you still need to train your dog how to behave properly in your home. One common issue with dog playpens is that the panels can move around if your dog leans or jumps against them. If you have the playpen outdoors, ground stakes will help hold the panels in place. For indoor pens, furniture anchors can be used to attach the panels to a nearby wall and keep the pen from shifting around. Can a dog sleep in a playpen? Once your dog is used to being in their playpen, it can be a safe and secure space for them to sleep. Playpens are a popular alternative for pet owners who choose not to crate train their dogs. Much like dog crates, however, playpens should not be used as a space for pups to do their business and may not be the best option for those that are not yet housetrained. How big should a dog playpen be? The best size for a dog playpen will depend on the size of your dog. How long can a dog stay in a playpen? After all, they need time to stretch their legs and go to the bathroom. The Esk Collection pen is super lightweight with easy-to-use zippers and access points for small dogs to enter and exit. The ability to zip up the top was a bonus for dogs who might jump or try to climb out of a pen. Folding and disassembling was a bit tricky, but doable. We appreciated the mesh design for keeping rambunctious puppies contained while still allowing for visibility and airflow. This pen is lightweight and fairly sturdy, though a larger or rambunctious dog could potentially move it around from the inside. This may be a wise choice if you and your vet are unsure of how big your dog might get. However, if your dog will be hanging out on a comfy dog bed in its pen while its owner is at work, a larger space is preferable. Are you going to need something smaller and more portable — like our Best for Travel or Best for Puppies picks — as your only dog pen, or will you want to purchase an additional, more stationary dog pen for home? Plus, you may want more than one pen to give your dog a larger area. First, we evaluated how easy they were to set up, which we measured by having our testers set a stopwatch on their phones to time the setup process from start to finish, and asked them to evaluate how easy or intuitive the setup would be for most people. In terms measuring the other testing attributes, all of the features on each dog pen were carefully inspected, with special notice paid to opening and closing all the doors and entry points. Testers then collapsed or folded the pens, taking note of how easy or difficult it was to break them down and how adaptable and versatile they were in the process of using. We also noted the weight of each dog pen and made note on how easy it was to carry around in terms of portability. We then rated each dog pen on a 1 to 5 scale against the following attributes: ease of setup, ease of use, versatility, and portability. Then, only after completing their evaluation, testers learned the price of each dog pen. With the price in mind, they gave each pen a score for its value. In the end, we averaged out these scores and only the products with the highest overall ratings earned a spot on this PEOPLE Tested list of the best dog pens. Frequently Asked Questions Which pens should be used for large dogs? For larger dogs, look for pens that can be secured to the wall or ground to ensure the dog won't knock it over. You should also look for pens with high panels; the New World Dog Exercise and Play Pen is the tallest size option on our list. What is the difference between dog pens and dog crates? Crates are structures that surround a dog wholly, while pens keep the dog enclosed to a certain area, but may not have a roof or floor as part of the structure. This way, we can crate the dog and simply open the door to give them more space when appropriate. For more in-depth insight into matching dog pens with dogs, Dyball spoke to Tom Davis , dog trainer and canine behavior expert in upstate New York. In order to keep our recommendations fresh and accurate, staff writer Alyssa Brascia updated this piece with long-term testing insights from participants who let their pups use these pens for up to six months, documenting how well or not they held up as time went on. Each product was re-evaluated accordingly so that we can create the best shopping guide for our furry friends. What Is People Tested? We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square. Related Articles.
Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos to be added every month. Our customers come from all over including Sacramento, the Central Valley, the Bay Area, Southern California, and even from out of state. Not only do we breed German Shepherd puppies, we offer puppy and dog training , dog boarding , and can import fully-trained German Shepherds. What makes Nadelhaus German Shepherds different from other dog breeders? This is the breed club founded in by Max von Stephanitz, who set the standards of the German Shepherd dog breed. The quality of dogs bred to the rules of the SV is second to none. A West German dog is regulated for its sound mind and body. We focus on breeding our dogs for structure, movement, workability, trainability, hips, elbows, pigment, and coat. Our goal is to to produce the best quality German Shepherd again and again, aiming to better the breed every time we breed our dogs. What is the price to buy a Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppy? Our Puppy Application page will provide you with more information on the application, deposit, and matching process. Once you have read through these steps, you can click through to the application form and view the prices for both Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppies as well as import German Shepherd puppies. If I buy a German Shepherd puppy, can you ship it to me? If you are not able to pick your puppy up from our facility in Northern California, we can ship a puppy to you. Shipping rates vary by location and include a health certificate vet visit, transportation costs, and an airline approved crate. Contact us for shipping details. Do you sell long-haired German Shepherd puppies? Nadelhaus breeds German Shepherds puppies all year round and while the majority of puppies we sell are short coat aka short hair , we do have occasionally have long coat long hair puppies. Learn more about long-haired German Shepherds. Can I have a German Shepherd puppy or dog imported from Europe? Puppies bred at Nadelhaus sell quick and even with a deposit, there is generally a wait list for our puppies. If you are interested in skipping the wait list, consider having a puppy imported from Germany. Importing a German Shepherd puppy is a special opportunity to acquire a very beautiful dog with special bloodlines. Both the female mother and male stud are often top V and VA dogs in Germany and come from very popular and highly sought after bloodlines. If you are interested in importing a puppy, simply fill out the same puppy application and click the checkbox that you would like to import a puppy. Will my German Shepherd puppy have its shots and vaccines? All of our puppies receive their vaccinations and are de-wormed to date. They are vet checked at six weeks old. Visit akcreunite. Owners must complete their portion of the paperwork and mail in the registration to the AKC along with the proper fee. We have some puppies born to German imports, so we must mail the paperwork to owners post-purchase. How much should I feed my 8 week old German Shepherd puppy? Our article covers care from the moment you pick up your puppy at the Nadelhaus kennels, to feeding, common issues, introduction to other dogs in the home and more. Our trained driver can transport your German Shepherd to our kennels for puppy purchases, dog training or dog boarding. Trust that your German Shepherd will be transported with care: our driver is knowledgeable about the breed, trained in dog handling and transport, and our transporting service is bonded and insured. This service is exclusive to Nadelhaus purchased German Shepherds. We do not transport dogs that were not purchased or imported through Nadelhaus. Pricing below are estimates only. Our transportation services are generally limited to Northern California, but we encourage you to contact us with any inquiries for your location or for a price quote. Degenerative Myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease Perhaps the most well-known is hip dysplasia, a condition that causes the hip joint to develop abnormally. This can lead to pain and lameness, and eventually requiring surgery. German Shepherds are also at risk for elbow dysplasia, a similar condition that affects the elbow joint. Other common health problems include allergies, intestinal issues, and eye problems. With proper care and diet, however, German Shepherds can live long and healthy lives. Finding a German Shepherd puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. While German Shepherds are often considered to be low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, their coats do require some care and attention. The most important thing to know about German Shepherd coat care is that the breed does not shed uniformly throughout the year. After the shedding period has ended, you can reduce the frequency of brushing to once or twice a week. In addition to regular brushing, German Shepherds also need to be bathed on occasion. How often you need to bathe your German Shepherd will depend on factors such as how often they play outside and whether they have any allergies or skin sensitivities. Generally speaking, however, a once-monthly bath is sufficient for most dogs. German Shepherd Puppies For Sale. We typically have a litter or two of GSD pups per year and one Malinois litter per year. Our focus is producing a well-balanced working dog that is healthy both physically and genetically and temperamentally sound. We have sold to many individuals from coast to coast in the US. Contact us for more information or to get on the waiting list. This little dude will make someone a very nice companion dog. His on-leash obedience training has begun. She will do best in an active home even though she can settle down. Inquisitive, confident, active. She has a sweet side and eager to please. She is very alert and will let you know when a stranger approaches the home. He is confident, inquisitive, AKC, active, but able to settle down nicely. He has alot of personality that makes him a sweet catch. Taz is eager to please his human. Tater Born: March 7, Tater is a male Labrador retriever that we hoped would end up as a police detection dog. Contact us for current pricing. Companion male. Pups are released at 8 weeks of age. In the event the preferred sex of the puppy is not available in this litter, the deposit will be refunded; otherwise deposits are considered non-refundable. Prices subject to change without notice, although never after a deposit is received. We breed healthy parents from proven working bloodlines to produce strong, healthy pups of stable temperaments and solid nerves. Our goal is to produce a real German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois adding to this prestigious breeds, never taking away. We usually whelp one or two litters a year. Occasionally we have older German Shepherd puppies for sale or young adult German Shepherds available see our DogBlog article on easily bonding with older puppies or young adults. Puppies are released at 8 weeks of age, after having been examined by a licensed veterinarian, receiving their second shots, and receiving many hours of observation and interaction. They will be well on their way towards house-training and socialized to as many things as possible for their age. Check back often to see if we have any German Shepherd Dogs or Puppies for sale as well as Malinois puppy for sale. Whether you are looking to become a certified dog trainer or just looking into the best place to get your dog trained, Conifer Canine's Dog Trainer College can help! Sign up for dog training now and take steps to a more obedient K9 or invest in yourself by enrolling now into our dog trainer school program offered both in-person or online! Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Weight: pounds Life Span: years Yes we are, paws down, the most incredible dogs ever! Let others know how great we are. In addition, German Shepherds are highly adaptable, easily trainable and serve as natural protectors. Excelling in canine sports, they are perfect for families with children or singles and couples leading active lives out of doors. German Shepherds are dogs of action and will thrive alongside a smart, active owner who lavishes a Shepherd with focused attention, exercise, training and one-on-one time. Consider starting with a half-hour walk twice per day plus a vigorous play or training session. Include vigorous games of Frisbee, long runs and an occasional swim. Provided its exercise needs are met, the German Shepherd can make his dwelling in a small city apartment or a sprawling ranch. Be patient and consistent. If possible, get your puppy into kindergarten classes by ten to twelve weeks and socialize, socialize, socialize your little companion. Begin training at home by socializing your puppy to family and friends. German Shepherds are for no novice dog owner. Utilize daily training to keep these working dogs busy as well as participation in dog sports including agility, obedience, rally and tracking. Remember a bored German Shepherd is soon a destructive Shepherd. Provide your Shepherd with the attention, activity and training it needs or be prepared to suffer the consequences. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!
