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Rachael Ray Nutrish is another brand I love for Labrador Retriever puppies as it is packed with DHA for healthy brain and eye development and specially formulated for young, growing dogs. You can also select different sizes and recipes. My favorite is chicken and brown rice. Bedding And Toys Lab puppies need quality bedding and toys for teething. Labrador puppies grow quickly and have sharp claws and teeth. Puppies also go through a teething phase and will need special teething toys to help soothe their sore mouths and help keep your furniture safe. As far as bedding, the best bedding for a Labrador puppy is going to be made of high quality material that is soft and plush while also being sturdy enough to keep them off the floor and support their growing bodies. KONG toys are wonderful tools to use during crate training , but they also help with separation anxiety , boredom, and the teething stage that all puppies go through. Enter the Nylabone Puppy Starter Pack. These flavored chew toys come both textured and regular to help get your pup and your furniture through the teething stage safely. Cuddly toys like the Smart PetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy above can help your new Labrador puppy adjust to sleeping on his own, assist in crate training, and may even help alleviate anxieties including noise phobias and separation anxiety. Puppy blankets are a must and can be used for multiple purposes in your home for your pup. My favorite puppy blankets are blankets that are specially made for dogs, like the Luciphia fleece blankets above. While you can use any blankets on hand, blankets that are specially made for dogs are usually a bit more durable, easier to wash, and have been made with quality and safe material for your pooch. Puppy blankets just make it easy to always a comfy place for your puppy to rest his head no matter where you are. Ultra Squeaker Ball is an absolute favorite in my house and with my clients. I especially love using this toy for puppies who are just getting the hang of playing fetch. For puppies, picking up on how to play fetch can be tough. Balls that squeak or make noise when thrown help to make the game more exciting and help encourage young pups to chase whatever is making that high pitched sound! Leashes, Harnesses, and Collars Collars, leashes, and harnesses are important tools to help socialize your puppy. Getting your puppy used to wearing a leash, harness, and collar is an important step towards socializing them. So even though your Labrador puppy will outgrow his harness and collar quickly, I still suggest investing in these items. Here are five of my favorite leash, harness, and collar products for Labrador Retriever puppies. As I mentioned above, puppies are especially fragile so steer clear of attaching a leash to their collar and try to help them adjust to wearing a harness that is comfortable. What I like about this harness is that it is adjustable so you can use it a bit longer as your puppy grows. Best of all it is the perfect length five feet for puppy training and is a leash your Lab puppy can take with him into adulthood. It is built like a standard leash, but it offers you control over how far away your puppy can get. This is excellent for puppy parents who live in busy neighborhoods or who are working with a puppy who likes to wander. Large breed puppies like Labrador Retrievers require crates that grow with them. This is why I love crates that come with dividers so that they can grow with your Lab puppy. I also recommend playpens, as Labrador puppies are notorious for being very active and energetic. Lab puppies are also incredibly curious and tend to chew a lot in their first few months, which is why indoor dog gates will also be an important part of puppy proofing your home. Take a look at some of my favorite puppy-proofing products below. Nobody likes cleaning up potty accidents. Of course, no one wants a big, bulky pen that takes up half of their home either! I also love that the pen is big enough for puppies to grow into and allows them to learn how to explore a space larger than their crate while keeping them and your home safe from their curiosity. And since crate training is such an important part of puppyhood and actually helps your puppy adjust to being alone and feeling secure, we recommend investing in a good, high quality crate you can use for years. It has two separate doors for entrance and exit and it comes with a divider so it can be adjusted to the size of your dog as he grows. Just remember to leave your pup inside his crate with a KONG and some bedding so he is comfortable, and remember that puppies who are younger than six months old should not stay in their crates for longer than four hours. For those of you who plan to leave your puppy out and about while you are gone and after he is trained, of course , then a crate that folds may be your best bet. The MidWest Foldable Dog Crate posted above is one such crate that is not only made well, but also stores well. Like most crates ideal for Labrador puppies, this crate also comes with a divider so it can grow with your dog. Along with crates and puppy playpens, you also might consider getting a gate to keep your puppy from entering places in your home that may pose a risk to him. Many of my clients keep gates up in their kitchen entryway, or gate their living rooms where puppies are tempted to chew on wood furniture. Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate Sale Buy on Amazon For those of you worried about installing something or accidentally damaging walls or paint, there are always free-standing gate options, like the Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate. I do like the way these gates look and the simplicity of them, however, they are not always the most secure and may not stand up to a strong and curious puppy. These gates are also not ideal for leaving puppies unsupervised as they can sometimes find ways to knock them down. Grooming your Labrador puppy early on not only helps to socialize him and prepare him for a life of vet visits, groomer visits, and physical contact with people, but it also helps to keep him clean and healthy. Like babies, puppies are more sensitive to certain products and require products that are specifically designed to be gentle on their sensitive skin and fur. Be selective of the shampoos, dog brushes , and other grooming products you pick for your Labrador puppy and make sure you always use high-quality products. Some of the products I recommend most for grooming a Labrador puppy are listed below. Pet Care Sciences Puppy Shampoo. Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. What should be in a Labrador puppy starter pack? Choosing the right kind of food for your Labrador Retriever puppy is important - they may have special dietary requirements such as grain free and hypoallergenic foods. Identification A must-have item are identification tags which should be firmly attached to your puppy's collar. Remember to include your current address and phone number. It's also a good idea to include a separate tag with your veterinarian's name and phone number. We strongly recommend NOT to include your pets name on the tags, as anyone who may try to take your pup will be able to call them by name and your dog may assume they are friendly. Most pet shops offer over-the-counter tag engraving. Dog Lead There are lots of leads to choose from; short, long, retractable, halty leads.There's really no one perfect lead and it's down to personal preference for you and your dog. We can however recommend that if you have a large or strong dog breed that you start off with a regular short lead, at least until your pup is well trained and can walk nicely on a lead. A shorter lead here makes controlling your pup easier and is better for everyone's safety. Perfect-Pets have a fantastic book available, filled with lots of help and advice on training your dog including lead training. Stain Removers and Deodorizers We can say for sure that at some point your puppy will make a big mess. Having good cleaning products ready to go is important to avoid any lasting stains or, more importantly, any lingering smells. If the area is not cleaned and deodorised properly, your pup will be able to smell it and will assume that this is the place to go to the bathroom. Remember that just because you can't smell it, doesn't mean that your dog can't - their sense of smell is much better than your own. Most stain removers do a good job, but we highly recommend the Simple Solution Extreme Stain Remover. Poor dental health can lead to a number of health problems, but they are so easy to avoid. You can get an actual Dog Toothbrush, but in our experience a lot of dogs won't sit and allow you to brush their teeth. You can get Toothbrush Chew Toys and fill with doggy toothpaste instead - this will clean their teeth and provide entertainment all in one. A lot of dog owners choose to have their pup professionally groomed, but if you want to bath them at home then you'll need a good shampoo. Puppies skin is sensitive, and even grown dogs can be prone to skin irritation from chemicals and substances present in a lot of grooming products. We recommend using a sensitive dog shampoo with no or only a mild scent, such as this Pro Pooch Sensitive Dog Shampoo. Dog Bed and Crate Your new puppy needs to feel safe and comfortable to have a good nights sleep, especially if you plan to have them sleep downstairs overnight. We suggest getting a puppy crate and draping blankets or towels over it to create a nice little den for them. Realistically, your pup will outgrow their first or even first few dog beds quickly, so we recommend finding one that is comfortable but inexpensive such as this basic dog bed. Once your puppy is all grown up, there are lots of great beds to choose from such as this highly rated ANWA Donut Dog Bed , or for dogs who prefer beds with sides ours does! Toys and Chews Puppies love to chew. They normally chew to entertain themselves, or because they're teething or even just because they're bored. Having dog toys and chews that your pup has easy access to is important to avoid any destructive behaviour towards furniture, flooring, clothes or pretty much anything within reach! Choosing toys and chews that are the right size, shape and texture for their growing teeth, mouth and jaws is important for healthy physical development. Strong chewers such as Labradors, Rottweilers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers to name a few require tough chew toys - unless you want to buy new toys on a weekly or even daily basis. Recent posts. The crate which we suggest is foldable which makes it extra convenient. Dogs are naturally den animals and a crate provides them with a place where they can relax and feel safe. Crate training and choosing the right size Crate training makes toilet training a million times easier, and keeps your puppy safe at night whilst the family is asleep. The best puppy crate is one which is big enough for them to stand up, stretch out, turn around and lie down in. But no bigger. Or by buying an adult sized crate which comes with a divider, to allow you to provide the correct amount of space for your growing puppy. Bedding You will of course also need bedding to line the crate. This fake fleecy fur bedding comes in a roll and you can either buy a piece to fit your crate or cut to it to size yourself. For puppies, you should avoid any dog bed with a fancy liner and a stuffed or padded interior. Your pup will probably rip it open and eat the contents in no time. Check out our indestructible dog bed article for some great inspiration. Food is obviously the most important item on your new puppy supplies list. Puppy Food To start with, your new pup will need to eat three to four times a day. Having a supply of the new brand ready will allow you to make this changeover from the old food to the new, before the old runs out. The best puppy food is one which is low in carbohydrates and high in protein. Puppy Bowls Next up on the new puppy supplies list are their food and water bowls. Most of them are dishwasher safe, and cheap to buy. You can have a couple in the cupboard, making it easy to keep the food bowl shiny and clean between meals. The downside of the usual stainless steel food bowls is that they can tip over, not to mention the horrendous noise as the puppy chases them around the kitchen! To avoid these disadvantages, find a non-slip version with a steadier bottom. Those designed for use by dogs and puppies. Ceramic water bowls help to keep the water cool as well. The best part of getting a new pup is the fun you have playing with them — and for this puppy toys are real Labrador essentials! Between 12 to 24 weeks your pup will be losing their baby teeth and their new teeth will be emerging. This is a very uncomfortable time for you pup — the reason why they chew everything in their path. You can protect your shoes, furniture , and even cables, by making sure that they have plenty of toys to chew instead. Puppy toys are fun to buy, and there are a lot of choices out there. We have a couple of real firm favorites when it comes to puppy toys. Puppy kongs are brilliant. Kongs bounce around and can be played with if your pup feels like it, or picked up and carried around. Just make sure that the rope is thick and not easily shredded. Be sure to avoid small toys, or those with small parts that can be chewed off, that your pup can swallow. They can cause choking or blockages in their bellies. Besides being too small, the toys in your puppy supplies should also not be too big. They should be able to get their mouths around their toys easily. Having to stretch to chew on or pick up toys or bones that are too big can injure their growing jaws. Collar and leash You should introduce your pup to their dog collar and leash as soon as possible. They can get used to wearing their collar in the house from a young age, before going outside for walks. It has a convenient quick release buckle as well as an ID tag. Dog harnesses, instead of collars, are becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers. Always use a harness for a dog that has problems breathing. It also has a thick padded handle to protect your hands. A pup might still squirm and try to get away. Then you can start brushing again. Letting your pup inspect and sniff the brush also helps them to get over any fear. This specialised pet brush has fine bent wires that gets rid of mats without hurting. Amongst the most useful Lab puppy essentials on our new puppy checklist are puppy barriers. There are a few options for creating barriers, to keep your pup safe and give them some space when they need a break. The most popular puppy barriers are actually baby gates. They make fantastic human toddler and puppy barriers — you might even use them to separate the two. They come in a few different sizes, and fit into most doorways or hallway spaces. The human members of the family can easily come and go, whilst keeping the puppy securely contained. You can start using it with your pup from a very young age. Combined with treats, they let the pup know exactly when you approve of their behavior. Their use is rapidly increasing in popularity. Using positive reinforcement training and working with a clicker will help you to both train your puppy, and to form a stronger bond and better relationship together as he grows. Almost last but not least on our new puppy checklist is puppy insurance. There have been astonishing advances in the veterinary treatments that are available for our pets today. Most things you can be treated for, your dog can be treated for too. Open heart surgery, complex hip operations, and advanced cancer treatments are all available to dogs. Read The Small Print And do read the small print before you buy, some of the cheaper policies will dump you at the end of the year if your dog gets a long term condition. I did not read the small print and this happened to me. So take care to choose a policy that keeps on renewing as long as you keep on paying. Many dog owners would recommend the final Labrador puppy accessory on our new puppy checklist as the most essential. Covering everything from the first days at home, through crate training, potty training, dealing with teething and much more. Do you have any tips for our readers? Are there other items that you wish you had bought before your Labrador puppy arrived and would add to our puppy supplies list? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. Non-slip bottom dog dishes Puppies naturally move their dish around as they are eating, especially if the dish has a flat bottom that easily pushes around the floor. We have found that dishes with a non-slip bottom can help so that your puppy is not chasing around his food dish. Make sure that it is large enough. And since dogs grow fast, that means they will likely grow to that size within a year to a year and a half. Almost all dogs we train eat between 4 -6 cups of dog food a day. So, make sure that your dish is large enough to accommodate this many cups. Water dish It is vitally important that your puppy have access to clean water for drinking. With the puppies we raise, we have found that it can be challenging to keep a small water dish full, so we prefer to use these 2-gallon water dishes. They are easy to fill and allow us to only have to fill them a couple times a week instead of several times a day. We suggest that you introduce a lead to your puppy as they start to grow in confidence and walk further from you when outside. There are two great reasons to do this early on. First it teaches your puppy how to handle the pressure of not being able to go wherever they want whenever they want. And it keeps your puppy from developing a habit of running away from you. A Flexi-lead works especially well if you want to give your puppy a little more freedom to go do his potty business but still keep control. Toys Puppies need toys. If you do not give them toys that they CAN chew and play with, they will chew on your sofa leg, or a book or a blanket or anything else they can find. So, purchase some good durable puppy chew toys. But watch your pup carefully. As they get older and stronger, they will be able to rip apart cloth toys and ingest them. Or they will chew rubber toys into small pieces and eat them. When your pup gets strong enough to destroy toys, it is time to take away the puppy toys and give them only dog toys designed for older , larger dogs or quality rawhides that they can chew that will not cause digestive problems. Stay away from rope toys. Many puppies have managed to ingest strings and ropes requiring surgery to remove them. Puppy-sized bumper If your plan is for your Labrador puppy to become a hunting or competition dog, you should have a puppy sized bumper. Learn more about teaching your puppy to fetch in this post. Barriers I recommend that you section off a small portion of your home and not let your puppy have full run of the entire house. Learn more about housebreaking your Lab puppy in this post. To section off a part, it can be helpful to have some child-gates available or an area of your home that you can close doors. This means that you need to show your puppy where the boundaries are and what is and is not allowed. To do this, you will need a few more tools. This is often when we see dogs that are running away from their owners, playing keep-a-way when retrieving and just basically being naughty. A lot of this could be avoided with the use of a check cord. Yes, a check cord can be cumbersome and often a pain to use, but it only takes one or two times of your puppy running away from you to make it worth it. Put a check cord on your puppy and allow them to drag it around with them. This alone is a great lesson for a dog. Dragging the weight is a type of pressure that they will need to learn to deal with. Occasionally, step on the rope and allow your dog to feel the pressure of being stopped and controlled. These sound like such minor things, but you would be surprised how much more well-adjusted your puppy will be just from learning these minor lessons. Chain or prong collar As your puppy gets stronger, it will get more and more difficult to control your puppy with a lead just hooked up to a nylon collar. As you notice that your puppy is getting harder to control, is pulling you around or dragging you down the street, you need to move to a chain or prong collar. Actually, it would be best if you changed to a chain or prong collar long before this becomes an issue. Remember, it is always easier to fix problems when they are small rather than waiting for them to become huge problems. Larger bumpers for retrieving dogs As your dog gets larger, you will want to move away from the puppy bumper and start using regular sized retrieving bumpers. We prefer to use plastic or rubber bumpers since they do not get as dirty or smelly as the canvas ones. They also last a lot longer and can be used for both water and land retrieves. Learn all about the different bumpers used for training hunting dogs here. Orange is a color that is difficult for retrievers to see, so that color should not be used for young dogs that are just learning about retrieving and hunting. Save the orange ones for advanced dogs working on blind retrieves. Final thoughts on What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? There are many things that you will need for your new puppy both now and in the future. Take some time to prepare before you bring your puppy home so that you will avoid buying things on impulse that you may or may not need. If you are planning on using your puppy as a hunting or competition dog, check out 6 vital tools every gun dog trainer needs. You can email me at ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy?

