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Like many large breeds, a German Shepherd dog is not considered fully grown until they are about 18 months old. Female German Shepherds continue to fill out until they are around two years old, while the male German Shepherd growth rate continues until they reach two and a half years of age. Males are larger and require more time to fill out their chest and abdomen. As you can see by the German Shepherd weight chart, these dogs can continue to grow until they are three years old, but the majority of growth occurs within 24 months. If your GSD is older than 36 months and continues to put on weight, contact your veterinarian to ensure weight gain does not lead to obesity. How big should a 6-month-old German Shepherd be? A six-month-old German Shepherd puppy will be quite large, as many German Shepherds undergo massive growth spurts between two and five months old. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. How much bigger will my German Shepherd get? There are a few ways to gauge how much bigger a German Shepherd will get. First, check your puppy's age. If your GSD is younger than two years old, they definitely have room to keep growing! Another way to tell if your pup still has a lot of growing to do is their paw size. Do their paws look large compared to their legs and body? This is a classic adolescent feature of a dog and means your pup is likely still growing! Most of the time, a dog will not grow bigger than its larger parents. What is the size of a full-grown German shepherd? An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard. The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds. Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors. Learn all about your puppy's physical characteristics, breed history, personality traits, and more in our comprehensive guide. Preventive care is key in helping your German Shepherd live a healthy and long life. Helping your dog maintain an optimal weight is one of the best things you can do for their health. Taking your German Shepherd to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do to ensure that they are healthy and feeling their best. Compare German Shepherd health insurance plans before they get sick or injured. They are also more susceptible to gastrointestinal tract and hip issues. A veterinarian should regularly assess your pet for these health problems and run tests for anything they may be more prone to due to their breed. Treatment for many conditions, including bloat and GI issues, can cost thousands of dollars. Dog insurance is a wise investment that can give you peace of mind by covering pet emergency expenses. Wellness plans are also available to help cover the cost of vaccinations, vet exams, microchips, and more. Some people can predict the future. For everyone else, there's pet insurance. Use Pawlicy Advisor to easily compare plans from top providers so you can find a great deal with great coverage. Get Peace of Mind Today Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. Final Thoughts So, your 5 month old German Shepherd puppy does not look like a cute round and fluffy cub. It is the time when it has entered its juvenile growth stage, and it will become an adolescent in a month. Its behavior has also changed a bit. The pup is not that unruly delinquent it used to be a month ago. It becomes more obedient and shows its intelligence in training and exercising. However, it can still get into trouble, if left uncontrolled, with its immense energy making it bite, chew everything it sees, and jump at everybody it encounters. So, it may be a severe test for your patience before your pet enters the next stage of its life. Here is what you need to know about the main characteristics of your five month old German Shepherd, its temper, behavior, energy, and training needs. Size and Appearance If you are worried about whether your puppy is healthy enough and has reached the normal size and height for this age , check the appropriate measurements. Measuring and weighing your doggy regularly is a good option to ensure everything is OK with it. Your GS dog continues to gain weight quickly. The male puppy weighs about pounds kg , while females are a bit of lighter — pounds kg. If we speak about height, boys are taller at the shoulder — inches cm , while girls reach inches cm. Check how big its parents are. If they are smaller than average, your pet may take after them. They will recommend a specific diet to improve the situation and check whether this difference is not connected with a developmental disorder. Remember that if your puppy grows too fast, but its parents are not too big, it may also be a problem. Quick growth can cause damage to its bones. Your 5 month old German Shepherd experiences some other developmental stages in its teeth, ears, and fur. The teething period continues. You will see that for the next two or three months. The adult teeth replace the milk ones, so the doggy needs more calcium and other nutrients in its diet. The incisors have already grown in most puppies at this time. Now, you can expect premolars and canines. So, your puppy continues to bite and chew everything it can reach. You need chewing toys at this period badly. As for the ears, they usually stand straight up at this age. Anyway, you need to consult your veterinarian at this point. Droopy ears can be normal, too, so you should not interfere with the natural way in most cases. You may also need to add some supplements to the diet or change it completely to more raw meat and other natural ingredients. Using chewing toys is helpful not only for teething. You may damage the auracles, so be careful not to play too hard with your pet, and never pat it on the head during this period. Its adult double coat has already almost formed. So, your puppy can shed a lot and need more brushing and grooming. At this age, most GS puppies start their sexual maturing. Some boys can reach it up to 6 months of age. It means they will start looking for mates. It is full of energy and always ready to play a lot. Its playful nature can often get it into some trouble, so you need to watch out when your doggy is playing and running outside. Your pet will also try to test its boundaries right now, so you need to be very consistent with your pup at this juvenile stage — it should see an indisputable leader of the pack in you and all your actions towards it. Remain pretty firm with your commands, but never forget about treats. The young dog will chew and bite all the things around, destroying your shoes, socks, dresses, trousers, pieces of furniture, and other, even the most unexpected, household items. Tug-o-war and other energetic puppy games can help a lot. Work at teaching your pet not to bite. Bite inhibition should be provided regularly, strictly, and consistently. As for walking, your doggy needs a lot of it outside. It can walk up to 10 kilometers about 6 miles. However, never make your pet walk or run as far as that. Two walking sessions of minutes each per day is enough. Moreover, at this age, puppies can experience a strange adolescence problem — panosteitis. This health disorder is bone inflammation, so your pet starts limping when it gets up after a nap. If you do too much exercise with it, the results may be lameness, pain, or anorexia. This condition relieves by itself in most puppies in several days, while in others it may last for a few weeks. Health and Care Your 5 month old German Shepherd puppy is a healthy young adolescent, growing fast and feeling full of energy. By this age, it should have undergone 3 vaccination rounds, with the last vaccination session at weeks of age for DHPP and rabies. The next rounds will be needed at the age of 12 and 16 months. However, you should check with your veterinarian if all the due vaccines have been taken and administer them if something was skipped. If your puppy gets good nutrition and a lot of exercises, it will grow fast and healthy. Though, you may need to know if there may be certain health issues in the future. Do thorough research on the hereditary history if you want to be preventative. Running a DNA test can also help a lot, especially if you are worried about the possible appearance of degenerative myelopathy. So, look carefully for such things as: dry and itchy skin;. A 5 month old German Shepherd is wrapping up the juvenile growth stage and only a month away from entering the adolescent stage of their journey to adulthood. Pretty soon their unruly behavior full of biting, chewing and jumping on everyone they see, will be tampering down as they become more and more mature. These teenage