As a result, breeders need to factor in the cost of birthing by a qualified vet to make sure mum and pups are all safe, which contributes to the cost of the puppies. Other Costs of Bulldog Ownership Besides the purchase price of your puppy, the other major cost of Bulldog ownership is the cost of health care. Bulldogs are known for recurring health illnesses such as breathing problems, spinal, eye, skin and dental conditions, which can cost their owners hundreds or even thousands of pounds to treat. For this reason we recommend that you also budget enough for pet insurance. One form to fill out. How much are English Bulldog puppies? We think the additional cost is well worth the extra cost as a healthier pet will save you money in vet bills and pet insurance in the long run. How to pick an English Bulldog puppy When choosing an English Bulldog puppy, you'll first want to make sure the puppy came from a good home and breeder—not a puppy farm. That means visiting the puppy's home and ideally meeting both its mother and father. Be wary of anyone who wants to bring a puppy to you—even if they pitch it as for your convenience. Also, look for a puppy that has been health checked. When will my Bulldog puppy calm down? Puppies tend to act like puppies until 12 to 18 months of age. Until that time you should expect chewing, nipping and other puppy behaviour like the "crazies" when they run around the house like a lunatic! By two years old, they should be very settled and well into "adult" dog behaviour. How many times can a French Bulldog have puppies? Legally , a dog cannot have more than 6 litters of puppies—however the more common guidance for the mother's health is to limit the number to a maximum of 4 litters, or even 3. Before buying a puppy ask how many litters the mother has had. Increase in Number of Bulldog Puppies for Sale To get an idea of how many more bulldog puppies are for sale now than a few years ago, we looked back in time at the Pets4Homes website using the Wayback Machine , a tool that saves snapshots of webpages at various points of time. There we found snapshots of the French and English Bulldog 'inventory' from .This shows there were 1, French Bulldogs for sale in compared to 2, today. So there are essentially twice as many puppies for sale on that platform now than 4 years ago. Methodology To find out how much the average Bulldog puppy costs in the UK, we gathered over data points on the cost of French and English Bulldog puppies for sale from Pets4Homes. We looked at the most recently posted ads. This included a mix of puppies that have been health checked and puppies that have not. We analysed this data to determine average costs for each type of Bulldog and also for the additional cost to buy a health-checked puppy, as well as the costs of premium colours. For the to analysis, we compared data we gathered in early to data we gathered in November .French Bulldog Insurance How much are french bulldog puppies? The price tags for a Frenchie puppy can be steep. The cost of these types of dogs is partly due to the high cost production and care. This is because they can require a lot of care and vet fees are expensive due to the breathing conditions commonly developed by this breed. Ongoing Costs When it comes down to it, owning any type or breed dog is an investment in time, money, and effort—but some breeds tend to come with higher prices than others when you take into account both upfront costs as well as ongoing expenses such as vet bills or pet insurance premiums. French Bulldogs can be very expensive dogs to own because as flat-faced dogs they commonly develop breathing conditions which require expensive surgery. French Bulldog Insurance Because of these high vet fees for french bulldogs it is a good idea to get pet insurance for them. However, those costs also means pet insurance for French Bulldogs can be very expensive. It is worth shopping around to get the best value pet insurance cover for you and your dog. At Emerald Life we insure many French Bulldogs for a much more reasonable premium than other providers. Get a quote now and see how much you could save. French Bulldogs are popular companions and family dogs worldwide for their spunky personalities and affectionate temperaments. If you have the money, though, and are willing to use it to ensure that your Frenchie lives the best possible life, read on to find out how much French Bulldogs cost in the UK. French Bulldog: Traits, Care, and General Info French Bulldogs are characterized by their short, wrinkly noses, little, stocky bodies, perky ears, short legs, and soft, fine coats that come in a variety of colors and patterns. Coat colors include varying shades and mixtures of brindle, fawn, chocolate, blue, black, white, and cream. Not all of these colors are accepted within the outlined breed standard, mind you. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS is one such condition Frenchies are predisposed to because of their short noses, but this is just one of many. Apart from possible health issues, keeping up with a dental care schedule for your Frenchie is important, as is providing quality dog food and most of all, plenty of time and attention. French Bulldogs are sensitive to being left alone for long periods of time. Female puppies tend to cost a bit more than males. Please note that the prices in this table are standard UK prices that may differ depending on the breeder, rehomer, or adoption center. The adoption costs are also donation fees that help rescue and adoption centers continue their important work. In some cases, like when the Frenchie is more than 7 years old, the adoption agency may accept a donation amount of your choice rather than a set one. For these reasons, you may want to consider offering a new home to a rescued French Bulldog rather than pay breeder prices. Additional Costs to Anticipate In addition to the initial purchase or adoption donation, there are a few other factors to consider, money-wise. Again, please note that the cost of the services below can vary and that these are just the general standard costs. Share this: Facebook Twitter Email A small dog with lots of love to share, the French bulldog is becoming one of the most favourite breeds in the UK. Are you looking forward to welcoming a Frenchie into the family? Before you go searching for one, it is imperative to know how much are French bulldogs as they can be highly expensive. How much are French bulldog puppies? The price varies depends on many factors. The price tag for a Frenchie puppy can be quite steep. The expensiveness of the breed is partly due to how costly it is to produce and raise them. Additionally, there are only a few French bulldog breeders whilst there are many dog lovers who want one. These factors drive the prices even higher. How much is a French bulldog C-section? For emergency C-sections carried out outside regular working hours, it may cost 80 per cent more than a scheduled C-section. How many litters can a French bulldog have? The French bulldog should only have four litters overall. Be sure to ask the breeder how many litters the dam has produced before buying a French bulldog puppy. If it is more than four, it is highly likely that you are buying from an irresponsible breeder. How many puppies does a French Bulldog have? On average, the number of puppies that a French bulldog can have is three. On some occasions, there may be four puppies in total. Birthing five or more puppies is a very rare occurrence. Where should I look for a French bulldog puppy? Searching for a reputable French bulldog breeder is very important. Since the breed is high in demand but also lack in supply, shady people tend to take advantage of the situation. Some businesses such as backyard breeders and puppy mills will irresponsibly breed French bulldogs. Meanwhile, others will resort to puppy smuggling. Puppies from these trade are lowly priced but have several drawbacks, such as being sickly or aggressive to people. To find a trustworthy breeder, you may ask for referrals from the vet, the groomer, or other dog enthusiasts. You can also try visiting local breeding organisations and dog shows. UK Pets allows you to search based on your location. For example, French Bulldogs for sale in London. Reputable breeders are meticulous when it comes to producing and raising dogs to ensure that they are of the best quality. They willingly show you where the puppies are kept. They provide you with a Kennel Club registration certificate. They ask pertinent questions about your experience as a dog owner. What makes French bulldogs very expensive? Aside from the supply and demand and high charges for breeding and looking after French bulldogs, there are other factors that affect the cost of the breed. Many times, this is because of their show quality. They may possess rare physical traits that make them highly valued. Responsible breeders always ensure that all their puppies are healthy and well-socialised. French bulldogs that are primarily bred to be companion dogs are just more affordable than those that are bred for show. Are there other alternatives where I can find a French bulldog puppy? It is a lot cheaper than purchasing from a breeder. Most establishments will only charge a couple of hundred pounds. Meanwhile, others give their dogs for free and only ask for donations. These places are worth visiting if you opt to adopt a Frenchie: French bulldog rescue organisations Rehoming centres Animal shelters Keep in mind that all dogs found in these places may vary in temperament and behaviour. The French bulldog is prone to certain illnesses since it is a brachycephalic or flat-faced breed. Being knowledgeable about the common issues found in French bulldogs will help you detect early signs of illnesses. Below is a list of the health issues that a French bulldog is susceptible to: Hip dysplasia. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. But what about all the extras? Do you go on holiday every year? Where will your new Frenchie stay when you do? Since the breed is in high demand, you have to research your options carefully to find breeders who charge reasonable rates. Image Credit: Mylene, Pixabay Free You could end up adopting a Frenchie in an unusual way, like a friend gifting you the dog or giving it away because they cannot care for it. If you adopt a dog you suspect has been abused or neglected, caring for them as they heal from their past trauma can be costly in vet and behaviorist bills. French Bulldogs are pricey, and the younger you get them, the more expensive they will be. Adopting will always be less expensive than buying from a breeder, but make sure you use a reputable website to avoid scams. Dogs bred to bad breeders sometimes called puppy farms often have medical and behavioral problems. Research your potential breeders carefully before jumping into a purchase. You can visit The Kennel Club to check breeders in your local area. And does the breeding of the dog drive up the price? When we were originally considering getting a Frenchie, we quickly discovered that blue French Bulldogs were far more expensive than any other color. We ended up opting for a standard colored Frenchie instead and we love him, of course. However, this process did give us a very good insight into how much Blue French Bulldog costs, so I wanted to share that with you today. How much are Blue French Bulldogs? Part of the reason that blue Frenchies are one of the most expensive dog breeds is because of the medical costs involved in the breeding process. Like all dog breeds, if you are looking for a pure-bred Frenchie then adopting a puppy from a professional breeder is recommended. Because of this, professional breeders often forgo natural birth altogether and instead choose to have C-sections performed see how much this costs to remove the puppies safely with minimal risk to their breeding dog. Breeders also often use artificial insemination to impregnate their dogs. This does tend to result in large vet bills which only help in driving up the price of blue French Bulldogs, although you should get the peace of mind the puppy you are buying is safe and healthy, with no repercussions of a difficult natural birth. Another factor when it comes to price is actually dependant on the color of the dog. Because of the high demand for these colors, it does mean that dogs and puppies with blue, tan and black fur are more expensive. Are blue French Bulldogs healthy? Many associations, however, do not recognize the blue Frenchie as an official member of the breed when it comes to competitions. This is because they believe that it suffers from too many different health issues ; but the fact of the matter is that while some Blue Frenchies do develop alopecia hair loss , many other variations of Frenchie are also affected. In reality, most blue French Bulldogs do not suffer from health issues any more than any other kind of Frenchie. I base this opinion on having spoken to owners of blue Frenchies as part of this research, rather than any scientific study. Do blue French Bulldogs shed more hair? French Bulldogs tend to shed their undercoat about twice a year. These guys are not hypoallergenic despite what you might have been told. How long do blue French Bulldogs live for? A healthy, well-bred dog is going to have a longer lifespan than one that had less than stellar origins, which is yet another reason why you should only consider buying puppies from reputable breeders rather than illegal puppy farms or unqualified breeders. Related questions If you are thinking about buying a blue French Bulldogs and are comfortable which how much they might cost, you should consider the following aspects too. What health issues do blue French Bulldogs have? As mentioned above, Blue Frenchies are not really any different to other types of French Bulldog, but that does mean that they may be susceptible to similar health conditions. Because of their breeding history and small, compact anatomy, French Bulldogs do unfortunately have a disposition towards physical and genetic health issues. Should I get a rescue blue French Bulldog? Getting a rescue dog is always a fantastic option and is always recommended especially if you are not looking for a pure-bred. As they are in high demand, blue Frenchie puppies are snapped up very quickly than more common pi-bald or brindle colors, but why not consider getting a slightly older pooch? Adult blue French Bulldogs are far calmer than hyperactive teenage dogs and are an excellent alternative if you are looking for a steady but loyal companion. In fact, if you do buy an adult from rescue, chances are how much you pay for a blue French Bulldog could be considerably less than the average. They are also quiet and often polite, although they can get a little territorial. Dogs are not born fully trained, so getting your puppy trained quickly can go a long way to unlearn their more negative traits. Conclusion Buying any dog is a huge commitment. Our experiences of Frenchies has given us a great insight into how well suited they can be to an owner, and vice versa. The following guides will offer some essential insight:.