But at 10 weeks old a good routine and schedule is really going to help you crack the sleep and nap time routine. A feeding , playing, and, toilet training schedule will also help you get into the groove of what your puppy needs, at what time and will generally save you a lot of stress. Knowledge is power, right? Get into the groove with Zigzag! Some puppies will have been in their new homes a couple of weeks by this point, some of you may have only just picked your puppy up from their breeder. Many breeders now give puppies their first vaccinations before they go to their new homes. Read our full guide to puppy vaccinations for more on that. Now onto teething. Lack of sleep means overtiredness and angsty pups, who are more likely to be bitey and generally just a bit manic. Crates and playpens can help with this as they give your puppy a chill out zone that they can fully relax in. Photo by Shane Guymon on Unsplash What you should start doing at weeks Puppies are always learning, so at 10 weeks old you can train your puppy all kinds of basic cues and commands. The fancy trick training can come later! Get yourself and your week-old puppy into a routine Puppies thrive on routines. Knowing what comes next and life being dependable helps build confidence in your puppy. For a week-old puppy schedule, there will generally be a cycle of sleep, wake up and toilet, eat, toilet, play, toilet, sleep, toilet, bit more toilet. .Your week-old puppy will need to go to the toilet frequently so implementing a toilet training schedule of when to take them out and setting reminders in your phone will help you not forget. Toilet training takes time, and puppies learn through repetition that going to the toilet in the right place will mean rewards, but there can be a few accidents before you get to that point. Create a socialisation schedule At 10 weeks old, your pup will be in their socialisation window. This is a period of time where pups are more receptive to new things, and they learn a lot about the world. Read our full article on socialisation for more information. Find training puzzling? Download Zigzag! Have lots of chew toys available for your puppy Teething means sore gums and also a desire to chew chew chew. If you have plenty of toys around for your puppy to chew on, it will save your skirting boards. You can do this by deciding the rules in your house, writing it out and popping it on the fridge. Finding the right one can be tricky, ideally, you want one that will take you at weeks. Choose a member from one of the organisations in the UK Dog Charter so you can be sure they use positive reinforcement based methods. They are basically like a toddler, and have little control of their emotions at this age, they get tired very quickly and will be dribbling a lot. Puppies lose their baby teeth because the adult ones are pushing through, this can cause a lot of pain, and an increase in saliva. Read our full guide to when does my puppy lose their teeth to learn more. Playfulness Puppies practise hunting behaviour through playing, and will enjoy you being their play partner as they chase and pounce on toys. Play is great for building a relationship and life long bond with your pup, try some of our training games to sneak in some training at the same time. They need time and a bit of help to calm down at this age. A week-old puppy needs a sleep schedule…and plenty of it! They are growing at a rate of knots, emotionally, mentally and physically and they need those down time hours in the daytime to recharge, reset and rest. What exercise will my week-old puppy need? Mental exercise via training and enrichment is also a great bet at this age to keep them stimulated and relieve boredom. What should I be feeding my week-old puppy? Your week-old puppy may still be on 4 meals a day — this is fine! Some people may have already dropped to 3 meals, but for many week-old pups 4 meals help to keep them full and deliver enough food throughout the day. Puppies have a fast growth rate so getting the right ratios of fats, proteins, carbs and essential minerals will be important for their development. Photo by David Clarke on Unsplash How to continue training past the week puppy schedule? Training never stops with dogs, and especially not with puppies, they are very willing pupils. Your puppy is at the very beginning of their training journey and will be learning about the world through socialisation experiences. Finding a puppy socialisation class will be the next logical step here. Do your research, watch a few, and join one that uses positive reinforcement training. Members belonging to organisations signed up to the UK Dog Charter all use these methods, so you can be sure the training will be kind and effective. Enjoying Zigzag? Try our app! Your puppy schedule at 10 weeks of age will mainly focus on socialisation, toilet training, sleep training, plenty of play and controlling their chewing. You can also carry on your puppy training journey with the Zigzag app. We know that sometimes having someone to talk to is a bit of a life saver as a new puppy parent. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. Check Price on Amazon 6. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. This is known as command nagging. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If an order is not executed the first time, show your Lab what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they learn to obey the first time the command is made. Discipline at the Precise Moment of the Unwanted Behavior Timing is crucial when disciplining your 8-week-old Labrador pup. Dogs will typically forget an experience in 2 minutes. However, they can recall your training commands through associative memory. Once your pup has corrected his unwanted behavior with the desired behavior, reward him with a tasty treat and lots of praise. To learn more about how to discipline your dog, check out my top article, How to Discipline a Labrador: What Not to Do! It can also cause aggression in dogs , as found in this year-long study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania. Using physical punishment such as hitting, kicking, or grabbing the jowls and shaking, is simply animal abuse. Other unacceptable methods are physically forcing the dog down onto its side or back, growling at your dog, withdrawing food, using a shock collar, or tying it for hours. Wean Your Puppy off Training Treats Your Labrador needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when he has repeatedly performed the behavior and completely mastered it in different locations and with various distractions. Nonetheless, your Labrador puppy is still a dog in training, and you still need to tell him that he has done the right thing. The rule of thumb is that they are trained young when it comes to dog training. You should train Labrador puppies as soon as you bring them home, typically around 8 weeks of age. The American Kennel Club AKC indicates that the first key milestone when training a Lab pup is 8 weeks, as soon as they have left their mother. It is a crucial time to lay the foundation for your Labrador puppy to integrate into the family. When you bring your Labrador Retriever puppy home at two months, it has most likely interacted with a few situations and is eager enough to learn and follow the rules of a new home. A recent study scientifically proved that 8-week-old puppies are quite capable of learning at this young age as they quickly learned to open a puzzle box baited with food and remembered the skill an hour later. Interestingly, these puppies learned the skill better from a human rather than their mother. Other studies have also proven that it is effective for future behavior to teach puppies socialization and other skills rather than adults. In this study, puppies who attended a command and socialization training class for one hour a day for six months responded better to strangers than adult dogs who attended the same classes. Are Lab Puppies Easy to Train? Lab puppies are easy to train. They are a working breed that enjoys physical and mental stimulation and have many positive traits. They are intelligent, devoted, friendly, highly social, and love to please. They are often used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, or search and rescue due to their easy trainability. Apart from the age factor, other breed-specific reasons make training a Labrador puppy easy. Here are three examples: Labradors are among the most intelligent dog breeds. In his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, canine psychologist Stanley Coren lists Labradors in the top tier of the smartest dogs. So, even at just two months, your puppy has it in his blood to learn and carry out commands. To perform their original working job of retrieving fish that came off the trawl, Labradors had to be watchful and enthusiastic. These are essential learning characteristics. As game and waterfowl retrievers for hunters, Labradors have to be obedient. Another core training requirement makes your Lab puppy easy to train. With these ten principles on exactly how to train an 8-week-old Labrador, you can now apply them to the key areas your young puppy needs to be trained in. Labrador Puppy Training: Key Areas There are five critical areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week-old Lab puppy. In the next section, I will tell you what the training entails. How to Socialize a Labrador They say humans are social beings, but that is also true about dogs. Socialization begins with the breeder and continues with you. To socialize a Labrador, expose him to many different places and situations. Include sounds, smells, other adults, children, animals, cars, objects, etc. Dogs who are well socialized in the first 12 weeks will be set up for life. Socializing and training your puppy young plays a significant role in the development of adult dogs, as evidenced in this important study. Here are two key findings: Dogs that are well socialized as pups will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display unwanted behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. Socialized dogs are more likely to engage in positive social behaviors with humans. They also learn better how to play games with humans, helping them establish a true bond with their owners. As a puppy, you can teach your Labrador social skills and confidence through intentional training moments in the family. Once he has completed his vaccinations, take him to public places such as parks or puppy socialization classes. Put him outside hourly and learn to anticipate when he needs to go. Reward and praise him when he does go outside. Usually, puppies will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and after meals. Use their natural rhythm for daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing in the area they sleep in and usually hold it. Nonetheless, very young puppies might be unable to do so. Walk your Labrador after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to allow him to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. Puppies will need to be allowed to relieve themselves every hour, and for vaccinated dogs, a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent them from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you need to go out, get someone to help you stick to the routine. Repeating this routine for the first few days will give your new furry friend a good idea of his expectations. Check out my guide to Labrador potty training here. To crate train an 8-week-old Labrador puppy, start as soon as you bring him home. Slowly introduce him to the crate by throwing a treat inside and let him explore the crate voluntarily. When you first leave him with the door closed, make sure he is tired as he will sleep and not be afraid. Check out my Best Dog Crates for Labradors and Playpens recommendations, including soft crates, travel crates, and furniture styles. Here are six key things you should practice when crate-training your Labrador: Keep your puppy in the crate at night. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets used to other sleeping arrangements. My puppy cried during the first night, but she was just fine after that. Lab puppies can be left alone in a crate for 1 hour for each month of age for up to 4 hours. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house. This is also for his safety, such as when you are cooking. Do not let your Lab out of the cage when barking or giving you those puppy eyes. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate, i. He will quickly learn that being quiet leads to nice things. He will quickly learn that this special place is just for him. Various toys and bedding will offer some comfort for your Labrador. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, the best ones will give your Lab enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. Instead, buy a crate with an adjustable divider that allows him to grow into and choose a standard metal model with either a single or double door. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel , also from Amazon, are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog. This one is even airline adaptable and meets most airline cargo specifications. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained not to hurt as they have learned their bite inhibition. This simply means that the dog has learned to control the strength of his bite. This sends the message that the bite hurts. Persist by leaving your hand in his mouth until he lets go, then use lots of praise. All puppies need to master this technique that they initially learned from their mother and littermates. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Training your Lab puppy to soft bite must be done in puppyhood as an adolescent dog will not know how to adjust the force of his jaws when he has adult teeth and adult jaw muscles. This can be devastating for you both, should your Labrador go on to bite someone! Have realistic expectations — as it can take your puppy weeks to learn his soft bite. How to Train a Labrador Puppy to Walk on a Leash Walking on a leash is not a natural skill in dogs — they need to learn it! Teach a leash cue, then introduce the pup to very short walks. If the dog pulls, stand fast and wait for him to return to you before continuing. Do this by letting him wear them for short periods inside the house and yard. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached, such as the Walk Your Dog With Love harness. They give you more control and are ideal for medium-large breeds. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your Lab to short walks outside on a leash. When it appears he is about to lunge toward another dog or object, quickly distract him with a treat. Timing is crucial. Reward him every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of leash walking is perfected. You can start steps 1 and 2 when the puppy is young, but you can only commence step 3 once the dog has been vaccinated. Final Thoughts Eight weeks old is the perfect time to train a Labrador puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, not biting, and leash training. To successfully train your Lab puppy in these areas, you must follow good training principles such as using reward-based training, being consistent in your commands, and disciplining at the precise moment of poor behavior. Begin with basic commands before introducing more complex or trick commands. Related Posts You May Like:. Training through play 10 week old puppies have a lot of things in common with each other. Your 10 week old puppy schedule This is our usual 10 week old puppy schedule, which should make a nice basis for your own. And these can feel like a really big deal in the early days. When puppy blues sets in… No matter how much you prepare for the arrival of a new puppy, the reality can come as something of a shock. Potty training accidents happen despite our best efforts. Night times are interrupted, and apparently over for good by 6am. Over-excited puppies launch themselves relentlessly at clothes and skin with razor sharp teeth. And all the nice things you used to be able to do outside the home suddenly seem far, far out of reach. Every puppy is different, some are simply harder than others. What if it was all a massive mistake? The good news is these feelings of puppy blues are completely normal. How To Cope Many puppy owners go through exactly the same emotions when they bring home a new puppy, and survive to reassure others about it from the other side. Or, visit our forum where you can read dozens of stories from happy dog owners who also experienced that period of overwhelming doubt. And importantly for you and your pup, make sure you look for safe ways to get out of the house together. Socializing a 10 week old puppy At 10 weeks old, your puppy is right in the middle of the all-important socialization window. The socialization window is an important period of puppy development. It opens at three or four weeks old. It again closes between 12 and 20 weeks old, but on average by about 16 weeks old. Quality Over Quantity Ten week old puppies still get tired quickly, especially after taking in lots of new sensory information. And to be honest, a 10 week old Lab is already getting a bit heavy to carry for long periods. So these socialization outings are only going to be short and sweet. The trick is to make sure your puppy has a wonderful time seeing something new. Leave on a high! Then feed them their meal, one piece at time while they sit on your lap or by your side in the trunk of the car and watch the world go by. This builds up positive associations for your puppy. And also lays the groundwork of looking to you for cues about what to do next. Socializing your 10 week old puppy to accept these experiences confidently is something you can work on in the safety of your own home. Start by putting the nail clippers in a work surface in sight of him and feed a small handful of treats. The next day, hold the clippers in one hand whilst treating from the other. Day two done! On day three, have someone else dispense the treats while you hold the clippers in one hand and gently lift one paw with the other. Research shows that puppies socialized to different places and physical examinations during puppyhood are less likely to be given up by their owners. Most of the things you can do take less than half an hour. Sometimes it needs to be about spending time by themselves too. Spending time alone! This could be a playpen , or a whole room, with a comfy bed in it. Now is the time to make sure this space is always a happy and comforting place to be. You should find that by 9 to 10 weeks old they regularly take themselves back there to rest and nap. The good news is that most puppies settle comfortably into a routine of being left for short periods from this age. And in the absence of anyone to play with, they usually just take the opportunity to have a nap! And their appetite for fun and games is insatiable! Playing with your puppy is a wonderful way to start forging a bond which places you at the center of their world. And playing with them the right way means you can already start teaching good manners, without them even realising it was a lesson! This article about how to play with your puppy will set you off on the right foot. Potty training problems Potty training starts from the moment you arrive home with your puppy. But finishing it can take several weeks! They might be going a little longer between toilet trips too. When accidents do happen, clean them up thoroughly with a little dilute biological detergent, or a specialized enzyme cleaner. In the next couple of weeks, your puppy will be ready to go for walks outdoors. Just hang in there, share your progress, and ask any questions you have over on our forum. Pinterest Email The age of 10 weeks is a magical time for most puppies. While pups are old enough to leave their mothers and siblings by 8 weeks, many breeders and rescues prefer to wait until a pup is 10 weeks old before sending him to live with a new human family. A week-old puppy has more time to develop canine social skills with his birth family. When my Pit