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We have answers. What are Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near Horsham like? A Labrador Retriever is a loyal, energetic and intelligent breed of dog that was first bred in Newfoundland and Labrador by fishermen who needed help retrieving fish that had fallen into the icy water. This versatile breed is a frequent choice for police and rescue work, hunting and various working roles. Labradors are also very popular family pets due to their friendly, outgoing disposition. Labradors reach an average of inches in height, and lbs in weight. They are active dogs who need plenty of exercise and companionship. With Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Horsham, what is their coat like? The Labrador Retriever has a double coat of thick, short, flat fur which comes in black, yellow, and chocolate. The undercoat is short, thick and dense keeping the retriever warm even in cold water. The outer coat is slightly longer, and provides the dog's waterproofing. The hair of the double coat also helps to repel dirt and debris. Regular brushing is essential to keep this breed looking healthy and shiny. The Labrador's coat is also relatively easy to maintain; however, regular bathing is highly recommended to keep the coat from becoming matted and tangled. What should I feed Horsham Labrador Retriever puppies for sale? Labrador Retrievers love food, so it is important to choose a healthy, balanced diet full of natural nutrition. Ensure that the food is specifically formulated for large breed dogs, as this will contain the appropriate balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates for an active and growing Labrador Retriever. Dogs thrive on fresh, high-quality proteins, such as lean meats, fish or eggs, and should not be mislead by artificial flavors. Add in plenty of fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients. How do I prepare to adopt Labrador Retriever puppies in Horsham? One of the best ways to get prepared for having a Labrador Retriever is to buy all the necessary items ahead of time. These items can include food, a leash, collar, toys, and a bed, as well as food and water bowls. Having these items ready before you bring your pup home can make it easier for both you and the animal to adjust. You should also learn about basic obedience commands. Doing your research on Labrador Retrievers and their behaviour can help you understand how to best manage and train your new pup. How fast do Labrador Retrievers for sale in Horsham grow? Labrador Retrievers generally reach their full size and weight at about one year of age. However, it depends on many things such as the the size and health of your pups parents, the quality of their diet, the amount of exercise they get, the amount of space they have to move around in and the age when they were neutered or spayed. Generally, adult males will range between 65 to 80 pounds while females typically will range between 55 to 70 pounds. Note that these are guidelines and your pup may be slightly larger or smaller than the average. Do Labrador Retriever puppies near Horsham like to swim? Labrador Retrievers are a working dog often used in water retrieval, so swimming comes naturally to them. In addition to being a great way to cool off during a hot day, swimming is a great form of exercise for your Lab. Their webbed feet and water-resistant coats give them the perfect physical build for it, and they can swim for extended periods of time. Furthermore, they often love the feeling of buoyancy in the water, making it an enjoyable experience for them. Do Labrador Retrievers in Horsham get along with other pets? Labrador Retrievers are known to be great companions for other pets such as cats, birds and even small dogs. As long as their interactions are properly monitored and they are introduced to each other gradually and under controlled circumstances, Labradors can form strong and trusting relationships with other animals. Of course, each animal will have its own personality and temperament, so it is important to know how your Labrador will behave with other pets before introducing them. When managed properly, Labradors can provide an excellent support system to other pets providing comfort, companionship and entertainment. How do I train my Horsham Labrador Retrievers for sale? Labrador Retrievers are intelligent and highly trainable, if you approach the training process in a positive and consistent manner. It's important to establish yourself as the leader through rewards-based methods. Start with basic commands such as 'sit' and 'stay', and use plenty of praise and rewards to reinforce desired behavior. Small treats, verbal or physical affection, or even a favorite toy, can be used as rewards. Establish consistent enforcement of rules, clear expectations, and a simple and easy to understand approach for your pup to learn. They breed top quality, well rounded and good natured, home reared puppies from fully health checked and registered breeding stock. With their Kennel name 'Elmertown' chosen in memory of Keith's dad Elmer, the Townsends are passionate about the Labrador breed and produce their own medium sized biddable temperament puppies, which are fully health screened and abide by all Assured Breeding Kennel Club regulations. Find out more The Elmertown Promise "It is a huge responsibility, producing puppies and we take it very seriously. We only have two or three litters a year to maintain the quality of our dogs. Most of our puppies go to family homes and we are always here to help with any advice needed. Keith and Angie have been abiding by all of the Kennel Club standards and regulations for over a decade. Our Puppies Elmertown puppies are ready at 8 weeks, registered, wormed, vet checked and micro-chipped. Future owners will go through an interview process to ensure suitability and will be able to contact Keith and Angie for lifetime support and advice. Contact Us.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. I fell in love with not only their beauty, but intense loyalty and happy go-lucky attitude. After loosing my first berner to cancer at the young age of 4 and knowing the short life span of the breed, I started exploring dogs with the beauty of the berner but life span of a mix breed. That's when I came upon the Bernedoodle. Not only do they not shed or very minimally , they come in a range of sizes for those not wanting a giant breed. The are also perfect for people with allergies and have a lifespan of years. Twice the length of the berner! Since bernedoodles are a hybrid, they are only likely to inherit a health problem common to both the poodle and bernese. Genetic testing greatly reduces the risk of many diseases. This is why all of our dogs are health tested and do not join our breeding program if they have not been. We hope you enjoy our website and look forward to providing you with your new family member! We are a small Bernedoodle breeder located in Southwest Ohio. We strive to produce healthy, happy, long-living puppies with fantastic temperaments. Our dogs are health tested and make wonderful family pets. We are more than happy to answer your questions and concerns. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Columbus Ohio and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! Questions about Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Columbus OH? We have answers. Give me a an overview of Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Columbus OH. They are a unique cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle which means they are loving, smart and non-shedding! Our network of experienced breeders has grown so large over the years that many of the breeders are actually highly experienced in arranging travel for puppies such as Bernedoodles to the most convenient local airport. Next time you are concerned about spending hours locating Bernedoodle puppies in Columbus only to find that the puppy is no longer available, give the Uptown Puppies network a try! How does the Uptown Puppies screening process work? When we receive an application, our team takes the time to screen each and every breeder based on certain criteria. Criteria including breeder expertise, experience, legal compliance and even veterinary care. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other sites? As with most designer breeders, the cost of a Bernedoodle can depend on quite a few different factors. Factors including the breeder expertise, location and even coat color or eye color. Why am I hearing so much about puppy mills? You are much more likely to come across a puppy mill or a backyard breeder who has not been ethically breeding, feeding or caring for their dogs. Oftentimes puppy mills are much more concerned about profits than the well-being of their dogs. Are there any Bernedoodle breeders near me? No matter the color, size or sub-breed of Bernedoodle you are like for, one of the top-rated breeders who are associated with our network of breeders is sure to be able to assist you. What should I expect from a Bernedoodle? If you are into training dogs or teaching dogs new, inventive tricks this is definitely the breed for you! How does the Uptown Puppies process work? Our process is actually fairly simple, all you have to do is begin by browsing our countless available litters to find the one that most appeals to you! Once you have located Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Columbus or even Bernedoodles in a different state our team will connect you with the experienced breeder who possesses those pups so that you can express your interest for a specific puppy or variety! Why should I trust Uptown Puppies? Instead of ranking breeders by marketing dollars spent, we filter them by the way they treat their puppies, operate their facilities and treat their customers!

Things to do with your English Bulldog Ohio is a great place to live with an English bulldog. The state has a diverse landscape, plenty of outdoor activities, and dog-friendly businesses. Hike the Trails Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are many hiking trails in Ohio that are perfect for English bulldogs. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, and take breaks often. Visit a Campground Camping is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many campgrounds in Ohio that allow dogs. Be sure to bring a tent, sleeping bags, food, water, and other supplies. There are many places to fish in Ohio, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to get a fishing license and follow all the rules and regulations. Go Boating Boating is another great way to enjoy the outdoors with your English bulldog. There are many places to boat in Ohio, both on rivers and lakes. Be sure to bring a life jacket for your dog and follow all the safety rules. There are many places to swim in Ohio, both in fresh water and salt water. Be sure to supervise your dog at all times and follow all the safety rules. Visit a Dog park Dog parks are a great place for English bulldogs to run and play off-leash. There are many dog parks in Ohio, both in urban and rural areas. Visit Pet-Friendly Businesses Ohio has a number of pet-friendly businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and stores. These are just a few of the many things you can do with your English bulldog in Ohio. With its stunning scenery, endless activities, and friendly people, Ohio is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your furry friend. How do you breed for a healthier English Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other breeders from improving the health of the English Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes the unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities. What are the steps of your adoption process if I am located in Ohio? Check out our available English Bulldog Puppies page. At times, we have available puppies but almost always have a waiting list as well. A quick look at our available puppies is the starting point to begin the process. Send us an email or give us call .If approved to adopt one of our puppies you are welcome to place a deposit to hold until your puppy is ready to go home. Greetings from the Wysongs! Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. For the past 15 years we have had a passion for breeding bulldogs, striving to breed sound, healthy, beautiful bulldogs. We specialize in small RARE colored bulldogs. We are also Life's Abundance Field Representatives, and we have links to our Life's Abundance website where you can purchase the amazing food that we have been using for so many years. Don't forget to save us in your favorites! Like us on facebook, and you will get weekly updates, and behind the scenes pictures! Cincinnati Bengal's Jake Fisher! However, we do not do cash refunds for any reason at all. Thank you for your interest. Please let us know if you have any questions. During that time, we have never received a single complaint about their breeding program, only compliments. Great job! Keep it up! Every time we take them in public every person is drooling at just how adorable they are. I told Melissa what kind of dog I wanted and she delivered! They are very knowledgeable, kind, and professional. I was worried about my dog when I brought him home, but they helped by giving me suggestions to acclimate Toby to his new environment. I would definitely refer other people to go visit their farm in Ohio! They were very helpful in helping us find our first bully. We love her. Thank you! It was a wonderfully smooth transaction, she was shipped Oregon within the week and Daisy Duke aka butterscotch is a beautiful healthy puppy! Melissa was great to work with, answered all my new mommy questions very promptly.