One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Bakersfield Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Bakersfield? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Bakersfield? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Puppies are 5 days old today and will be ready to go home on September .I have 3 boys and 3 girls left. For daily videos and updates please follow our puppy Instagram xxxx. Thank you Buy Now Golden Retriever Beautiful and healthy golden retrievers, ready with vaccines in 4 weeks, save yours. We have boys and girls. There are male and female available at this time. They are 10 weeks old, vet checked, dewormed and have all vet records up to date. Our puppies are well trained and very socialized. Puppies come with registration papers and a health xxxxxxxxx. She has a rehoming fee and she comes with her Ckc registration. Not fixed View Detail Beautiful Loving Golden Retiever 9 week old female, playful, energetic, fun loving great dog for a family. Come see them today!!! Feel free to text me for more pictures xxxxxxxxxx. Thank you! Contact Number. .Mum and two aunties can be seen with puppies. They will come with kc paperwork, microchipped and 5 weeks free insurance, they have been wormed regularly by our vet and are ready to leave. These dogs like water. Will be extra large lbs full grown. Lots of hair and shedding. Independent, active, self entertaining, less barking and more trainable than pure Pyr. Good guardians for small acreage or family with large yard. Started as an oops for us, now our preffered working dogs. Friendly, laid back, would be good pet for active people or family. Are well socialized with other dogs and people. First and second shot and wormed. Working parents on site. Are in excess of our guardian needs. Rehoming fee negotiable, good appropriate home a must. Available now. View Detail Golden Retriever Pups 4 females, 1 male. Full blooded, parents on site. Born on August 14th and ready to go. They are 11 weeks old now and they have been vet check and all vaccines done and for more information please contact View Detail Golden retrievers ready for a new home Beautiful golden retrievers ready to go home to a nice homes View Detail Golden retriever puppies Male and female puppies available for new home very soon Text me for any information xxxxxxxxxx View Detail Lovely Golden retreiver puppies ready now I have four gorgeous AKC registered Golden Retriever puppies available. I own both Sire and Dam. Puppies are raised in my home. I have three males and one female available. Up to date on shots, crate and puppy pad trained. Very healthy, personable and playful. View Detail Golden retriever 5 available girls. AKC registration, potty training going great. They love kids and are gentle with chickens. View Detail Golden retriever Pure bred golden retriever puppies available now. All vet exams and shots up to date. Akc registration dna tested. Potty pad trained. Sweet loving temperament ready to learn and fetch.
E-mail Share by e-mail German Shepherds make great family dogs — they are loyal, intelligent, and have lots of energy! A good diet is key to giving your pet a long and healthy life, and the wrong diet can lead to a number of health problems. German Shepherds are big dogs with active lifestyles, so making sure they get the right nutrition at different stages throughout their lives is essential. Feeding your German Shepherd Puppy Puppies are growing rapidly and have very specific nutritional requirements. Puppy food tends to be high in calories and protein as they are bundles of energy at this age! Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a good quality balanced diet is essential to ensure that they grow up to be healthy adults. There are some foods designed specifically for large breeds such as German Shepherds, which provide extra support for their growing joints. You should look out for these foods in the pet store and ideally choose one of these large breed diets. You can find further general puppy feeding guidelines and advice via the AKC as well as specific German Shepherd facts and info. How often should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Puppies need to be fed more frequently than adult dogs to support their rapidly growing bodies. German Shepherd puppies should be fed 4 meals a day until they are 3 months old, then reduce to 3 meals a day until they are 10 months old when their growth rate starts to slow down. Once they reach this age, they need 2 meals a day. When should I start feeding adult food? Puppies must stay on puppy food until they reach adult size. German Shepherds are large dogs and tend to reach adult size later than smaller dogs. They are usually fully matured at months. German Shepherds should stay on puppy food until they are months old, then they should move on to an adult diet. Feeding your adult German Shepherd An adult German Shepherd will weigh around lbs and need at least an hour of exercise every day, so their diet needs to reflect this. It might seem like your dog is eating a lot, but they need to replace the energy they burn off and eat enough of the right nutrients to sustain them! How often should I feed my German Shepherd? Adult dogs should be fed two meals a day. When should I switch from adult to senior food? As dogs get older their nutritional requirements change again. They are less active, and German Shepherds are more prone to joint problems such as osteoarthritis. You should consider switching to a senior diet at around 8 years of age. What type of food should German Shepherds eat? Whichever diet you pick, you should ensure it is suitable for large dogs or working breeds and that it has plenty of protein and calcium, and also includes some type of doggy superfoods, too. Commercially prepared foods are the best way to ensure your dog gets a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need to stay healthy, and they come in wet or dried forms. Some dogs prefer one or the other, whilst some enjoy a variety and mix of both. Dry Food Dried food is cheap, easy to feed and store, and has lots of benefits for your dogs. Dogs fed a dried food diet will drink more water, and you can soak the kibble to add a bit extra if you like. Wet Food Wet foods contain more water than dried, and often resemble meat which some dogs love. The food is usually in chunks with jelly or gravy, and some dogs prefer it to dried. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are large and active dogs with demanding nutritional requirements throughout their lives. They go through a rapid growth stage as puppies, and as adults need the right balance of nutrients to replenish the energy they burn off exercising. They need to eat a diet that has the right balance of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, and ensure they get the right number of meals a day to maintain good physical and mental health. Puppies should eat meals a day until they are around 10 months old then they should eat 2 meals a day as adults. Do German shepherds require a lot of food? German Shepherds are large dogs so naturally, eat larger portions than smaller breeds. They are active dogs and need lots of protein and energy to keep them healthy. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. How often you should feed a German Shepherd puppy depends on their age and their activity level. Many owners also want to know when they can switch to adult food formulas for their German Shepherd puppies. Switch your GSD puppy to adult food when they are around 12 to 18 months old. Puppies can begin adult kibble when they are approximately 80 percent of their adult weight. This usually occurs around 8 to 10 months of age, but you can safely feed puppy food up to 18 months old as long as they are not putting on excess weight too quickly. If you want to know what to feed a German Shepherd puppy, keep reading. Finding the best food to feed your German Shepherd puppy is overwhelming at times. This means choosing what to feed a German Shepherd puppy is even more serious and intimidating! Follow this feeding guide when you need to know what to feed German Shepherd puppies. I understand! The following dog foods are all recommended for large breed puppies and meet and exceed regulated nutritional standards. Feeding a high-quality kibble from a name-brand company that uses feeding trials ensures the best quality and nutrition. Here are some of the best German Shepherd puppy foods that are research-backed. Packed with nutrients to help limit inflammation of the joints and uses fresh ingredients. Easily digestible formula for puppies prone to allergies and sensitive stomachs. Rich aroma with DHA fish oil to entice puppies to finish every last bite while giving shine to their coats. The better the food, the healthier your pup will be inside and out. Cheaper GSD puppy food lacks quality proteins that are essential for your working breed dog. Adding too much weight to your German Shepherd too soon can cause lifelong joint issues that are painful to your pet and expensive on your wallet. Most GSDs are healthy and fit on commercial dog foods that are high quality. These balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. There is a greater demand for quality nutrition during the early growth stage. For these reasons, you must feed high-quality food. Now, consider what to feed a German Shepherd puppy based on their age. These feeding charts and guides will help keep your new companion growing strong and athletic. Tiny portions of canned, wet foods are introduced. Meals per day: 4 or more Puppies should stay with their mom for to keep them healthy. Nutrition Warning! At 8-weeks-old a GSD pup is eating more solid foods and develops a better appetite for kibble and other foods. Add in only a couple of small spoonfuls of canned plain pumpkin, unsweetened Greek yogurt, or cooked oatmeal to entice your pup to eat. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue feeding the same as the 8-week-old diet. Treats are not only enjoyable for your German Shepherd, but help you to eneterain and build a positive relationship with him. Be sure to keep their zoomies under control by playing plenty of fun German Shepherd games for puppies. Meals per day: 4 Week-Old Puppy Continue to feed the kibble. Watch for excessive weight gain during this growth time as their bones cannot take extra weight! Too much weight gain too quickly can cause joint issues as an adult and prevent healthy development. Use their mental energy to help keep them more relaxed throughout the day by playing brain-boosting mind games for German Shepherd puppies. Meals per day: 3 to 4 Week-Old Puppy Keep your puppy trim and athletic by monitoring how much you feed your puppy and their body condition. You can write how much they eat and track this over time, and adjust how much your feed your German Shepherd puppy to keep them at a healthy weight. Try using fresh, raw, cut-up pieces of carrots as healthy treats or small, deseeded cubes of fresh apple as part of their training treats. Keep your eyes open for a growth spurt about to begin! Meals per day: 3 Week-Old Puppy Around 4 months old, you might notice your puppy finish their meal quickly and look for more food. Be sure to watch how many treats you give them throughout the day. You can do this by holding them safely in your arms and weighing them with you on the scale. Then, place them on the floor and step onto the scale without them to weigh yourself. Remember, around 16 to weeks old your German Shepherd puppy begins to rapidly grow. Instead, when looking overhead at your puppy their waist should look trim and not rounded outwards. German Shepherd puppies should appear sleek in their waistline. Meals per day: 3 Week And Older Puppy Continue to feed your German Shepherd puppy dry kibble with a small amount of healthy foods mixed in. You can lessen the healthy food you mix in gradually if you prefer. But, even as adults, German Shepherds love a bit of tasty toppers on their kibble. Around a year old, begin feeding your German Shepherd puppy 2 meals a day. Two meals, one in the morning and evening, are not only safer but also provide your German Shepherd with sustained energy to fuel their high-energy lifestyle. You can create a positive meal time by using the following tips: Always offer fresh water during their meal times. Keep the area where they eat their food in calm and out of the way of the family hustle and bustle. I found sitting with a book reading, just keeping my GSD puppy company, encouraged my dog to eat their meals while giving us time to quietly bond. Feed your German Shepherd at the same time everyday. The best time to feed a German Shepherd puppy is in the morning, before you leave for the day, and in the evening, about 2 hours before you put your dog to bed. Allow them to potty after eating to ensure their comfort. Your dog also needs to eat at other times of the day for their health and growth. How much you should feed a German Shepherd puppy really depends on a number of factors. Your GSD pup should eat enough to maintain their growth and energy, while not carrying any extra fat. Every dog is different. Keep in mind the number of calories in the kibble, which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Each puppy food company has a different amount of calories and size of the kibble. Here are a few things that might affect how much your German Shepherd puppy should eat. The more active a German Shepherd puppy is, the more calories he needs to eat to replace lost energy. For example, puppies need nearly twice the amount of calories as compared to adults. And older or senior German Shepherds who are less active need less food. Health Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to feeding your German Shepherd. Simply put, you can prevent some medical conditions and health problems by monitoring their waistlines. Instead follow the healthy way to bulk up a German Shepherd. To see if your German Shepherd is at the right weight you can find the average weight depending on their age. Shares German Shepherds are graceful, obedient, and loyal dogs with specific nutritional needs. Following a German Shepherd puppy feeding chart will enable you to track the amount of food your puppy is eating as they grow. There are varieties of foods available in the market and most of them come with guidelines at the back of the packaging showing you how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy. This article will cover different types of diets available and the specific nutritional needs of your German shepherd. It will also help you know what to do to ensure that your GSD gets nutritious and balanced food for every stage of their life. German Shepherd Puppy Feeding Chart There are three aspects of this German Shepherd puppy feeding chart, namely the German shepherd feeding amount, feeding frequency, and mealtime