Bull-mix Mookie came to live with us, he was 9 weeks old. Within a week, his little personality was more than obvious. He was affectionate but mouthy, and full of energy. He was at the perfect age to learn how to act around our cats, as the 9- to week period is an important time for puppy socialization. Our wonderful kitties seemed to understand he was a baby, and they agreed to play with him. If he got too rough, they let him know, and he quickly got the message. Not surprising, considering that a week-old puppy is ripe for learning. Puppy with toy. A week-old puppy is going through a critical fear period Many puppies go through a fear period between the age of 8 to 10 weeks. Your week-old puppy may suddenly act overly afraid of new people, animals or objects, or new situations. Instead, show your puppy there is nothing to fear by acting upbeat and happy. Resist the urge to scoop him up and soothe him; this will only serve to reward his fearful response. The best way to get him through this period is to set a good example with your own confident behavior. Bite inhibition If your puppy spent time with his siblings until at least 8 weeks of age, he should have learned how to inhibit his bite. Brother and sister puppies are great at teaching each other how much bite pressure is too much. That said, a week-old puppy is constantly putting things in his mouth. When your puppy gets mouthy, give him a toy to chomp on. He will eventually learn that only toys are for biting — not people. What to Know About Puppy Teething and Dog Teeth Curiosity about his surroundings A week-old-puppy is learning as much as he can about his surroundings. They are eager to discover the world and will want to explore with their senses of sight, hearing, smelling and tasting. Provide a safe environment for your puppy to discover. Puppy-proof your house and yard by removing objects and situations that can get him into trouble: anything he can chew on, swallow, fall in or get stuck in. Expose him to the outside world in a safe way by keeping him away from strange dogs and areas they frequent until he has received his last set of vaccines. In the meantime, provide him with plenty of companionship in the form of humans both adults and children and safe animals, like the other puppies he will meet at a puppy kindergarten class. Remember that at this age, your puppy needs socialization. The key is to give it to him in a way that gives him positive experiences that are both enjoyable and safe. Doggy Toy. Puppies are super playful at this age and need lots of safe toys they can chew on and chase. A week-old puppy is also at the perfect age for puzzle toys designed to stimulate his little brain. Puzzle toys work by rewarding the puppy with a treat when he figures out a simple puzzle. As your pup gets better at a basic puzzle, you can introduce him to more complicated puzzles until he becomes a real whiz at solving them. Your puppy will be active, curious and quick to learn at this stage in his life. He will also be incredibly cute at 10 weeks and will grow quickly, so be sure to take plenty of pictures! Top photograph: AndreaObzerova Getty Images. Print Raising a retriever puppy like the pros Your Labrador puppy can seem small and fragile during those first few weeks home from the breeder. Labrador puppies will learn quickly about acceptable and unacceptable behavior those first few weeks, if you, the owner, are willing to set and enforce boundaries. Here is the training you should be working on with your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post three of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week three home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for approximately 3 weeks now. This week you should start noticing some bigger changes with your puppy. Here are some of the changes I notice with Bubba. First, she is growing fast! Bubba is almost ready for a new collar already. I have loosened her current collar twice, and there is no more room to expand it. She is also learning a lot. Bubba is also becoming more personable. She likes and has more interest in people now and wants to be petted and scratched more often. Training equipment for Lab puppy We added a couple new training tools this week. But a thicker check cord will also work. We use this check cord for longer outside marks and assistant-marks which I will discuss more in a bit. Puppy sized canvas or light-weight plastic bumpers In week two, we introduced formal retrieving in a hallway in the house. In week three, we move outside with retrieving and introduce assistant throws, so it is helpful to have a few more bumpers. Puppy training that will continue Much of the training I have been working on for the past two weeks with Bubba will continue into this week and beyond. Dog training is not something that has a definitive end-date. For instance, you teach your puppy to SIT and then you must work and practice that command daily or weekly, often for months before the response to the command is solid. But even once the response is solid, you cannot completely stop training. If you stop training, even an older dog, the dog can lose the previous training. So, realize that you are never done working with your dog, especially on obedience training. Some areas that we will continue training Bubba on are: Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. She rarely makes any noise while in her crate and settles down quickly after being put into her crate. In the upcoming weeks, we will work towards getting Bubba to enter her crate on command. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. We have caught her in a few accidents, but she already seems to understand that she is not supposed to go potty inside. This does not mean that she is done housebreaking. We still expect accidents and will for a few months, so we watch her carefully while she is running around in the house. We also praise her for behaviors like going to the door and tapping the door or whining at the door. These behaviors are rewarded with us taking her outside to go potty. When she goes potty outside, we praise her and then take her right back in. We want her to start understanding that these cue behaviors will get her out to go potty and that is all. Looking for more information on housebreaking? But we will also add a few new ones. We will use this while teaching our puppy the SIT command. It also will be used going forward, anytime we are done working on structured obedience work. We will release the dog from formal work with the OKAY command. But we also use it to mean go to a certain place, such as on a mat or stand. Or, when we want her to go into her crate or kennel. This is an associative command, meaning the puppy will learn the command through our repetition of the word as we tie it to a behavior. But over time, she will make the association and will perform it on her own. This is very important especially if you ever plan on doing more advanced training with your retriever. You will use whatever your dogs name is. A few commands that we will continue to work on this week We will continue to work on obedience commands this week and in the weeks to come. Each week we will expect a little more and better compliance and performance to the command. She is sitting when I put the leash and chain collar on her and when I am taking it off. This week we also added SIT before eating. We only make her SIT for a few seconds; we are working on control. She does not SIT on her own yet, but she will be doing that within a week or so I would guess. Right now, I grab her collar and say SIT. In week three, I have a slightly higher expectation. On walks, I make her walk right beside me for a minute or two using the HEEL command before releasing her and letting her run back and forth a bit. This tells me that she understands the command. Then release her. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Remember: Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. Make every effort to socialize your puppy You should continue to take steps to socialize your week-old puppy. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Learn more about socialization. Hand throws with a puppy bumper you are throwing out a bumper done outside will carry a lot more distraction than retrieves in a hallway. Just pick up the bumper and try again tomorrow. When retrieving outside, make sure you have a long foot rope attached to your puppy. Never try to do retrieves outside without a rope. You will have problems and encourage bad behaviors. You must have a way to get the puppy to come back to you, otherwise you should not be doing retrieves outside. Once your puppy is doing well retrieving outside, you are ready to introduce assistant marks. Introduction to assistant marks The most important thing we worked on with Bubba this week is assistant marks. Assistant marks are retrieves where someone else is throwing the bumper, not you. This teaches your puppy to watch out in the field for a mark. It is very rare that a duck will come from behind you, fly over your head and you shoot it. The ducks and pheasants will be falling in front of you, so the dog must learn to look out and watch for the mark. We start assistant marks on very short grass with white plugs so that the puppy can clearly see the item on the ground. We hold the puppy in a SIT position facing a thrower who is about 20 feet from you. When your puppy picks up the bumper, immediately start calling her back to you. Remember, you should have the foot check cord on her so you can pull the puppy in if needed. Then, take the bumper from her, throw it behind you, make your puppy sit facing the thrower again and repeat. Only do retrieves and then call it a day. Soon your puppy will learn this game and love it. They will start facing the thrower on their own and sitting and waiting for a mark. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy week-old puppies are so eager to learn, so be sure and take advantage of this enthusiasm to teach new concepts and enforce previous ones. Continue to teach your puppy to handle more and more pressure and correction while maintaining a good attitude. Lastly, assistant marks are a big deal. Once a dog learns this part of the game, you can work to increase the distance and complexity of the marks. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. But at 10 weeks old a good routine and schedule is really going to help you crack the sleep and nap time routine. A feeding , playing, and, toilet training schedule will also help you get into the groove of what your puppy needs, at what time and will generally save you a lot of stress. Knowledge is power, right? Get into the groove with Zigzag! Some puppies will have been in their new homes a couple of weeks by this point, some of you may have only just picked your puppy up from their breeder. Many breeders now give puppies their first vaccinations before they go to their new homes. Read our full guide to puppy vaccinations for more on that. Now onto teething. Lack of sleep means overtiredness and angsty pups, who are more likely to be bitey and generally just a bit manic. Crates and playpens can help with this as they give your puppy a chill out zone that they can fully relax in. Photo by Shane Guymon on Unsplash What you should start doing at weeks Puppies are always learning, so at 10 weeks old you can train your puppy all kinds of basic cues and commands. The fancy trick training can come later! Get yourself and your week-old puppy into a routine Puppies thrive on routines. Knowing what comes next and life being dependable helps build confidence in your puppy. For a week-old puppy schedule, there will generally be a cycle of sleep, wake up and toilet, eat, toilet, play, toilet, sleep, toilet, bit more toilet. .Your week-old puppy will need to go to the toilet frequently so implementing a toilet training schedule of when to take them out and setting reminders in your phone will help you not forget. Toilet training takes time, and puppies learn through repetition that going to the toilet in the right place will mean rewards, but there can be a few accidents before you get to that point. Create a socialization schedule At 10 weeks old, your pup will be in their socialization window. This is a period of time where pups are more receptive to new things, and they learn a lot about the world. Read our full article on socialization for more information. Find training puzzling? Download Zigzag! Have lots of chew toys available for your puppy Teething means sore gums and also a desire to chew chew chew. If you have plenty of toys around for your puppy to chew on, it will save your skirting boards. You can do this by deciding the rules in your house, writing it out and popping it on the fridge. Finding the right one can be tricky, ideally, you want one that will take you at weeks. Choose a member from one of the organizations in the UK Dog Charter so you can be sure they use positive reinforcement based methods. They are basically like a toddler, and have little control of their emotions at this age, they get tired very quickly and will be dribbling a lot. Puppies lose their baby teeth because the adult ones are pushing through, this can cause a lot of pain, and an increase in saliva. Read our full guide to when does my puppy lose their teeth to learn more. Playfulness Puppies practise hunting behavior through playing, and will enjoy you being their play partner as they chase and pounce on toys. Play is great for building a relationship and life long bond with your pup, try some of our training games to sneak in some training at the same time. They need time and a bit of help to calm down at this age. A week-old puppy needs a sleep schedule…and plenty of it! They are growing at a rate of knots, emotionally, mentally and physically and they need those down time hours in the daytime to recharge, reset and rest. What exercise will my week-old puppy need? Mental exercise via training and enrichment is also a great bet at this age to keep them stimulated and relieve boredom. What should I be feeding my week-old puppy? Your week-old puppy may still be on 4 meals a day — this is fine! Some people may have already dropped to 3 meals, but for many week-old pups 4 meals help to keep them full and deliver enough food throughout the day. Puppies have a fast growth rate so getting the right ratios of fats, proteins, carbs and essential minerals will be important for their development. Photo by David Clarke on Unsplash How to continue training past the week puppy schedule? Training never stops with dogs, and especially not with puppies, they are very willing pupils. Your puppy is at the very beginning of their training journey and will be learning about the world through socialization experiences. Finding a puppy socialization class will be the next logical step here. Do your research, watch a few, and join one that uses positive reinforcement training. Members belonging to organizations signed up to the UK Dog Charter all use these methods, so you can be sure the training will be kind and effective. Enjoying Zigzag? Try our app! Your puppy schedule at 10 weeks of age will mainly focus on socialization, toilet training, sleep training, plenty of play and controlling their chewing. You can also carry on your puppy training journey with the Zigzag app. We know that sometimes having someone to talk to is a bit of a life saver as a new puppy parent. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun.

They are playful and loyal. Although Boxers were originally bred as working dogs, they make the perfect family pet. Boxers are different from each other but one trait that all Boxers have in common is their playfulness. Boxers, whether they're puppies or ones in their senior years, possess a youthful exuberance that is unmatched by any other breed of dog. Boxers have the natural ability to make their masters smile and fill a household with fun and laughter. Natural Born Entertainers Ask Boxer owners about what they think would be the most fitting profession or job for Boxer dogs and they'd likely tell you that Boxers make the perfect clowns. Boxers are natural entertainers wiggling, wagging and doing their funny antics. If you've ever been around a Boxer, you'll find it very hard to keep yourself from grinning. Put a Boxer in a room with someone in a bad mood and it will waste no time showing off its tricks to make a person laugh. One of the more familiar tricks Boxers are known for is kidney beaning, a dance they do whenever they are excited. No owner could resist smiling whenever he comes home after a hard day's work and sees his Boxer doing this dance. It isn't a bark although it is similar. Boxers are natural entertainers even when they are running. Don't be surprised to see a Boxer twist, jump and even do summersaults while it is out on a walk. However, Boxers aren't for everyone. If you're looking for a dog that will lie quietly at the foot of your bed or sleep most of the day, a Boxer is not the dog for you. Boxers are very energetic and they need plenty of attention. If a Boxer doesn't get adequate exercise every day, it can turn to doing destructive things or find ways to entertain itself like chewing on shoes. Boxers need to be walked or jogged twice a day at the minimum. In addition, they need mental stimulation. Sign up for BoxerBriefs to get news delivered right to your mailbox! Get them early for holiday gifts! We are an organization dedicated to the rescue and adoption of Boxers in the metropolitan-Atlanta area, and to provide support and education for Boxer owners. We are operated and managed by a group of dedicated volunteers, and we are funded by adoption fees, fundraisers, and gifts from generous donors like you! Atlanta Boxer Rescue, Inc. If you are interested in adopting a Boxer in Atlanta, you've come to the right place. Take a moment to learn about the Boxer breed, including some of its history. When you are ready to move forward, familiarize yourself with everything you need to know before you adopt. Some Frequently Asked Questions are answered on our site as well. We strive to support your adoption to make it a success for you and your new Boxer friend. All of our Boxers have had a check-up with a veterinarian, been spayed or neutered, and brought up-to-date on vaccinations. We have also done our best to evaluate our Boxers for temperament, socialization, and house-breaking. We are always looking for great volunteers to help us. If you are interested in being a foster home for a Boxer in need, thank you! The number of Boxers that we can save depends on the number of willing volunteers like you. Please complete our Foster Application or contact us for more information. We have a lot of resources to help you. Sign up for our newsletter , contact us about any questions or concerns you might have, or seek comfort if you've lost your Boxer friend. We can't do this without you, so please consider a donation or a purchase from the ABR Store! Sponsor Meet Brucie Brucie is a very handsome, young boy looking for a forever home of his own. We believe he is a Boxer mix, sporting a very attractive brindle coat. At the time of this posting he is just under two years old. He is about 60 lbs. Brucie loves people and is very affectionate. Given his size and energy level, he would not be an ideal canine companion for younger children. We expect children over the age of 12 would be ok. And of course, an all-adult home would be perfect for Brucie! Brucie is very active and energetic, and sometimes can get carried away with his play. He loves running in the secure, fenced yard of his foster home. He keeps himself entertained; he would not do well in a dog park or day care. An ideal home for Brucie is one in which he can thrive as an only dog, with a family experienced with larger dogs who sometimes can get out of hand. As is the case with all young, larger dogs, Brucie would greatly benefit from obedience training which can also be a bonding experience with his new family. No doubt, Brucie has the potential to evolve into the perfect pup, but is looking for that family willing to commit to him and provide him the forever home he deserves. Considering Brucie for adoption?