delinquents will still test your patience for at least 4 more weeks before they enter the next phase of development. Overall Behavior: Still young and full of energy, 5 month GSDs will still be full of vigor and ready to play. They are still in the juvenile stage of development and could still get into some trouble. They should be behaving a little better than month 4 assuming they are getting the proper training. However, they will still most likely be acting out with some of the normal juvenile behavior. You will need to be calm and consistent as pups this young will begin to test their boundaries. Stay firm with your commands and make sure they are aware that you are in control. Biting and Zoomies: Bursting with energy, they will need plenty of outlets to release all of their pent-up aggression. Tug-o-war and other puppy games are a great way for them to release some of that energy. Still teething for at least another month or so, you need to make sure that bite inhibition is being taught on a consistent basis. Stay patient, once they finish the teething stage at 6 months, they will calm down a little and be easier to deal with overall. Training: At 5 months, they are still highly susceptible to training, so make sure to have a solid plan in place for bite inhibition and obedience. Although they are extremely smart animals, what you teach them now at this young ripe age, will dictate their future temperament immensely. Learn to communicate on their level to better understand what they are thinking or trying to tell you. Patience and consistency are key to successful training. Use positive reinforcement methods for training to establish a bond and trust. Basic obedience training will involve teaching them some common commands. Ideally these should be taught when they are much younger at around the 2 month mark. Sit — Say sit and push their butt on the ground. Repeat this and reward them for obeying. Reward them when they obey on their own. Heel — Teach them to heel when walking. Stand still and pull the leash until they are next to your leg. Reward them for being obedient. Stay — Tell them to stay. Walk around them in circles and stop them from following you. Pull on the leash when they try. Reward them for obeying. Repeat this getting further and further apart. If you need some help with training, here is a video with some useful tips and tricks: Physical Development: At month 5, they have grown quite a bit and should be right around half the weight of their full-grown adult size. They are still gaining weight pretty fast. Males should be now standing close to the range of 14 to 16 inches at the shoulder. Males should be tipping the scales at around 40 to 49 pounds. Females are right behind them weighing in between 35 and 40 pounds. They are still in the teething stage with a few more months to go. Their adult teeth continue to replace their milk teeth. At this point, they have probably already had their incisors replaced depending on the dog. The canines and premolars will soon follow. At this point, their ears should be standing up in most cases. Their adult double coat of fur should be almost done filling in at this stage. It is possible that at this age, they start maturing sexually. Some males can even reach sexual maturity as young as 6 months old. This means they are possible getting close to the time when they look for mates. Nutrition: At this age, a German Shepherd should be on a diet of either high-quality puppy kibble or a healthy homemade diet that consists of the right balance of calories and protein. We recommend feeding your GSD an all-natural diet of healthy raw meats, fruits and vegetables. To do this, you need to know which foods are safe for your dog. Avoid any toxic foods and never give them too many fatty treats. Obesity can add to the conditions that German Shepherds are already prone to. Extra weight can make it hard for dogs that already suffer from things like Hip Dysplasia. It also adds to the risk of them developing other diseases that include arthritis, diabetes, hypertension and worse case cancer. If you do end up feeding them puppy kibble, two cups of food total, three times a day is recommended. Make sure to stay consistent with their meals. Health: A German Shepherd puppy at this stage should be healthy and growing at a fast pace. Make sure their height and weight match up with this size chart to make sure they are keeping up with the standard. At this point, they should have already had 3 rounds of vaccinations. Their last vaccination should have been their 16 to 18 week DHPP and rabies shots. With a clean diet and plenty of exercise, they should be healthy and thriving at this age. However, it is much better to be preventative and prepare for any future problems. One way to do this is by researching their history and looking for any hereditary problems in their bloodline. You can also run a DNA test to look for certain conditions. Degenerative myelopathy, for instance, can be detected via the genes. Regardless, you always want to keep an eye out for any sudden sickness that could afflict your GSD. Here are some things to look for: Diarrhea Exorbitant coughing, gagging or sneezing Gums turn red or get swollen Hard time breathing. Frequently Asked Questions German Shepherds German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds and are my absolute favorite breed. That's why I've had five in total, three boys and two girls. From their loyal and obedient personalities to their beautiful coats and markings, they bring joy to many homes, including mine. With impressive intelligence, these puppies are easy to train and make excellent companion animals. The German shepherd is a large breed, usually weighing between pounds for males and up to 75 pounds for females. Their coats require minimal grooming but will benefit from occasional brushing. German shepherds are very active dogs who love to run around; they need plenty of exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. They also enjoy activities such as agility training or nose work games where they can use their smarts! Factors Influencing Weight But what about their size? German shepherds can vary in size based on gender, age, nutrition, and because of their breeding. For example, a German working line shepherd is much more energetic than the more laid-back American show line dog. A puppy from working lines may weigh less than the average on the charts. Be sure to consider factors such as gender and environment when monitoring your pup's development. A good rule of thumb is that by eight weeks of age, a German Shepherd puppy should weigh between pounds, depending on the genetic factors mentioned above. By six months, most male puppies will weigh between 49lbs — 57lbs with an average weight of 53lbs, and a female will weigh between 44lbs — 49lbs with an average weight of 46lbs. For this reason, when consulting a weight chart for a German shepherd puppy, it's essential to understand the breed, lineage, and pedigree of the dog, as well as the sex of the dog. Our puppy weight charts are specific to German Shepherd Dogs and consider all these factors. It's an excellent tool for monitoring your pup's growth and health. These charts show the average expected weight range for male and female German shepherds at different ages, from puppies to adults. Knowing the expected range can help ensure your pup grows normally and stays within healthy boundaries. By six months, a male German Shepherd will weigh 53 pounds on average, whereas a female will weigh about 46 pounds. Our chart differs from others in that you can track your puppy's weight based on his actual weight at a point in time. Many other weight charts are either for non-specific breeds, or if they are specific to a German Shepherd, they only give you the averages and a range. While this is all useful and included in our charts, what is missing from many others is what weight your puppy will likely be based on his actual weight now. Most people bring their new puppy home at 8 weeks old 2 months. The range for a female German Shepherd puppy at that age is between lbs. As you already know your puppy's weight, you can estimate how much they are likely to weigh when older using our chart. For example, if your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old. To estimate how much they are likely to weigh at 6 months old, you would find that weight on the chart and follow it down to the 6-month-old row and see that she would most likely weigh 46lbs by the time she is 6 months old and 68lbs when fully grown. Of course, these are just estimates, and all puppies grow at different speeds, as will yours. Another