lengths. It is important to find out the appropriate feeding amount, frequency, and length for your German shepherd without leaving out one of them. That way, you can accurately find out the best way to feed your dog. Overall, there are four ranges that you need to keep in mind. An active dog may require a bit more than the numbers in this list, and an inactive dog will need a slightly less amount. But this guide can act as a solid benchmark. A puppy will need to eat more because they are growing very quickly. Talk to your vet about how much exactly so you keep them healthy and happy. Make sure your German Shepherd has access to fresh, clean water all day. When you take your dog for a walk make sure to bring along some extra water in a collapsible bowl. If they get tired on the way or it gets very hot, this can save their life. So for example, if your dog is 60lbs they should eat between lbs of food in one day. If you notice your dog is losing weight, add more calories to its meal size. However, there are other considerations on how much to feed a German shepherd puppy per day. You might want to consider avoiding meals right before bedtime. Let them digest their food first before they go to sleep. Understanding German Shepherd Puppy Nutritional Needs All dogs require nutritious, satisfying, and healthy food and every breed have their special diet. For maximum energy and health, there are factors to consider when deciding what to feed your German Shepherd: Size considerations- the AKC breed standard says that a German Shepherd can go to 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Females can be around 49 to 71 pounds while Males can be around 66 to 88 pounds. This means that they have a big appetite hence it is good to find quality food for them. They grow pretty fast hence they need specific nutrients for specific stages. Activity level- German shepherds are muscular, active, and agile which contributes to higher caloric needs to be complemented by feeding them a high-quality diet. Health consideration- GSDs are prone to many diseases hence a healthy diet will prevent problems. For example, arthritis that is caused by hip and elbow dysplasia can be mitigated through an excellent diet. Ensure that your GSD diet contains proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. How long does it take for your dog to be full? Is your dog still hungry after eating his portion? German shepherds normally take anywhere from 10 minutes to 15 minutes to finish the meal, given that you followed the proper feeding guidelines properly. If your dog shows signs of slow eating, we recommend sending them to your vet. If you think your dog is already full before finishing his portion, there is no problem. However, if your dog is still hungry after finishing the meal, consider sending him to your vet. This is because this can be a sign of a serious health issue involving their digestive system. They encourage the puppy to chew hence preventing periodontal diseases or tartar. Kibble is less expensive to buy and can stay fresh for longer. See also German Shepherd Gestation Period And Pregnancy Wet food is also essential for puppies because they allow puppies to feel fuller with less food. If your GSD need to shed a few pounds, wet food is a good way to reduce their caloric intake. Wet food is easier to digest, hence they are good for German shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Wet food is appetizing and keeps the puppy hydrated. You need to understand why your puppy cannot eat because it will help you determine the way to deal with the issue. There is no need to worry if the puppy lost appetite shortly and goes back to normal eating without any sign of illness. If the puppy loses appetite and takes a few days without improvement, take your puppy to the vet to find the problem because your dog might be sick. If the vet finds that the puppy is sick, they may suggest a special diet that will boost their immunity and give them extra nutrients to better their recovery. The puppy may have stopped eating because of behavioral issues; therefore, you may need to feed them same time to get a routine. Treats and human food that is given to the puppy may need to be reduced and also you can try different kinds of food. The German shepherd is a medium dog breed according to the AKC. Therefore, free-feeding is not a good idea. For the German shepherds, feeding schedules work better. If the puppies are free-fed the puppy may eat the leftover at any time even when they are not hungry. Sticking to a feeding routine help the puppy to stay healthy and prevent obesity. When you have a schedule, managing their weight and house training will improve. The puppy usually relieves themselves around 15 minutes after eating or drinking, therefore, when they feed at the same time every day and are taken outside after a while, accidents will be minimized. A raw diet is good for German shepherds. A raw diet help improves vitality and energy. The puppy gets healthy white teeth with an increased lifespan and reduced shedding as well as a stronger immune system. Raw meat is a great source of protein and an optimal diet. It is like keto to humans because it allows the puppy to reach their total capacity and good health. Dogs are naturally carnivorous, hence raw diet aligns with their natural needs. However, you should speak to your vet before putting your puppy on a raw food diet. The majority of commercially available kibble food is balanced and complete, and of high quality for your German shepherd puppy. Human supplements often contain harmful substances to animals and are unregulated or minimally effective. Therefore, never give human supplements to your German shepherd puppy. But they can eat small amounts of cooked chicken or turkey, plain cooked sweet potatoes or carrots, plain yogurt, and small amounts of fruits like apples or bananas without getting sick. Talk to a vet for advice on how to feed your German Shepherd puppy a healthy and balanced diet. These include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, alcohol, chives, avocado, onions, nuts, grapes and raisins, garlic, raw or undercooked meat, and bones. These foods can cause a wide range of health problems, from stomachaches to more serious problems like pancreatitis or kidney failure. Some foods that people eat may have a lot of sodium or sugar, which can also be bad for dogs. How much food to give an older German Shepherd will depend on their needs and how much they move around. But as dogs get older, they tend to slow down and may need less food to stay at a healthy weight. As a general rule, an older German Shepherd needs about 2 to 3 cups of food per day, which should be divided between two meals. A German Shepherd that is getting older should eat high-quality senior dog food that is made for their age and size. Senior dogs might also benefit from getting smaller meals more often. If your German Shepherd puppy seems to always be hungry, you should look at what they eat and how often they eat. Make sure they eat enough for their age, weight, and level of activity. Puppies grow quickly and need more calories than adult dogs, so it is possible that they are not getting enough food. Also, make sure you feed them high-quality puppy food that is right for their age and size. If you are worried about how hungry they are or how much they weigh, you should talk to a vet to rule out any health problems and make a plan for feeding them. The amount of dry food you should feed your German Shepherd will depend on several factors, including their age, weight, and activity level. Puppies: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Adult dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Active dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. Senior dogs: Feed times the recommended amount on the food label. If the dog is obviously overweight or underweight, adjust accordingly. If you can feel most of the ribs without squeezing your fingers in between them — try 1 cup per day. This is a decent starting point for a growing large breed puppy that needs the extra calories to grow big and strong. If you can feel most of the ribs AND see its waist — try 3 cups per day. This is perfect for an adult German Shepherd which needs extra calories due to being very active. With this amount, it will be able to maintain its weight, but not gain any extra fat. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 3. This is a good amount for a very active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain a healthy weight. This should be sufficient for an adult German Shepherd which is quite active. If you can feel all the ribs and see their waist — try 5 cups per day. This is a good amount for an extremely active German Shepherd which needs extra calories to maintain lean muscle mass. For example, when my dog was a puppy, he would feel all ribs and see his waist when eating 2 cups of food per day. However, as he got older and larger, I had to increase the amount — even though I could still feel most of the ribs! He maintained around .Although there are lots of opinions on how much food your shepherds needs, these guidelines work for me and my German Shepherds. Everyone is different though, so you will have to adjust accordingly if necessary — this guide should help you until you find the ideal amount. If your dog is a very active one it may need more food depending on its activity level. Always be sure to give plenty of water since dry kibble can dehydrate the animal over time. However, this amount will vary depending on the size, age, and activity level of your dog. Puppies and young dogs, for example, generally need more water than adult German Shepherds. And working dogs or those who exercise frequently may require even more. This is because they can easily hydrate themselves if given free access to water. However, you still need to remember some things. For example, take note that your dog will need to drink 6 ounces of water per day for every 3. Depending on the temperature and activeness, this amount can increase. Lastly, make sure you take extra care in providing water access to your German shepherd. The most preferable way is to fill a bowl with a moderate amount of water, not too much. The feeding amount, frequency, length, and water requirements can always be changed. If you have no time to visit your vet, the following topic may help you. How Much Should A 1-year-old German Shepherd Eat A 1-year-old German Shepherd should eat about two and a half to three cups of food each day, broken up into two or three meals. Pointers for Feeding German Shepherds Improper feeding practices can lead to serious health problems for German shepherds. An owner is responsible for taking into consideration the age and weight of a German shepherd before feeding them. When feeding a german shepherd puppy that is four to six months old, you must give them two meals a day that comprises around eight ounces and five ounces. When feeding a German shepherd puppy that is between seven and twelve months old, the meal amounts should be increased to ten ounces for each meal. This amount should be split into three smaller meals. This is regardless of whether they are active or not. Yep, German shepherds can gain weight regardless of whether they exercise or not. If you think your dog is gaining too much weight, you can split their daily calories into four or five smaller meals. Some people prefer using dry dog food, while others would choose canned dog food. Whatever you choose for your German shepherd is usually okay, but canned food tends to contain more moisture than dry food which may lead to bladder stones in certain dogs. However, when it comes to the amount of dog food you feed your German shepherd, canned food leads to more obesity than dry food. If your German shepherds are over five years old, you must give them an extra meal. This additional meal should comprise around four ounces of food so they can easily digest it during their older age. When feeding a German shepherd puppy, you must know how to correctly measure their food amount. Be accurate when following the proper measurements; otherwise, it could lead to your dog gaining too much weight. Use measuring cups that are specifically made for dry food. If you use any other type of measuring device, it might lead to your dog eating too much or too little food. You must not feed your German shepherd until they are full, but allow them to eat until they are slightly satiated. Do not serve unlimited food; give them about two to three cups of food per day. If you are unsure whether or not your German shepherd is obese, check its waistline. If they have a thick waist and their stomach looks like a sphere, then that is a clear sign that your German shepherd is obese. Never let them finish their meal if they are still hungry; otherwise, you will encourage them to gorge on their food. Your German shepherd must always have access to fresh clean water, so you should ensure they can drink it whenever necessary. Feeding Guidelines by Age Before proceeding with the following points, remember that age is not the only determining factor in a German shepherd feeding chart. Make sure to consider all the content in this blog post as well. It is recommended that you slowly let them adapt first. This can be their regular food from now on. This includes fruits, bones, and more. You should also avoid giving them your leftovers. However, they will need time to adapt. You should also consider feeding your German shepherd foods that can be gnawed and chewed. This is so they can develop their jaws, teeth, and gums. This will result in less feeding amount and frequency. Feeding Guidelines by Weight German shepherds can be of different weight ranges. An average weighted German shepherd 35 kilograms will then need calories per day. This only applies to German shepherds that do not exercise or are inactive. Active German Shepherds: In the case of active German shepherds that exercise regularly, every 1 kilogram equals 55 calories per day. So an average weighted German shepherd will require calories per day to be able to function properly. Take note, however, that this calculation may be affected if the German shepherd has a health disorder concerned with metabolism or digestion. German Shepherd Puppies vs. Adults Guidelines Our last topic involves the difference between a puppy and an adult. The following are some of the facts that recent studies have proven: Puppies have higher energy levels than adults. This means they need to eat more than adult German shepherds. German shepherds will need higher protein and fat content at an early age. The amount of fat and protein will decrease as they grow older. Puppies cannot tolerate too many nutrients. Ingesting extra minerals and vitamins may lead to serious health disorders. Meanwhile, adults are only risking being overweight when taking in more than intended. German Shepherds usually have a good appetite and can eat a lot, especially when they are young and growing. But their food intake should be balanced and right for their age, weight, and level of activity to keep them from getting too much food and getting fat. As they age, they should usually eat less quickly. Most of the time, bones that have been cooked and ground up completely may be safe to eat. Instead, give them dog-made chew toys or treats. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Since German Shepherds consume meat, it follows that they must consume a significant amount of animal protein in order to get all of the necessary nutrients. Although while it is feasible to offer a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, owners of German Shepherds should avoid doing so since it increases the likelihood that their dogs will not get all of the nutrients that they need. After talking about the feeding amount, frequency, and lengths of a German shepherd, you can now easily plan how much, how many times, and how long you feed your dog. You even learned how to hydrate your German shepherd the proper way. Lastly, we talked about the difference between a puppy and an adult in terms of feeding. 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. However, it is still advised to ask for a senior-specific diet from your vet or pet nutritionist just to be safe. If you choose to give your German Shepherd dog homemade foods in all of its life stages, you may need to self-calculate and monitor its daily calorie consumption. Feeding German Shepherds has numerous factors to consider. How much you are providing them is crucial, but knowing how often you need to feed them is essential, too. Initially, feeding German Shepherd puppies begins with four puppy food meals daily. Then gradually, it should be transitioned into three equally proportioned meals a day at two months old. This gradual change should go on until they are 12 months old. After that, they should eat twice a day naturally during adulthood. Young puppies have a faster metabolism compared to adult dogs. In general, the last meal of your puppy for the day should be hours before its bedtime, so they have enough time to digest the food before they go to sleep. As for transitioning puppies to adult German Shepherds, the three meals should be given in the morning, noon, and nighttime, so they may be provided with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is crucial for their growth, especially if they are active and working dogs. Having a feeding schedule can also help monitor their food intake to avoid weight-related issues. The optimal feeding time for adult and senior German Shepherds would be during the morning and night for their two meals daily. Lastly, as owners, we must seldom give treats to our German Shepherds, preferably only during training. Too much of anything may be bad for your dog. Moreover, it should provide the sufficient nutrients needed for growth and development. There are many commercial dog foods in the market, but you can also offer your GSD puppy homemade dog food or a raw diet. Consulting a vet is strongly advised to give your German Shepherd the best diet suited for its lifestyle. To help you in this dilemma, the list below has dog food options you may want to consider offering to your GSD puppy: Dry Food: Dry food or kibble is a commercial food widely available in pet stores and dog food manufacturers. A number of dry foods are formulated to provide a balanced diet for dogs, but checking their nutritional guidelines and value is crucial since a German Shepherd puppy may need high carb foods. It can be mixed with their dry kibble to add water or moisture to their diet. These kinds of commercial foods are expensive and can spoil quickly, and they may not be enough if fed alone to your puppy. BARF Diet: Biologically Appropriate Raw Food is a type of diet that consists of raw meat, raw eggs, crushed animal bones, fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and other natural ingredients. Raw feeding is given as a substitute for processed foods with preservatives. We know a German Shepherd is a large breed dog. However, males tend to grow bigger and heavier than females, needing more food consumption. A German Shepherd puppy may need to eat at frequent schedules with smaller meals, while adult ones may not need to be fed much often but will need more significant meal portions each time. They tend to eat whatever falls from the dinner table or even whatever food they set their sights on. As we talk about food diets, we must not forget those foods you must avoid feeding your German Shepherd puppy. Generally, they may not be too sensitive to dog foods or ingredients, but other foods may be fatal to them. Coffee is one of the most toxic foods to dogs. They contain caffeine , which causes cardiac arrhythmias, high blood pressure, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Another toxic food German Shepherd owners should not feed their dog is chocolate. As yummy as this is, chocolates contain theobromine. All dog breeds cannot metabolize this substance. Gums, peanut butter, and candies that contain xylitol are also toxic to dogs. It causes disorientation, hypoglycemia, seizures, and collapse. This is much more threatening than coffee and chocolate, so you need to be extra careful with this. Aside from those mentioned above, there are many other toxic foods you should avoid feeding German Shepherds. They may not be fatal, but they can cause discomfort and progress to severe diseases. If you doubt certain foods or ingredients, you may consult a pet nutritionist or veterinarian just to be sure. Many large breed dogs visit vet clinics due to unmonitored food intake. It only fits a week-old German Shepherd. You may need to mix dry and wet foods at a certain age for your pup, or maybe you want to incorporate raw foods in their adult diet just like many dog owners do. You just have to make sure you know how to do it correctly, and you provide the most nutritious dry dog food or wet food. You should give enough time for your dog to adjust to a new food gradually. Like other shepherd breeds, you should allow a 7-day transition period from feeding German Shepherds their old food to their new diet. If there is discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may opt to slow down the process even more or consult your vet directly. Feeding an Overweight German Shepherd If you free-feed a German Shepherd, it may likely cause excessive weight gain or obesity. Furthermore, it can easily cause heavy or labored breathing during sleep and irregular movements, such as climbing stairs. Aside from dog food or canned food, a few more factors that can cause an overweight dog breed are table scraps, treats, and not enough exercise. There are a lot of alternatives for treats bought from pet stores, such as fruits and vegetables. These are easier to digest, lighter, and healthier. Eliminate table scraps and leftovers in their diet as they are unnecessary to these large breed puppies. Following a specific schedule with specific amounts of puppy food can significantly help lose weight. Implementing control in their daily meals can help reduce unnecessary food consumption. It is essential to understand that having an overweight dog is more likely caused by the lifestyle owners expose their dogs to. Also, inform family members about the diet plan, so your German Shepherd will not be too spoiled with food. There are a lot of factors why your GSD is not eating. It could be triggered by illness, dental problems , and environmental stress. But it can also be because of adverse reactions to medicines, sudden changes in food, increased body temperature, or your dog just being a picky eater. Do German Shepherds Eat a Lot? As a large breed dog, you can expect a German Shepherd to have a huge appetite. They are always eager to eat, may it be dry food, raw, or canned food. However, it is crucial to know when or how much to feed a German Shepherd to avoid weight problems and severe diseases. Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? German Shepherds can eat bones as it is a great source of minerals. However, there are cons to consider, too. According to AKC, if you want to consider giving them bones, there are certain rules you have to follow, such as giving them raw meat bones and throwing them out after three to four days. Can German Shepherds Be Vegetarians? Generally, German Shepherds can thrive and survive on a vegetarian diet, provided that they are supplied with enough nutrients, proteins, fats, and calories on a daily basis. Since German Shepherds are energetic dogs with huge appetites, we must put extra effort into planning out their diet. Options such as dry, wet, raw, and homemade diets are all great for them. Free feeding them or giving too many treats can lead to severe health problems. It is also essential to know what foods are healthy and should be avoided, as some foods are toxic. However, aside from research, we need to consult their vet to ensure that we provide them with essential nutrients for growth, good health, and development in all stages of their life, especially for giant German Shepherds , If you have other tips in feeding a German Shepherd, make sure to share them in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. Split that daily amount up between all meals. For example, if your 3-month-old GSD puppy is a male and weighs 30 pounds, you should feed him approximately 2 cups per day. Since she no longer needs the extra calories to help support her fast growth period, you can safely reduce her feedings to 2 or 3 meals per day. While she should still be eating puppy food at this point, you may consider purchasing a bag of her eventual adult formula. You can use individual kibbles from the adult formula for treats or training rewards. This will help her get used to the new flavor and texture. Around 9 months of age, you can begin slowly adding a small amount of the adult formula into her puppy food, though she should still be eating primarily puppy chow. Only your vet will be able to tell you when your dog has reached maturity and can be safely moved to adult food. So, make sure you are in close contact with your vet to be sure that your feeding plan is individualized for your specific dog. Adult dog food will have a different ratio of calcium, protein, phosphorus, and other nutrients than puppy food does. Feeding an adult dog a puppy formula can cause obesity as well as put too much strain on kidneys and other vital organs. Long term use of inappropriate food for an adult dog can have catastrophic consequences. That said, there is no need to panic if your adult GSD eats a bowl of puppy food now and then. Adult German Shepherds should be fed twice a day. Again, bloat is a real problem for large breed dogs, and large meals seem to be a big cause of this. I feed my adult dogs this particular blend for a number of reasons. The blend is designed specifically with German Shepherds in mind, as it uses high-quality, animal-based nutrients to counter the extra stress put on the joints of GSDs and to help the development strong lean muscle to keep your dog in peak physical condition. You really can see the difference. This is evident by the fast decline in health, joint flexibility, and energy in older large breed dogs compared to same-age smaller breeds. When your GSD moves from the adult life stage to senior, you need to adjust her diet. Large breeds reach the older stage not quite senior, but close around half of their assumed life expectancy. Inevitably, your GSD will need to switch over to a senior diet. Older large breed dogs have lower energy needs. Older dogs also tend to slow down their digestion, so an increase in fiber might be a good choice for your senior GSD. Do be sure to confirm this with your vet, however. Not all foods are created equal. For treats, senior dogs should avoid calorie-dense milk bones and high-salt or fatty treats. Opt for healthy, whole-food treats such as apple slices or carrots. Some senior dogs begin to develop health conditions that will require special care. This is often a result of poor nutrition early in life, but can sometimes simply be genetics and old age catching up with them. But for GSDs with health issues such as kidney disease and joint pain, diet can play an even bigger role in the quality of their lives. Getting a personalized recommendation from your veterinarian is worth the time, expense, and effort. These charts can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. Instead, use them as a starting point. Observe your dog, see how he looks and feels, and note any changes in his bathroom habits, weight, or energy level. Adjust his meals accordingly. Generally speaking, they talk about daily intake, not per meal. It means to split that 3 cups total over the entire day. If your dog eats 3 times per day, that would be 1 cup at each meal for a total daily intake of 3 cups. To further confuse dog parents, some manufacturers do list per-meal serving sizes, not the total daily intake! In these cases, if you read it incorrectly, you would end up underfeeding your dog. To help mitigate some of this confusion, it may be helpful to ask your vet how many calories your dog should be consuming each day. Then you can check the calorie content in the dog food and measure things from there. Raw Diets, Cooking for Dogs, and Other Alternative Feeding This article has been focusing mainly on commercially available dry kibble since that is what most pet parents ultimately choose for their dogs. However, there are many dog owners that choose to feed alternative diets. These include raw diets and cooking regular people food for dogs. There are many viable options for feeding your healthy German Shepherd, but there are just as many harmful fads, too. As with commercial foods, be sure to speak with your vet before starting your dog on a raw diet or home-cooking her meals. Human supplements are often unregulated, minimally effective, and often contain substances harmful to animals. Never use a human supplement for your German Shepherd. Final Thoughts What you feed your German Shepherd is just as important as how much you feed them. Pay special attention to the first 4 or 5 ingredients listed on the back of the packaging. Choose high-quality, safety-tested foods with clear ingredient and nutrition labels. The two most obvious goals of feeding your German Shepherd are for health and growth. How fast do German Shepherds grow? German Shepherds are medium-large dogs and therefore grow at a fast rate over the first six to seven months leading up to adolescence. Adult German Shepherds are 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh 50 to 95 pounds. Reputable weight charts suggest your German Shepherd puppy will have attained three-quarters of