Breeds The link has been copied! If you're a French Bulldog owner, or considering becoming one, you probably already know how charming and endearing these little dogs can be. With their smushed faces, bat-like ears, and playful personalities, it's no wonder they're one of the most popular breeds in the world. But as with any pet, it's important to know what you're getting into. One crucial factor to consider is the French Bulldog's life expectancy. How long can you expect your furry friend to be by your side, and what can you do to ensure they live their happiest, healthiest life? In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about French Bulldog life span, from common health issues to lifestyle factors that can impact their longevity. So buckle up, grab a snack, and let's explore the world of French Bulldog life expectancy! The average life expectancy of a French Bulldog is between 10 and 12 years. However, like with any breed, there are many factors that can influence a French Bulldog's life span, such as their diet, exercise, and overall health. Additionally, there are some common health issues that French Bulldogs are prone to, which can impact their longevity. One such health issue is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS , a condition in which a dog's short snout and compressed airways can make breathing difficult. This can lead to a variety of problems, such as heat exhaustion , pneumonia, and even heart failure, which can shorten a French Bulldog's lifespan. Another health issue that French Bulldogs are predisposed to is IVDD, or intervertebral disc disease, which can cause back pain, hind limb weakness, and even paralysis. Other health issues that can affect French Bulldogs include hip dysplasia, allergies, and skin infections. To ensure your French Bulldog lives a long and healthy life, it's important to keep them at a healthy weight, feed them a balanced diet, provide them with regular exercise, and make sure they receive regular veterinary care. The Average French Bulldog Life Cycle The average French Bulldog life cycle can be broken down into several stages, each with its own unique characteristics. Here's a general overview of the different stages: Puppyhood year : This is the playful and energetic stage where your French Bulldog will be full of curiosity and eager to explore their environment. During this stage, it's important to provide your puppy with plenty of socialization and training to help them grow into a well-behaved and happy adult dog. Adolescence years : As your French Bulldog matures, they will begin to settle into their personality and develop their adult temperament. This can be a challenging stage as they may push boundaries and test your patience, but with consistent training and positive reinforcement, you can help your dog navigate this stage successfully. Adulthood years : This is the prime of your French Bulldog's life when they will be at their most active and energetic. They'll enjoy plenty of playtime, exercise , and attention from their human family, and will likely develop strong bonds with their people. During this stage, it's important to provide your dog with plenty of comfort and support, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and regular veterinary care. Breeding The breeding of your French Bulldog can have a significant impact on their lifespan. It's important to choose a reputable breeder who breeds for overall health and longevity, rather than just physical appearance. A responsible breeder will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs to ensure that they are not passing on any genetic health issues to their puppies. Additionally, a breeder who prioritizes socialization and early training can help set your puppy up for success and prevent future behavior problems that may impact their quality of life. Health Conditions French Bulldogs are prone to certain health conditions that can impact their lifespan. Providing your French Bulldog with regular veterinary care and following preventative care protocols can help detect and treat these issues early on, which can improve their lifespan and quality of life. Diet Proper nutrition is key to keeping your French Bulldog healthy and promoting a long life. Feeding your French Bulldog a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level can help prevent obesity and other diet-related health issues. It's important to choose a diet that is appropriate for your French Bulldog's individual needs and to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to weight gain and health problems. Veterinary Care Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are crucial for helping your French Bulldog maintain their health and detect any health issues early on. By staying on top of their vaccinations, dental care, and routine check-ups, you can help ensure that your French Bulldog lives a long and healthy life. Additionally, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly if you notice any changes in your French Bulldog's health or behavior. Exposure to Heat Exposure to heat is another important factor that can impact a French Bulldog's lifespan. French Bulldogs are brachycephalic dogs, meaning they have a short snout and compressed airways that make it more difficult for them to breathe, particularly in hot and humid weather. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can quickly develop in dogs with brachycephalic features, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. To prevent heat-related health issues, it's important to keep your French Bulldog cool and comfortable in hot weather. This can be done by providing access to shade and fresh water, and by avoiding outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. You may also want to consider using a cooling vest or mat, or keeping your home air-conditioned to help regulate their body temperature. Regular Grooming and Training French Bulldogs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt can help to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat. However, Frenchies are prone to skin folds and wrinkles, which can trap dirt and moisture and lead to skin infections. It is important to clean these areas regularly with a damp cloth and dry them thoroughly. Additionally, French Bulldogs have sensitive ears that should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection. Nail trimming, teeth brushing, and regular baths are also important parts of French Bulldog grooming. Training and socialization can help prevent behavior problems that may impact their quality of life. By providing your French Bulldog with proper grooming and training, you can help ensure that they live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life. Lifestyle The lifestyle you provide for your French Bulldog can also impact their lifespan. Providing your French Bulldog with a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition, regular exercise, and mental stimulation can help promote their overall health and well-being. Additionally, providing your French Bulldog with a safe and comfortable living environment can help reduce stress and prevent environmental factors from contributing to health issues. It's important to provide your French Bulldog with a lifestyle that is appropriate for their individual needs and to make adjustments as needed to ensure that they are living their best life. By prioritizing your French Bulldog's health and well-being, you can help ensure that they live a long, happy, and healthy life. Genetics Genetics can play a role in a French Bulldog's lifespan. While there is no guarantee that a French Bulldog from a healthy breeding line will live a long life, choosing a reputable breeder who breeds for overall health and longevity can improve the chances of a long and healthy life. It's important to research the breeder and their breeding practices before bringing a French Bulldog into your home. Additionally, providing your French Bulldog with a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care, can help promote a long and healthy life regardless of genetics. There is currently no evidence to suggest that the exotic coloring of a French Bulldog has any direct impact on their lifespan. However, there are some concerns in the French Bulldog community that certain coat colors may be associated with health issues or may be the result of breeding practices that prioritize appearance over health. For example, there are some breeders who specialize in breeding French Bulldogs with rare or exotic coat colors, such as fluffy , lilac , or merle. While these coat colors may be visually striking, they may be associated with health issues such as skin problems, allergies, and vision problems. Additionally, there are concerns that some breeders may be engaging in unethical breeding practices, such as breeding dogs with the same coat color in order to produce offspring with rare or exotic colors. It's important to choose a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their breeding dogs and puppies over appearance. A responsible breeder will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs, breed for overall health and longevity, and avoid breeding practices that prioritize appearance over health. By choosing a responsible breeder and providing your French Bulldog with proper care and attention, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life, regardless of their coat color. The terms "micro" and "teacup" are often used to describe French Bulldogs that are smaller than average, but it is important to note that these terms are not recognized by reputable breed organizations and are often associated with unethical breeding practices. There is no evidence to suggest that micro French Bulldogs , regardless of the label given to them, have a longer or shorter lifespan than regular French Bulldogs. In fact, breeding for smaller size can actually increase the risk of health problems in French Bulldogs, including respiratory issues, hip dysplasia, and spinal problems. To ensure the health and well-being of your French Bulldog, it is important to work with a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and longevity of the breed, rather than attempting to breed for a particular size or appearance. Additionally, providing your Frenchie with proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care can help to promote a long and healthy life. There are several steps you can take to help your French Bulldog live a longer, healthier life: Choose a reputable breeder Select a reputable breeder who breeds for overall health and longevity, rather than just physical appearance. A responsible breeder will perform health screenings on their breeding dogs and breed for overall health and temperament. Provide proper nutrition Feed your French Bulldog a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Avoid overfeeding and provide plenty of fresh water. Regular exercise Provide your French Bulldog with regular exercise that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, strengthen muscles and joints, and reduce the risk of obesity-related health issues. Veterinary care Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential for helping your French Bulldog maintain their health and detect any health issues early on. Follow your veterinarian's recommended preventative care protocols, including vaccinations, dental care, and routine check-ups. Mental stimulation Provide your French Bulldog with mental stimulation, such as interactive toys or puzzles , to help keep their mind active and prevent boredom. Proper dental care Regular dental care is important for preventing dental issues that can impact your French Bulldog's overall health. Brush their teeth regularly and provide them with appropriate dental chews or toys. Preventative measures Take preventative measures to help keep your French Bulldog safe and healthy. This may include protecting them from extreme weather conditions, avoiding exposure to toxins, and keeping them up to date on preventative medications such as heartworm and flea prevention. Choose a Quality Breeder Choosing a quality breeder is one of the most important steps you can take to help ensure that your French Bulldog lives a long and healthy life. Here are some tips for selecting a reputable breeder: Research Do your research and seek out information about the breeder. Look for online reviews or ask for referrals from other French Bulldog owners or breed clubs. Visit the Breeder Visit the breeder in person to see their facilities and meet their breeding dogs. A reputable breeder should be willing to show you their facilities and introduce you to their dogs. They should also be willing to answer your questions and provide you with information about their breeding practices. Health Testing A responsible breeder will perform health testing on their breeding dogs to ensure that they are not passing on any genetic health issues to their puppies. Ask the breeder what health testing they perform on their dogs and ask to see the results. Breeding Practices Ask the breeder about their breeding practices and how they select their breeding dogs. A reputable breeder should be breeding for overall health and temperament, rather than just physical appearance. Socialization A good breeder will prioritize socialization for their puppies to help them grow into well-behaved and happy adult dogs. Ask the breeder what socialization practices they use and how they prepare their puppies for their new homes. Conclusion French Bulldogs can make wonderful pets, and by taking proper care of them, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life. Some of the key factors that can impact a French Bulldog's lifespan include breeding, health conditions, diet, exercise, environmental factors, veterinary care, genetics, exposure to heat, regular health maintenance and training, and lifestyle. By choosing a reputable breeder, providing proper nutrition, regular exercise, veterinary care, and mental stimulation, and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure that your French Bulldog lives a happy and healthy life. Remember, a healthy French Bulldog is a happy French Bulldog , and with proper care and attention, they can bring you joy and companionship for many years to come. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. This is how you can ensure a happy and long life to your Frenchie 1. Only they can guarantee that you receive a healthy and strong puppy from a quality bloodline. We at TomKings are extremely selective about the breeding parents, we know the bloodlines for generations and exclude any Frenchie that shows any possibility of carrying a health issue. Check out the average French Bulldog Price at a reputable breeder. Focus on the right diet Keeping your Frenchie on a healthy and balanced diet also has a large impact on their lifespan. You should always aim for a high-quality dog food which has all the necessary nutrients. Choosing a grain-free food is a great option as it has more protein, meat and animal fats with a lower level of carbohydrates. Read our guide on how to choose the perfect dog food for your Frenchie. A raw meat diet like B. Wynter, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Another thing to keep in mind is that Frenchies are prone to obesity, which can unfortunately lead to some unwanted health issues like back problems, high blood pressure, problems with insulin and so on. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies 3. Good veterinarian, regular checkup Finding a really good vet and taking your Frenchie to regular checkups is absolutely necessary to ensure a long and healthy life. They will not only make sure that your puppy stays up to date with the yearly vaccinations, but will also do blood panels to see if there are any abnormalities or maybe some vitamins or supplements are needed. Minor skin problems can be treated at home but for example lethargy and lack of appetite are two common symptoms that mean your puppy requires immediate medical attention. Accidents can always happen so having pet insurance is an absolutely must for Frenchie parents! The importance of training and exercise Frenchies are companion dogs so they hugely depend on human interaction. Similarly to humans, stress has a large impact on health and their lifespan as well. French Bulldog mommy — TomKings Puppies Owning a Frenchie means that you need to carve out a considerable amount of time of your day to train them and make sure they are getting enough exercise. A short walk in the morning and the afternoon with a couple of training or playing sessions throughout the day are ideal and will tire your Frenchie enough both physically and mentally. If you ask us, playtime is by far the best form of exercise that you can do with your dog whether indoors or outdoors! Ultimate Guide. The average French Bulldog lifespan is between 9 and 12 years. Opinions and statistics vary, but we reached this figure using a combination of credible sources. And an informal survey by the British Kennel Club also recorded a median age of 9 years. So, a typical French Bulldog lifespan should be between 9 and 12 years. At the top end of the scale, the longest surviving French Bulldog reported in the Kennel Club survey reached just over .This is fairly average for dogs overall, but on the low end for small breeds. For instance, the Chihuahua has an average life expectancy of 17 years, thanks to a low likelihood of genetic health concerns. Lower Estimates On Life Expectancy As encouraging as up to 12 years might be, many Frenchies have far shorter lifespans than this. This review of over 2, French Bulldogs under veterinary care in reported 98 deaths, and the median age was just 3. Unfortunately, French Bulldogs, in general, have a high probability of health problems — higher than most other breeds. Interestingly, even factors like stress and anxiety can shorten life expectancy. Do Female Frenchies Live Longer? One study noted that male Frenchies were more likely than females to be diagnosed with certain disorders, although the researchers noted that lifespans between male and female were unaffected. Health Concerns of the French Bulldog The most common health concerns, according to a recent study , were ear infections, diarrhea, conjunctivitis pink-eye , over long nails and skinfold dermatitis. More worryingly, .In general, we do not recommend adopting flat-faced breeds, because of the high likelihood of breathing problems. Because of their flat faces, many French Bulldogs have trouble breathing, and some suffer from sleep apnea, snoring, etc. Keeping Cool Most dangerously, Frenchies are unable to maintain a safe body temperature during exercise or hot weather. Too many French Bulldogs die suddenly from overheating during hot weather or exercise. Eye tests should be conducted on the breeding stock, including tests for hereditary cataracts and other eye health concerns. Hip scoring is also available to test for the likelihood of hip dysplasia and related issues. Reputable breeders should provide these scores to potential puppy parents. Unfortunately, many of the most serious health concerns cannot be tested for. Quality Care Once you have your pup, there are some things you can do to keep it healthy. Ensuring a healthy diet — and keeping an eye out for food allergies, which are common — can help significantly. Regular visits to the vet will help ensure that your pet stays healthy and that any health concerns are addressed as soon as possible. Helping your dog get plenty of safe exercise will help, too. French Bulldogs are not super energetic, but they still enjoy frequent walks. Lastly, you should treat your dog with love and kindness, and try to minimize its stress. However, we were unable to find a trustworthy source to prove this. However, this was an informal survey. How Long Do Frenchies Live? French Bulldog Lifespan The French bulldog lifespan is generally years. To keep your Frenchie healthy, follow these practices and look out for these common conditions. The French bulldog lifespan is generally years. These small dogs are fun-loving, loyal, affectionate pets. And with their flat faces, stubby legs, and adorable skin folds, you would be hard-pressed to find a cuter companion. One thing to consider when adopting any breed of dog, the French bulldog included, is average life expectancy. So, what is the French bulldog lifespan? This is similar to the average lifespan of other dogs of this size, like Boston terriers and pugs. The French Bulldog Lifespan: Contributing Factors The kind of care and attention a French bulldog receives throughout their life has a direct impact on their lifespan. Some of the major factors that can affect the average lifespan of a Frenchie include: Diet What your dog eats has a great effect on their overall health. Overfeeding is one of the leading causes of obesity , so make sure you feed your pet the right amount for their weight and activity level. Daily short walks and play sessions with favorite toys are great ways to get your French bulldog the activity they need. Note that French bulldogs are brachycephalic dogs those breeds with squashed, flat faces and bulging eyes like the pug and Boston terrier. Whether you adopt a French bulldog puppy or an older Frenchie, high-quality, consistent care from a veterinary professional is a great way to keep them healthy throughout life. Part of good veterinary care is keeping up with essential vaccinations and flea and heartworm control. Additionally, they can help spot any health problems early, allowing for faster treatment and a higher likelihood of a positive outcome. Frenchie Health Issues The French bulldog lifespan can also be affected by certain health conditions, which dog owners should be aware of. Again, Frenchies are a brachycephalic breed. A French bulldog who gets overworked or overheated can struggle to breathe normally simply because of their unique facial structure. Other common health problems seen in French bulldogs include eye issues like hereditary cataracts , corneal ulcers, and cherry eye. And as Frenchies advance into old age, issues like hip dysplasia and intervertebral disk disease IVDD are more likely. Again, feed your dog a wholesome, well-balanced diet ask your veterinarian for a recommendation , and give your dog measured portion sizes to avoid overfeeding. You can also give your dog an added nutritional boost with the use of dietary supplements. And our Omega Oil offers omega-3 fatty acids to improve skin health and address joint pain. Exercise your Frenchie on a daily basis with walks and playtime, but remember not to over-exert your pet. Schedule regular check-ups to make sure your French bulldog leads a healthy life. Your veterinarian can check for signs of common health issues that affect French bulldogs, like IVDD or eye health problems. A final tip: If you are adopting from a breeder, ask for health history for your new dog and their parents. Reputable breeders should have this health information on hand for your puppy and their parents, and possibly another generation back depending on how long the breeder has been operating. Understanding family history can help you choose a healthy pup and prepare for the future. These little pooches make wonderful additions to any family. How long do these dogs live? The average French bulldog lifespan is years. A number of factors can impact that range, including diet, exercise, veterinary care, and breed-specific health conditions. French bulldog owners can help keep their dogs happy and healthy by feeding their dogs a nutritional diet, exercising them daily while being cautious of heat exposure , and taking them for regular vet check-ups. 