way this chart is helpful is if, using the same example, your puppy weighs 14 lbs at 8 weeks old and then jumps to 49 lbs at 6 months old, instead of the predicted 46 lbs. In that situation, you would follow that new column down and see that she is now closer to weighing 70 lbs when fully grown. They are heavier-boned, more muscular, and have deeper chests. If you know what you're looking for, you can distinguish a male from a female German shepherd by looking at their heads, as a male is larger and have a more masculine look. Using the German Shepherd Puppy Weight Charts To use this chart, find your pup's current weight along the top and go down the left side of the chart to find his age. If he is in range, you can follow that column down to see what he will likely weigh at each age milestone. For example, if your male German Shepherd puppy weighs 18 lbs at 8 weeks old, then you would find the nearest weight at that age on the chart. In this case, it's .In this instance, he would weigh approximately .Under no circumstances should you try to adjust your dog's diet or exercise to fit in with the chart; it is merely a guide. German Shepherd Weight Chart for Female Puppies Female German shepherds, on the whole, have a much narrower head and nose and have an overall feminine look, especially around the eyes. If you know what you're looking for, you can guess whether they are male or female by looking at their face. Having said that, my girl, Ava, was very tall for a female and was often mistaken for a boy, even when she was wearing her pink collar and leash! But I still think her face was much more feminine than her brother Hudson's. This breed of dog has unique growth development. During the first three months of their life, a German Shepherd's body goes through a significant growth spurt. Typically, they can double their birth weight in the first week! At 12 weeks, you can expect your pup to weigh about pounds for a male and pounds for a female. This growth spurt will continue through five months old; by the time they're six months, you'll likely have a large, goofy puppy on your hands. After that initial growth period is over, you'll find that your German shepherd will gain weight slowly from then on out until it reaches its full adult size at around two or three years old. On average, female German Shepherds reach an adult weight of pounds, while males reach pounds. German Shepherd Puppy Height Chart German shepherds come in a range of sizes, some taller than others. It can be helpful to know the different heights of German shepherds to ensure that the one you choose fits your lifestyle and needs. When looking at a German shepherd height chart, it's essential to remember that males tend to be larger than females. Depending on where they were bred, most standard-sized male adults will stand between inches, while female adult German shepherds typically reach inches in height from paw to shoulder. Below is our height chart for German shepherd puppies you can use to estimate your puppy's height at each age milestone based on his starting or current height. It also includes the average percentage of adult height reached each age milestone. If your puppy's weight is outside the guidelines, it may be less of an issue than you think. Puppy weights can vary greatly depending on breed, genetics, and other factors included on this page. While ensuring your puppy receives proper nutrition and exercise is essential, several factors can influence their weight. One way to determine your puppy's adult weight is to check with your breeder. They can make an educated guess as to what your furry friend will weigh once they reach adulthood. A reputable breeder should have a good understanding of their dog's genetics and be able to provide insight into the typical size range of their litter. This information can give you a rough estimate of what weight you can expect for your German shepherd as they grow older. Another factor to consider when determining the adult weight of your pup is their parents' size, and again the breeder can give you much more information on this. You can also speak with your veterinarian about your puppy's overall health and development, and they may be able to provide some insight into their expected adult size. It's important to avoid becoming too fixated on your puppy's weight if they fall outside the standard guidelines. Don't worry if your puppy is a little bigger or smaller than listed here, and if you still want to determine their adult weight, you can also use the puppy weight chart for a large or giant breed dog here. Conclusion In conclusion,German Shepherds are a fantastic breed of dogs, and understanding their growth and development is essential for pet owners. Knowing the average weight and height of male and female German Shepherds can help you be better prepared for your new pup's growth. With the proper diet, exercise, and vet care, your German shepherd will be healthy and happy throughout their life. Keep in mind that these charts are only a general guide — every pup is different! A 3-month-old German Shepherd should weigh between 17 lbs - 26 lbs for a female, with an average weight of .For males, it'll be between 22 lbs and 30 lbs, with an average of 26 lbs. How much does a 5 month old German Shepherd puppy weigh? A 5-month-old puppy will weigh between 40 lbs - 49 lbs for a male with an average weight of .A female GSD puppy will weigh between 35 lbs - 44 lbs with an average of .When will my German shepherd puppy stop growing? Most German shepherd puppies continue growing until they are two or three years old. You might like these. Many owners are worried if their dog is reaching the proper average size and height. Most importantly, check the parents, maybe they are a bit smaller than average — then you have nothing to worry about. Otherwise, check with the vet that his diet has all the nutrients he needs. Remember, that too fast growth at this age is also not that good for the dog as it weakens the bones. Health issues Puppy Limping At 5-month some of the puppies might start having one mysterious adolescent problem — panosteitis. This is a bone inflammation that normally hits some dogs at a bit later age. One sign of it is if your puppy starts limping, for example, standing up after a nap. Worse symptoms are whining in pain, lameness, and anorexia. If you see any of these signs — get the dog to the vet. Some puppies pass this condition in a few days, for others, it might last for weeks. Try to make them run and exercise a little bit less at this period and take care that they eat and drink properly, then panosteitis should pass without a trace. Droopy Ears Another common problem at this age is drooping ears. Sometimes in time of teething the ears of the puppy can temporarily go up and down. This is absolutely normal and usually the sign that later the ears will stand themselves without your help. Some calcium or glucosamine might help. Try to change the feeding way. Give them more raw meat and less commercial food, for example. Buy some chewing toys. They are not only helping to scratch the gums but let the dog exercise jaw, head, and neck muscles, which are very important for perky ears. Training Pupers Not to Bit At 5-month age, the puppy is strong and clever enough to start all the necessary obedience exercises. Biting can still be a problem while the pup is teething, but this can be solved with special toys and training. You might also like:. How should I train my 5-month-old German Shepherd puppy? Average Size and Height The average size of a 5-month-old German Shepherd is 12 to 26 inches tall and 35 to 49 pounds. However, there is a lot of variation in size among German Shepherd pups. The average height of a 5-month-old puppy is also affected by its sex. A male German Shepherd is typically about 2 to 4 inches taller than a female German Shepherd. In terms of weight, the average 5-month-old male German Shepherd weighs about 40 to 49 pounds, while the average 5-month-old female German Shepherd weighs 35 to 44 pounds. Although they vary in size and weight, they are generally a medium to large dog breed. Nutrition For 5-Month-Old German Shepherds Choose high-quality food to ensure your pup gets the right balance of protein, fat, and nutrients. Puppies also need smaller meals more often than adult dogs, so divide their daily ration into meals. As your GS grows, you can transition them to an adult diet. Give your German Shepherd puppy nutritious raw meats, fruits, and veggies at five months. Avoid giving them any poisonous meals and fatty goodies. These ingredients will help your puppy develop natural immunity. Physical and Behavioral