Welcome to Crane Hollow Goldens. About Our Dogs All of our dogs come from excellent pedigrees with champion lines, sweet, gentle, very friendly temperaments, with great looks. Our dogs and puppies are surrounded by attention and love from day one, and we socialize our pups from birth to help ensure that you get the sweetest addition to your family. Most of our breeding dogs have OFA hip, elbow, eye and heart clearances. In the United Kingdom and most countries around the world, they are recognized by this name because of their attractive coats and gentle temperament. Our dogs are all AKC credentialed, have been trained and have gentle and well mannered temperaments. We use call names for our dogs and not their given names for the simple reason it makes them easier to train. For more information on their given names, feel free to contact us. Because of our own personal preferences, we made the decision long ago to focus our breeding efforts on the Light Golden category of the breed. Our Caring Approach We treat our mom and dad dogs and puppies as they are part of our family, and we look for adoptive families that will do the same. We specialize in matching the right puppy to your home, and we recommend the pup for you based on your family, lifestyle and activities. Offering a beautiful country setting great for raising dogs, where located in Oakville, Connecticut, in Litchfield County. We are about a 30 minute drive southeast from where the Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York state lines meet, and about 45 minutes northwest of downtown Hartford. Contact us today for your golden retriever puppy or stud service needs. Share this:. This is because of the numerous Golden Retriever breeders scattered around the United States. These lovely creatures are well known and loved for their impressive build, their high level of intelligence, and most importantly their playful nature. If you are residing in the Constitution state of Connecticut, then the Golden Retriever is the best for you. But you have to get your Golden Retriever puppies from a reputable breeder that truly cares for the breed and breeds according to the breed standards. This article helps you by providing you with a list of some reputable Golden Retriever breeders. These breeders care enough for the breed. They produce healthy, well-socialized puppies that make excellent family companions and friends to numerous families residing in Connecticut. Ensure you read on because this would help guide your decision. They are a breeder of cream-colored Golden Retrievers. Their puppies are well-trained and possess a high level of intelligence making them easily trainable. They have a decent level of experience as they have over 10 years of history with the Golden Retriever breed. They are interested in breeding and training family companions that could also compete in both hunts and show events. This means their puppies are multipurpose. Their breeding line is filled with multiple AKC-registered breeding dogs. These sires and dams are treated more like family and are given the best care. They each come from AKC-registered lines with very impressive pedigrees to show. Their sires and dams are tested for genetic health defects. These defects could affect the quality of life the new Golden Retriever litter enjoys. The puppies are raised on a large property in Oakville, Connecticut. They are raised in clean large kennels that are temperature regulated to provide maximum comfort and give good food and supplements. The puppies are loved and allowed to interact and practically socialize with people as well as with other pets. They are introduced to various stimulating protocols and are trained to ensure you get a well-rounded family companion. All their Golden Retrievers come with a written health guarantee that lasts a period of 2 years. They are properly vaccinated and given their full deworming medications. They are also microchipped and AKC registered. She is a petite girl and is interested in everything. She loves people and is kind of our mascot as she loves to greet each visitor that drives in the yard. An excellent mother and very patient. Bailey enjoys carrying toys around and arranging them in the yard to her liking. She is rarely without something in her mouth and will even dig up stones and arrange them in neat rows. She is a strong, robust dog with boundless energy, always ready and alert, looking for adventure. She craves attention and is an excellent mother. She whelped 12 puppies in a few short hours last year, and was running around the yard an hour later. Nothing seems to bother her, just a great dog. We also recently spoke with her breeder in New York and found that her parents are in good health and her grandmother is still living at 14 - 15 years of age. Some of her other family members are 10 and 12 years old and in good health as well. She was our first dog and is sweet and healthy. She is the undisputed boss on our farm, which she maintains in a quiet, gentle way. We have never seen her behave aggressively to another dog, or human but the other dogs know she is queen! She is devoted to her people and will rarely leave your side even when other dogs are running around. She stares up into your face adoringly and will quietly sit by your feet and wait for you. She is such a pretty girl with a beautiful coat. She gets along very well with other dogs and is very easy to have around. She loves to be petted and will stand as still as a stone as long as she is getting attention. She can be a little reserved at first but once she feels comfortable with you, she is playful and loves to prance about in the yard. She has many champions in her pedigree and was born at the well-known Clear Passion Kennel in Romania. Learn more about Honey Goldie Goldie is our biggest and most striking dog. She has a rare beauty standing straight and tall as if she knows that she is something special. She seems to realize her superiority and will insist on having your attention. We have no doubt that she will be able to produce show winning puppies. She has many champions in her lineage. She is very intelligent and a leader but quiet and meek like her mother. She loves everyone including visitors, and will quietly rest at your feet or even on your feet! Everyone that has met her, instantly loves her. Learn more about Belle Lacey Lacey is an extreme extrovert and loves attention from all people and other dogs. She is always front and center on every occasion. Lacey comes from a very impressive line of international , national, and world champions. At 6 years old she is still very youthful and energetic. Fill out a Puppy Application Eye Testing our Golden's eyes is important to their overall health and well-being. These eye examinations can help identify any potential problems that may arise, and help to ensure that our canine companions have healthy eyesight for years to come. Testing Heart By testing the heart, veterinarians can detect diseases, abnormal rhythms, and other complications before they become serious. Dogs can be tested at 12 months of age or older and certified by the OFA for use in breeding. The OFA certifies dogs at 24 months of age or older for use in breeding. Elbows are one of the most commonly used joints in a dog's body, allowing them to move, stand, and run with ease. When a dog's elbows are healthy, it helps to ensure that it can move and perform activities without pain or discomfort. Hip Hip Dysplasia is a common problem in large breed dogs. This is an abnormal formation of the hip joint that can cause lameness, pain, and arthritis. Dogs can be certified by the OFA at 24 months of age or older and approved for breeding. This gives the puppies a good start to a long healthy life. Please visit personal dog pages for individual testing. If you live in Connecticut and you are looking for the perfect dog to be your pet, the Golden Retriever is an easy recommendation. They remain as one of the most popular dog breeds not just in CT, but in the entire country due to a number of reasons. The breed is known to be expressive and trustworthy, making them suitable as family dogs despite being a slightly large breed. Their bark is also more welcoming than threatening. You can get any golden retriever and just enroll him in our obedience classes. Large and athletic — their large build and boundless energy make them ideal companions to people who want a dog to play around with and accompany on walks. Friendly to other animals — if you have other pet dogs and other pet animals, a golden retriever will not be too much trouble as they can coexist with other pets, and will take kindly to other animals and young kids. Different Colors of Golden Retrievers People who want to buy a golden retriever will be able to choose between different colors of coat. The most common ones are English cream, but there are also red light or dark , Irish cream, white, brown, mahogany, and dark colored. Their coat will also come in different types. You will find retrievers who have a short hair, ones that have long hair, and many who have fluffy coats, making them look extremely cute and huggable not to mention much larger than they really are. Types of Golden Retrievers There are different types of golden retrievers. Their common traits tend to be their large, strong bodies and dense, wavy coat. But they have a long history of pedigree breeding and so have been segmented into different regional variations. There are three common types, each with their own distinctive characteristics. British This type is very common throughout Europe, particularly in Austria. Out of the three major types of the breed, the British ones are the biggest because they have been bred to have broader skulls and more balanced, muscular bodies. Out of all the three major types, the British Golden Retrievers are the closest to their origins as hunting and gun dogs because of their large musculature and great endurance. American This type is leaner and less muscular than the other types, with coat that take on much darker colors that feather really well. The American golden retrievers are well sought because of their distinct walking patterns, which tend to take on a free, smooth, and powerful trot due to the fact that their feet have a tendency to converge towards the center of their line of balance. While they tend to be of the same size as Canadian types, they tend to look taller due to their leaner musculature and straighter stance, not to mention the coat that tends to hug the body better. Considerations for Owning a Golden Retriever Owning a dog is a big responsibility, and is not something that should be taken as lightly as one would when it comes to buying an appliance or a toy. Golden retrievers are very loyal, loving, and fun to be around, but they have specific needs and quirks that you need to consider before buying one. You Need to Have the Room If you live in a small shack with narrow spaces and lots of tight corners to bump into, you may want to think twice because goldens are medium to large-sized dogs that can have as much as 24 inches at the shoulder and could grow as heavy as 75 pounds. They have very active tails that can easily sweep cups or vases off tables when excited. You will have to ensure that your house is uncluttered if you want a golden in your life. You Have to Be Physically Active as Well These dogs were originally bred for hunting and sports, so they tend to have a lot of stamina and will require at least 20 to 30 minutes of consistent exercise daily. They are susceptible to depression and separation anxiety if left alone all day, so make sure you are able to make yourself or a family member present for her at least every 5 hours. Hide Your Shoes Goldens are excessively playful, and they have been bred to carry things with their mouth. This results in a breed that will chew on just about anything that they can clamp their mouths to — shoes being the most common. So if you are planning to own a Golden, you have to keep your shoes, telephones, game consoles, pillows, toys out of reach. Neutering Can Pose Health Risks to a Golden Experts at the University of California have conducted research that point to neutering having negative effects on the health of a Golden Retriever. Some of the likely complications include increased risk of getting joint disorders and cancer. So if you want a golden and want to prevent it from breeding, you have to consider alternative methods such as tubal ligation or vasectomy. Health Risks for Goldens As with most large breeds, there are specific health concerns that you need to be wary of. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye disorders. Goldens are too nice to be guard dogs. They may growl and bark protectively, but an intruder has a chance of pacifying them because they are just that nice. Really Good Reasons to Own a Goldie Despite the somewhat lengthy, detailed list of concerns above, a golden retriever is still one of the most recommended dog breeds for Connecticut families due to a number of reasons: Safe Around Kids — The part about not being aggressive enough to be a guard dog? Kids that young are never to be left alone, dog or no dog. Perpetually Clingy — this type of dog is perfect for people who want something to hug and cuddle with regularly. They are eternal puppies who will always love to run to your arms and greet you with a hug. They can adapt well to the presence of other people and animals, including cats, rabbits, and other animals that normally pick fights with dogs. Very Smart — they are not going to help you do taxes anytime soon, but as far as dogs are concerned golden retrievers are very smart. Being bred to hunt and retrieve, they can be easily trained to do basic dog-related tasks and tricks. They can be trained to serve as companions to limited-ability pet owners. It should be easy to know if a Golden Retriever will find a place in your home, based on the pros and cons outlined above. One important thing to remember is that all dogs, regardless of breed, will require attention, care, and love from their owner. If you can provide those, then the rest will naturally follow and you should be able to spend many exciting years with your pet. In addition to our selection of designer and purebred puppies for sale, we offer expert dog training, professional pet grooming and the best pet supplies, pet foods and pet products available at the low prices. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Connecticut Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Connecticut? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Connecticut? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. I am not currently taking any names on my waiting list. Our English Cream Golden Retrievers have brought so much enjoyment to our lives that we realized we needed to share them to bring the same joy and happiness into the lives of others. We feel that their loving disposition, loyalty and ability to bring sunshine into the cloudiest day will be passed on to each of their puppies bringing fulfillment into the lives of others. We are not a kennel, pet store, or irresponsible breeders but a family that loves English Cream Golden Retrievers and wants only the best for them. We are from Ellington Connecticut and live on the edge of Soapstone Mountain. We knew our 11 year old Golden Retriever Cooper was slowing down and we hoped when he passed Sunny would help pick up the pieces. Well Sunny was such a bundle of joy she revived Cooper and he lived another year, romping around and trying to keep up with her. She wiggled her way into the heart of the family and has been there ever since. Then our daughter, after having 3 girls of her own, wanted her children to experience growing up with a beautiful English cream Golden Retriever and that is how Lacey came into our lives. We extensively researched the background of many of the English Cream Golden Retrievers in the surrounding states looking for a male that would complement our females. The criteria used was: Loving disposition. Questions about Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Connecticut? We have answers. Give me an overview of Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Connecticut. CT Golden Retriever breeders may have different price points depending on a number of factors, including breeder experience, coat color red Golden Retriever puppies CT , pedigree, and more. Because we know that price is often an important consideration when choosing a breeder, part of our MatchMaker process ensures matching you with pups who fit your budget, too. What if that are no Golden Retriever Connecticut breeders near me? The Uptown network includes businesses and breeders from all across the Continental US, all with experience arranging travel for puppies to any major airport in the Lower .Uptown has strict standards regarding the breeders and businesses who join our network. Uptown breeders and companies pledge to maintain awesome breeding facilities, comply with legal requirements, care for their animals, and much more—see our Pledge for more details. What is a puppy mill? Sadly, there are a lot of people out there who value money a lot more than they value the health and wellbeing of their puppies. How do I know I can trust you? We know you have countless choices for finding Golden Retriever puppies, and we want to make your decision as easy as humanly possible. Uptown promises to never work with puppy mills or unethical breeders—just take a peek at some of our Puppy Alumni to see the difference a bit of love can make. It was established in .This breeder does not own a kennel. Their dogs grow up at home. They are members of the Golden Retriever Club of America. Abalee Golden Retrievers focus on temperament and health. The breeder does not allow aggressive dogs to be part of their breeding program. They socialize their dogs well. They try to use as less chemicals as possible. So, the puppies get only a few vaccinations. They run a basic blood test to check the immunity of their adult dogs. Their pups are not exposed to any flea or tick medicines. These private breeders offer champion golden puppies. They believe that dogs are pack animals. So they do not own a kennel. The dogs grow up at home. They focus on quality over quantity. They are also NCL certified. Address: 79 Indian Trail, Vernon, Connecticut Powderhill Goldens They follow strict breeding practices and offer healthy puppies. The golden parents are DNA tested. They follow TCI breeding guidelines. All the puppies receive their first shots here. They also get de-wormed before leaving for their new home. Their pups are microchipped. Your pup comes with a certificate of health. They also give you a handsome new collar. Their Golden Retrievers have shown their merits in various shows. They are also great companions. This breeder follows three main rules for breeding. The parent dogs are free of genetic health problems. They breed dogs with calm temperaments. The dogs are active and energetic, too. The dogs meet the highest standard in terms of looks and agility. Golden retrievers are loving and loyal to their owners. Bring home a healthy pup from one of these top Golden Retriever breeders.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Massachusetts Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Massachusetts? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Massachusetts? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Questions about Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Massachusetts? We have answers. Give me an overview of Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Massachusetts. Golden Retriever puppies in MA vary in price from breeder to breeder because prices are based on different factors, including breeder experience and coat color. For example, Golden Retriever puppies with white, red and cream coat color may be priced differently. If you are looking for Golden Retriever in Boston, our MatchMaker process allows us to connect you with MA Golden Retriever breeders and puppies taking into account multiple factors, including your budget. What if there are no Golden Retriever breeders in MA with current litters? Can you still help me find the perfect puppy? Breeders in our network who offer Golden Retriever puppies for sale in MA are able to arrange travel for puppies to any major airport all 48 states in the Continental US. But our network is huge, and you might live not far from one of our Golden Retriever breeders in MA — so you are welcome to pick your puppy in person if that suits you better! How do you screen breeders? We strictly vet prospective breeders, taking into account their skills, animal health and care, facilities, legal requirements and more. Find out more about our requirements at our Breeder Pledge page. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? You can go to shelter to find Golden Retriever rescue puppies in MA but if you want to ensure that your puppy has no health or behavioral problem, you need to find a responsible breeder who loves dogs as you do. Uptown Puppies brings together the best breeders businesses in one place and helps you connect with them. What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are dog breeding farms where dogs live in cruel conditions spending all their lives in hour confinement to cages and receive no veterinary care. Female dogs are bred every heat cycle and are usually killed when they can no longer produce. Puppies born on puppy mills often develop serious health or behavioral issues that result in expensive veterinary bills for their owners. Are there any Golden Retriever puppies for sale MA? What is the MatchMaker process? Our effective MatchMaker system was designed to make it fun and easy for dog lovers to find happy healthy puppies. We use our system to figure out exactly what kind of dog you are after, taking into account the information about your preferences concerning breed, gender, temperament, and more. We help you find the perfect dog for your lifestyle. How do I know I can trust you? Great families like yours deserve a chance to meet a happy and healthy puppy. We strive to build a lasting relationship between us and your family and will do our best to connect you with the perfect puppy for your lifestyle. Read some of our reviews and discover that we are in the business of creating families!