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What comes with your puppy? I will provide a health guarantee for 1 year. I will have your puppy checked and cleared by our vet, vaccinated, and de-wormed prior to going home with you. We will continue to follow all recommended vetting until our puppies find homes. Rabies vaccines cannot be given until 12 weeks, but will be given if we still have a puppy during their 3rd round of vaccinations. I will pre-register your puppy through AKC with basic registration. This certifies your puppy is AKC registered from the moment you take him or her home. AKC offers various levels of registration, you may upgrade registration after you take your puppy home if you desire. I will provide parental lineage going back generations for both Dame and Sire. I will send home a new puppy packet provided by AKC with all essential information for new puppy owners. This will include the registration information, puppy care information, other AKC offers, and tips for training. Your puppy will come with a blanket that will have litter mates and Mom's scent on it and a bag of transition food, so you can have time to switch your new pup over to the food of your choice without upsetting his or her little tummy. We feed our dogs Purina Varieties, depending on what is available and our puppies get Purina Puppy varieties. Our puppies will also be raised in our home, with our family and other pets. They will be well socialized, introduced to sleeping in kennels, and ready to take on the world! Car ride home with our sweet boy Max and Zero being my blanket Zero being jealous Zero joined the family in October of at 4 months old. Zero is an English Cream Golden through and through. When he came to us he acted as though he may have had some minor trauma or abandonment issues, but that is simply speculation based on his behavior. He had been returned to the breeder we adopted him from and we are his final home. What I love most about Zero is that he has never tried to challenge Max for dominance. We have tried to take in other male dogs in the past and Max has not allowed it. But Zero is very submissive to Max and they get along wonderfully. Zero can be a little high strung at times, when he hasn't had enough exercise he gets anxious and tries to run through everyone else to get outside. He will slide also right into a walls and doors on our non-carpeted floors. While it is a little funny, it is also not safe so we are doing our best to teach him patience. He certainly learns quickly, as it only took about 5 minutes for him to learn he cannot rush out of his kennel until given the command to do so. Zero does forget when he's super excited or really needs to potty! Yes, but he picks it back up quite well when reminded. Zero is co-owned by myself and our oldest son, he is primarily responsible for the care of Zero while we provide all of his necessities and vetting, until the day he may decided to move out and take Zero with him hopefully he will just stay for a while though. Zero is moving to Texas with our oldest son at the end of May and will no longer be siring pups. Maizy joined the family in February of .She has darker color but is not as deep a red as we think it will become. Both of her parents were a darker red. She is a very loyal and obedient dog. As with many female dogs, when she is in heat or expecting her behaviors change but her's are more subtle than Mini's. She loves to cuddle while she is pregnant, the rest of the time she is usually a feature near my feet. Maizy will not wonder off and does not enjoy car rides at all. She is our only dog who does not like being in a vehicle at all. She has been our most photogenic dog and we deemed her to be our model dog. Maizy was spayed in May, and will not have any future litters. Zoey joined the family in February of .She is an English Cream Golden Retriever. Zoey is a very loving and gentle dog. She does not show aggressive or protective tendencies when in heat or around her puppies like Mini and Maizy sometimes do. She welcomed our help during her labor and delivery and has allowed us and our other dogs near her puppies without issue from day one. She loves to be near me or husband and loves to be pet on her head. Sometimes she displays her belly for a good scratching too! Zoey likes to explore outside and will try to escape the fence at times, but she always comes back when called, just happy to have had a little adventure. Zoey is going to be joining the family at Life With Goldens, Theresa Thurston is a good friend and breeding mentor of mine and she will be continuing on Zoey's legacy of creating beautiful, well adjusted puppies. Get in touch at maxandminigoldens gmail. For the complete list please see our Breeder Listings page. The average price for a Golden Retriever puppy in Tennessee varies depending on the breeder. Some breeders may charge more than others, and there may be a variety of reasons why. These breeders typically do not sell puppies to pet stores and only offer them to approved homes. Other breeders may charge less, but it is important to ask lots of questions before buying a puppy from them. Make sure you know where the puppies are bred and raised, what genetic diseases they are screened for, and what type of socialization they receive. Finding a free golden retriever puppy in Tennessee is possible, but it is not easy. There are many reputable golden retriever breeders in the state, and most of them will not give away puppies for free. However, there are a few exceptions. One way to find a free golden retriever puppy is to contact animal shelters or rescue organizations in Tennessee. Some of these organizations may have puppies that need homes, and some may even be willing to give them away for free. Another option is to search online for ads from people who are giving away their golden retrievers. However, it is important to be careful when considering this option. Not all of these puppies will be healthy or properly trained. How to Find A Responsible Golden Retriever Breeder in Tennessee If you are not interested in adopting a puppy, or if you cannot find a free puppy, then the best option is to find a responsible golden retriever breeder in Tennessee. This can be tricky, as there are many breeders to choose from. The best way to find a reputable breeder is to ask for referrals from friends and family members. If someone you know has purchased a golden retriever puppy from a breeder in Tennessee, they will likely be able to recommend a good one. You can also search online for reviews of Tennessee-based golden retriever breeders. Be sure to read carefully and make sure that the breeder is licensed and insured. Finding the right breeder is important, as they will be able to provide you with information about the breed and help you find a healthy, well-trained puppy. Visit Your Tennessee Golden Retriever Breeder in Person When you have found a few reputable breeders in Tennessee, it is important to visit them in person. This will allow you to ask questions and see the puppies firsthand. Visiting your potential breeder in person will allow you to see if the puppies are healthy and well-behaved. You should also ask the breeder questions about the parents of the puppies, as well as their training and socialization. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer all of your questions and will be willing to provide references. Be sure to check out their facility, as you want to be sure that the puppies are being raised in a safe and healthy environment. They will also have health certificates for their puppies and may even offer a guarantee. Purchasing a puppy from a breeder can be expensive, but it is often worth it in the long run. Puppies from reputable breeders are more likely to be healthy and well-behaved. A good breeder will be happy to provide you with contact information for previous buyers. Be sure to call these references and ask them about their experience with the breeder. Were the puppies healthy? Was the breeder responsible? Did they provide any after-sales support? The answers to these questions will help you determine if the breeder is reputable and trustworthy. References will also be able to tell you about the quality of the puppies and their breeding stock. Are they good with children? Do they get along with other animals? The answers to these questions will help you determine who should be your breeder. This will give you a good idea of the quality of their dogs and the type of service they provide. Puppies are typically ready to go to their new homes at around eight weeks old. It can also help you determine if the breeder is someone you feel comfortable working with. If you have any questions, be sure to ask the breeder before you make your decision. The best Tennessee golden retriever breeders will have a good veterinarian that they use for their dogs. This is important because you want to make sure that your dog is getting the best care possible. If you are looking for a breeder, be sure to ask them who their veterinarian is and what kind of care they provide. A veterinarian should have seen your potential puppy by the time it is 8 weeks old and given it a health certificate. They should also have dewormed and vaccinated the puppy. If your breeder cannot provide you with this information, it may be best to look elsewhere. Make sure that you are also comfortable with the veterinarian that the breeder uses. You will likely be taking your dog there for check-ups and vaccinations, so you want to make sure that you feel good about their practice. There are many good breeders out there who will be happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect puppy for your family. As a result, puppies from these breeders may have health problems or be prone to behavioral issues. On the flip side, it is also important to remember that not all breeders are bad, and there are many reputable, ethical breeders out there. So how do you find one? One suggestion is to contact your local Golden Retriever rescue group and ask for a referral. Good luck in finding your new furry friend. All reputable breeders will be happy to answer any questions you have about their puppies. Some of the health conditions that may occur in Goldens include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and canine cancer. Not only do you need to make sure you have enough space for your new furry friend, but you also need to get your home ready for their arrival. If you have other pets, make sure the puppy has a space where they can escape if needed. This could Set up their bed: A soft, comfortable bed is a must for any puppy. This could be a spot near their bed or in a corner of the room. Provide plenty of water: Make sure your Golden Retriever has access to clean water at all times. Put away any hazardous materials: Chemicals, cleaners, and other household hazards should be put away and out of reach of your puppy. These are just a few tips to get you started. For more information on preparing your home for a Golden Retriever puppy, contact a reputable breeder today. This can be a challenge, but with patience and consistency, it can be done. As they get older, you can slowly extend the time between potty breaks. Reward your puppy for going potty outdoors: When your puppy successfully goes potty outside, make sure to give them plenty of praise and maybe even a small treat. Be patient: It may take a little while for your puppy to get the hang of things. For more information on potty training your Golden Retriever puppy, contact a breeder today. They can provide you with additional tips and advice to make the process easier. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle 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! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Clarksville Tennessee and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

Check out our beautiful puppies on our website. Fill Out an Application We want to be confident our puppies are going to a good home. Come Visit Our Home Come out to our 11 acre property south of DFW and get to know us and your new puppy before you make a final decision. No deposit required. We searched for quite some time and we are so happy to have found them! They were easy to work with, super knowledgeable and made this such a great experience for our family! Highly recommended! We are in love with our little girl. The communication and process were easy, quick, and straightforward. We are over the moon with the puppy we brought home. He is the perfect addition to our little family. Beyond being handsome and adorable our little guy is so smart and funny. He made our life so much better! The process of picking one out and picking her up was a great experience. The staff at Southland was very professional and helpful during the process. The puppy has a great temperament and has been very receptive to the crate training and potty training. She is very social and is great around people and other animals! I would highly recommend Southland to all my friends and family, great customer service! Shipping is available anywhere in the U. Additional fees apply. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle 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! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Dallas Texas and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! Micro Goldendoodles Are you in the Texas area and looking for ethical breeders that offer Goldendoodle Puppies for sale? Are you interested in having a playful puppy as a perfect family pet? If the answer is yes, you have found a great resource to take care of all your puppy needs. We offer the best Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Dallas, TX. Cows, goats, deer, elk, etc. Whereas, your dog has a single stomach made to digest meats and fats. Feeding your pup grains could cause them to miss out on important nutrients, causing them to become malnourished and have weakened immune systems. We recommend carrying this diet over into your home for your future puppy so that they can continue to grow and lead the healthiest life. You can visit or purchase Great Lakes Pet Food online at greatlakespetfood. We guarantee the genetic health of our Golden puppies for thirty days, and if you choose to use Great Lakes Pet Food the guarantee will be extended to two years. Genetic testing is done as part of our breeding program following breeder standards. We like to provide proper education backed with logic and science so that you can feel confident that your puppy is given only the best! Here at Breezy Hollow Puppies, we promise to make this the best and easiest experience for you and your family. We take pride in our ability to provide excellent care to our happy puppies. We value giving the puppies nurturing environments that will allow them to be socialized and most of all the healthiest puppies. We keep our facilities safe and sanitary in order to provide the best pup for you! I started my business in with my family by my side. We reside on a beautiful farm in Dauphin County, PA. Our passion is preparing our puppies for loving homes and giving each individual customer a unique and easy sales experience. Breezy Hollow Puppies strives to raise happy and healthy puppies. We would love to hear from you! Omar would love to find your new fur-ever friend! Feel free to contact Omar at with any questions, comments, or concerns! Goldendoodles for sale in Dallas, Texas and surrounding areas Contact Us. My name is Ashley and I am the proud owner, founder and operator of Dallas Doodles. We are a family with an abundance of love and true value for all our animals. We live in Dallas, Georgia on our acre horse farm with our three children, Brock, Maddox and Reese; our 2 sweet doodles Chloe and Oakley;, and our 3 horses. My Goal My goal is to produce puppies with exceptional temperaments who are able to thrive in ongoing life settings. We also want to keep the health, body structure, genetics, and overall well-being of our puppies as a number one priority, in a non-kennel environment. Each puppy sleeps in our home, where they are nurtured with love and attention and become part of our family until they depart to yours. This gives the puppy a stable foundation to grow on, long after my care. The foundation is the key to an easy and well-adjusted transition for both puppy and new family. We are very proud of our breeding program and strive for excellence. What is GANA? This means we adhere to the elite ethical standards and certify the thorough health testing of every breeding dog with the association. Our yearly GANA certification requires their review and approval of our program, health clearances, practices, and policies. You may always contact GANA directly to ensure we are members in good standing. We are listed on Good Dog as an ethical and in good standing breeder. We hold all certificates and testing requirements to receive this certification. Kent Wallace. Other DNA tests include— but are not limited to —all common diseases for specific breeds. Extensive coat testing is done as well. We do furnishing, color, curl and shed testing on all breeding dogs. All breeding parents must pass all levels of testing to be eligible to be our elite breeding stock. As you can tell, we are very thorough with our health testing to only breed the elite level of Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles. We take testing extremely seriously. Socializing I am known for socializing my puppies for successful home placement. In my extensive research and experience over the years, I have studied different ways of raising and handling the puppies and exposing them to new people, other animals, and different life experiences. I have taken the best of these different methods and combined them to formulate my own training and growth. This produces the best pups for our families needs. This combination gives our puppies a special edge and a strong foundation for transitioning to new environments and allows the pups to put their best paw forward. As a family with three children, we have active helpers in our program. This is monitored by me at all times and helps the puppies, especially the ones moving into a family with children in the home. We start the process of crate and potty training so they have some familiarity with training expectations when they get to their new home. We did not apply or advertise in any form. Just being US…Wow -what an honor! As you can see, many details go into being an ethical breeder and raising our puppies in the right manner. These attributes set us apart from most breeders. For more information and details on personal experiences with our doodles, please visit our testimonial tab on our website and read our five-star Facebook reviews. See what our Families are saying…. The process of getting her was so easy. We had such an amazing experience. You can see how much these babies are loved and taken care of! I highly recommend Texas Goldendoodle Lovers! Amberly was amazing to work with! She is extremely kind, patient, and knowledgeable. Our new puppy has been a great addition to our family. I would highly recommend Texas Goldendoodle Lovers to anyone! My 40th birthday was the next day and I reached out to Amberly about possibly getting a Micro Goldendoodle puppy. She and her husband met my kids and I that same evening and we brought home our sweet Lola Bean!! Later in the week, I decided to get one more puppy so LoLa had a sister to grow up with. My family also has 5 kids so I knew how much love and attention these pups would get!! Lola and Roo and inseparable and play constantly they also love tearing up paper towels and toilet paper everywhere…. .I absolutely love that Amberly puts so much love and care into her puppies, he was not shy or timid at all how most puppies would be in a new environment. She also keeps in contact with you from the moment you choose your baby to the time you bring it home!! See MoreSee Less Vanessa Naputi 4 months ago I absolutely love Texas Goldendoodle Lovers and the fact that they only breed and produce quality doodles based on genetics, and the pups are so worth waiting on. I have two beautiful parti-doodettes with super sweet and loving temperaments. I highly recommend Texas Goldendoodle Lovers if you want a quality doodle to add to your family.This is the place! Ive been following this page for about a year then finally decided to take the plunge and we got our sweet Pepper. She's the most perfect addition to our family. Amberly is great with communication. She kept us up to date and sent us pictures and videos weekly before we went to pick up our puppy.See MoreSee Less Tiffany Cartman 11 months ago When I started looking for a breeder for my Goldendoodle, my choice came down to three breeders, one of which was Amberly. When I spoke with Amberly she was so sweet, and kind and her story for while she started breeding tugged at my heart. I immediately knew that Amberly and Texas Goldendoodle Lovers would be my selected breeder. See MoreSee Less.