their final weight over these first six to seven months. This is A LOT of growing to do in a short amount of time — when you brought your puppy home, it was probably only eight inches tall and weighed around 15 pounds. By 12 to 15 months old, a German Shepherd is within an inch or less of their adult height. Therefore, your male German Shepherd will be 23 to 25 inches tall and weigh 59 to 93 pounds by his first birthday. How does diet affect the health of growing Shepherds? Recently it has come to light that a proper diet for puppies does more than prevent malnutrition. As part of this proper diet, there are many things that should never be fed to German Shepherds. Orthopedic Problems Many orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia have a strong hereditary component. However, people often discount the role of diet in bone developmental issues. Merely creating an oversized puppy, as is often the case for show animals and people fixated on large dogs, can lead to several painful disorders: Hip dysplasia Elbow dysplasia Panosteitis — Generalized inflammation of the long bones in puppies; common in German Shepherds. Overnutrition and over-supplementation of certain vitamins and minerals lead to paradoxical malnutrition of the bone, and subsequently improper development. Nutritional experts have modified their recommendations regarding the diets of large-breed dogs. Many nutritionists and veterinarians advocate feeding German Shepherds and other large-breed puppies an adult or professionally-formulated homemade diet to limit the occurrence and severity of developmental problems. Pet food manufacturers have caught onto the concept of overnutrition in puppies, and most carry special diets for large-breed puppies. Also, do not supplement your puppy with vitamins, minerals, or proteins without veterinarian direction — their excessive use will disrupt bone and cartilage growth and harm the growth plates. Many people use the food bag as a starting point to decide how much to feed their dogs. However, a label on commercial food is one of the easiest ways to overfeed your growing puppy. Feeding your puppy involves regularly evaluating and tracking their weight. You should be able to assess how close your pup is to their ideal weight just by looking at them. Silhouette from the side — a slight tuck. Pat the ribcage where the abdomen slightly lifts towards the hips. From above — Clear waist; should see an hourglass shape from rib cage to hips When you palpate — You should feel the ribs under a thin layer of fat without having to prod very hard. Puppies will vary in their body scores and may change rapidly within a few days. Pups often lose their abdominal tuck right after a meal. Puppies under 16 weeks old commonly have a pot-bellied appearance without much abdominal tuck. Thin dogs will show more visibility of ribs, waist, and pelvis without appearing emaciated or unhealthy. If your puppy eats well but fails to grow or gain sufficient weight, consult a medical professional. German Shepherds can be susceptible to rare cases of pituitary gland dwarfism or a deficiency of enzyme production from the pancreas. Volume The easiest way to determine how much food to give your Shepherd pup is to figure out how many cups they need in a day and divide it by the number of feedings. German Shepherds eat about four cups of food daily from 16 weeks of age to nine months or a year regardless of weight. The volume accounts for the relatively high caloric requirements of the young growing animal. German Shepherds over a year old may need as much as five to eight cups of dog food. Other references, however, use weight rather than age. Pups eat one cup of food daily per 15 to 20 pounds. Dogs over pounds receive five cups of kibble plus an additional half a cup for every extra 20 pounds. Like all models, more active dogs need to eat more food — make adjustments up or down based on body scoring. You can estimate the volume to feed your German Shepherd pup once you find the conversion rate. Dry dog food bags and wet food cans usually have the kilocalorie equivalence of each cup of the product. The number of calories you feed your Shepherd depends on how close to the adult weight they are. Once your puppy reaches six weeks old, you may still have to feed it a mash but can decrease meals to four per day. German Shepherd puppies between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks can eat three to four times daily, while most dogs over four months of age decrease to a frequency of two to three times daily. Centering a few potty breaks around meals that stimulate their intestinal tracts helps develop consistent habits. GDV Your German Shepherd puppy will begin to develop a deeper chest combined with significant size by four to six months of age. Both physical characteristics put your puppy at additional risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus compared to smaller breeds. Four months is the age at which most pups will see a significant increase in their meal sizes. Studies have linked large meals with GDV , or bloat, life-threatening distension, and rotation of the stomach. Increasing the number of feedings greatly reduces the incidence of GDV. We recommend at least two meals a day for your dog, even as your Shepherd approaches adulthood. How much to feed a German Shepherd puppy is part of a broader equation that includes avoiding overfeeding, calculating portion sizes, and scheduling appropriate mealtimes. However, a fat or pudgy puppy is not a look anyone should encourage. The puppy may appear to be in good shape, but you need to feel the ribs to be certain. Four Months You can really start to see the amount the pup has grown compared to the eight-week-old puppy! To get a better idea of what to expect with a young GSD, feel free to watch this video! It illustrates the rapid growth rate of the German Shepherd and touches on diets as well. Recommended reading. The best food for German Shepherd puppies in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to German Shepherd breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a German Shepherd puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. Before the four month mark, it is advised to include some dry food in their diet. You can do this in a few simple steps: Mix some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed your German Shepherd puppy as they get older. With this rapid growth can come some risks. German Shepherds are susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia, that can start in puppyhood. They will be very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen between 12 and 24 months of age. This is because, being a larger breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. Remember that the more active the pup, the more food they require. While following feeding guidelines is important to avoid over and underfeeding, you can adjust the amounts of food you provide to your dog based on level of activity. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask your vet for guidance. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your German Shepherd puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. For puppies, this amount will often be two of three times higher, as they are more active and growing quickly. German Shepherd puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, German Shepherd puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. However, they can also be at risk of gastric dilatation or volvulus, or GDV. Certain dog breeds can be more susceptible to GDV; particularly deep chested breeds including German Shepherds. GDV can occur when a dog bloats a few hours after eating a meal. Though the exact causes of GDV are not known, grains and cereals are suspected to be contributors. The amount of food you give your German Shepherd is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult German Shepherds, between 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female German Shepherds, which tend to be about 8 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, and 1, per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your German Shepherd based on how calorically dense their food is. German Shepherds should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs who are at risk of GDV may benefit from exercise after eating, to aid with digestion. You should also try to give your German Shepherd a high quality food that is specially designed for larger or working breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. German Shepherds can be particularly susceptible to skin disease or allergies, including canine atopic dermatitis, bacterial skin infections, flea allergy dermatitis, forms of contact dermatitis, or scabies. If your dog develops a skin issue, it is often a sign that they may be suffering from a form of food sensitivity. If you are unsure about what you should feed your German Shepherd, you should always consult your vet as they will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any allergies or chronic health issues: creating a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for years to come. Part of figuring out what you should feed your German Shepherd includes deciding between wet, dry, or a raw food diet. Wet food for German Shepherds is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. A raw diet can be a good option for your German Shepherd as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your German Shepherd, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. The amount of food you feed your dog should be determined by their activity levels, age, weight, breed, and size. Any meals prepared for your dog need to contain the right balance of nutrients. You should also be extra careful not to introduce your dog to foods that are harmful to their health. While we might enjoy the taste of nuts, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and onions, these can be toxic for dogs and can cause serious illness and even death. German Shepherds in particular need plenty of exercise as they are a large working breed with a lot of energy. No matter how old your German Shepherd is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.
Reviewed by Nelva J. Bryant Dr. Nelva Bryant, DVM, is a highly accomplished veterinarian with three decades of professional experience in animal welfare, public health, and zoonotic diseases. She has worked with airlines and the Centers for Disease Control to improve pet travel through veterinary oversight. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Ice can easily accumulate in the hair between your dog's toes, putting them at greater risk for injuries like cracked paws and bleeding. The American Veterinary Medical Association urges pet owners to check their dog's feet frequently when out in winter weather and to wash their paws after returning home to remove de-icer and salt. You should also be mindful of hot surfaces, particularly pavement which retains heat from the sun and can be several degrees hotter than the temperature outside. To find the right boots for your dog, you should seek a style that provides a proper fit, are easy to put on and take off, and are appropriate for the activities you have planned together. But we found several other styles that might work better for your pup and their paws. Our Top Picks. Puppies use their mouths to explore their environment and learn about the world. The benefits of appropriate chewing The teething process typically starts when puppies are 3 months old. You can expect your Labradoodle puppy to be teething until the adult molars come in at 6 to 7 months of age. Chewing is a natural instinct that facilitates teething and soothes sore gums. Your puppy may also enjoy chewing for fun, or to alleviate boredom. Try different items and see what your puppy enjoys the most. Your puppy cannot tell the difference between old and new. You can also put a wet towel in the freezer and give it to your puppy to alleviate teething pain. You will need to teach your puppy to only chew on certain items. Pick up or secure any inappropriate items your puppy might chew on. This includes clothes, shoes, papers, trash, and electronic devices. Keep in mind that most spray deterrents have to be reapplied frequently to maintain effectiveness. Supervising your puppy Always keep an eye on your puppy in the house. Despite your best efforts, your puppy will probably find something inappropriate to chew on. If you see your puppy chewing on an inappropriate item, interrupt the behavior and give your puppy a chew toy. Praise your puppy for taking it. You can only correct the behavior if you catch your puppy in the act. Your puppy will not associate the punishment with the act. Never yell at or hit your puppy under any circumstances. Management and supervision is the key to success These simple tips can help you prevent destructive chewing. Always remember to be patient with your puppy. In time, your puppy will learn to understand the rules and grow into a well-behaved adult Labradoodle. Baffled Daisy the labradoodle was heading out for a walk in the snow with her owner Stephanie Thomas after temperatures plummeted to Celsius in Calgary, Canada, earlier this month. To keep her paws warm, Stephanie slipped a fetching set of black snow shoes onto Daisy's feet, but they seemed to cause her to forget how her legs worked. It was not the first time the little labradoodle had been put in snow shoes, but she had not used them since last winter and appeared to have forgotten ever wearing them. Daisy the labradoodle forgot how to walk in her snow boots Image: Caters News Agency Heartbreaking moment dog in shelter gets excited to see long lost family - but they go and pick another pet Hilarious footage shows a confused Daisy kicking her feet out at odd angles as she tries to get the hang of her new footwear. Daisy ended up walking on her front two legs with owner Stephanie Thomas outside their home in Calgary, Canada Image: Caters News Agency In the film, the whole family stands around laughing, while poor Daisy struggles to adjust to the footwear. The poor pooch even resorts to walking on her front two legs - much to the amusement of her audience. Special bond between boy, 3, and his adorable labradoodle warms hearts around the world Luckily for Daisy, Stephanie said it didn't take long for the dog get used to the boots again, and she quite happily walked around in them for an hour. The whole family burst out laughing as Daisy tried to get used to the boots - and ended up standing on her two front paws Image: Caters News Agency Stephanie said: "We were howling with laughter. Luckily Daisy soon got used to her footwear, and happily walked around in the boots for an hour Image: Caters News Agency "It was so cold that day we brought out the winter gear and, apparently, she had forgotten what the shoes felt like.