Three to four times a day 4 — 5 months 6 months and above Two times a day Pregnant or breastfeeding French Bulldogs may eat up to three times a day within eight hours. Meanwhile, puppies require more frequent feedings than adult dogs due to their rapid metabolism. In general, a French Bulldog puppy should be fed three times daily between two and six months. Once the French Bulldog puppy reaches the age of six months, the feeding frequency can be reduced to two meals each day. As developing puppies, your Frenchie requires a consistent daily feeding plan. The feeding plan should incorporate at least three measured meals per day. Its dinner schedule is vital, as it allows ample time to digest the food and go pee or potty before bedtime. Between 14 and 18 weeks, you can begin accustoming your French Bulldog puppy to two meals each day. If your veterinarian advises you to keep your French Bulldog on a three-meals-a-day diet, this must be properly followed. Senior dogs can be fed on the same schedule when given three meals a day. Since elderly dogs do not move as much, they may develop too much weight. Consequently, you should ensure that the food contains fewer calories, more fiber, and an appropriate balance of fat and protein. Your veterinarian should have a recommended amount of treats you should give your dog. Again, it will vary according to its weight and level of activity. If you must frequently use treats for training, use tiny bits or give them a licking mat. Best Dog Foods for French Bulldog A feeding guide for Frenchie dog lovers would be incomplete without the information on the best dog food for their furry companion. There are numerous food options available for French Bulldogs. The best pet food varies from one Frenchie to another. Perhaps your French Bulldog is a fussy eater or suffers from food allergies. It is feasible to provide a balanced diet for your French Bulldogs if you use the best store-bought or homemade dog food that contains all the nutrition needed by your dog and as prescribed by your veterinarian. The list below shows the best dog food options you can provide your French Bulldog: Dry Food: Dry dog food is commercially available kibble. This can be an excellent alternative for French Bulldogs with sensitive stomachs. French Bulldog puppies require high-quality dry food that is high in animal protein to aid in growth and muscular development. Wet Food: Wet food is contained in a can; it is primarily composed of water and is considered highly mushy food. However, wet food expires more quickly than dry food, making it the least practical alternative. Home-Cooked Diet: A home-cooked, protein-rich diet like a chicken meal is excellent for French Bulldogs. Unlike ordinary kibble, it contains no additives or preservatives. It supports healthy digestion and may help avoid various problems related to a bad diet, including obesity, dry skin and coat, pancreatitis, diabetes, and a low immune system. French Bulldogs are prone to developing a variety of joint and back issues. Along with other joint problems, they may develop luxating patella or hip dysplasia. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are critical components of a high-quality French Bulldog dog diet. These essential vitamins assist your French in developing the connective tissue necessary for healthy joints and spine support. Omega-3 fatty acids can assist your Frenchie to keep muscle mass and strength by reducing inflammation and soreness. Also, this can promote healthy skin by preventing itchy and flaky skin. Whether wet and dry food, raw food, or a homemade diet, each dog food offers several benefits and drawbacks. Consult a veterinarian before deciding to know exactly what food option suits your Frenchie. Any French Bulldog owner will attest that vomiting is far more common in this breed than in other dogs. While it cannot be totally prevented, you should know what human foods are toxic to French Bulldogs. Some of the foods to avoid are not only bad for Frenchie; many of them can be fatal. They may result in poisoning and, in the worst-case scenario, death. This section enumerates some of the most dangerous foods for French Bulldogs. I will discuss why these foods are poisonous and when you should contact a veterinarian. The first and most prevalent is chocolate. It contains a toxin called theobromine , which can cause a variety of health problems when consumed in large amounts. This can cause irregular heartbeats, seizures, and sudden death. Garlic and onions should also never be included in the diet of your Frenchie puppy or adult dog. Even a trace of these vegetables can result in anemia and red blood cell failure in your pup. Poisoning symptoms include lethargy, fatigue, vomiting, rapid breathing, and an increased heart rate. However, remember that you may not immediately notice poisoning symptoms because the toxic consequences may take a few days to manifest. Additionally, grapes are one of the most toxic foods for your Frenchie. A dog that has consumed grapes may exhibit stomach bloating and diarrhea. They need to be taken to a veterinarian immediately. In severe cases, gastric lavage is the best course of action. Candy, artificial sweeteners, corn on the cob, roasted bones, avocado, raisins, almonds, cherry, peach, plum, coconut oil, mustard seeds, alcohol, coffee, blue cheese, and tomatoes are also regarded to be unsafe for French Bulldogs. Furthermore, there are certain foods that you should avoid giving your Pitbull owing to the negative side effects they may cause. While they are not considered dangerous, they can cause nausea, diarrhea, and weight gain. Numerous dogs wind up at veterinarian clinics due to improper food intake. While prevention is always the best course of action, it is critical to understand emergency care and medication expenses. Read our article on French Bulldog costs to learn more about the medical expenditures associated with a French Bulldog. These adjustments should ideally take place over 5 to 7 days. Consult a veterinarian in this scenario, especially if you intend to switch to a raw or homemade diet. Feeding an Overweight French Bulldog French Bulldogs can quickly gain weight, resulting in various health problems. Thus, dog owners need to notice when their Frenchie gets overweight to assist the dog in maintaining a healthy weight and living a healthy life. Average adult French Bulldogs should have a body weight between 19 and 29 pounds for males, while 18 to 28 pounds for females. The most common indications that your Frenchie is overweight include lack of muscle definition and difficulty breathing during brief exercises. In terms of visual indicators, a Frenchie within their healthy weight will have a thin layer of fat covering their ribs. Meanwhile, those with excess fat have noticeable deposits in the chest and stomach area. Also, you should be able to see and feel their spine as they bend and curl into a sleeping position. Furthermore, Frenchies have an hourglass form, with a visible waistline that is smaller than their chest when they are not overweight. Regardless of these symptoms, it is always advisable to seek confirmation from a professional veterinarian. Feeding an obese Frenchie means maintaining a consistent food plan throughout the day to aid in weight loss. Additionally, this stops your dog from eating more than it requires. Apart from planned feeding times, serving the correct meal proportions is essential. If your Frenchie is overweight, owners should focus on how much food is offered to them. Reducing their daily kibble intake by half a cup can help them significantly reduce weight. Moreover, you should offer them foods with fewer calories, more fiber, and more protein. As a result, your Frenchie will burn more calories and lose weight more quickly. It is preferable to give your dog treats that contain only one ingredient, are low in calories, and contain no added sugar, such as sweet potato and blueberry bites. Alternatively, you can treat your dog with items that are already in your refrigerator, such as tiny portions of sweet potatoes, apples, and bananas. Regularly weigh your dog, monitor how many calories they intake, and establish a target body weight for them. Also, pain can make a Frenchie nervous and unable to eat, so keep an eye out for evident signs of injury. Another common reason for your French Bulldog not to eat is discomfort in the mouth caused by dental issues. Furthermore, gastrointestinal conditions, certain medicines, vaccination, overfeeding, or other serious health problems can cause a French Bulldog not to eat. As a result, you must keep an eye on your Frenchie and contact your veterinarian if the condition persists for weeks. Do French Bulldogs Eat a Lot? French Bulldogs are opportunistic feeders by nature. Thus, they will continue to eat as long as you provide pet food. They may begin to require more than is necessary to fulfill their appetite due to this behavior. Also, when a French Bulldog is agitated, it may begin to overeat. The most effective strategy to combat stress-related overeating is to thrive in a calm environment. At times, your dog may become bored and eat more than usual to keep itself occupied somehow. Thus, you must keep a watch on any of these factors. Can French Bulldogs Eat Bones? Dogs should not consume cooked bones of any kind. The bones may splinter, resulting in deadly shards that might cause injury due to choking hazards. Thus, if you wish to offer your Frenchie a bone, vets recommend raw meat bones, preferably from farm-raised chicken. These are best given after a meal to prevent them from eating too much. Remove it after around ten minutes and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for tomorrow. To avoid bacterial contamination, it is recommended to discard it after a few days and keep it separate from other raw meat and food. Can French Bulldogs Be Vegetarians? Each Frenchie is one-of-a-kind. Simply because your French Bulldog likes veggies does not mean it can go full-on vegetarian. Also, bear in mind that many veggies are dangerous and toxic to your French Bulldog. Certain vegetables are acceptable to be fed to a French Bulldog, but only in small portions. Final Thoughts French Bulldogs are, without a doubt, playful, intelligent, and compassionate dogs. On the other hand, Frenchies are greedy eaters, and food serves as their primary motivator. Thus, a critical component of owning this breed is understanding how much, how frequently, and what food to feed a French Bulldog. You can supply dry food, wet food, raw food diets, or a homemade diet for your pet. Since Frenchie pups and adults may have food sensitivities, providing or making the best dog food for their age and nutritional requirements is critical. By doing so, you can help your Frenchie prevent undesirable health problems. This can help guarantee that your Frenchie receives the safest and healthiest diet as much as possible. Let us know in the comments below about your experience with feeding your French Bulldog! My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. They are a loving and sensitive breed. One of the most common questions asked by new French Bulldog owners is how much food they require, and how often should they be fed. French Bulldogs typically will eat as much food as you give them. The amount of food required depends on their age, weight, and activity level. Source Feeding French Bulldog puppies When puppies are born they get all of their nutritional needs by drinking milk produced by their mothers. Breeders typically start to wean the puppies off their mother's milk by weeks and by six weeks they are eating kibble 1. When your puppy is home with you at 8 weeks old they will typically require 1. I recommend splitting this up between meals over the day. When our puppy was at a very young age we would mix the kibble with a little bit of water to soften the food for them. As your puppy is at a stage of rapid growth over the following year we recommend feeding your dog the best nutritional food you can afford. Active Frenchbuilldogs based on a weight of 15kg 33lb requires caloiuries a day. This can be split over several meals and would be approximately 3cups of kibble. How much should I feed my elderly French Bulldog? As your French Bulldog ages and activity levels decrease they will require less food. Typically they will require calories per g 1lb of body weight. However, if your dog is showing they are still hungry and underweight feed them. How much should I feed my underweight Frenchie? Increase the amount of food you are feeding your dog up to between calouries per g 1lb of body weight until they are at their ideal weight. What can you feed your dog? Kibble Dry food is very accessible and can be purchased at most supermarkets. Nutritional values provided by kibble differ by product sold. We recommend doing some research to provide good quality kibble to your dog. Some of the benefits listed for kibble are: Increased dental health Reduced risk of bacteria Raw diet Raw food can be homemade, and or store-bought. Meticulous care and planning need to be done to ensure your dog does not get sick. Some studies have found many benefits of raw diets: Healthier coat and fur Increased longevity Fresh diet Cooking for your dog at home allows you to provide nutritionally valuable ingredients of your own choice. The downside is that it does take up time and requires planning to make. If you decide to feed your dog fresh food we highly recommend that you consult an animal nutritionist. Some of the benefits of feeding your dog fresh food are below. Avoids fillers Allows a variety of food Food quality To learn more about your dogs microbiomme and gut health visit our blog post here. If you are after dog shirts, or cooling shirts for your French Bulldog visit our shop here. Pin64 71 Shares When we first brought Claude home, we had no idea on how much food we should be giving him. We spoke to our vet, and this is what he told us about how much you should feed a French bulldog puppy. A French bulldog puppy should be fed 3 times a day whilst there are still 2 to 6 months old. Once the French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the feeding