Changes One of the most noticeable changes will be in size and weight. German Shepherds typically weigh between 35 and 49 pounds at five months old. German Shepherd puppies start losing their baby teeth during that time. It can be painful, and you may notice your pup chewing on toys or furniture. Ensure you provide chew toys for your puppy to gnaw on. Their ears should be standing up in most situations at this point. Finally, 5-month-old German Shepherds start to develop more of an independent streak. They may become less interested in cuddling and more interested in exploring their surroundings. A male German Shepherd is usually larger than its female counterpart. Males have bigger muscles, while females are more slender. Both males and females have an athletic build with no extra weight. Male German Shepherds are more protective and aggressive due to their muscular structure and greater size. So for those who want a companion, a female German Shepherd is recommended. A female German Shepherd tends to get along better with children owing to their more maternal, less aggressive disposition. Plus, a female German Shepherd is easier to train and has a greater capacity to socialize with other dogs and people. Despite her intimidating appearance, the female German Shepherd is not as jealous or territorial as the male. Both male and female German Shepherds are lively puppies that adore leaping. Both dogs must have moderate to high daily activity or become unruly. If they do not consume excessive energy, they may bark, chew, walk around the home, and do other things to express their dissatisfaction. Becoming Independent Your German Shepherd is becoming more independent and may start to test its limits with you. It is normal behavior for a German Shepherd puppy, as they begin to assert their independence and figure out their place in the pack. Your German Shepherd will soon grow into a well-behaved adult dog with patience and positive training. You can help your puppy in this stage by being consistent with giving rules and boundaries. Offer praise and affection when your puppy behaves well, and be firm but fair when they misbehave. Meanwhile, continue providing plenty of play opportunities, as this will help burn off excess energy and keep your pup from getting into trouble. Positive Reward-Based Obedience Training While they are loyal, protective, and intelligent dogs, German Shepherds can also be strong-willed and stubborn, making them difficult to train. Positive reward-based obedience training is a training method that relies on rewards to reinforce good behavior. With this kind of training, it is believed that the behavior is more likely to be repeated if a reward follows it. The most common rewards used in this training are treats, but verbal praise and petting can also be effective. Positive reinforcement-based training helps build a trusting relationship between owner and dog and encourages dogs to want to please their owners. It is effective because it motivates dogs to learn new things to get the desired rewards. When done correctly, reward-based training can result in a well-behaved German Shepherd who is a joy to be around. Chew Toys for Your 5-Month-Old German Shepherd German Shepherds are notorious for being high-energy dogs and need lots of exercises to stay healthy and happy. This dog breed also needs to chew on toys and bones to keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy. Chewing is a great way to keep them occupied and prevent them from getting into mischief. In addition, chewing helps to relieve boredom and can provide mental stimulation. Avoid easily splintered or broken toys, as these could pose a choking hazard. Do not give your puppy toys that are too small or too large for them. Moreover, look for chew toys specifically designed for teething puppies, as these will usually have raised nubs or ridges that help to soothe sore gums. There are a lot of chew toys available on the market. You also have the option to create homemade chew toys for your puppy. For instance, you can create tug toys from an old sock or t-shirt. You can do it by simply tying a knot in the fabric to create a loop. Remember that even simple things like sticks and leaves can make great chew toys. Just make sure to supervise your puppy while playing with them, and avoid anything that could be sharp or dangerous. Unfortunately, these problems can sometimes be severe and even deadly. Here are some of the most common health issues for a 5-month-old German Shepherd. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia It is a condition that affects the joints, and it can be excruciating for dogs. Get your German Shepherd checked by a vet if you suspect they may have this condition. Allergies The allergy may be triggered by things like pollen, dust, or even certain types of food. It could be an allergy if you notice your dog scratching a lot or having trouble breathing. It occurs when the stomach becomes bloated with gas or fluid and then twists on itself. It can cut off the blood supply to the stomach and cause potentially fatal damage. Symptoms of GDV include restlessness, drooling, vomiting, and a distended abdomen. Diabetes A German Shepherd is particularly prone to diabetes due to its large size. Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, urination, and appetite, as well as weight loss and lethargy. If not given attention and medication, diabetes can be fatal. Panosteitis If your German Shepherd has it, you will notice that he only uses three of his four legs or has other signs of lameness. It appears between five and fourteen months of age and is generally referred to as growing pains. This condition is not hereditary or permanent. Five months old German Shepherd puppies need 25 to 30 minutes of exercise per day. It may seem like a lot, but remember that they were originally bred as working dogs, so they have a lot of energy to burn. Another good way to exercise your puppy is by playing games such as fetch, puppy tug, or Frisbee. Also read:. Instagram: leos. The German Shepherd puppy at 5 months looks a lot less of a puppy and more of an adult than it looked at 4 months of age. Their ears should be a lot perkier and they should have a slight increase in overall size. With an increase in physical maturity also comes an increase in mental maturity as the 5-month-old German Shepherd puppy should be clearly rounding up with its delinquent or troublesome phase and should be a little calmer than a month ago. Energy is another important factor to look out for in your 5-month-old German Shepherd. They should be a lot more energetic and would mostly need help with the release of this pent-up energy. If left alone for too long, your German Shepherd puppy might get into more mischief and could potentially be a handful to take care of. Training and Exercise can be great ways to help the German Shepherd puppy get rid of all that pent-up energy. Not only does this help the German Shepherd get less destructive and a lot well behaved, but combining the right programs can help you keep your German Shepherd, sharp and a lot more resourceful. Another more pronounced trait for the 5-month-old German Shepherd puppy is its curiosity trait. Just like the 4-month-old German Shepherd, the 5-month-Old German Shepherd should be very curious about its surroundings. This can cause them to wander off a lot and sometimes get into small accidents around the house. Biting can continue for the German Shepherd puppy of 5 months old as it should still be teething at this stage of its life. Assuming you regularly visit a licensed vet, your puppy should have received most of its basic vaccinations, shots, and dewormings. At 5 months, you are required to pay close attention to your German Shepherd for evidence of its lingering delinquent or troublesome behavior. Most times this is caused by the excess amount of energy that is trapped in the body of this fantastic canine. It can show through a short burst of violent behaviors including barking or sometimes biting. When this is noticed, the best way to handle this would be true proper training and exercise. Training should help to reduce the tendency or frequency of this troublesome behavior and exercises could easily tire the puppy out so it spends a lot of its time sleeping or resting up. Regular grooming of your German Shepherd is also highly recommended. The transition to the full adult coat should almost be done, so your German Shepherd is expected to shed a lot during this stage in its development. Socialization is also a lot easier during this stage as the 5-month-old German Shepherd puppy should be very much curious