Welcome to Yare Valley Labradoodles Our love for our labradoodles is so great we decided to create this website to share them with as many people as possible. We live in a small Broadland village in South Norfolk, where our dogs are able to take full advantage of long country walks as well as the Norfolk Broads. Our first labradoodle came to live with us nearly 16 years ago and completely stole our hearts. Australian labradoodles are labrador retriever crossed with a poodle with the addition of other permitted breeds through the generations, including the soft coated Irish wheaten terrier, Portuguese water dog and the cocker spaniel. These infusions have resulted in dogs who are consistent in size, coat type and temperament. None of our pups are spayed or neutered before leaving for their new homes. This practice is only carried out by commercial breeders. I am not against spaying and neutering, at an appropriate age, but carrying this out before the dogs have reached maturity is not in their best interest. I also feel it is essential for family pets to be born and raised in a family home, as opposed to commercial kennels. We would never use distance selling or couriers as we view homing our puppies as a two way process that has to be right for both families. We therefore always meet potential puppy families and have them visit our home to meet our dogs. Once we offer you a puppy we ask for a 10 per cent deposit with the balance payable prior to collecting your puppy. Our puppies are only sold as family pets, as are the pups from matings with Waffle. Therefore no puppy shall be used for breeding, without our prior written consent. Please remember not every Australian Labradoodle is created equally To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Their eagerness to please combined with smart, soulful nature make them perfect for therapy work or a perfect family pet. I have worked with dogs for over 14 year and I'm yet to find any breed that compares to an Australian Labradoodle. The kennel club has no minimum statutory requirement for any health testing before a dog is bred. This is not the way that I conduct my business. With Willows Australian Labradoodles, every generation has been health checked and passed and has been registered. If an Australian labradoodle fails its health testing it will be neutered or spayed and no puppies will be produced. The intent was to create a breed that was allergy and asthma friendly with the temperament of a service dog. This journey was inspired by a vision impaired woman in Hawaii needed a Guide Dog which wouldn't aggravate her husband's allergies. English Labradoodle An English labradoodle is a cross between a purebred Labrador and purebred poodle, either standard or miniature poodle. An Australian labradoodle is completely different from the first generation cross first bred in Australia in .Word spread on the assets of this new breed, and breeders in Australia started to work with the idea of improving and refining a new type of labradoodle. Soon breeders from around the world joined in to develop the Australian Labradoodle we all know and love today. I use the word authentic because we have had our pedigrees independently verified and graded as Australian labradoodles. What is multigenerational Australian labradoodle? Although different breeds were used in the initial fine tuning of the Australian labradoodle breed, today around the world three breeds are now used to make the Australian Labradoodle: Labrador Retriever, pedigree Poodle and pedigree Cocker Spaniel English or American type. At this point in time these are the only three breeds which may still be infused into an Authentic registered Australian Labradoodle. Which includes only one of these infusions in a 5 generation pedigree. With a Labradoodle mum and Australian Labradoodle Dad, puppies would not be classed as a genuine authentic Australian Labradoodle. If and only if the Australian Labradoodle is already 4 generations minimum certified. Doodle and Poodle crosses can be great family pets and there is demand for these crosses. The breeders that constantly lie, falsely advertise are purely doing it for financial gain. What sizes do authentic Australian Labradoodles come in? It has been my experience that the Australian Labradoodle combination produces the majestic beauty and regal nature, with the most consistent size and non-shedding hypoallergenic coat qualities you would want in a Labradoodle. What about Australian Labradoodle coat type? These are non-shedding and allergy friendly. A spiritual breeder with a big heart. Our puppies are born with love, and our support is forever. We bring these beautiful souls into the world, and their forever happiness is the most important thing of all. We pride ourselves on communication, support and friendship. Firstly let me introduce myself, My name is Michelle, and we are a small breeder with strong ethics and a big heart. My dogs really are my life. They are my companions, best friends and family. As you will discover with the breed, they are my entertainment too. Pippa, her daughter Florence and her grandaughter Merebelle live here with me and Winnie. Along with the heartwarming joy we feel when we meet their new families and see how they truly change lives. Read a handful of our reviews, and you will understand how special our Australian Labradoodles are and how passionate we are about supporting our families. Benson was my world. He was a fantastic companion who filled every day with love and laughter. Benson is the reason we breed these beautiful dogs. I wanted to share what I found in Benson with others. I built this website myself with the aim of giving you a window into the world of the Australian Labradoodle. It was imperative that our website was written from the heart rather than built by a business. All of our breeding dogs are much-loved pets who have their very own forever families. And we couldn't have it any other way. We never sell retired breeding dogs. When our dogs retire, they stay with their forever families. Our Guardian program works brilliantly. Why not pop onto our Guardian Page to find out more? We consider our pup's families our friends and are always at the end of a call or text to offer help and guidance. We create private pages for our litters, enabling their families to follow their pup's progress from birth to collection. These pages create great memories too. Imagine looking back in ten years time, seeing their first steps. We use these pages to upload photos and videos and share advice and links to help their families prepare for their arrival. In addition, we have an Essex-based Australian Labradoodle walking group where you can arrange your own group walks. Our pup's health and temperament are of the utmost importance to us. The health of the puppies starts with the health of both parents. All of our breeding dogs go through physical and DNA health screening. All of their health and breed authentication certificates are available to view on choosing day. There is no rush when you are here. Rather than tryig to see everyone in one day, we invite our families to spend time with the puppies over a week. I love sharing my knowledge about the breed, so please do not hesitate to call. The love and devotion the Australian labradoodle has for their human friends is simply amazing; indeed the Australian Labradoodle was bred to not only to be a companion but a trained therapy assistant dog. Through diligent breeding practices, keeping temperament the top priority, the breed have developed to become extremely smart, intuitive, loving, fun dogs. Australian Labradoodles have wonderful sense of humours. They live to make people smile. Australian Labradoodles love everyone and every thing. .They live their lives assuming and insisting that everyone and everything loves them back. They really do bring so much joy. Please take a moment to read through our reviews on the website and Facebook page. Our Australian Labradoodles really do change lives. Australian Labradoodles also make excellent performance and agility dogs. Therefore if you're looking to keep busy, be very easy to train and enjoy learning new things, the sky is the limit. Their unique connection to their human companions makes them yearn to be near their people and eager to please them. Take a look at the video below of our lovely Yogi, who is a therapy dog. He loves to visit all the people who need a little Yogi love. Our aim here at Churchills Australian Labradoodles is to breed healthy, happy puppies who are perfect family pets and assistance dogs, as well as one on one companions. You will see from our photo galleries that all our dogs have lovely soft fleece coats and great looks that the Australian Labradoodles are known for. Australian Labradoodles are dogs that have a very interesting history. They were first bred in the s by a member of the Australian Guide Dog Association who set out to produce a hypo-allergenic guide dog, for a blind woman who was allergic to dogs. They can be considered to be six in one, as six different breeds were used to create what I believe is the ultimate dog. They are gentle, smart, loving, playful and obedient. An extra bonus is that they have an allergy friendly coat and do not shed! Tootsie is a cuddly and very loving dog who adores children. She is very intelligent and has proved easy to train. Her gentle temperament means her puppies will be perfect for first time dog owners! She is an exceptionally pretty dog with a gorgeous thick and curly coat. Tootsie comes from my breeder friend from Poland, a wonderful lover of dogs who is respected and well known all across Europe. The dad of both sets of puppies is Miles, our amazing stud who comes from Spain. He is a wonderfully calm and gentle boy! He loves to play with other dogs, whether they are smaller, bigger, older or younger! Miles adores his family and enjoys learning new tricks as he is extremely obedient. He is a very pretty boy with a luxurious, thick brown coat. The Pups are now ready to go home! A deposit is required to reserve your puppy, please do get in touch for more details : - All of our dogs are extensively health checked, having passed all their hip, elbow and annual eye tests. As well as having extensive genetic DNA tests. We have done extensive remodelling to suit the needs of the little puppies as well as the mums! The puppies have an outdoor area built and designed exclusively for them and their needs. They are also potty trained and know basic commands. I will always be reachable for any questions! Please feel free to contact me or any of my other extremely satisfied customers who have welcomed one of my puppies into their homes. These organisations contain the most amazing group of breeders who only pick the best dogs to breed. Please check out my website which has links to all the popular social media!