schedule down to 2 meals a day. But now having been a French bulldog owner for 3 years, I can now look back and give you some more detail on exactly what our French bulldog puppy feeding schedule was like and how it worked for us and him. French bulldog puppy feeding chart Below you can see a French bulldog puppy feeding guide I put together. It contains some rough guidance on how you should schedule and plan his feeds, and what other factors you might need to take into account. Please do print it out and put on your fridge. How many cups of food should I feed my French Bulldog? Before you look at the French Bulldog feeding chart below, you might want the quick answer to how many cups of food to feed your French Bulldog. As a general rule of thumb, you should feed a French Bulldog puppy aged 8 to 12 weeks around 1 and a half cups of food a day, in 3 separate meals. As your Frenchie gets older, the number of cups of food you should feed them will change. You can see the cup amounts and frequencies in the French Bulldog feeding chart graphic below. This French bulldog puppy feeding chart tells you how much you should feed them Source: Canin The French bulldog puppy feeding chart shown above is taken from the Royal Canin dog food range. This is exactly what we fed Claude as he was growing up. They range a specific French bulldog puppy food, and on the packaging you will see a version of the chart above, including how best to feed your own puppy. Handy Hint: To stop your Frenchie from bloating and possibly choking you should use a suitable feeding bowl. Here are the best French Bulldog food bowls that vets recommend. When you take your puppy to his new home, he should already be used to eating puppy food. As I mentioned earlier, you should be feeding your French bulldog puppy 3 times a day. They need that regularity as they are growing and burning a lot of calories. You know how energetic they are! How much you feed them at each mealtime will typically be half a cup of their dry puppy food. Across the day, that will equate 1. However, their weight and health will then determine how much you feed them as they get older. Calories matter, but are hard to count As French bulldogs get older, you should try to feed them according to their weight. For every pound, they should be fed between 25 and 30 calories. However, for the rest of this French bulldog puppy feeding guide, I am just going to talk in cups. Puppy weight How can weigh your puppy at the vets or, and this is can be a more interesting and fun way if your puppy already knows how to sit, have them sit on a scale at home. It will not be as accurate as a scale at the vet, but it could be a cheap and fun experience for you and your pet. Because of this, your puppy may be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. Here is where the math gets a little more detailed, but not too complicated. When they are between 8 to 12 weeks old, the puppy should be fed about 1. This food should be high in calories since they need extra nutrients that they are no longer getting from their mother. This kind of follows the main rule when it comes to spreading out the meals to 3 times a day. But for younger pups, many owners will split the 1. Because feeding them 0. Once they are between 6 and 9 months old, they should be used to their eating routine. That is when the main rule is applied because by then, the pup will be maturing into its adult size and should weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. What about older dogs? Also, if you are wondering how much they should be fed once they start hitting their senior years, they should be fed a little less as long only if they are not as active. Make sure you still stretch out the meals to 3 to 4 times like when they were puppies because it is not uncommon for their stomachs to weaken with old age. Overweight or underweight? French bulldog puppies usually weight between 8. Once they reach 6 to 9 months, they are just at or are closer to reaching their adult weight, .If the puppy is underweight, then add very small increments to each meal every day until they are no longer underweight. It is important to not add too much food because of the possibility of them getting a twisted stomach. If the puppy is overweight, you can either slightly reduce the size of their meal until they lose weight, or you can give them more exercise. Many people prefer the later since it helps the pup to get stronger and adds more bonding time. The same methods apply to grown French bulldogs as well. Handy Hint: Read this guide which explains how to check if you have a fat French Bulldog who needs to lose weight, with tips on how to get the pounds down. If the dog does not appear to be gaining weight when they are underweight or vice versa if they are overweight, you might want to take them to the vet since it could be a sign that something is affecting their health. Health conditions Since not every animal is the same, ask your vet the next time your pup has a check-up what a French bulldog of their size and age should weigh. Health factors like diabetes yes, dogs can have diabetes , can make your pup need a more strict diet or feeding routine. Here are some different diets and feeding routines. Raw food vs. Many dog lovers say that there are too many preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and protein in dry and wet food. While the raw food diet can be more natural, especially if it is organic, you also have to make sure your pup would be getting more foods with vitamins and minerals mixed in with the raw food that your pup would need. Raw food diets can be more expensive, require more storage room for the meats and veggies, and take longer to prepare. However, you would be personally ensuring that your little French bulldog pup is getting their full daily nutrition without harmful by-products and additives. Is there a good dry food diet? Possibly the biggest questions out of all of them: is there any good dry dog food out there and how do I find them? The answer is yes, there can be some healthy dry dog food products, but it takes some time to look for. The key is to look for dog food that does not contain any preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and too much protein. Fillers basically do not provide any nutritional value and can even harm your dog since most of the ingredients they use as fillers are common allergies for dogs that can cause skin conditions, bowel issues, and more. Wheat and corn are included since they are also a popular allergen for dogs. Too much protein is even more dangerous for them since it can put more pressure on the organs, throw off nutritional balance, increase the likelihood of diabetes, and can harm dogs that already have diabetes. To see the safe and dangerous fruits list, click here. Another two meat choices would be duck and turkey, but these are a little less common to find, especially if you are looking for a French bulldog specific dog food. Your dog eats his food too quickly Another common problem is how do you control how fast your French bulldog puppy eats. French bulldogs love to eat their food and eat it fast, which is one of the primary causes of GDV. Frenchies will stop eating for a number of reasons, some more serious that others. Conclusion So there you have it, your guide to how much you should feed your French bulldog puppy. Everything in this feeding schedule and the French bulldog feeding chart you see is based on personal experience. Once in the morning, and once in the early evening. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Frenchies will stay as healthy as ours has! How often should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? Home » How often should I feed my French Bulldog puppy? Your puppy has been on unlimited food all of the time. If on the smaller side 5lbs , we recommend four times per day. If a little bit stouter, you can start with three times a day. We recommend giving them as much as they want at each setting while they are growing babies. As they age and grow you can take it down to times per day. Two feedings per day seems to be the amount of times most people end up feeding their Frenchies. When you place your puppy on a feeding schedule it helps with the potty training as well. After eating, take them outside to potty. Make sure to tell your little one how good he is for doing his duty outside. Basically you just fill the water up to the level of the dogfood. If they continue to turn their nose up at the kibble, try adding a bit of canned dogfood to the kibble. Puppies are like humans. Some overeat when stressed and some undereat. Changing to a new home is an environmental stressor even though we are sure your Frenchie is enjoying being the center of your world. Each Frenchie is different and each human family is different. Do your best at scheduling for you and your Frenchie to live your best lives. In this article, I will cover some key information about feeding your French Bulldog puppy, including how much you should feed them and a suggested outline for a feeding schedule that you can adapt as they grow. Keep reading to find out more. Typically speaking, the breeder that you have bought your French Bulldog puppy from should provide you with all of the information that you need on feeding your puppy. This includes what food your new puppy has been eating as well as how often your puppy has been fed throughout the day. French Bulldog puppies have high caloric and nutrient needs. Generally speaking, French Bulldog puppies aged anywhere from weeks of age need a total of 1. That being said, you will need to bear in mind that the quantity your dog eats depends on a number of factors, including their size, metabolism, and activity levels. Spreading out the meals is the key to a healthy, happy puppy, as it minimizes the peaks of energy your French Bulldog will experience due to dramatic rises and decreases in blood sugar levels between meals. Ensuring you feed them in these intervals will allow your puppy to maintain a healthy amount of energy and nutrients throughout their day. Once your French bulldog puppy reaches 6 months, you can reduce the number of times that you feed them down to 2 meals a day. Puppies can have sensitive stomachs. You will need to feed a puppy the same type of food, the same amount of food, and feed them at the same times of the day to ensure that their stomach can cope. To come up with a feeding plan for your specific puppy, you should consult with your veterinarian and come up with a suitable feeding schedule in conjunction with their advice. Age You will need to consider when feeding your French Bulldog puppy is their age. As a result, your puppy may initially be a little stubborn about eating dry and wet food if they were only just recently weaned. In this circumstance, you will need to ensure that you remain patient and consistent when it comes to meal times. Alternatively, you could try adding a dash of water to the dry kibble to make a type of gravy. Not only will the meaty aromas tempt them to the bowl and encourage them to eat their food, but it will also soften the dry kibble slightly and make it easier for them to chew. French Bulldog puppies are allowed to be separated from their mothers at 8 weeks, at which point they will weigh somewhere between 7 to 12lbs. How much your French Bulldog puppy weighs will depend on their gender, as male French Bulldogs typically weigh more than their female counterparts. They are considered fully grown around 12 to 14 months old, but may continue to put on muscle until they are two years old. They are a greedy breed by nature, and you need to be wary of overfeeding your French Bulldog as this can lead to a variety of health conditions if they become overweight. When assessing whether your Frenchie puppy is overweight, you should be able to see a little rib and they should have a defined waistline. When it comes to choosing to give your dog treats, fewer high quality treats on special occasions are much better than feeding them many lower quality ones more often to train them. When it comes to training your puppy, positive reinforcement in the form of praise also works. Calories As your French Bulldog puppy gets older, the number of calories they are eating should increase according to their weight. You should feed your puppy 12 to 30 calories per pound of their body weight. However, if you are not sure how much to feed your French Bulldog puppy, consult your vet. Nutrition One of the most important factors to consider when feeding your French Bulldog puppy is nutrition, as a healthy, well-balanced diet is essential for their growth and development. This simply comes down to the fact that puppies have higher energy requirements and are actively developing muscle and other tissues. Energy comes from the breakdown of protein fats and carbohydrates. Health Conditions When feeding your French Bulldog puppy, you will also need to bear in mind any health conditions that your Frenchie could be prone to developing. Diarrhea Stomach upsets are very common in Frenchies, so monitoring their diet is absolutely essential. Signs of a digestion problem include wet, runny, and loose stools. If a food allergy is suspected, the only treatment is an elimination diet. As a result, you will need to watch out for any food sensitivities your dog has. Reflux Flat-faced breeds such as Frenchies can suffer from reflux or struggle to swallow their food. You will need to monitor this when it comes to giving them their food. Dental Problems Flat-faced dogs often have crowded teeth which, in turn, can cause dental problems when it comes to chewing. While some French Bulldogs are hyperactive, others are lazy and love nothing more than lying on the couch all day. As your French Bulldog edges closer to adolescence, the amount of exercise they need will increase. Around 60 minutes of daily exercise split into two walks is plenty for your fully grown French Bulldog. As a result, too much exercise can even be bad for French Bulldogs. As a flat-faced breed, French Bulldogs can overheat and struggle to breathe and pant, especially in warmer weather. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome BOAS is a condition that can cause severe breathing problems and is caused by their shorter faces. As a result, you should make sure that you take precautions to keep your dog cool and make sure that you understand the signs of heatstroke in dogs. Consult With Your Vet Above all else, consulting with your vet should be your first port of call when bringing home your new puppy. Invest In A Slow Feed Dog Bowl A slow feeding bowl is a useful dog bowl to have as they are designed with ridges or grooves which are designed to slow your dog down when they are eating. However, some treats contain high amounts of sugar, colourings, milk products and fat. As a result, you will need to make sure that you choose your treats carefully and use them wisely, as failure to do so can quickly result in your puppy becoming overweight. The moisture in wet food reduces the risk of urinary infections and other related issues while your puppy is still getting used to drinking water. As a result, it costs more to feed your dog, even if you are buying the product in bulk for a cheaper price. Wet dog food cannot be left in a bowl for hours on end, and it can be messier. As a result, people often consider wet dog food less convenient to feed their dog and store. Dry Dog Food Benefits Cheaper Dry dog foods are affordable and are incredibly easy to store for longer periods of time, meaning that they have a longer shelf life than wet foods. Dry kibble is excellent for getting rid of plaque build-up in the process of your dog chewing crunchy, dry kibble. However, despite the lack of hydration this dog food provides. Your French Bulldog puppy requires high-quality dog food that provides everything it needs to meet its requirements and ensure healthy development. In Summary Generally speaking, you should be feeding your French Bulldog puppy 1. Before coming up with a consistent feeding schedule for your French Bulldog puppy, you should consult with your veterinarian. Following their advice, you will be able to make a feeding schedule that suits your dog and you. Good luck and enjoy welcoming your new French Bulldog puppy into your family! Post navigation. We do not claim to be veterinarians. French Bulldogs can easily become overweight or underweight , especially the lazy ones. Some french bulldogs are hyperactive while others are couch potatoes. It is also critical that you maintain a consistent feeding schedule and never slack off on feeding your French Bulldog. Even more important than that is feeding your Frenchie the proper amount of food daily. Young Frenchies have high caloric and nutrient needs. French Bulldogs aged anywhere from weeks of age need a total of 1. Spreading out the meals minimizes the peaks of energy your French Bulldog will experience due to dramatic rises and decreases in blood sugar levels between meals. Feeding only twice daily can sometimes lead to gastric dilatation volvulus. By this stage, your French Bulldog is ready to get into an eating routine that they will continue on for the rest of their happy, little chubby lives, barring no serious medical ailments later on in life. From around 6 months to 1 year of age, you can start feeding your French Bulldog a very high quality adult doggy food. It is important to maintain a strict routine for your French Bulldog. You can always supplement a few treats in between. Wink wink. A half a cup at a time will make sure your Frenchie is pleasantly tubby and happy. Some days, it seems like a French Bulldog can never get enough food. This seemingly natural hunger is relative to the breed and you should be weary of overfeeding your French Bulldog. Monitor your Frenchie as she eats and make sure she only eats her own food, especially if you feed your French Bulldog near other pets. Note that non-neutered males may grow into the low 30lb range. Always consult a vet. Ideally, 2. This sort of consult is always quick and cheap sometimes free and you owe it to your companion to get the opinion of an expert veterinarian. Overweight Frenchies can suffer from some very severe health problems, including heart disease just like humans , labored breathing, and lack of physical exercise. Never take a French Bulldog out to play in sweltering heat, they can die. Generally, older French Bulldogs will require slightly less food than their young counterparts. However, do not restrict food from your French Bulldog if they appear to be underweight or hungry. A reader pointed out in the comments below that these calculations would put french bulldogs in the 40lbs range somewhere around calories per day. This is obviously an outlier situation and no french bulldog needs that many calories. This means feeding your french bulldog less food as they age. If they look thinner than usual, you can move up by 5 calories per pound of weight until you find a magic number. No french bulldog is identical and our suggestions are based on average weights computed to a mean average calorie intake suggestion. Read: I use this calculator and a pad of paper. See this guide in order to determine the appropriate weight for your Frenchie. Subject: How much should I feed my French Bulldog? How often and how much do I feed my Frenchie puppy? Because we feed more than one puppy at the same time the rest of their litter mates , we put a large bowl full of their puppy food in their kennel and let them eat until they are satisfied. Once all of them walk away from the bowl we know they are done, and we take it away. Puppies are changing and growing rapidly, and they need to eat more frequently at least 3 times a day to provide all the proper nourishment and nutrition for their rapidly growing bodies. Make sure your Frenchie always has access to fresh water through out the day. There is a guide on the food bag that tells you how much to feed your puppy at a given weight. This is only a rough guide depending on activity level, etc. We believe PawTree has wonderful products and we recommend that you keep your puppy on one or more of their excellent products for life. These are all-life-stages products so there is no need to start with a puppy chow and then transition over to an adult chow. However, if you would like to use another high-quality chow, the transition should be made gradually so as not to upset your puppies digestive system which could cause loose stool or diarrhea. For an adult chow, you can get by with a percentage or two less on the protein and fat content, but unless you have a weight problem with your dog, generally the higher the protein and fat content the better. However, we love the grain free chows form PawTree which use sweet potato. All of the various meats are good, although if you have a very food sensitive Frenchie, turkey or duck are generally better than chicken, and fish can sometimes cause issues. If you are feeding your Frenchie a high quality chow, you can probably get by without special supplements. Our Frenchies love them like they are treats. NuVet has made a noticeable improvement in our kennel, especially with our pregnant and whelping females. We were told about this supplement by a breeder friend of ours who obtained fantastic results in her kennel by using this supplement every day with each of her dogs. She said she solved several problems from skin rashes to low milk production in mothers, along with several other nagging health issues when she started giving each dog in her kennel one of these supplements daily. When you use the number provided you can purchase these supplements at a significantly discounted rate versus the retail cost. Have More Questions?

Ian discusses how we should learn to see the world from our dogs perspective and in doing so, how we can better earn their love and trust. Armed with this love and trust, we will form a better relationship and as a result, effective training becomes just that much more effective and enjoyable for both you and your dog. But please, first make sure to use the search facility in the footer of this website and browse our other sections as the subject may have already been covered: Labrador health and care , Labrador behavior , Labrador puppies , infobites and Labrador breed information. External Resources On Labrador Training Although referring to all breeds in general and not purely Labradors, for those of you that love to watch and not read, the series of dog training videos on www. If you like reading books then check out one of our favorite Lab books: The Complete Labrador Handbook. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. If this is the case,…. How does it feel to be a new puppy parent? You must be chuffed. Take a look at these first few articles. All the ingredients you need for a happy home. But for now, beside your bed is the best place for your puppy to sleep — it will help them feel safe. Puppies like their crates rather cave-like; we suggest covering it with a blanket to block out light, but keep the front open so that they can see outwards. Make sure to make it snug inside with something like a vet bed or a blanket, or why not take it up a notch with a heat pad or hot water bottle to recreate the feeling of their mother. Nothing feels more comforting than that. Before you head to bed, take your puppy out for one last round of loo-going. Set your bedtime at a later time too — midnight sounds about right. Come back calmly, and place your puppy in the crate and turn out the light. Stuff you should know about Sleep Training your Labrador Your puppy will wake up several times in the night and will need the bathroom at least once! Be prepared for not-so-deep sleeps and tired mornings — just for the first few weeks. Having them sleep next to you is only temporary. Consistency is key! As for you, full nights of sleep will start getting closer and closer. Alone Training How can I teach my Labrador puppy to be ok on their own? Start by feeding your puppy in their crate during meal times. If they seem worried by you leaving, stay in view, and just pop right outside their confinement area. Keep it short and sweet: No need to stay away for long, 60 seconds tops will do for now. Repeat: Do this at least once a day to make progress go steady and smoothly. Socialization Exercises To Do this week Letting your Labrador puppy explore the yard Besides the gnomes and questionable yard furniture you may have, letting your puppy explore your own yard is a great and safe way to start showing them the sounds, lights and wonders of the outside world. Exploring different surfaces exercise Make sure that the surfaces you use are safe — nothing too crazy just yet. Gather surfaces such as An oven tray with a small layer of water A piece of astro turf A carpet tile A large piece of tin foil, cardboard or something crinkly PRO TIP: Set up for this exercise in the room your puppy spends most of their time in — it will help them to feel safe and confident. Pop the surfaces out safely on the floor and allow your puppy to investigate them. Nobody has ever enjoyed walking on those. Remember to be patient! Lucky for you — teaching them their name is easy peasy. Say their name in a happy jolly tone and reward with a treat. Repeat five times, 5 and take a break. Practice this 2 or 3 times a day so they get the hang of it. Teach your puppy to sit Teaching your puppy how to sit is a popular one. The first two are far more common though. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow it up with a food reward. In puppy logic, stinky means yummy. How to do it Start at home; where there are no distractions. Just make sure to shut off Gogglebox in the background. Recall — How to teach our Labrador puppy to come back when called Your puppy already knows their name at this point, so this should be a walk in the park. How to do it Treats and a cheerful voice will be what works here. Do these exercises before meal times so your puppy is more motivated. Practice this 5 times a day and in 3 different places in your house and yard to get them used to coming to you in all settings. How to do it Show your puppy that you have their favorite toy, and start to get them excited about it. When they show interest, throw it a little bit away from you. They will likely follow it and pick it up. If they do, encourage them back to you with your voice, so remember to sound happy! Swap the toy for a treat or another toy and do the process again. Repeat this about 5 times. Instead create more distance and excitement sounds to get them to come to you — spaniels like to show off, so they will likely want to parade what they have! Always swap the toy for something when they have it, this could be a treat or another toy. Resource guarding occurs when we force puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. For breeds like Labradors who are designed to want to hold things in their mouths, this is pretty important! Resource guarding is when a dog protects a resource from being taken by someone else — dog or human. For some reason, there is a solid list of things puppies find irresistible: Socks. Print Early obedience first step to better hunting dog Labrador puppies start out sweet and innocent. All you want to do is cuddle up with your pup and love them! And you should! But rest assured the innocence will not last. As your pup gains confidence and courage, they will begin to test you in many ways. That is why you must obedience train your Labrador puppy. Early obedience training is key to establishing borders and boundaries that will help your puppy grow, learn, and adjust with a good attitude. There is no shortcut to doing this, just use the name often when you talk to your puppy. Over time, the pup will start to respond to the name. Socialization, while not technically obedience training, is the single most important thing you can teach your puppy during the first few months of life. If you are not sure how to do this, refer to this post. Tools needed to obedience train Labrador puppy You will need a few tools to teach your puppy obedience. The products I recommend I believe are a good value or good investment for anyone working to train or maintain training on their retriever. When possible, I include links to the product. Some of these links may be Amazon or other affiliate links in