High-quality Bernedoodle puppies and Moyen Poodle puppies for your family! Families looking for a well-bred, meticulously raised, pre-cuddled, home-raised puppy to become a cherished addition to their family can apply within. If you are approved and choose one of our puppies you will be considered part of our family. I have 40 years experience raising and training wonderful family companions and I am happy to help with any support you need so that you and your puppy can have the smoothest transition and the relationship of a lifetime. I have seen and worked with many breeds over the last 4 decades. I can say without a doubt that my Bernadorable Bernedoodle puppies are a great choice for a family dog. They are trainable, very minimal to no-shed, laid back, great for folks with allergies, a great size we have puppies from lbs depending on parents , not so small that they are too fragile for kids to play with and not so big they take up a lot of room, devoted to their people, and always happy most pictures I get from families, I swear they are grinning. The Bernadorables are easy to live with and a great choice for your first dog. I used to train rottweilers and bullmastiffs, I wear boots and start young horses. When I decided to make the change from shedding dogs, my standard poodle Reiki joined our family. I have 3 poodles now: my retired and spayed standard Reiki, and 2 moyen poodles — Paisley our future mom, and King George who rules my world. They are the most loving, charismatic, trainable dogs, with huge personalities. I love the moyen size; a lot of entertainment in a reasonable sized package at lbs. Because toys get chewed up, treats get eaten, blankets get threadbare, but a great start for a puppy who is pre-programmed to be confident in his own skin is the best gift I can give the fur nuggets. We have all had anxiety in our own life. I strive from day 1 to eliminate and minimize that for your puppy. My dogs have always brought so many smiles to my life that it is my sincere hope that your puppy will do the same for you and your family. Please visit their individual pages to learn more about them. Search for:. To this day, their conformation and the texture and pattern of their coats reflect the purposes for which they were bred. Miniatures and Toys have been bred down from the larger Poodles and they exhibit the same general characteristics. The Poodle is an active, intelligent, ruggedly-built dog which is at the same time elegant and refined. Well-bred Poodles in all three varieties have steady, calm nerves, hardy constitutions and they can be easily trained. A Poodle is a "person" and he expects to be treated as one. Each one is a character and for that reason they make wonderful companions. The Moyen Poodle is the 4th size of the Poodle breed and is not as small as the Miniature Poodle, and is not as tall as the Standard Poodle There is a huge gap between the Miniature and Standard Poodle when it comes to sizes. If you put a Moyen and a Standard Poodle next to each other, the only main difference you'll find is their size. Standard poodles are generally inches tall. Moyens inches tall. This size poodle is highly daughter after by Doodle breeders because they can naturally breed a moyen sized poodle to their Standard sized Doodle which will downsize the doodle offspring to a medium or sometimes mini size. This size of doodle is highly sought afterby many families who are looking for a Doodle Hybrid Mini Moyen and standard Did you know.She always answered my questions which there were many. I told her I would like a mini size, reddish curly hair and a girl. Her dogs are well care for and she made this purchase so pleasant. I would recommend Norma if you are looking for a doodle. Every picture that she posts of puppies that have been sold are just precious. Go to her website and get on her waiting list for your furry baby. You will not regret it! Norma seems to really love her dogs and takes precaution to maintain their health. I highly recommend this place if you are looking for an adorable goldendoodle. Noodle has been so good and so far very healthy and easy to train-potty trained in just a few weeks!! She also constantly gets complimented on how beautiful she is!! Another Perfect Fur Baby! Oops, you did it again! Lol - Another perfect fur baby fit for us! So what did we do?? We decided on two puppies. This has been the best experience we could have ever hoped for. Starting with reserving our future puppies to picking them up. You can tell that a lot of love and attention goes into the everyday life of these puppies until they go to there forever homes. Thanks Norma for your devotion that allowed us to open our home to the most precious fur babies ever.Max and Mia!!! Such A Blessing! Kobe has been such a blessing to our lives! He's slept so good the first two days through the night and is working on being potty trained! From the beginning, Norma was really helpful and helped us get the puppy we always dreamed of. Our Bailey is the cutest and sweetest. She loves to play hide and seek, chew on all our shoes and socks, and take naps on the couch. In fact, when she's sleeping is the only time I can take pictures of her because she's sooo wiggly! We took her for shots this morning and the vet said she looks nice and healthy. Just wanted to say thanks again! This was my first pet ever and Norma helped me navigate everything from tips regarding food transitioning to effective potty training. I appreciate how observant Norma is with her dogs. I learned that my pup had a skin infection and Norma was quick to let me know and provide the antibiotics and shampoo that the vet recommended. Thank you so much Norma! My pup is truly life changing! Shipping available Contact us for availability and a free quote on delivery of your next best friend. We're located in north-west Montana, in the heart of the beautiful Cabinet Mountains.
According to the registration statistics compiled by the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular pure bred dog in the Seattle metropolitan area. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Our Labs can be found across the country in forty 40 states from the great Southwest to historic New England, from frigid Alaska to the Sunshine state. Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we have shipped more than 8, world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily ship our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Spokane. For details, Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Labrador Retrievers Make Good Therapists In recent articles, a licensed professional counselor with thirty years of experience, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children and seniors. Dogs are a mood booster. Research has shown that it only takes a mere minutes with your pet to feel more relaxed and calm per Web, MD. Taking care of a dog gives one a great deal of joy and satisfaction. Older people greatly value their friendship with their dogs. This greatly improves their emotional health. Furthermore, it helps people to overcome one of the greatest nuisances of old age, boredom. The responsibility of taking care of the dog who is dependent on them gives the older adult a reason to live life meaningfully. As far as the dog, having such good companionship from an owner is very good for their overall pet health. Dogs are especially responsive to conversation—specifically, tone of voice. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! Now, you may notice my smolder, muscles, and soft, sleek fur.I've got a great personality, too! I am hoping I can be the apple of your eye and your loyal companion, for forever. I love all things active and fun! What can I say, I'm just a fun guy fungi? And will put a smile on your face with my goofy and adorable personality! Ropes and ball toys are my favorites. I am living in a foster home with a volunteer Certified Dog Trainer who is working to help me be the bestest mannered boy I can be. Now, I am receiving training and learning signals and cues that will help me live life to the fullest. I am very much enjoying pleasing my friends here at the shelter with how intelligent I am and how quick I am picking things up! My foster momma and I are very in sync when walking around now! Plus, the "down stay" where I pick up on a cue given and will lay down and stay even if you are walking away until it's time for "out of site recall" where once you're out of site, I will make sure to follow! I have learned "place," too! As a young doggo, I have spent most of my life in the shelter. If you adopt, please commit forever to me. If you think you can give me the love, care and companionship I dream of, set up a time to meet me! Oakley thrives when he understands exactly what is expected of him.
labrador retriever puppies for sale san antonio tx - Looking for a nonshedding, family oriented, compassionate, intuitive, companion dog? We have puppies now and coming up. Contact us: text or voice. Our email is info cherryvalleylabradoodles. You can also DM us on Instagram! Are you worried about getting a healthy dog? All our moms and dads are extensively health tested. Our puppies come with 2 year genetic health guarantees. Do you want a breeder with a good reputation? We know our blood lines and we know they are healthy with balanced people-oriented personalities. We have a health guarantee that is fair and industry standard, and rarely necessary. If you read our instagram page , you will find many of our happy customers making comments and posted their own puppy pages. And we can give referrals. Contact us for current available puppies that are ready to go now. Minis are here. She is the sweetest, mellowest smaller girl I have ever know. Flops over for belly rubs. She is from a favorite long line of Cherry Valley labradoodles stretching back 20 years to our first imports from Australia. The sire, Indy is a complete and utter love sponge, loves hikes. We have a boy and a girl available from this litter. Ready to go home mid to late September. Call or text for info. SO excited about this combo. AND we will get some fun coloring, black, red and spots! Sabine is my personal hiking buddy and snorer under the bed. She is hilarious but takes herself very seriously. And let me tell you. When she nibbled the earphones into destruction, could she ever flutter those eyelashes like a diva princess of innocence. Amazing standard pups with therapy dog temperaments, excellent healthy lineage and fun colors!! Pups are here. Boys in creams and an apricot. Testimonials As a veterinarian I work with multiple breeders. Charl and Jerry Beauchat have been clients of mine for several years. Their dogs are always kept in great condition. Every puppy is health checked and micro-chipped prior to going to its new home. Providing healthy family members remains a priority of mine as well as theirs Jonathan CortezDVM We can not say enough about the integrity of your program. Pete and Jiffy …head and shoulders above the pack when it comes to a quality breeder…. Do yourself a favor and visit Charl and Shadow Mountain Labradoodles if you are considering a new puppy. We have made a full time commitment to our program. Three of us work full time with our dogs, puppies and families. Charl and Jerry are in Southern California, our daughter Jena, has branched out and is now carrying on our work in Oklahoma! We are also currently training 10 new Australian Labradoodle Breeders in California, Oklahoma, Washington, Texas, Utah, Colorado, Missouri and Ohio to bless families and to protect this wonderful breed! Shadow Mountain Australian Labradoodles are bred with love and care in a home environment. We work hard to place our puppies in an environment where both the families and the puppies are set up for success. Quick Links. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Rancho Cucamonga California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. He is the size of a Labrador Retriever. He was at the shelter where he came in as a stray. They treated him there for an ear infection and some mild skin inflammation which he has long recovered from. We did notice cloudiness in both eyes and were diagnosed with cataracts. Surgery was done to remove them and has recovered well but will need 2 different eye drops for life. He can be very playful with other playful dogs and loves to play fetch, or, can cuddle up next to you just as well. Walks are his favorite activity. He is also good with calm, friendly smaller dogs. He has not been around cats. With children, he does better with 12 years and older. Leon becomes attached to his human and will follow them like a shadow. He can be a little stubborn and will growl and snap at times when disciplined or if bumped while sleeping. He has been adopted twice and returned for this reason. Once he is comfortable in his new home, he will do it less. He may have separation anxiety at 1st, but with time and patience, he gets over it. He does better with a furry companion. He just needs someone to give him a chance. We believe he would do good in a house with a big yard, another playful dog, or an experienced, active family. If you want to meet Leon and see if he fits you, email us at heartandhomerescueorg gmail.