and eager to explore new surroundings, or terrains. With that being said, it is important that you provide a controlled space for the German Shepherd to explore freely. The actual increase in size from the 4 month German Shepherd to the 5-Month-Old German Shepherd is evident, but it is small. The German Shepherd further loses its puppy-like look and gains a more adult-like look. For the Male German Shepherd puppy at 5 months of age, the expected weight should be between 45 to 50 pounds. The height of the Adult male German Shepherd puppy at months of age should be between 14 inches to 16 inches. Whereas for the female German Shepherd puppy at 5 months of age, their weight and height should be a little smaller. It should be between 35 to 45 pounds in weight and about 12 inches to 14 inches in height. Again, the exact size of the German Shepherd puppy at any age range can be influenced by a lot of different factors ranging from diet to breeding line and a lot more. Asides from the increment in size, there are other notable physical changes that would occur at the 5 months age range. One of these physical changes would be the ears, the teeth, and the coat of the German Shepherd puppy. Also, the evidence of teething should be more pronounced, as your dog should lose more milk teeth in favor of new adult or fully mature teeth. Your once small German Shepherd puppy should be a large dog by now and as such, its appetite should be a lot bigger than it was. Because its food consumption rate should be quite high, so should its nutrient intake be quite high. In summary, only focus on high-quality dog kibble for your 5-month-old German Shepherd puppy. Invest in foods that are of high-quality brands or you can provide your German Shepherd puppy with natural foods that are healthy. This can include vegetables, fruits, and raw meat. Always ensure that junk food or cheap, toxic food should be avoided. Another thing that is worth noting with German Shepherds at 5 months of age is the high propensity to obesity. This condition can be quite harmful to the German Shepherd puppy as it can lead to cancer, arthritis, diabetes, and even hypertension. At this age, your puppy should be eating 3 to 4 times each day, with each meal serving 2 cups of high-quality kibble. Try to develop a feeding schedule if you do not already have one and be consistent with it. Ensure there is enough space between feeding times for the puppy to digest its meal properly. Also, ensure that the puppies have their last meal for the day hours before they eventually go to bed. German Shepherds at 5 months of age should require even less sleep than they did at 4 months of age. Still, sleep is still highly crucial as their bodies should be going through a lot of growth and development and as such need enough rest to be active. Ideally, the 5-month-old German Shepherd puppy should be getting between 15 to 18 hours of full sleep in a day to be fully active. This means that nighttime sleep is heavily important and short sleep periods during the day are also highly important. Avoid late-night feeding as it can terribly influence the sleep pattern of the German Shepherd puppy. You can force a puppy to sleep by regularly engaging them in exercises and training that easily tire them out. They are highly energetic canine breeds that are capable of storing enough energy within which can quickly turn destructive if not fully released or managed properly. With that being said, you would need to commit to an exercise lifestyle for both you and your puppy. There are lots of ways you can achieve this. Set aside 30 minutes of your time each day to regularly engage in both mental and physical exercises with your beloved canine. This can be done through regular 10 minutes walks around the neighborhood spread across three times a day and preferably under favorable security and weather conditions for the German Shepherd puppy. Or engaging in activities like fetch or tag or swimming for your German Shepherd puppy for a period of 10 to 15 minutes each session twice or thrice each day. Always include mental exercises like puppy puzzles into their exercise schedule to keep them sharp and highly trainable. Asides from this, the German Shepherd puppy is naturally intelligent or smart and as such can be highly versatile with the right training program and training method. By 5 months of age, you should have already rounded up with crate and potty training, leading to less frequent potty accidents by the German Shepherd puppy. If you have already started them, then obedience training and biting inhibition training should be your next focus for your German Shepherd puppy. Biting is quite common for the German Shepherd puppy at this stage, so ensure you train them not to. Try to make use of positive reinforcement during training sessions and be patient with your German Shepherd puppy. By the 5th month, your German Shepherd puppy should be pretty healthy and strong. It should have gone through 3 different rounds of vaccinations and deworming and its last vaccination shot should have been taken at 16 weeks or 4 months. Moving forward, its next round of shots should be scheduled for 12 months of age. It is recommended that you regularly check with your certified vet to be certain that your German Shepherd puppy did not skip any of the required vaccinations or dewormings. Also, try running thorough DNA tests on your puppy to be certain they are free from genetic health conditions which could prove fatal to the puppy. Also, be on the lookout for a few symptoms like these on your 5-month-old German Shepherd Puppy: A decrease in appetite.

American Bull Staffy Staffy American Bulldog Characteristics With the Staffy American Bulldog, both parent breeds actually stem from the same ancestors, so they share a lot of similar traits. However, its physical characteristics resemble mostly that of the Staffy, such as its wide head and dark colours. If you are not a fan of dogs that shed, this breed is not for you. Their fur is also thick and coarse, so it can be scratchy on your skin. The best way to maintain their coat is to use a slick brush; this will minimise shedding and make their coat look healthier. Without either of these, they can become extremely destructive and antisocial. Males can also have a problem getting on with other male dogs, so bear that in mind when socialising your puppy. As long as you train your Staffy American Bulldog as soon as possible, they are easy to train and socialise well with people and other dogs. Good training and early socialising are vital for the Staffy X American Bulldog and so is vigorous exercise. These dogs have masses of energy and need to run around and burn it off for at least an hour every day. Keeping them mentally and physically exercised is one of the most important things when it comes to owning an American Bull Staffy. However, they would be better suited to a family home with a garden they can burn all of that energy in. A post shared by Bugsy goodboybehavior In terms of being suitable for those with children, the Staffy American Bulldog is known to be protective, loyal, and devoted to their owners, so they can make great family dogs. Amy Jacks Amy has been writing for as long as she can remember. Lifespan Sociability The American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mix is a working and companion dog from two popular parent breeds. There is a decent amount of breeders of this type of dog, which means that you should find it easy to locate one with a good history, positive reviews, and that has conducted the appropriate health and other checks. In fact, they likely stem from English bulldogs, which means that the two-parent breeds share a lot of the same characteristics. They are both strong and powerful, have high-intensity energy, and they are both considered very good guard dogs as well as companion pets. Although the mix gets a lot of his characteristics, especially physical ones, from the Staffy, you are effectively dealing with a Bulldog strain. Socialization Is Essential The vast majority of problems that stem from the parent breeds and the mix arise as a result of poor or no socialization. Dogs require socialization to learn how to act and react around humans and animals. When they are given this socialization at a young age, it becomes instinctive for them to be confident and friendly, rather than wary and aggressive. It should also be noted that the male Bulldog, in particular, does not tolerate other male dogs well, especially in their own home, and some dogs will never welcome another male dog into their pack. They Are Heavy Shedders The short coat of the breed comes from both parent breeds, and while many potential owners expect the short hair to mean little or no shedding, nothing could be further from the truth. The American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mix is a prolific shedder, and the length and thickness of their fur means that the hair can be quite irritating and scratchy. Owners and former owners tend to think of them as being loyal and loving, but the breeds are strong and without socialization, they can display antisocial and destructive behavior. The breed is also very energetic and has an incredibly muscular physique. As such, when he is playing, it is possible that he will come into contact with tables, chairs, and even people or other pets. His stocky size means that your puppy will likely not notice collisions, but you will. Giving him plenty of daily exercise and letting him out in the yard to have a mad five minutes can help to alleviate this. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are very attentive and always aware of their surroundings. They are also extremely loyal and protective. They have a seemingly inherent knack for determining threats and they will protect children in their charge. On the other hand, they are also muscly, energetic, and can be bulldozer-like when playing. If a child gets in the way while your American Bulldog Staffy is playing, they can be easily knocked down or stood on. Later they became used for dogfighting. With that said, the breed does have a tendency to chase other animals. You will be able to introduce them, discourage rough play, and ensure that the dog even gets along with cats. Male bulldogs, however, do not always mix well with other male dogs. This can include at the park and especially in the home. If you adopt or buy an older male mix breed, and already have a male dog in your home, you will need to introduce them before considering owning them both. Dogs should always be supervised with smaller animals when they are out of the cage or pen. It has lots of energy and it has dietary requirements to match its boundless energy. Before taking one into your family, there are some factors you should consider. Protein helps maintain and grow muscle, which this breed has in abundance, so you will need to find good food that is high in protein. Nutrient-dense foods that are low in carbohydrates are beneficial because this enables you to feed an appropriate amount of protein without adding weight. Be aware that this breed is well known for being gaseous, so you will want to avoid tinned food and stick to dry food. Some dogs of this breed can fare well when fed on a combination of dry and wet food. You should be prepared to exercise your dog for a minimum of an hour and you will benefit from giving them at least two periods of intense exercise each day. This will keep them mentally and physically exercised, prevent them from chewing and destroying through boredom, and will make them easier to manage. Both parent breeds perform well in agility classes and, despite their stocky and muscular build, they can build up a head of steam and reach decent speeds. Again, agility classes are a good way of burning off excess energy. The breed has a very strong jaw that will lock onto any toy. If you intend to play tug of war or a similar game, be prepared to lose. However, you may come across some issues. The breed can be headstrong and stubborn. This means that you need to assert yourself as the pack leader and show your dominance, without being physically aggressive. If your dog views you as being dominant, he will want to please you and will be more likely to take to training. The mix is also very attentive and your dog may spend a lot of time surveying his surroundings, so if you are hoping to teach him new commands or tricks, this might be best performed in a quiet area with no external distractions. Be consistent, start training at a young age, and use healthy treats as well as lots of physical praise to help instill good behavior. Visit puppy classes and take your puppy on walks in local dog parks so that he can meet other dogs and people. This gives you the opportunity to discourage jumping up and other behavioral habits that can prove challenging as your dog ages. However, they are prone to considerable shedding. Use a soft bristle brush to maintain their coat and ensure that it stays healthy. This particular mix is no different and is generally considered to be a hardy and healthy dog breed. However, you should always look at the parent breeds to determine any potential conditions. Both parent breeds are prone to hip dysplasia and luxating patella. Minor Conditions. This is a cross between the playful but driven American Staffordshire Terrier and the hardworking American Bulldog. For active dog parents, this breed is sure to only keep growing loyal fans. The American Staffordshire Terrier holds a scary image with some. However, many appreciate them for their true natures — playful, loyal, and intelligent. Those who have had the pleasure of encountering one of these dogs know their gentle disposition. However, their playfulness and love for their families shines through in their personalities. If you plan to adopt one of these breed mixes, be ready for lots and lots of cuddles. Still, there are millions of dogs waiting for homes in shelters. Additionally, many of the dogs in shelters are American Staffordshire Terrier mixes. When looking for a specific breed, make an effort to adopt from a shelter or rescue. However, given how uncommon the American Bull Staffy breed mix is and how similar they may appear to other breeds, shelters may not recognize them and simply list them as a mixed breed. Read on for a detailed list of characteristics of the American Bull Staffy. Contrary to popular belief, the suitability of dogs who adapt well to apartment living goes beyond its size. Apartment dwellers have a myriad of dog breeds to choose from as potential companions, with various factors to consider. Some large breeds can adapt well to apartment living and have lower activity levels. Others may require more space and possess higher energy levels. On the other hand, certain small dog breeds with abundant energy can still find contentment with indoor playtime or brisk walks. However, when selecting a dog that adapts well apartments, it is essential to prioritize your neighbors. This makes them less suitable for apartment living. Therefore, desirable qualities in an apartment dog encompass being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents. Apartment dwellers have a wealth of dog breeds to choose from as potential furry companions. While some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living, with lower, others may require more space and have higher energy levels, making them less suitable for smaller apartments. Conversely, certain small dog breeds with higher energy levels can still thrive in apartments, finding contentment through indoor playtime or brisk walks. By considering these factors, you can find a dog that will adapt well to apartment living and create a harmonious living environment for everyone involved. The Staffordshire Terrier, also known as the Staffie or Stafford, is a medium-sized, short-coated terrier of English lineage. The Staffordshire Terrier is a direct descendant of the now-extinct Old English White Terrier and was originally bred to be a fighting dog. However, by the early nineteenth century, the Staffordshire Terrier had become popular as a family pet in England, and its popularity soon spread to America. The American Bulldog was developed in the United States in the early s from several different bull-and-terrier-type dogs brought over from England. These dogs were used for bull-baiting, bear-baiting, and ratting. They were also sometimes used in dogfights. American Bulldogs come in two varieties: Standard and Bully. The Standard type is taller and leaner, while the Bully type is shorter and heavier. In recent years, these two types have been bred together to create the American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier Mix, which is a hybrid of the two breeds. This new breed size is characterized by its large head, muscular body, and short coat. The American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier Mix is an intelligent, loyal, and friendly dog that makes a great companion for active families. The head is broad, and the muzzle is short, with a black nose. The eyes are oval-shaped and dark brown. The ears are medium-sized and floppy. The body is well-proportioned, with a deep chest and muscled thighs. The tail is medium-length and tapers to a point. The coloration can