which I am paid a small commission at no cost to you. All opinions and recommendations are my own. Collar — You should purchase a size appropriate collar for your new puppy. You may have to buy new ones as your dog grows, but it is important for your puppy to get used to wearing a collar early on. A simple nylon adjustable collar works great. Chain collar — If your puppy is more than a few months old, a chain or prong collar is extremely helpful in teaching obedience, but they must be used correctly. For more information on how to put a chain collar on your dog correctly refer to this video. A longer lead, called a check cord, is also useful for teaching HERE and retrieving. You can learn more about that here. Heeling stick optional — While optional, a heeling stick can be especially helpful in teaching basic obedience. Treats — Treats are good for teaching very young puppies. I use treats for pups under 12 weeks of age, but treats should be discontinued rather quickly. When to start basic puppy obedience training Obedience training can and should start within the first couple weeks of having your puppy home. Young puppies are ready and willing to learn and teaching obedience to a young puppy is much easier than teaching it to an older dog. How long should obedience sessions be? Most labs do not enjoy obedience training. For this reason, we aim to keep obedience sessions short, especially if your dog is under 4-months of age. Five to ten minutes of obedience a day can work wonders. Especially if you are consistent. Using rewards or praise to teach obedience Many people like to use treats or rewards for obedience training. And this can work, especially with very young dogs. But for hunting dogs, over the long-term treats can become a problem. We do not want our dogs, or the dogs we train to be obedient only because they are getting a food reward. We want them to be obedient because they understand their place in the family and respect the owners. To get these lasting results, we use praise words and petting and a reward that retrievers live for — retrieves! Well-timed praise is a particularly important part of dog training. A message that it is okay to ignore me the first 9 times! This simply means that after a few minutes of formal obedience training, we release the dog with an OKAY command and that means they can run around and be a dog. We then throw a bumper or plug a for the dog to retriever. We do this a few times with a lot of excitement and allow the dog to retrieve the bumper. For retriever breeds, this is often more effective than a food reward. Be careful that you are not letting your puppy get into bad habits with retrieving. For instance, if your puppy often goes out to retrieve the bumper but then runs away with it, or picks it up and drops it, do not continue doing retrieves. While retrieving is a reward for many Labs, it is not an excuse to engage in behaviors that are not going to be acceptable in the field. If you want to learn more about how to properly teach your Lab to retrieve, check out How can I teach my retriever puppy to fetch? Introduction to leash and nylon collar The very first step for any puppy obedience is to introduce your puppy to a regular collar and leash. This should be done in two separate steps, first the collar and then the leash. Introduce the collar by putting a nylon type collar on your puppy. This is normal and you should not react to it. Introducing the leash is a little different. We like to do this outside. After a few sessions of this introduction, you can start holding the leash by the end and walking with the puppy. When the puppy tries to run or walk away, hold tight to the leash, and just let the puppy get used to the resistance. Some puppies have a hard time with this and will growl or whine and whip themselves around at the pressure, but most will not. Remain calm and after a few sessions the puppy should get used to the resistance of the leash. Do not allow the puppy to pull you around. That will make for some bad behaviors that you will need to correct later. If you cannot control your puppy with just a regular collar and leash, you may need to move to a chain or prong collar to keep control. What commands to teach Lab puppy There are only four basic obedience commands that you need to teach your young puppy. Remember when it comes to commands, less is more. OKAY — this is a release command, basically tells your dog were done training, go be a dog. As your puppy grows and learns more, there are some other commands that may be needed, but for puppies I like to start with just the four above. Dog training requires consistency Before you start with obedience training, I want to make a note about the importance of consistency. Obedience training only works if you are consistent. This means that when you say a command, you expect the puppy to perform the command, and are willing to take steps to make the puppy perform the command. If you do not remain consistent in this expectation, you will confuse your dog and get poor results from your training. You and your family must be consistent! How to start obedience training Lab puppy The first command you want to start teaching your puppy is SIT. This is quite easy to teach with a small puppy but gets a little tougher as they get bigger. Then release the puppy with the OKAY command. Repeat this process several times, then stop. If your puppy is weeks old, you can repeat this training several times a day for only a couple minutes at a time. This will be a two-person job for a little while. The other person will put the food down a few feet from the puppy. Then release the puppy to eat saying OKAY. As the pup learns and understands the command better, you will no longer need a second person to hold the puppy. You must be a little careful here because young puppies do not have great bladder control and making them wait, even a few seconds, can mean the difference between an accident and them doing their business outside. But this is a great way to teach impulse control and manners to your puppy. I do not want to have to fight for a position by the door. You can usually start working on this within a week or two of teaching SIT. A great way to teach this command to young puppies is to use two people and sit in a long hallway, one at each end. Take turns calling your puppy with a HERE command. A toy or treat can often help the process. Let your puppy run around a bit but hold onto the end of the cord. Occasionally, call you puppy with a HERE command. It can be helpful at first to crouch down to encourage the puppy to run towards you. Then release the puppy with an OKAY command. Do this a few more times and repeat daily until the puppy is coming to you without you needing to pull the cord. It is also the command most of our clients struggle with the most. Mostly because they are using the wrong tool for the job. For heeling work, it is important that you work with a chain or prong collar. This will give you more control and stop the pulling and surging that many people struggle with. Using a chain or prong collar and a six-foot leash, start walking your puppy at your side. If your puppy is young, be sure to use a puppy chain collar which is smaller than chain collars for adult dogs. And make sure that you are putting it on correctly! An alternate tool to a chain collar and leash is the Wonder or Command Lead. These work great for teaching HEEL. As you start walking use gently tugs on the chain collar with the command HERE to keep your puppy at your side. If your puppy surges or pulls ahead, simply make a degree turn and start walking the other direction giving a sharp, upward tug on the chain collar and saying HEEL several times until the dog is back in a heeling position. Many of our clients have told us they never left their driveway the first few days! But if you are patient and consistent, your dog will quickly learn that if they want to go for a walk, they need to stay at your side. If you want to learn and progress in more obedience work, check out these obedience drills for retrievers. Final thoughts on how to teach your lab puppy obedience Teaching your puppy obedience may take a lot of patience, time and work, but it is such an important thing to do. You will never regret the time! A well-mannered dog is such a joy to be around both in the home and in the field. How to obedience train Labrador puppy. 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. 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:. Labrador Retriever pups are working dogs. This means they live to please you for a treat. The more you engage them with different puppy training behaviors the happier they will be. Of course, Labs will be Labs, and this means that dogs do dog things unless they are trained to follow your expectations. Potty training your puppy is just the beginning of you making clear expectations for your Lab. Puppy training from long leash training to potty training, to not nipping is discussed in greater detail along with clear, easy to follow videos at www. But we will give you an expert training tip summary below. For this reason, you need to become an expert on puppy training. Contact us for a discount on the Puppy Trained Right positive reinforcement training program. Expose your puppy to as many different people and situations possible. Teach dog to dog manners when required. Use Positive Reinforcement. Allow for Play with Other Puppies. Play with other Lab Puppies not only allows your pup to get some exercise it is a form of puppy socialization. Bond with your Puppy. Once a strong bond is formed your Lab Puppy will want to please you even more. Potty Train Right Away. Learn how Dogs Learn. Training a Lab puppy is easy if you understand how to go about it. Give your Lab Puppy Play time to Explore. Labs need this as part of their natural development. Spend more time with your puppy when young. This is the time when your expectations should be clearly outlined and can decrease as she gets older. Begin Training day 1. This happens weather or not you intend it to. Every action and reaction is something your puppy uses to form new habits. So ignoring them jumping up as an 8 week old puppy is training them to jump up and will be much more difficult to un-train once they are 70 lbs. Relax and make learning fun. Your pup needs you happy and enjoying yourself! Use Positive Training Methods because they work. This means reward what you desire. Ensure most Experiences are Positive. Imagine a training session of No, No, No, No! Expose them to as Many Human Situations possible. One cause is that there was not adequate socialization with different men. Be Patient. You are building an amazing K9 personality. The window is between 8 and 20 weeks old. Make the most of it. The better your Lab is socialized the happier they will be. Anxiety in dogs comes from many things. The more things your dog is comfortable with the less chance for anxiety and therefore the happier they are. Prepare yourself, your family and your home before your puppy comes home. It is too late once you meet your puppy as simply interacting with her is training. Allow for Safe Experiences both in the home and outside. Seek professional trainers to help guide you when faced with a problem. Be consistent. Clear expectations are easiest to learn. Focus on Guiding not controlling. Best Start Training or Training Classes are beneficial for both you and your puppy. Expect Success. We tend to move in the direction we believe we will travel. Reward the Behaviors you want to see even something as simple as 4 paws on the ground if you are trying to train your Lab not to jump up on you. Become Well informed. You are teaching a skill like reading that takes clear expectations and builds upon last session. Lab Puppies need constant supervision either human, a crate, a fenced area or a baby gate across a doorway. Encourage a soft mouth. Keep your training up or it will be forgotten. Begin Walking on a Loose Leash Right away. This is always easier for your Lab when they are 12 lbs not 70lbs. Change direction before the leash tightens so they are followers not leaders. This is much easier to train before it happens than correct. Allow alone time for your Lab. Know when to end a training session. End training before your puppy quits. Make time for a few shorter training Sessions. Three fifteen minute sessions are better than one 45 min one. Teach your Lab to respond to their name. Teach your Labrador basic obedience before tricks-come, sit, stay, down, leave it. Have all humans learn the commands and be consistent. Ignore undesirable behaviors. Ignoring includes not saying no, bad dog, touching your dog or making eye contact. Find rewards that your Retriever loves and use them when you have breakthrough training moments. Adjust your expectations as your Lab puppy matures, the older more experienced the higher the expectation. Set Realistic Expectations. Minimize distractions when you begin training. Be aware of your Body Language, Labradors pick up cues from you. Be aware of your leash tension. A tight leash says anxiety from the handler. Know when to get Help .Have fun! Understand that Labs do Lab things. Make them work for food and treats. Exercise your Retriever properly for both intensity and duration. Learn some exercise games Labs love. Give lots of repetition. Stop before they get bored. Establish a Pattern by Praising. Redirect undesired behavior. Accept partial actions at first and gradually increase your expectations. When treats end Verbal treats and chin scratches rule. They will know. Enjoy your well balanced purebred Lab puppy for many years. Purebred Lab Retrievers, are they easier to train? The answer to that is definitely maybe! Not all purebreds are bred for intelligence. For example, if a Labrador Retriever breeder chooses to breed their dogs for a certain look then they may overlook intelligence as one of the important characteristics in order to get a specific Lab look. We however breed for intelligence, health and temperament. So in our case, yes, our Purebred Lab Puppies are easier to train than many because we choose the parents and their puppies specifically for their smarts!