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. The following is a brief how-to guide on taking care of newborn German Shepherd puppies before, during, and after birth. Getting Ready for Delivery 1. It is generally best practice to puppy-proof the area make sure that there are no hard, sharp objects protruding from the walls or floors , and make sure that it is in an isolated part of your house to avoid nuisance. In addition, it will be very difficult for you to move the mother during the pregnancy, so make sure that this area is ideal before she goes into labor. Prepare a Checklist of Supplies Preparing a preliminary checklist of supplies that you will need for the mother and her pups can be very helpful. Remember that this list should contain everything that you think that you may need before the puppies arrive. Here are some items to include in your preliminary checklist: 2. It is best practice to line the bottom of your nest with sheets and towels so that it can be easily removed and washed after birth. The mother will defecate most frequently when she first goes into labor we recommend having a diaper-changing razor nearby , so you want to make sure that whatever you choose to line your nest is easily removed and disposed of. You should consider using a heating pad or heat lamp in your nest area. Also, make sure that you have an extra blanket nearby because even if the heating pad is set on the proper temperature setting, it can still drop after hours of use. The extra blanket can also be used in combination with the pad if you need to increase the temperature of your nest area. The purpose of these two items is to provide a den-like environment for your mother and puppies after they have been delivered. Generally, puppies are checked over at 2 weeks after birth and are weighed then in addition to 2 weeks after that. However, you can get a baby scale to weigh the puppies as often from there on out. In addition, you will want to check the temperature outside of the nest to make sure that it is not too cold or too hot. If you are having trouble regulating the temperature inside and out, it may be a good idea to put your female GSD in an enclosed whelping box. You will want to be sure that you have a pair of gloves, sterilized scissors, and a sterile area in which to perform the procedure, as well as some thread and some antiseptic solution. Ensure the Environment is Clean and Comforting During and after the birth, you will want to ensure that the area in which your mother and babies are being kept is clean and comfortable. Here are a few tips that you can use to make the area clean and comfortable for your dogs. Make sure to clean the birth area as best you can. The easiest way to do this is by using a solution of warm water and vinegar 3 parts water, 1 part vinegar. Keep a squeaky toy around for fun and entertainment purposes only. In addition, you should keep it hidden until the puppies are old enough to enjoy playing with it at about 2 weeks. Remove unnecessary items from the area to ensure there is enough space for the mother and her pups. Disinfect this area well so that it remains sterile. Try your best to limit external stimuli for your mother while she is in labor, such as the presence of children, loud noises in the area, and anything else you can think of that might interfere with her birthing process. Watch Out for Some Warning Signs During Pregnancy If you have done everything you can to prepare for the birth of your puppies, you should be all set when it finally happens. However, just like everything in life, not everything goes according to plan! Sometimes, there are warning signs that something is amiss with your female GSD. What you need to be aware of are the following things: She appears to be in pain or otherwise uncomfortable before giving birth. She stays in the same position for several hours while giving birth to her puppies without showing any signs of labor e. She begins to bleed excessively from the vagina. She seems extremely tired and unable to get up or do much at all. This could signify that it was born prematurely and needs some extra care before being left with its mother. She has a long break that lasts more than several hours. This is when they need to rely on their mother GSD to provide everything they need to survive. Although the mother should be able to provide for the puppies most of what they need, sometimes she might need a little bit of help. Check The Newborn Puppy Right after the birth, make sure that the puppies are breathing properly. If a puppy does not appear to be breathing or if it seems like they are having trouble breathing, take them out and rub firmly across their back while covering them with a towel. If this is the case, you should keep her warm at all times by dabbing some alcohol onto her rear-end and massaging it gently until she warms up again. The puppies will be able to regulate their own temperatures at this point. At this time, they are too early in their development to drink regular mother milk, let alone puppy food and solid food. So instead of milk, a puppy must be fed a yellowish substance called colostrum during the first 12 to 24 hours of life. This substance is so critical for newborn German Shepherd puppies as it contains all the antibodies they need to help them fight off disease at an early age. In fact, most newborn puppies who have been deprived of colostrum will die within the first week. You can either find another feeding mother, or you can feed them yourself with artificial formula. Whichever you choose, make sure to consult with your vet first before doing so. Related Questions 1. A German shepherd dog can carry her puppies anywhere between 63 to 68 days. Larger breed dogs like the German shepherd tend to carry their puppies longer than smaller breeds. Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful and useful as you raise and train your German Shepherd. Here are some of my favorite reviews for German Shepherd supplies that I personally use and recommend. Here is my recommendation for the best dog food for German Shepherds. Leash: A leash is a must-have for any German Shepherd owner. With a good leash, you can give your dog the freedom they need while keeping them safe and under control. Here are my top picks for the best leashes for German Shepherds. A harness that is improperly fitted or used can cause serious injury to your dog. Read my review of the best harnesses for German Shepherds here. Different bowls serve different purposes, and the bowl that you need will depend on a number of factors. See my recommendation for the best dog bowl for German Shepherds here. There are a ton of different factors to consider when choosing a crate. Beds: German Shepherds need a bed that is comfortable, supportive, and durable. This breed is known for being high energy, so you need a bed that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. House: It can be tough to find the best dog house for German Shepherds. Shampoo: You want to find a shampoo that is specifically designed for German Shepherds. This breed has a lot of furs, and you need a shampoo that will be gentle on their skin and coat. Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training tool that can be used on German Shepherds. It delivers an electric shock to the dog when they exhibit certain behaviors. While some people are against the use of shock collars, I believe that they can be helpful in certain situations. Read my review of the best shock collar for German Shepherds here. Vacuum: If you have a German Shepherd, you need a vacuum that is specifically designed to deal with all of the furs they shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, but it can be hard to keep up with. The right vacuum will make your life much easier. Related posts:. Blankets, pillows, and towels. The mother GSD and her litter need a quiet place to stay. It should be spacious, clean, and comfortable. If money is not an issue, you may purchase a commercial whelping box and a washable vet bed. But if you want to be thrifty, you can just make use of a clean cardboard box. Just make sure that the box is big enough for your GSD to stretch out comfortably. You may also buy a heat pad. It will provide warmth to the litter. Instead, put the heat pad under the whelping box, with one end on top of the box. Cover it with a towel to avoid overheating. The whelping box should be close enough to an electrical outlet so you can easily plug in the heat pad once you need more warmth for your Litter. Make sure they stay warm by providing a heating pad and lamp. You may add blankets, pillows, towels, or even old newspapers and a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Be careful though because puppies might get entangled and suffocate if the blanket, pillows, and towels are not taut. Puppy milk replacer, baby bottle, or feeding syringe If the litter is abandoned or orphaned, ask your vet to prescribe milk formulated for German shepherd puppies. Purchase a baby bottle or syringe for feeding. If you leave newborn German shepherd puppies with their mother, give her the first two days to bond with her litter and feed them. Once you see that your GSD has accepted her litter and is feeding them, you can put the puppies in a box beside their mother. She will take care of cleaning and nurturing her pups while continuing to feed them with her milk. But if she still refuses to take care of her pups, you must take matters into your own hands. To do this, place a clean towel or a washable vet bed inside a cardboard box. Keep the box beside your GSD but make sure that she cannot get in touch with her pups. Plug the pad into an electrical outlet and adjust the heat to maintain its temperature at 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The pups can get hypothermia if their body heat drops below 94 degrees Fahrenheit. See also How long should a puppy chew on a bully stick and when to take the bully stick away? Now, put your German shepherd puppies under the warmth of the heating pad at 95 degrees F and wait for them to feed. Only put three puppies per towel or one puppy per section of the vet bed for ease in feeding and monitoring. A mother GSD can produce about 4 to 5 cc of milk every hour. This means that she will need someone to feed her pups every 2 or 3 hours. To correctly use the eyedropper, put your puppy on its stomach and tickle its throat to induce swallowing. Repeat this process until you see that the pup has emptied the eyedropper. Pups will probably fall asleep after feeding. To avoid suffocation, place rolled-up newspapers in their box the pups can use them as pillows when they sleep. These are only temporary until the mother GSD starts to take care of them by licking them clean and keeping them warm with her presence. Weighing scale To make sure if the German shepherd puppies are gaining enough weight, monitor their weight by using a weighing scale at least 4 times a week. If the puppies are not gaining enough weight, they may not be getting enough milk or nourishment so consult your vet right away. Use a wet cotton ball or washcloth to massage or rub gently the anal region. A mother GSD can give birth to 4 to 9 puppies in one litter, 6 as the average. Newborn German Shepherd Puppies Newborns especially 1 to 3-day old German shepherd puppies are vulnerable so before you do anything, consult with your vet especially if you are inexperienced. Right after your GSD gives birth, check the 1-day old German shepherd puppies if they are breathing. If you notice a puppy having breathing difficulties, use a suction bulb syringe to suck out the blockage and clear its airways. Most of the time, they just sleep or eat. They usually eat every two hours during their first week of life. If the puppies are orphaned, you may wash them gently using a warm and moist cloth. Avoid over-bathing the pups because it can cause dehydration. You will notice some of them wagging their tails as well which is adorable to look at. The puppies will gradually open their eyes for the first time in 2 weeks. They will be curious so expect them to move around to inspect their surroundings. Instead of crawling, they attempt to use their legs even though their legs may shake. Check their weight to see if they are gaining well and continue keeping them warm and clean. Their ears will open so they can hear the sounds around them. Though their legs still shake when they attempt to walk, they can finally stand on their own. They will begin to socialize and explore their surroundings more so you should not separate the puppies from each other. They will start teething so they tend to bite everything. They will also be interested in eating solid food. The puppies can walk well at 4 weeks so they will continue socializing with their siblings, their mother, and their handler through playing. They can begin eating solid foods for the first time now that their teeth are fully developed. The puppies can be fully weaned when they reach 6 weeks because they become independent of their mother. They also improve their social skills by playing not only with each other but also with people. Not to worry because this is just a normal phase. This is a good time to expose the puppies to various sounds, places, and people. Teach them basic commands but focus on socialization and bite inhibition. If the puppies are not fully potty trained , train them now. At 9 weeks, the weight of male German shepherd puppies normally ranges from 9 to 10 kg while the females would be from 7 to 9 kg. Their height ranges from 12 to 15 inches. See also How to Crate Train a German Shepherd Puppy When the German shepherd puppies reach 10 weeks, their ears will become pointy but sometimes the ears are floppy. Their height and weight will continue to grow as long as they are adequately fed. By this time, your puppies should already know how to gently use their mouth in dealing with humans so you can enhance their training by teaching other basic commands. When they are done, let them play so that they learn how to do this on their own. Be patient because it takes time before they get the hang of it. If after 24 hours it still refuses to eat, use a baby bottle or feeding syringe to feed the puppy. Prepare a milk replacement formula using evaporated milk mixed with egg yolk, using two egg yolks for every half cup of milk. To avoid bacteria growth, boil the water first before mixing everything and store any leftover formula in the fridge. Gradually increase the proportion of milk replacement formula and decrease the proportion of puppy chow until you wean them off milk replacement completely. Your GSD puppy may have parasites because stools may look like pebbles or tan-colored, small balls which can be a sign that they have swallowed something in their litter box. This is particularly common when they are still with their mother because they tend to eat the feces of the other pups. Diarrhea can also be caused by stress, which is common for a newborn GSD puppy that has been removed from its mom. If this happens, make sure you give them enough attention and place your hand gently on their body to calm them down. Conclusion German shepherd puppies are truly a sight to behold from birth to adulthood. 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. A few things are as cute as a litter of German Shepherd puppies, but the idea of caring for all those bundles of fluff can be overwhelming. So, what do you do after your German Shepherd gives birth? After the whelping process is over, clean the mother GSD as much as possible, without disturbing her or the puppies. Instead of using soaps and disinfectants, clean your dog using warm water and a washcloth. Remove soiled bedding from the whelping box and replace it with clean towels or blankets. If your female German Shepherd is about to give birth, you need to be prepared to step in and care for her newborn puppies if necessary! Read on to find out how to take care of newborn German Shepherd puppies to raise a healthy and happy litter. It may come as a big surprise, but German Shepherds are very self-sufficient during birth. Though your GSD is more than capable of giving birth to puppies on her own, you should still be there to offer her support and help out in case of an emergency. Wrap the puppy in a towel and continue rubbing their back to stimulate them to breathe. Keep in mind, delivering the puppies is a messy business and there will be some drainage and waste in the area for the next couple of weeks. Your best bet to keeping the mom and the puppies clean and safe is to set up a designated nesting box before the delivery. Proper hygiene is the key to ensuring the health and well-being of both mom and her pups. Besides using towels and blankets you can also use a heating pad or a heat lamp inside the nesting box. If you decide to use a heating pad, choose a quality product and make sure that it is set at an appropriate temperature. Nose Suction Bulb Sometimes, puppies are born with excess fluid and mucus inside their noses and rely on you to clear their airways and help them breathe properly. As mentioned earlier, delivery is messy so make sure that the bedding inside the nesting box can be easily removed and disposed of. Remove the soiled bedding and replace it with clean sheets once a day to maintain hygiene inside the whelping box. By the end of the second and the beginning of the third week, the puppies will open their eyes and become more active. Feeding German Shepherd puppies spend their first week of life nursing and sleeping! However, you should start weaning your puppies when they are around three or four weeks old. Three weeks old German Shepherd puppies can eat wet puppy food or puppy kibble mixed with water as it is easier to chew. If this happens, have your vet prescribe you an artificial puppy formula to feed to your pups. During the first week, keep the temperature inside the room between 86 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In the second week, you can lower the room temperature to 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the puppies turn three weeks the ideal temperature for them is around 71 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure not to exceed 65 percent humidity, since too much moisture can cause diseases. Use a humidifier or place the nesting box in your laundry room to maintain ideal humidity levels. Weigh the Puppies Use a baby scale to weigh your puppies regularly to ensure they are gaining weight. Puppies are generally checked over and weighted two weeks after birth and then again at four weeks of age. However, you can use baby scales to weigh your GSD puppies at birth and then every other day to see if they are gaining weight and developing as expected. Once their baby teeth start to grow your puppies can start eating wet puppy food, or kibble soaked in water. By the time your puppies reach seven or eight weeks of age, they should be transitioned to solid food. Nevertheless, there is no harm in wanting to be prepared to welcome the new puppies the best way you can. Caring for a litter of newborn German Shepherd puppies can be a daunting idea, especially if you never raised puppies before. Related Articles:. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. Puppies How to Care For a Newborn German Shepherd Puppy German Shepherd puppies are the cutest pets, but can be very fragile at an earlier stage of life, making it impossible for them to fight and survive alone. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about newborn German shepherd puppy care. However, these little babies are often born blind, deaf, and toothless. Since these pups are so fragile at an earlier stage of life, it is nearly impossible for them to fight and survive alone. Unfortunately, due to lack of care, many German Shepherd puppies easily succumb to unfortunate circumstances. It is essential to know that newborn puppies generally require a lot more care and attention than adult dogs. Here, we will dive deep into the world of newborn German shepherd puppies so you know how to take care of them. Important Things to Know About German Shepherd Puppies Newborn German Shepherds are blind until they are between 8 and 14 days old and deaf until they are 5 to 8 days old. These unique-looking puppies are typically born with dark blue or grey eyes, but their physical features keep changing and evolving as they grow. If the first litter of a German Shepherd has more than four puppies, it can render the mother incapable of providing them ample care. This means that there is a potential risk of the newborns getting sick, dying, or becoming very weak until you intervene. Care for the Pups During their Birth Once your German Shepherd has given birth, you will need to check all the puppies to ensure they are breathing properly. Generally, the mother cuts the umbilical cord and cleans up her puppies by licking them gently. She typically starts with their genitals, moves on to their legs, and then finishes with the rest of their bodies. You can start by using a disinfectant to clean the cords and then rub their bodies with a clean towel until they dry. Adjust the Temperature and Humidity Before delivering, a German Shepherd mother searches for a safe and private space enough for her puppies to be born it. So, as a dog parent, it will be your responsibility to provide your pup with a big enough box to suit her and her puppies. Therefore, adjusting the temperature of the nest is a rather significant part of keeping these pups healthy. Generally, German Shepherd mothers are the primary heat source for babies. However, if, for any reason, the mother cannot be in the box, you must provide the puppies with other heat sources, such as a warm lamp or a heating pad. The best way to maintain ideal humidity levels for the puppies is to install a humidifier or keep the nest in your laundry room. Feed the Puppies A significant part of caring for your newborn German Shepherd puppies is providing them with the right amount of nourishment. The best way to do this is to allow nature to take the wheel. The puppies will be nursed by their mother immediately after the birth, even without the pups unable to see her nipples. A German Shepherd mother typically lactates for two months. However, if the mother is unable to provide her pups with this nourishment, you will have to search for other sources. Take Note of Hygiene Maintaining the hygiene of the puppies and their nest is an integral part of keeping them in good health. However, it is best to maintain a clean environment by disinfecting the nest and replacing the blanks or towels once a day. Additionally, you must only start bathing the puppies after 45 days of their birth. Wrapping Up This article only provides you with the basics of newborn German Shepherd puppy care. Discover how to create a joyful, healthy home for your pet. Subscribe to your weekly rundown of practice, real life ideas and training tips straight to your inbox. We offer practical, real life ideas and training tips for a joyful experince, with your pet. All rights reserved. The German Shepherd is a widespread breed of service dog that is popular with breeders. This breed develops into a beautiful large size body with well-developed muscles giving the dog the ability to perform well in many different environments. With proper care and competent training , an owner will get a loyal and devoted friend. Raising German Shepherd puppies is a responsible and difficult task which will require a lot of patience and love. Of course, we can easily fall for these German Shepherd newborn puppies whose photos look so cute on the Internet and in magazines but they also need competent care. Litter size The normal litter size for this breed is often of interest to novice dog breeders and this information is especially relevant for those who have their first experience with a young bitch. Amongst German Shepherd breed experts, there is consensus that the normal litter size is generally driven by genetics and the conditions or the timing of mating do not have a significant influence. A shepherd dog can give birth from 1 to as much as 15 puppies but in most cases a little less than the median of this range is more typical. Basically, you can expect a litter size of five to six puppies, which is really the optimal size. Of course, a healthy bitch is able to feed twelve babies, but it will be much more difficult for her, and the babies may not grow strong enough. Mating Experienced dog breeders recommend no more than one mating per year, otherwise it may affect the physical appearance and health of German Shepherd newborn puppies and the health of the mother herself. First two weeks of the German Shepherd newborn puppies Learning to care for the puppies during the first two weeks of their lives is particularly important. The condition of a German shepherd puppy immediately after birth, already speaks volumes to the fact that he is absolutely helpless as babies are born blind and deaf. However, despite this obstacle, their sense of smell is already quite developed and they perfectly feel the maternal scent and look for nipples of the mother by touch. Moreover, newborns instinctively know that the rear nipples contain more milk, so a struggle begins between them for the most advantageous places. Hearing in newborns starts functioning three to four days after birth. In the first hours after birth, babies are susceptible to various kinds of infections and they are especially vulnerable in cases when the health condition of the mother is not good. Real life experience shows that those who were born last have a much higher survival rate than those who came out first. If there are more than six newborns in a litter, the owners will need a lot of strength and patience to help the mother hatch and provide the conditions necessary for their survival. The litter will need to be divided into two areas and newborns fed in two steps. It is recommended to set up two box or containers to separate the group. In that case, you will need the help of a nurse dog who could take over some of the feeding responsibilities. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead in case the need comes up. There are certain criteria for selecting a nurse dog: Height at withers more than 50 cm Strength Health Milk availability It is important, to pay special attention to the weak and small puppies and place them against the rear nipples. Monitoring of German Shepherd newborn puppies You will need to closely monitor the behavior of newborns, weigh them daily and record the results in a log book. In doing so, you can track the evolution of the babies and identify those that may have development issues. In the first week, babies suckle their mother about twelve times a day, then the frequency drops to eight and in the final days it will go down to four times. At first, the mother stimulates the physiological functions of the puppies by licking them. Once the German Shepherd newborn puppies begin to eat a little solid food, the mother stops doing it. Keep in mind that from that point on you will have to take care of the cleanliness of the birthing area where the bitch lives with her puppies. If you notice that the mother does not really care for the babies, you will need to massage their abdomens. You can do so with a cotton swab dipped in sunflower oil. When the babies are five days old, the dog owner should start changing the litter in the box on a daily basis. Make sure the area where the litter is set up is warm but well ventilated and that nothing can contribute to suffocation of the puppies such as fabric, attachments, etc. On the seventh day, trim the small claws of the front legs as they can scratch the mother while feeding. If the case she has wounds, lubricate them with synthomycin liniment. In that case, wash them with a weak potassium permanganate solution, rosehip oil or sea buckthorn oil and make sure that she does not lick that area. Feeding of German Shepherd newborn puppies You can start feeding puppies once you notice a decrease in their daily growth, despite the fact that they become restless, whine and try to crawl. Appropriate timing is crucial as rushing the process is just as dangerous as delaying it. If you start feeding too early, the mother will have less milk production, which is a source of vitamins and antibodies to various infections. In fact, breast milk is the best whey that protects droppings from all sorts of infections. In general, feeding can start around the fourteenth day. In cases where the shepherd mother has problems with lactation, you can start on the twelfth day. You can give milk from a cow, sheep or goat by mixing egg yolk and powdered milk into it. A bottle with a nipple is suitable as a feeding tool and the hole should be of such a size that milk does not pour out, but drips. The frequency of feeding in case of insufficient lactation in a bitch is every three hours and three times a day with normal lactation. Learning to care for Shepherd puppies A one-month old German shepherd puppy is not much different from its younger counterparts, but it is much larger. Its weight is from two and a half to four kg and height at the withers is from 19 to 21 cm. Once the puppy starts eating solids, the diet should be optimally balanced. The young German Shepherd is growing fast and his food intake must be nutritious! Meals should be provided at regular intervals with 6 meals a day being the optimal frequency. Then, gradually increase the amount of servings and decrease the number of meals. The main principle is that each meal should provide the shepherd puppy with the necessary complex of vitamins, fats, carbohydrates and proteins. One serving of food is usually around g. Only select premium quality food for large dog breeds and make sure they contain all the necessary nutrients. Alternatives to processed food are natural products cottage cheese, porridge with meat broth, grated vegetables, boiled eggs, boiled or raw minced meat. Both approaches in their pure form have their advantages and disadvantages. Get the help of a dog nutritionist, if needed. Good luck! Related topics of interest to our readers. Gestation length according to accurate hormone measurements in dogs Please note that these values are averages and individual dogs may have slight variations. Getting Ready for Delivery Before giving birth to its babies, a female German shepherd begins exploring private and safe places for her puppies this process is called nesting. For the comfort of the mother and the safety of the puppy, keep some blankets and towels in the whelping box. She begins to spend more time in her nest. This way you will not have to distribute her puppies in hidden places. Taking Care of German shepherd Puppies Newborns cannot see or hear until 5 to 8 days of age. Puppies do not stand until at least 2 to 4 weeks of age. Same for the barking behavior. If left in the litter or orphaned, or if its mother is unable to produce enough milk, or if the suckle reflex for the puppy is poor, ask your vet for the Lactose-Free weaning milk prescribed for German Shepherd Puppies. Check if the temperature is warm enough as the puppies cannot control their temperature at this stage. You do not need to bathe them this time, because the mother GSD cleans her litter by constantly pressing. If the puppies are orphaned, you can wash them gently using a warm and damp cloth. Mothers for German shepherds , depending on her experience and the size of the litter, work an average of 6 to 18 hours, usually to deliver puppies. When new contractions begin, arrange the already-born puppies with a heating pad fitted in a small box and keep them away until the next puppy is born. Immediately after birth, check that each puppy is breathing properly. Observe closely their movements to make sure there are no faded puppies. German shepherd giving birth for the first time Usually, after birth, the mother cuts the umbilical cord and cleans the puppies by gently pressing their bodies. She starts with the genitals, then the legs complete with the rest of the body. She may not do so if she has no experience, or when she is exhausted after childbirth. This colostrum is very nutritious for babies. Hygiene Mother GSD, by licking its genital area, encourages her litter to urinate or defecate, but if left in the litter, you should stimulate them with potty cleaning essentials because new-borns cannot do this on their own till the first 2 weeks of life. Gently massage the anal area using a damp cotton ball or washcloth. Use a suction bulb syringe if something obstructs the nasal passages of the puppy. Also Read: When do German shepherd ears Stand up naturally? Track the growth and condition of each puppy. Using the Baby Scale, weigh each puppy immediately after birth and log its weight. Healthy German Shepherd puppies weight is about 0. Well-fed puppies sleep quietly, while air-swallowing puppies appear to be well-fed, but behave satisfactorily, initially crying and wandering around a lot, then, not moving enough. German Shepherd puppies are completely weaned and completely independent from their mother by 8 weeks of age, so it is best to train them to avoid behavioral problems. If puppies are not trained to be considered completely stupid, train them now. If necessary, bottle feeding with a canine milk replacement formula can be introduced, following veterinarian guidelines. Puppies should be fed every hours, including overnight. Weaning Introduce a small amount of softened puppy food to start the weaning process. Consult with a veterinarian for appropriate food and feeding guidelines. Start offering puppy food mixed with milk replacement formula, gradually reducing the formula over time. Begin to introduce the puppies to lapping from a shallow dish of water. Socialization Continue handling and gentle interactions to build trust and positive associations with humans. Introduce the puppies to new sounds, sights, and experiences in a controlled and safe manner. Allow supervised playtime with littermates to encourage socialization and development of motor skills. Veterinary Check-up Schedule a veterinary visit for a check-up, deworming, and vaccination recommendations. Hygiene and Cleanliness Clean the whelping area regularly, ensuring a warm, dry, and comfortable environment. Puppies may begin to crawl and explore, so provide a safe space with appropriate bedding. Monitor the puppies for any signs of illness or abnormalities and seek veterinary assistance if necessary. Sleep and Rest Puppies spend most of their time sleeping and should have a designated area for uninterrupted rest. Ensure the sleeping area is quiet, warm, and away from drafts or excessive noise. Provide soft bedding or blankets for comfort. Checklist of essential items for the Newborn German Shepherd Puppies and Mother Here is a list of things newborn German Shepherd puppies and their mother need: For Mom Whelping Box : A safe and comfortable place for a mother to give birth and nurse her puppies. Bedding: soft, clean bedding for the whelping box to keep mother and puppies warm and comfortable. Food and water bowls: Provide easily accessible bowls for the mother to have food and water. High-quality dog food: Provide a balanced and nutritious diet that meets the needs of the mother during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a veterinarian for specific recommendations. Freshwater: Ensure a constant supply of clean, fresh water to keep the mother hydrated. Medical Supplies — Keep a first aid kit on hand that includes items such as wound cleansers, gauze pads, and other basic medical supplies in case of emergencies or complications. For newborn puppies Help Box: A safe and warm environment for puppies to grow and develop. Bedding: Soft, clean bedding to keep pups warm and comfortable. Heat source: A heat lamp or heating pad is set to a low temperature to provide adequate warmth for puppies, since they are initially unable to regulate their body temperatures. Milk Replacement Formula — If nursing is not possible or additional supplementation is required, a high-quality canine milk replacement formula is available. Nursing bottles or syringes — can be used to provide supplementary feeding if puppies are unable to nurse from their mother or if necessary. Weight standard: Check the weight of the puppies regularly to ensure proper growth and development. Vet Contact Information — Have the contact details of a veterinarian with experience caring for puppies handy for any emergencies or questions. Identification bands: Use different colored bands or collars to help distinguish between puppies and track their progress. Socialization and nurturing toys: As puppies get older, introduce appropriate toys and objects to stimulate their senses and encourage early socialization. Remember to consult a veterinarian for personalized recommendations and guidance based on your specific situation and the needs of your German Shepherd mother and puppies. The mother should be given small, frequent meals throughout the day to support her energy requirements while feeding the puppy or during nursing. How often should newborn German Shepherd puppies be nursed? Puppies should nurse from their mother every 1 to 2 hours during the first few weeks of life. They have small stomachs and need frequent feedings to meet their nutritional needs. When should I start introducing solid food to the puppies? Solid food introduction typically begins around 3 to 4 weeks of age. Start by offering softened puppy food mixed with milk replacement formula, gradually transitioning them away from exclusive nursing. Consult with a veterinarian for specific recommendations. How do I keep the whelping area clean? Clean the whelping area regularly to maintain hygiene. Remove soiled bedding promptly, wipe down surfaces, and replace it with fresh, clean bedding. Use pet-safe disinfectants as recommended by your veterinarian. When can I start weaning the puppies from their mother? Weaning usually begins around 3 to 4 weeks of age when puppies start showing interest in solid food. Gradually introduce softened puppy food and reduce the amount of milk replacement formula or nursing sessions. Monitor their progress and consult with a veterinarian for guidance. Final Thoughts In conclusion, newborn German Shepherd puppies and their mother require special care and dedication. Here are some key points to keep in mind: Proper nutrition is very important for mother and puppies. Make sure the mother gets a balanced diet that meets her needs during pregnancy and lactation. Consult a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. Newborn babies depend on breast milk for nutrition. Make sure they nurse frequently, usually every 1 to 2 hours to meet their nutritional needs. Monitor their weight gain to make sure they are thriving. Provide a clean and comfortable helping area for mother and baby. Keep the area warm, dry and draft-free. Clean and replace bedding regularly to maintain cleanliness. Gradually introduce solid food to puppies at 3 to 4 weeks of age. Start with soft puppy food and gradually transition them away from exclusive nursing. Check with a veterinarian for specific feeding guidelines. Socialize puppies from an early age. Handle them carefully, expose them to different sights and sounds, and introduce positive human interactions. This helps them develop into well-adjusted and sociable dogs. Look for any illness or abnormalities in the mother or puppies. Seek veterinary help immediately if you notice anything concerning. By providing proper nutrition, a safe environment, and early socialization, you can give newborn German Shepherd puppies the best start in life and ensure the well-being of both mother and her precious offspring.

Our 'Puppy Quickstart Program' makes bringing a new puppy into your home easier! Do you want a german shepherd puppy.We offer shipping to select states and countries around the world for these trained puppies. Please note: availability for this year is extremely limited. The answer all depends. .From weeks your puppy is in its first fear stage, which is critical for expose to scenarios they will encounter in their future adult life. During this stage, puppies should be exposed to new people and other healthy dogs, as well as differing terrain and environment. These experiences provide the foundation for the adult dog they will eventually become, but first it's important for them to become a trained puppy. It is vital to keep all activities and real-world exposure extremely positive, safe and monitored as you train your puppy. This time period is critical for their future temperament and personality. If you work a normal job, putting the necessary hours into training your puppy during it's first month at home ages weeks may not be entirely possible. And leaving your young un-crate trained puppy alone in his or her crate for an entire day is sure to have detrimental affects down the road. Training a German Shepherd puppy is hard enough. When you leave the pup in their crate all day, this "ball of energy" becomes even harder to train and house-break. Introducing, the Puppy Quickstart program.The long-requested "trained puppy program" is finally here at Hayes Haus. Here's how it works: From ages weeks of your puppy's life, he or she will remain at Hayes Haus and partake in an extremely regimented training program. During this program, your new puppy will be monitored round-the-clock to ensure proper training and development, which includes but is not limited to socialization with strangers including well-behaved children as well as safe cats and dogs. In order for your puppy to be obey you around other pets, it's important to begin training them at an early age to do so. What goes into a "Trained Puppy Program"? On any particular day at Hayes Haus, your puppy will be going through any number of proven-safe scenarios for puppies. We take short rides in the car to some of our neighborhood parks and trails to use some of the natural obstacles; we teach puppies to pleasantly accept grooming and expose them to bathing; we instill good habits such as keeping your paws on the floor and eliminating on leash; we also use puppy games to teach important life commands. Here's a more in-depth breakdown for you: Training begins at 3 weeks of age, teaching the puppy to make eye contact The puppies are monitored around the clock and follow a very regimented schedule will send exact training schedule to the email address you enter above Socialization exercises are conducted daily All trained german shepherd puppies are available for pickup at 14 weeks of age. At this time, your puppy will know his or her name and be used to the schedule you provide us, which helps with easier integration into your home. When your puppy comes home, they'll be crate-trained, and have the groundwork extensive exposure to training for the following commands: Sit. 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. 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!