vary, but it is typically black, white, or brindle. Some dogs may have patches of color on the face or body. Shedding is moderate, and grooming needs are minimal. These dogs are typically very friendly and outgoing, making them great companions. They are also very loyal and protective of their families, which makes them excellent guard dogs. However, they can be quite stubborn, and they require plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. These dogs are not for everyone, but if you are looking for a loyal and loving companion, the American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier Mix might be the perfect choice for you. These dogs are eager to please and quick to learn, making them easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn and strong-willed, so it is important to be consistent with training needs. American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier Mixes need plenty of exercise, both mental and physical because of their energy level. A good way to provide this is through obedience training, which will not only tire them out but also help them bond with their owner. Socialization is also important for these dogs, as they can be territorial and aggressive towards other animals if not properly introduced at an early age. With proper training and socialization, the American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier Mix can be a well-rounded and obedient companion. These dogs are typically very friendly and good-natured, but they can also be quite aggressive. The Staffordshire Terrier is a very territorial breed, and the American Bulldog is known for being very protective of its family. As a result, the American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mix can be quite aggressive if it feels that its family is threatened. These dogs are also very strong, so it is important to socialize them properly from an early age. If you are considering getting an American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mix, be sure to do your research and make sure that you are prepared to deal with an aggressive dog. These dogs are very active, and they need to be given ample opportunities to run and play. A daily walk is not enough for these dogs — they need to be taken on regular trips to the park or given access to a large backyard where they can run around. Obedience training and puzzle toys are a great way to keep them happy and healthy. A long walk or run followed by some playtime in the yard will help to tire out even the most energetic Bulldog mix. If you are not prepared to give your American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mix the exercise it needs, then this is not the breed for you. American Bull Staffy — Mental Stimulation The American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mix is an intelligent, active breed that requires plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Kongs stuffed with treats are a good option, as are interactive toys that require your dog to figure out how to get a toy or a treat. With enough mental and physical activity, your Bulldog mix will be well-behaved and a joy to have around. These dogs shed moderately, so they will need to be brushed every week to remove loose hair. They are also relatively clean dogs and do not require a lot of bathing. However, their nails will need to be trimmed regularly, and their teeth should be brushed at least once a week. American Bull Staffies are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming, and they will not require a lot of time or effort to keep them looking their best. Is the American Bull Staffy Healthy? The American Bull Staffy is a strong and muscular dog that is known for being loyal and protective. However, this breed is also prone to some health conditions. For example, many American Bull Staffies are born with allergies to grass, which can cause itchiness and skin irritation. This breed is also susceptible to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly. This can lead to pain and lameness. In addition, American Bull Staffies are also at risk for developing heart conditions such as arrhythmia and heart murmurs. Therefore, it is important to take your dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups to ensure that they are healthy. American Bull Staffy — Nutrition The American Bull Staffy is a large, muscular dog that requires a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed is prone to weight gain, so it is important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for their needs. Additionally, the American Bull Staffy requires a lot of exercise, so make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for them to run and play. A healthy diet and active lifestyle will help to keep this breed happy and healthy. The American Bull Staffy is a generally dog-friendly breed that is easy to train and makes great companions. They are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, and they make excellent guard dogs. They are also playful and affectionate, and they love being around people. The American Bull Staffy is a child-friendly breed that is easy to train and makes great companions. Socialization of this breed is still very important. Gently introduce them to your kids. Does the American Bull Staffy Drool? This mixed breed is known for its high level of drooling. This is because Staffordshire Terriers have long, pendulous lips that can easily trap saliva. When combined with their strong jaw muscles, this can result in a constant stream of drool. American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mixes are no different in this regard. These dogs inherit the long lips and strong jaw muscles from their Staffordshire Terrier parents, making them just as likely to drool. However, there are some things that owners can do to help reduce the amount of drool their dog produces. Additionally, providing chew toys or bones can help to keep the jaw muscles exercised and reduce the likelihood of excessive drooling. First, make sure that your dog has plenty of exercise. A tired dog is less likely to bark out of boredom or excess energy. Secondly, provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation through toys and games. This will help to keep their minds occupied and reduce the likelihood of them barking out of frustration. The American Bulldog is a very sturdy breed that can withstand hot and cold weather alike. They are known for being particularly tolerant of heat, and they have a short, dense coat that helps protect them from the elements. The Staffordshire Terrier, on the other hand, is not as tolerant of extreme weather conditions. They are more susceptible to both heat stroke and cold weather injuries, and their short coat offers little protection against the elements. The American Bulldog has an average lifespan of years, while the Staffordshire Terrier has an average lifespan of years. As a result, the American Bulldog Staffordshire Terrier mix has an average lifespan of years. We hope this article has helped you learn a bit more about these wonderful dogs and that you will consider adding one to your family. They make great pets for people of all ages and can provide years of companionship and love. Thanks for reading!

Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article. Post not marked as liked4 about us About us Hello Friends! We here at Hoekema Homestead Goldens would be honored to invite you into our hearts and home as you await the arrival of your new fur friend! We take great pride in raising happy, healthy, and beautiful AKC English Cream Golden Retriever puppies and placing them in the perfect home. Golden Retrievers are definitely the perfect family dog as they are widely known for being incredibly intelligent, extremely trainable, devoted, loyal, gentle, eager to please and have an endearing love of life. We are thrilled to be able to have the opportunity to share this amazing breed with you and your family. We strive to provide an enriching environment for all our pups at the correct developmental stages of life to be able to enhance your lives once they are ready to go home with you. Great awareness and special attention have been put into early socialization, and we implement the Early Neurological Stimulation process on all our pups. Always hand raised and handled constantly and consistently by our loving family. This has been a key priority for us that we take great pride in as it shines in their personalities by the time they are ready to enter your home. We will do our very best to make sure the right pup is the perfect match for your family. Our puppies are from beautiful European bloodlines with light coats, stockier build, lower cancer rates and generally live longer than the more common American Golden Retriever. They are from the highest quality parents with strong pedigrees, great genetics, excellent temperaments and vet-approved health clearances. Check out the rest of our website to find all up-to-date information regarding our dogs, current and future litters, available puppies, Lots of gorgeous pictures in our gallery, additional info about us, our Puppy Health Guarantee and more. We at Hoekema Homestead Goldens hope you enjoy browsing our website. We are first and foremost about matching high quality English Cream Golden Retriever puppies with families who are looking for a healthy, happy, and beautiful four-legged companion. Let us know how we can be part of your journey in this process! Want to be in the know? Join our mailing list here. Be the 1st to know and recieve blog updates on current pups and notifications on future litters. Subscribe Now.