Reasons why your German Shepherd is not eating As pet parents, we all want our four-legged family members to get the best nutrition to keep them strong and healthy, so it can be worrying if their appetite changes. Your dog is stressed or anxious Stress hormones can suppress the appetite. Dental problems Gum recession, tooth root abscesses, fractured teeth, or teething can all cause pain in the mouth that might mean chewing is uncomfortable for your dog. Dogs with dental disease might drop their food, throw it around their mouth, or struggle with dried kibble. If their food is causing some vomiting or diarrhea regularly due to allergies, your dog might not be keen to eat it if they know it makes them feel poorly. Your dog will pick up on this change and might not be hungry at the new feeding time or might be feeling stressed. German Shepherds need around 2 hours a day for adults. Less than this and they might only want a small portion of food to avoid overeating and weight gain. How can I get my German Shepherd eating again? Getting your pup to eat again after a period of inappetence can be challenging, and you want to be sure you are offering your dog the right food to get them back to their usual selves. Here are our top tips to help get your German Shepherd eating again: Switch their food Dogs like variety, so switching up their food by mixing wet and dry or adding some water, or even changing brands every few months can keep them interested. Feed at a specific time each day and stick to a routine Dogs are creatures of routine, and German Shepherds are very sensitive to change. Establish a routine when your dog is a puppy and introduce changes gradually. Your dog will learn to expect and want their food around a certain time, and they may not be hungry outside of it. A behaviorist can help you here, and some simple training techniques will help. Make mealtimes fun Games, interactive feeders, and slow feeding bowls can make mealtime more interesting for your dog, stimulate their senses and make them more enthusiastic about their food. When to see the vet A lack of appetite can be worrying for any pet parent. The vet will examine your dog and might want to do tests to find out what the problem is and get your dog the treatment they need. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are highly intelligent and sensitive dogs, so they can go off their food for reasons as simple as a change in routine or environment, or stress such as separation anxiety. Most adult dogs can go a day or two without food. Puppies cannot go as long without food. When should I worry about my dog not eating? If your dog is not eating for 24 hours or more, or it is a long-term problem then get them checked at the vet. Why does my dog suddenly not want to eat? Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Sep 1, Share Determining the causes of a loss of appetite in your German Shepherd is often tricky. The symptom is non-diagnostic and can point to so many reasons. It can indicate minor things or something more serious. Is there nausea or vomiting? Is your pet experiencing GI distress? You should be aware of anything unusual. When symptoms appear together, it can give your veterinarian a shortlist of things to check. Just saying that my German Shepherd is too skinny is vague. It can make learning the root of the problem more difficult. Remember that canines have a keen sense of smell with over 16 times the sensory receptors and 40 times the brain capacity. That means dogs are often more sensitive to different foods. Image Credit: Angeleses, Pixabay 2. You probably know about chocolate. However, there are also several obscure ones, such as avocados and macadamia nuts. Eating Is Painful Dental problems are often a culprit that can turn your pup off its food. Severe cases might make it too painful for your dog to eat. That makes regular dental care imperative. Image Credit: PixieMe, Shutterstock 4. Common types include chemotherapy drugs, pain meds, and some antibiotics. Luckily, the symptoms resolve quickly after your pet goes off the things causing the problems. Fortunately, many are specific to the condition, which makes diagnosis easier. Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss occurs with several of them, including stomach worms, roundworms , and threadworms. They also resolve quickly once they are identified. It can have a similar effect on your canine friend as it does on humans. Think of how you feel in a tense situation. Probably the last thing you want to do is eat. Your body—and that of your German Shepherd—allocate its resources to escaping the threat instead of passive ones like eating. They sometimes experience separation anxiety if they are kept alone for long stretches. It can manifest in many ways, including a loss of appetite. Counterconditioning therapy can help your pup cope better with your absences. Image Credit: DanaTentis, Pixabay 8. Veterinarians can tell you a plethora of stories about the things dogs have swallowed, from socks to rocks to Super Balls. A loss of appetite, vomiting, and pain are the telltale symptoms. The list includes a broad range of conditions, from liver disease to bacterial problems to urinary tract infections. Your vet will likely begin with a complete blood profile. Image Credit: Goran Horvat, Pixabay .Your Pup Has Cancer Cancer often causes a decrease in appetite, too. It can result from the disease or its treatment. The difference is that it can often result in a dramatic weight loss that is visible quickly and noticeably. Keeping your German Shepherd will give your pup its best defense against this disease. Final Thoughts Dogs differ from cats in that they often wear their symptoms on their proverbial sleeves. Related Read:. Ways to make your German Shepherds eat There are many options to get your German Shepherd to eat again. Here are some solutions that you can introduce: 1 Increase activity to stimulate appetite 2 Introduce a consistent schedule 3 Limit the feeding time to 15 minutes 4 Add high-value food to their meal 5 Make mealtime fun 7 Create a safe eating environment 1 Increase activity to stimulate appetite German shepherd dogs need an average of 2 hours a day of exercise. Those 2 hours should be made up of physical and mental stimulation. Walking and playing fetch are everyday physical activities. Mental activities could include training and puzzle toys. Exercise does not have to be done all at once and can be more accessible when broken up throughout the day. Disruptions can affect their appetites, so keeping consistent is vital. Meals should be offered twice daily, ideally after a walk or activity. Make sure to choose times that you can keep as consistent as possible. Automatic feeders can be used if your schedule varies and it is hard to keep to exact times. Portions are dependent on the weight and life stage of your German shepherd. If food is left out, your dog may start grazing and not eating the entire meal because your dog is used to having it left out. Dry food can become stale and wet food should not be left out for long, or it can cause digestive problems. Limiting feeding time should encourage them to eat while it is available. Plain chicken and unsweetened canned pumpkin can help to settle an upset stomach and entice your dog to eat. You can also add a portion of wet food to dry kibbles. Adding broth to dry food can make it more palatable. Ensure the broth you use does not have added harmful ingredients like onions or garlic and is low in sodium. Treats you already use and know your dog likes can also make a high-value mix to encourage them to eat. You can purchase or create puzzle toys that provide that mental stimulation and fun. A puzzle toy can easily be made by rolling up dry food in a towel and then letting your dog sniff out and unravel it. You could also fill a cardboard box with pieces they must get through. There are many cost-effective ways to make meals fun. If your dog is not eating, he may be shy, and feeding by hand helps them to build trust and be more comfortable. It can also help impulse control, rewarding good behavior by having self-control. Hand feeding can combat resource guarding, letting the dog know that food comes when you are around. These go alongside training, and german shepherd dogs are a working class breed, so being rewarded for work can help increase appetite. It can include changes inside or outside the home. It may be too loud or too many people around while trying to eat. If your dog has a crate, this may be an excellent place to feed them. A quiet and secluded place could also be a great way to get them eating again. Dogs can be sensitive to changes, so keeping a secured area where they are fed is essential. Conclusion A dog that is not eating is worrisome. However, if your dog is not eating and is either vomiting, having diarrhea, or both, contact your veterinarian within hours. Source: AKC Hayley is a writer and animal lover. She is an avid reader which led to a love of writing. Post navigation. After covering each one in full detail, you may realize that one of the causes sounds familiar to your situation. The next section will provide the best solutions. There are several reasons why German shepherds stop eating their food. These include disagreeing with their kibble, inactivity, lack of feeding schedule, receiving too many treats, boredom, environmental issues, and underlying health issues. More will be explained about the correct diet and brands in the next section. Recommended Read: Why does my German Shepherd have diarrhea? German Shepherds ideally need around 2 hours or more of exercise per day. Appetite is just one of many things closely linked to exercise. Having routines helps them understand their day and allows them to become comfortable in their environment. Most adult GSDs are fed just twice a day. For puppies, this varies. Day grazing should not be something you engage in with your German Shepherd. By sticking to certain times you are training your German Shepherd to become hungry at those times. Yep, it really does work like that! But it could be the case… If your GSD has been eating the same food for a while, he may just be bored of it. Boredom will not make your GSD sick, so if you do see signs of sickness or being unwell, you can rule boredom out. This may be table scrabs or other forms of food. A change in the environment could be a new neighbor, a new pet, a new person in the household, a loss of someone in the house, or maybe you moved house entirely, the list is quite extensive. Think about your close surroundings and if something has changed. This changes when health issues are present. This is original content produced and published by The Puppy Mag www. There are many common allergens in dog food that may be causing the issues. The biggest culprit being chicken. Yep, chicken, as well as beef, pork, and lamb, are all common allergens, despite being used all the time! Try opting for a premium dog food brand that uses either duck, salmon, or turkey as the main protein source. These digest easily and usually cause fewer issues than chicken. Wet dog food is considerably tastier, juicier, has a higher protein content with fewer preservatives and additives. Adding a small amount to every mealtime will be irresistible for your German Shepherd. This working breed needs this kind of physical activity in order to develop a healthy appetite. Consider his environment Have you recently changed where you put the food bowl? On the flip side, you can try moving his bowl to a different spot to see if that has an effect. If you have young children, allow your GSD to eat in peace. Popular German Shepherd Articles:. Check Price on Amazon 5. If you give treats just to entice your German Shepherd to eat, you are turning him into a fussy eater! So, are German Shepherds fussy eaters? Now and again, a little healthy treat is just fine. You can also try some fruits or vegetables , especially if the treat cupboard is bare. Your German Shepherd may have also eaten something poisonous while roaming in the garden or fields. Dogs are known for eating anything they can find left lying around or even getting into the garbage! Take care with foods like chocolate or grapes , and never leave these lying around where your dog can get at them, as they can be highly toxic. If your German Shepherd has had his recent vaccinations, sometimes these can cause adverse reactions, including loss of appetite. The good news is this should only be brief — just ensure your dog is drinking plenty of water and keeping himself hydrated. If nothing else seems to be working and you are worried, you should schedule a visit with the veterinarian as soon as you can. He likes to eat at certain times of the day Just like you might not like to eat breakfast at 6 a. Though this can be concerning at first, you should be keeping track of how much food in total your German Shepherd is eating throughout the day. If he still eats about the same amount, he simply might prefer to eat at specific times of the day! On a similar note, your dog may prefer to eat little and often. My German Shepherd used to eat one meal in the morning and one in the evening. However, now that she is older, she prefers to eat both meals in the evening. Take your dog on a long walk before feeding — so he works up an appetite. Give him lots of praise when he eats from his bowl. Make feeding time fun — try putting a lid on his food, so he must remove it first. It gets over , top reviews! If your dog refuses his meal, take his bowl away after 15 minutes and then only put it down again a few hours later. Limit treats to training times only. If he senses that you are stressed and anxious about his loss of appetite, he may also become stressed and not eat at all! A sudden lack of appetite and resulting weight loss can signify other issues going on. Switch His Food If your dog slowly lost interest in food over a few weeks, he might no longer like his current food. Here are some ways to target his diet and boost his loss of appetite. Choose a more fragrant food. Try picking food that smells more like meat and has a more intense aroma. Add wet food or soak his food in warm water. I feed her cold-pressed dog food, which she just adores and continues to thrive on. Hopefully, these steps will fix the situation and return your dog to regular eating habits. Take Him to the Vet Vet visits can be costly, but so are the treatment methods for the condition or disease your dog might currently be experiencing. I would always recommend having a decent pet insurance policy in place, as this will always give you peace of mind. A healthy German Shepherd can go up to five to seven days without eating as long as they are still drinking water. However, if your German Shepherd refuses to drink water for 48 hours, it is time to bring your dog to the emergency veterinary clinic. If your German Shepherd is eating only once a day, it may be due to a routine that has been established over time. However, feeding your dog only once a day can lead to health problems such as gastric dilatation-volvulus GDV. Add variety to the diet and check the consumption. German Shepherd Not Eating and Diarrhea. If your German Shepherd is not eating and has diarrhea, it could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a change in diet, stress, anxiety, or a gastrointestinal infection. When your German Shepherd stops eating, you need to take the necessary steps to figure out the source of the problem and how to address it. Add wet food or warm water to boost his appetite and make his food more palatable and fragrant. Keep an eye on his other behaviors to see how his mood and movements have changed. Call the vet and schedule an appointment to have him checked over. Related Posts You May Like:. Health It is not totally uncommon for a German Shepherd will refuse to eat once in a while. Although this is not totally uncommon, it is always a worrying experience for their humans. This article will help you realize some common reasons why GSDs may have a change in appetite to help you know whether or not to be concerned. So, when they refuse to eat, you know that something might be wrong. Sometimes, this might be because of the sensitive gut the breed is known for. But in many cases, it could be a sign that they are sick or in pain. Additionally, this could also be a sign of other conditions like oral problems or parasites. However, there are fussy GSDs that prefer variety. This issue is most common for dogs that are given access to table food or are fed a wide variety of dog food. They might also lose their appetite when they are depressed. In other cases, medicines can cause nausea or digestive upset, which will also keep your dog from eating. If your dog is refusing to eat because of new medications, make sure to bring it up with your vet. Older dogs become less active and have fewer opportunities to work up an appetite. Sometimes, German Shepherds stop eating the dry kibble that they normally eat. Or, they might ditch the kibble entirely in preference of wet dog food. Here are some of the most common reasons why your dog could be refusing to eat dry food: They have dental issues When oral problems get bad enough, your GSD might refuse to eat due to the pain it causes. This could be caused by cavities, a broken tooth, or swollen gums. In this case, a rotation between kibble brands and variants will help. They just prefer another food Dogs might refuse their regular food in hopes that they will be given another that they have tasted and loved. This might be table scraps or another kind of dog food. In cool weather, German Shepherds use up more energy to keep themselves warm. But in the hot summer months, they prefer to lounge around and keep cool. After some exercise, give them time to cool down completely before giving any food. Dogs can survive up to five days without food as long as they keep drinking water. Fasting for this long may have long-term consequences. More critically, it might be a sign of an underlying illness. If they suddenly have no appetite but they normally eat voraciously and never miss a meal, it should definitely be a cause of concern. Just make sure you observe them for any other warning signs. You might also observe changes in their stool consistency or a lack of enthusiasm for their regular activities. Whether or not they have a good reason for refusing food, here are some things you can do to encourage your German Shepherd to eat: Cut down on treats. Your dog can lose their appetite for their regular food when they have plenty of better-tasting treats throughout the day. Make feeding enjoyable. GSDs are always eager to please. Teach them to wait for their food and take it only on command. Then, praise them for finishing their food. Make food more appetizing. Try topping kibble with different types of food that might whet their appetite. Sometimes, a little bit of boiled chicken or beef broth will do the trick. They might not like the print, the ability to see their reflection, or the feeling on their tongue. Using another feeding bowl might help. Give them plenty of exercise. The energetic German Shepherd may need to tire themselves out to work up an appetite. Give your dog the daily exercise they need and then wait at least half an hour after any physical activity before giving them their meals. However, when your dog refuses to eat, you should also keep an eye out for other signs that could be a cause for concern. While many types of food might help jumpstart their appetite, there are several that might do more harm than good. Even if these foods might get them to eat, the effects might be more harmful. Instead, you can first try to give them some wet dog food for German Shepherds or mix in some plain rice and chicken with their kibble. You know what is normal for your dog! If their change in appetite veers too much from their norm it is best to make an appointment with the vet just to be safe.