Similar services:
labrador retriever puppies for sale san antonio tx - Breeds The link has been copied! Navigating the world of puppyhood can be both an exhilarating and daunting experience. Among the myriad decisions that new pet owners must make, determining the right quantity and type of food for your furry companion stands paramount. Especially for breeds like the German Shepherd, which grow rapidly and have specific nutritional needs, ensuring the right diet from the start is crucial for their overall health and development. In this guide, we will delve deep into understanding just how much to feed a German Shepherd puppy, taking into account their age, weight, activity level, and unique dietary requirements. Whether you're a first-time dog parent or a seasoned German Shepherd enthusiast, this comprehensive guide aims to shed light on your puppy's nutritional journey. German Shepherd Puppy Nutrition: The Basics The first step in understanding the feeding requirements is to grasp the basics of German Shepherd puppy nutrition. These puppies are an energetic lot. They grow rapidly and thus have specific dietary needs. For instance, did you know that a basset hound beagle mix might have completely different nutritional requirements than a German Shepherd? It's not just about the breed but also about understanding their activity levels, growth spurts, and potential health concerns. Why Exact Portions Matter Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding might stunt growth. Neither situation is ideal. A friend of mine once had a German Shepherd puppy named Max. She treated Max like her child and always felt he should eat heartily. But feeding him without a proper plan led to weight issues. By the time Max was an adult, he had joint problems and other health issues. A puppy's weight is an excellent indicator of its overall health. Regular vet check-ups can help monitor this. Contrary to popular belief, medium-sized dogs might consume less food per pound of body weight than larger breeds like the German Shepherd. And while German Shepherds might not be categorized under italian dog breeds, they still have their unique set of nutritional requirements. If you've ever seen a German Shepherd jump and play, you'd know they're highly energetic. They need a protein-rich diet. For example, while it might be safe for some dogs to occasionally eat pepperoni , a staple diet should focus on specialized puppy food with meat as the primary ingredient. Homemade Food vs. Commercial Food While there's a growing trend to feed dogs homemade meals, it's vital to ensure they're getting all the required nutrients. My neighbor, for example, only feeds her Collie nose dog a homemade diet, but she's extremely meticulous about including all necessary ingredients. With German Shepherds, a mix of both commercial and homemade can be a good approach. Commercial foods often have the advantage of being well-balanced. Common Mistakes to Avoid Not reading the food label: Just like humans, not every food is suitable for your German Shepherd puppy. Study the ingredients. Assuming all dog breeds have the same needs: Just as you wouldn't expect an Italian Greyhound one of the popular italian dog breeds to have the same dietary requirements as a German Shepherd, be breed-specific in your approach. Ignoring water intake: Hydration is as essential as nutrition. Ensure your pup has constant access to fresh water. When To Consult a Vet If you notice signs like lethargy, refusal to eat, or sudden weight changes, it's best to consult a vet. Sometimes, puppies can even get concussions from accidents at play, affecting their appetite and behavior. Always be vigilant and prioritize your puppy's health. Unlike a basset hound beagle mix which might have a more consistent growth rate, German Shepherds can surprise you with their growth spurts. Adjusting their feeding schedule becomes critical to ensure they're getting enough fuel for growth but not so much that it leads to obesity. Transitioning to Adult Food When your German Shepherd reaches around six to twelve months, you'll need to think about transitioning from puppy food to adult food. Remember how our parents told us we couldn't survive on pizza forever? Similarly, as tempting as it might be for a dog to eat pepperoni as a treat, it's essential to understand that what was beneficial for them as puppies might not be suitable as adults. Watching Out for Allergies Food allergies in dogs are more common than you'd think. If you notice symptoms like excessive itching, ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues, your puppy might be reacting to something in their diet. Interestingly, even breeds like the Collie nose have shown tendencies for certain allergies. Consulting with a veterinarian can help determine the cause and adjust the diet accordingly. Treats and Snacks: Yay or Nay? Who doesn't love treating their fur baby? But it's essential to ensure treats don't become a mainstay of their diet. Think of it this way: would you let a child eat candy all day just because they like it? The same goes for treats. They're delightful but should be given in moderation. Remember those medium-sized dogs we talked about earlier? They, just like German Shepherds, require a well-balanced diet. While it's okay to give them an occasional treat, be sure it's suitable for their size and age. Exercise and Feeding: The Vital Connection You might wonder, what does exercise have to do with feeding? A lot! An active German Shepherd puppy will burn more calories than one that lounges around. It's akin to humans — an athlete's diet varies significantly from someone with a sedentary lifestyle. Keep a watchful eye on your puppy's activity levels. If you've got a sprawling backyard where your German Shepherd loves to play and maybe occasionally chase the odd squirrel, they'll likely need more food. But if it's winter and they're indoors most of the time, you might need to adjust the portions slightly. Their lineage traces back to times when they were used for herding and guarding. This means their nutritional demands might be higher than some other breeds. The Role of Genetics While a lot of emphasis is given to diet and exercise, we can't ignore the role genetics play. For instance, just like how some people can be lactose intolerant or have gluten allergies, specific breeds, including the German Shepherd, can be genetically predisposed to certain health conditions. A basset hound beagle mix might have a set of genetic health issues different from a German Shepherd. Such genetic predispositions can affect dietary needs. For example, German Shepherds can be prone to hip dysplasia, a condition where joint health becomes paramount. Supplements like glucosamine can be beneficial in such cases. Advocates believe it mimics the natural diet of wild ancestors. This might involve raw meats, bones, and even organs. But is it right for a German Shepherd puppy? Like with any diet, there are pros and cons. Raw diets can offer fresher, unprocessed nutrients, but there's also a risk of bacterial infections or missing out on essential vitamins and minerals. If you're considering this for your German Shepherd, do thorough research and perhaps even consult with a vet or a pet nutritionist. The Perils of Over-Feeding Just because your puppy gobbles down food quickly doesn't mean they're still hungry. Some dogs, especially active breeds like German Shepherds, have voracious appetites. But overfeeding can lead to a myriad of health issues, from the obvious obesity to other problems like diabetes. Remember the mention of dogs that eat pepperoni? Occasional indulgence is one thing, but consistently feeding your puppy fatty or human foods can be harmful in the long run. The Importance of Hydration While we've talked a lot about food, water is just as crucial. Puppies, especially active ones, need a lot of water. Always ensure that your German Shepherd puppy has access to fresh and clean water. Hydration aids in digestion, keeps the body temperature regulated, and ensures smooth functioning of bodily processes. The Game Changer for German Shepherd Puppy Owners As we've been diving deep into the world of German Shepherd puppies, understanding their unique needs and growth patterns, it's essential to introduce a tool that's becoming a game changer for many puppy owners: the FI dog collar. The Link Between Nutrition and Activity German Shepherds, as mentioned before, are incredibly active dogs with varying nutritional needs based on their activity levels. This is where the FI dog collar shines. Imagine having a Fitbit for your dog. Is your puppy more active than the average German Shepherd? Then they might need a slightly larger portion at dinner. Or perhaps they've had a particularly lazy day? Maybe cut back a little on the treats. Just like you wouldn't feed a sedentary basset hound beagle mix the same as an active German Shepherd, within the breed itself, there are variances based on individual activity. Safety First German Shepherds are curious by nature. Whether they're tempted to eat pepperoni from the kitchen counter or are intrigued by the scent trail of a squirrel, they can sometimes wander off. If your German Shepherd puppy decides to go on an unscheduled adventure, you can quickly locate them. The FI collar provides health insights tailored to your German Shepherd puppy, considering their breed, age, and weight. This feature ensures that whether you have a sprightly Collie nose or an active German Shepherd, the collar provides insights best suited for your dog. You'd want a collar that's as tough as they are. The FI collar boasts a durable design that can withstand the playful antics of your puppy, from rough play to the occasional dip in the pond. Conclusion: In the journey of raising a robust and healthy German Shepherd puppy, understanding their unique dietary needs is paramount. From recognizing the importance of portions, transitioning to adult food, and monitoring for allergies to acknowledging the value of hydration, every step plays a vital role. The modern addition of tools like the FI dog collar amplifies our ability to cater to their needs, providing real-time activity data and ensuring their safety. As German Shepherd owners, while it's essential to know how different they are from breeds like the basset hound beagle mix or Italian dog breeds, it's equally crucial to embrace technology and insights for their optimal well-being. The link has been copied! You might also like. The breed was officially known as the Alsatian in Britain until when its name was changed back to German Shepherd. The German Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog, with their origin dating to .As part of the Herding Group, German Shepherds are working dogs developed originally for herding sheep. Since that time however, because of their strength, intelligence, trainability, and obedience, German Shepherds around the world are often the preferred breed for many types of work, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police and military roles, and acting. German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs. The breed standard height at the withers is 60—65 cm 24—26 in for males, and 55—60 cm 22—24 in for females. The AKC official breed standard does not set a standard weight range. They have a domed forehead, a long square-cut muzzle with strong jaws and a black nose. The eyes are medium-sized and brown. The ears are large and stand erect, open at the front and parallel, but they often are pulled back during movement. A German Shepherd has a long neck, which is raised when excited and lowered when moving at a fast pace. The tail is bushy and reaches to the hock. German Shepherds have a two-layer coat which is close and dense with a thick undercoat. The coat is accepted in two variants; medium and long. The long-hair gene is recessive, making the long-hair variety rarer. Treatment of the long-hair variation differs across standards; they are accepted but not competed with standard coated dogs under the German and UK Kennel Clubs while they can compete with standard coated dogs, but are considered a fault in the American Kennel Club. The FCI accepted the long-haired type in , listing it as the variety b—while short-haired type is listed as the variety a. Most color varieties have black masks and black body markings which can range from a classic "saddle" to an over-all "blanket. The all-black and sable varieties are acceptable according to most standards; however, the blue and liver are considered to be serious faults and the all-white is grounds for instant disqualification from showing in conformation at All Breed and Specialty Shows. German Shepherds are moderately active dogs and are described in breed standards as self-assured. The breed is marked by a willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose. They are curious, which makes them excellent guard dogs and suitable for search missions. They can become over-protective of their family and territory, especially if not socialized correctly. They are not inclined to become immediate friends with strangers. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and obedient, as well as being protective of their owners. While an Australian report from provides statistics showing that German Shepherds are the breed third most likely to attack a person in some Australian locales, once their popularity is taken into account, the percentages of GSD attacks drops to 38th. According to the National Geographic Channel television show Dangerous Encounters, the bite of a German Shepherd has a force of over 1, newtons lbf compared with that of a Rottweiler, over 1,—1, newtons — lbf , a Pit bull, 1, newtons lbf , a Labrador Retriever, of approximately 1, newtons lbf , or a human, of approximately newtons 86 lbf. The modern German Shepherd breed is criticized by some for straying away from Max von Stephanitz's original ideology that German Shepherds should be bred primarily as working dogs and that breeding should be strictly controlled to eliminate defects quickly. He believed that, above all else, German Shepherds should be bred for intelligence and working ability. German Shepherds are a popular selection for use as working dogs. They are known for being easy to train and good for performing tasks and following instructions. They are especially well known for their police work, being used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects. Additionally, thousands of German Shepherds have been used by the military. Usually trained for scout duty, they are used to warn soldiers to the presence of enemies or of booby traps or other hazards. German Shepherds have also been trained by military groups to parachute from aircraft or as anti-tank weapons. They were used in World War II as messenger dogs, rescue dogs and personal guard dogs. A number of these dogs were taken home by foreign servicemen, who were impressed by their intelligence. The German Shepherd is one of the most widely used breeds in a wide variety of scent-work roles. These include search and rescue, cadaver searching, narcotics detection, explosives detection, accelerant detection and mine detection dog, among others. They are suited for these lines of work because of their keen sense of smell and their ability to work regardless of distractions. At one time the German Shepherd was the breed chosen almost exclusively to be used as a guide dog for the visually impaired. When formal guide dog training began in Switzerland in the s under the leadership of Dorothy Eustis, all of the dogs trained were German Shepherd females. An experiment in temperament testing of a group of Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds showed that the Retrievers scored higher on average in emotional stability and ability to recover promptly from frightening situations, cooperative behavior and friendliness; while the German Shepherds were superior in aggression and defensive behavior. These results suggested that Labrador Retrievers were more suited to guide dog work while German Shepherds were more suited to police work. Currently, Labradors and Golden Retrievers are more widely used for this work, although there are still German Shepherds being trained. The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in the United Kingdom states that crosses between Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers make the best guide dogs, although they also train some German Shepherds, as well as some other breeds. German Shepherds are still used for herding and tending sheep grazing in meadows next to gardens and crop fields. They are expected to patrol the boundaries to keep sheep from trespassing and damaging the crops. In Germany and other places these skills are tested in utility dog trials also known as HGH Herdengebrauchshund herding utility dog trials. He is regarded to be the dog who has captured the most drugs in Mexican police and military history. PNG images: German Shepherd.