Bringing happiness and love through puppies!! Some of my story…. I have been in love with german shepherds ever since i was 20 and got my first German shepherd dog named Elsa. I decided about 10 years ago that i wanted to start breeding. I work hard on breeding only from the best lines. I breed for health, temperament, workability, beauty, and many other things. I try to stick to long coats because those are my favorite. Our goal with our breeding program is to promote healthy, sound dogs, who are suitable for any situation and be gentle enough to able to be handled by families as well. I have a variety of drives and energies and each puppy goes thru temperament testing to make sure they go to the right homes, as well as being raised on the Puppy Culture Program. I do not promote the extreme roach back shepherds. Mine either have the proper gentle slope or a more straight old fashioned back. All my dogs are part of the family. We do not have kennels, and I will never keep my dogs in kennels. That would make them very unhappy lol. Every dog i own lives in the house with us and is part of our family. I have recently acquired a nursery shed! It was bought as a shell and I am building the whole inside into puppy rooms, and after the puppies are raised indoors in my bedroom for the first couple weeks, they are then moved out to the nursery shed! They will still be in the house all the time, but they will be in the shed and outdoors when nice for a majority. I am so excited for the addition and have been waiting a long time for it!!!! My goals for are to get ALL my dogs various titles! I implement the Puppy Culture Program into our litters! Its amazing, and so much fun! I love being able to give puppies the absolute best start in their lives which will impact their whole life! Its an amazing program! Puppies are raised for the first 2 weeks in our bedroom so we can watch over them carefully and someone is always with them during that time, and during that time we also do the Early Neurological Stimulation with them. Then we move them to their bigger whelping pens which will be the nursery shed now where we play classical music and other varieties including thunderstorm all the time except bedtime when its quiet time. They learn to use the litter boxes and play with toys. We introduce to new sounds, smells, and textures daily. They are raised in our home and underfoot most of the time, and are handled all day everyday, so they get the full family setting and used to daily family activities and noises and such. This is all a HUGE learning process for me. I do my best and try my hardest at all times. I do not claim to be perfect but I always strive for perfection. I want to produce the best quality dogs I can and I want everyone to always be happy with their lifelong companions. I may make mistakes along the way, but I will always try to fix them and do better next time and move forward and take each mistake as a learning opportunity. My goal is to provide happiness and love to everyone thru my favorite dog- the German shepherd. I also provide transport for my puppies and others as well. They change so often, I cannot give a set price at any time until its actually time to book. If transport is needed to meet you someplace or take a puppy to meet you at the airport, it is the same, 50 cents a mile round trip. I will start a list in the menu at the top, of websites, or breeder names, whom I feel are deserving of recognition. Ill try to update this list whenever I think of someone or something I may have missed! With beautiful coats and colors, like red, black, and bi-colors, German Shepherds are companions and show dogs. Their power and endurance also make them participants in K9 sports and Schutzhund trials. If you feel like you are still confused about how to choose the right breeder, create a checklist and check off the items one by one as you go down the list. The breeder that checks all your boxes is the right one! Start your checklist with customer reviews. Read online reviews to find out what people say about your chosen breeders. Look for reviews on Google, social media platforms, and third-party sites like Yelp. If the reviews are generally positive on all channels, you can be sure they are authentic and trustworthy. Moreover, you can also ask about the breeder in local Facebook groups, your circle of friends and family, and your vet. Customer reviews are the best way to determine the authenticity of a breeder. The second item on your checklist should be health checks; check if the breeder of your choice religiously follows health checks. To make sure that the health of your adopted dog is not compromised or the health of all the dogs overall is ensured, ask the breeder about the frequency of health checks and genetic testing protocols. Make sure the breeder you are adopting from gives you the vaccination card for your dog that has all the latest information. Lastly, check for valid certifications and registrations. The certifications and registrations vary from place to place and breed to breed. American Kennel Club covers most species in America, but smaller species-specific clubs are also active. Do research the valid certifications of the dog and breeder of your choice. German Shepherd Puppies in Ohio — Top 5 Breeders In conclusion, we hope you find the German Shepherd puppy of your choice from the breeders listed above. GSDs are the right choice whether you are a new dog owner or a veteran. Even though they require firm handling, they can be the most obedient pets with the right training and trainers. We also hope the tips mentioned above prove helpful in choosing the right breeder and wish you the best of luck in finding your furry companion! You will also like:. Prices may also vary depending on the place of purchase. Finally, some breeders offer discounts for first-time dog owners and military personnel. This can cut costs significantly. You can also check online directories or breed-specific websites. These websites typically have detailed listings of breeders in your area, as well as reviews from previous customers. Social media can also be a great resource for finding reputable breeders. Many breeders have active Facebook pages or Instagram accounts where they post photos and updates of their puppies. Take the time to read reviews and compare prices. And above all, be sure to ask lots of questions. This will give you a chance to meet the puppies and their parents, as well as ask any questions that you may have. Good breeders will always welcome potential buyers to their homes. They should also be willing to provide references, health certificates, and other documentation about their puppies. Unfortunately, many pet stores and other third-party dealers are in the business of selling sick puppies. Instead, they focus on selling directly to buyers who are ready to take proper care of the puppy. Good breeders will be happy to provide references from previous buyers. This is a great way to get an idea of the quality of the puppies and the level of care that the breeder provides. References can also help you determine whether or not the breeder is reputable. If a breeder is reluctant to provide references, move on. A breeder is an individual who breeds dogs with the intention of selling their puppies. Dog kennels are facilities that house multiple dogs at once without breeding them themselves. This will give you the opportunity to ask them questions about their experience with the breeder and the puppy. Good breeders will also have reviews on websites or social media pages. Take the time to read through these reviews before making your final decision. This typically includes a health certificate from the veterinarian, as well as documentation of any genetic tests that have been performed. This is because your puppy will need regular vet check-ups and vaccinations. A good breeder will be able to provide you with the contact information for their veterinarian. They should also be willing to let you meet the veterinarian and tour their office. When you visit your breeder, there are a few questions that you should always ask. Here are some of the most important ones: How long have you been breeding German Shepherds? Do you have any references from past customers? Can I meet some of your past customers? What genetic tests have been performed on the puppy? Is the puppy up-to-date on his vaccinations and deworming? Who will be responsible for training the puppy? You should also be able to determine whether or not they are knowledgeable about the breed Look Out for The Signs of An Unethical German Shepherd Dog Breeder in Ohio There are some red flags that you should definitely watch out for when buying a German Shepherd puppy. The prices seem too good to be true. If you see any of these red flags, it might be best to move on and find another breeder in Ohio. If this is the case, the breeder should be willing to let you know which of their dogs have been affected by these diseases and give you some information about how it affects them. They should also be able to provide documentation from a veterinarian that states the dog has been tested for these problems. If a breeder tells you that none of their dogs have ever had any health problems, they may not be telling the truth. You will need a crate, food and water bowls, a collar and leash, and a bed. Set up a designated area for the puppy to potty. This should be a spot where you can easily clean it up. Buy some toys to keep the puppy entertained. Make sure you have a vet appointment scheduled for the puppy as soon as possible. Puppy proof your home by removing any objects that the puppy could chew on or swallow. When you bring your new German Shepherd puppy home, make sure you take the time to get to know them. Spend time playing with them, training them, and taking them for walks. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy One of the most important things you need to do when you bring your German Shepherd puppy home is to start potty training them. There are a few things you can do to make this process easier: Take the puppy outside frequently, especially after they eat or drink. Reward the puppy for going potty in the designated area. It will take some time and patience, but eventually your German Shepherd puppy will learn how to properly potty. Here are some tips to help you train your puppy from Ohio breeder: Start training them as soon as possible after they get home. Use positive reinforcement and treats to reward good behavior. It might take a little while for you to train your German Shepherd , but in return you will end up with a well mannered dog that knows the difference between right and wrong behaviors. 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. I only have pictures of the ones that aren't reserved as of yet. Very social have been around kids and family since born, Sire and Dam are Loving family pets. Puppies will have first shots and AKC papers when they find their furever home. Mom and dad are pure bred. Dad is standard black and tan mom is a sable shepherd. They've had shots and deworm. They have been playing outside getting used to water and baths. They are socialized, they will be dewormed, first round of vac shots, and first vet wellness check, they are AKC registered litter. Mostly black brown tan and some have gray color. Buy Now Looking for new home foe my German shepherd Three year old German shepherd looking for a great new family Buy Now German shepherd puppy free to a good home Have a AKC German shepherd puppy six months old who is great with family. Call me at xxx-xxxxxxx Buy Now German shepherd puppies Halloween puppies available! Will accept deposits and send pictures upon request. Attached are parents pictures feel free to call xxx. Local pickup only. Playfull, wormed, no Vaccination. Call for viewing. Southern Ohio area xxx-xxx-xxxx. Buy Now German shepherd puppies We have 4 male and 4 female puppies for rehoming. They are AKC registered. Have been vet checked, dewormed, and 1st shots given. They have shots and deworm. All up to date on shots and deworm. She very friendly and loves spending time outdoors swimming and scratches behind her ears. I am so excited to answer all your questions! Here is everything you need to know! Iris has a great personality and a wonderful temperament, she is my little shadow! She is a beautiful black long coat imported from Serbia. Greyson has a great personality. He is a beautiful plush coat blue sable imported from Canada. He is Canadian kennel club and AKC registered! Puppies will come with vaccines, dewormer, registration paperwork AKC , vaccine records and a puppy pack toys, treats, collar, leash, puppy pads, bones, blanket with moms scent on it and so much more! We are so very excited about this litter!! Love Kids and Love to cuddle. Buy Now German shepherd husky mix Looking to rehome a male and female German shepherd husky mix. They are 4 months almost 5 months old. If interested please contact me at xxxxxxxxxx. Buy Now 16 month old female German shepherd We have a 17 month old female German shepherd she is chiped and spaded is crate trained and house broken we have to let her go due to my husband health Buy Now Locations Where German Shepherd Puppies are Available in Ohio. If you have any questions or would like more info about our kennel or our dogs, please feel free to ask. We will gladly help you in any way, for it is our goal to make you feel welcome, comfortable and empowered in your decision-making process. Please take your time to look around, "meet" our dogs as well as ourselves, and have a pleasant time! Contact us at .Our dogs live inside with the family and all our puppies are whelped in our home and socialized extensively. We can also occasionally be found at various other venues such as AKC obedience. They can and should be able to do it all. Our goal is to breed dogs that conform to the standard for temperament, workability and conformation. In addition to that we strive for great health and long lives, high intelligence and a good sense of humor. After all, when you have the perfect dog, you want it around for many years. Our dogs are placed in homes with a wide range of jobs that prove our program. One area we do not send our dogs is the military. Our current military theatre is in very hot climes and neither my husband and I, former veterans, feel comfortable sending GSDs into that environment. RHK isn't just a kennel. We're a community. We keep in touch with one another, we share our knowledge and we help one another. We plan together, support one another, travel to shows and trials together whether they're across the state or across the country! If you are looking for a breeder who will be there for you for the life of your dog, you have come to the right place. Saundra Hill. 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.