Call Vic Kasser or Email! Puppies usually go to new homes between the age of eight and sixteen weeks, depending on their size and when they have had their first vaccinations. Until this age have had the company of brothers and sisters to snuggle up to for company and warmth. The first day in the new home the puppy is cuddled, played with, and made the center of attention. Life is wonderful. At some point during the evening the family will put the pup to bed. The house becomes quiet. The puppy feels alone and there is no warm body of a brother or sister next to it. It is a natural reaction for the puppy to cry and whine to register a protest and the usual result is that one of the human family will stagger out of bed to console it for a few minutes and go back to bed. The pup will continue to cry, often louder, and again someone will get out of bed to console the pup or even to chastise it. The pup has learnt its first lesson- cry and you are rewarded with company, if only momentarily. Dogs learn fastest by rewarding them for certain actions and continuing to go to the crying puppy will reinforce the lesson that crying brings company. Hearts must be hardened for pups first night home. The decision must be made as to where the pup is going to sleep and the area made ready for it. The area must not be too large, remember that the pup is used to having other bodies close to it. The area must be warm and cozy in the cooler climates and bedding must be provided. Supper should be given and the pup taken outside to relieve itself and then it should be put to bed with a kind word. The crying will commence softly at first but may build up to a crescendo as the pup calls louder. With a bit of luck it may cease after a short time but some pups will continue for the first night. Remember that if at any time you go to the pup you have rewarded the behavior and you will have to start all over again. Naturally you must be sure that the puppy is not crying because it is stuck or hurt but you will recognize the difference in the crying. It is natural that the pup will wake early in the morning and you should be ready to be greeted with exuberance and to respond with love and cuddles. Put the pup out to relieve itself, lavish it with praise for "performing" and then serve puppy breakfast after which, outside for toilet opportunities again, and then you are ready to spend the second day with your best friend. After all, puppies and human newborns have a lot in common. Your French Bulldog puppy will require companionship, exercise, and a high level of engagement from your first night forward. They will also cry and cause mishaps as they learn how to navigate the world. When you initially bring your new French Bulldog puppy home, expect that they will whimper at night. After all, when a young puppy is removed from its pack for the first time, its natural instinct is to make as much noise as possible. For the first couple of nights after you bring your French Bulldog puppy home, they will most likely cry , yelp, and whine. Since your puppy is anxious to sleep so far away from home, the behaviour is, unfortunately, likely to persist for the next several days or weeks. Similar to the experience of bringing a newborn baby home, you may expect numerous restless nights spent consoling the new, essentially baby dog at this time. Expect the first night in your home to be the most fearful period for the young puppy and the most difficult time for a new dog owner. The bladders of young puppies are tiny. In any case, you should wake your Frenchie puppy up at night to go potty. Unfortunately, this will have to occur every night for a few months. However, by the time a French Bulldog puppy reaches the age of months, it should have a full-sized bladder and will, therefore, be able to retain pee for more extended periods of time. After all, crate training your Frenchie puppy will most likely be necessary at some stage. So, when you bring your new pup home, why not start allowing them to get used to this safe space on the first night? Arranging Their Bed During the first few nights at home, your French Bulldog puppy will moan and cry. This is understandable because it is their first time away from the mother dog. Be prepared for this circumstance when you obtain a French Bulldog puppy and recognize that it will pass. For the first few nights, cover their crate with a warm blanket and place it near your bed or in another nearby room. Settling Your Frenchie Before Bed While the first night may be difficult, establishing a pattern can help your puppy understand what to anticipate when the rest of the family goes to bed. Make sure your dog has enough mental and physical stimulation during the evening and before bedtime. Before going to bed, owners should spend 10—20 minutes playing with their French Bulldog pups. This will not only exhaust them, but it will also provide them with the crucial stimulation they need to keep them asleep. Spending Time with Your French Bulldog Your French Bulldog puppy was originally attached to its mother, siblings, and breeder, but now you and your puppy are attempting to form a relationship. If you want to bond with your puppy, spend as much quality time with them as possible, especially when you first bring them home. For example, if you work long hours, attempt to pick up your puppy during the holiday weekend or take a few days off when you bring a new puppy home. The key goal is to spend as much time as possible with the puppy so that you can get to know one other and form a bond. When your new French Bulldog puppy bonds with you, it can make bedtime routines easier and lessen whimpers overnight. Ignoring your whiny Frenchie is the most effective approach to get it to stop crying overnight. However, you should first check to see whether your French Bulldog puppy is attempting to communicate with you for any other reason. As a result, if you know your new puppy has been fed, watered, and eliminated before night, they are begging for your attention. Eventually, your pup will realize they are safe, quiet down and fall asleep. Puppies have a small bladder and will, therefore, need to excrete regularly during the day and night, so anticipate on taking your puppy out to the yard on a regular basis. Remember that a puppy may roam around and eliminate multiple times before being finished, so make sure their tank is empty before bringing them back into your home. If this occurs, do not reprimand your Frenchie puppy, since this will just make the puppy more fearful. Simply catch the dog in the act and lead them outside to their allocated yard spot. Make sure to take your French Bulldog puppy out to do their business before settling in for the night to avoid accidents. As previously said, pups have tiny bladders, so expect to be awakened at least once throughout the night to take the puppy out to pee or poop. For example, if your Frenchie puppy was previously calm and has suddenly begun making noise, it will most likely have to go to the toilet. Final Thoughts The first 24 hours with your new French Bulldog puppy will be challenging. Puppies and human babies, after all, have a lot in common. As your Frenchie puppy learns to navigate the world, expect them to cry and cause accidents. However, if you and your French Bulldog puppy make it through the first day, you and your dog will ultimately form a routine. Pin2 2 Shares Once the excitement of bringing your French Bulldog puppy home for the first time is over, the reality will soon start to bite as will the puppy. I remember my wife and I wondering what we had let ourselves in for on that first night of crying and howling! Bringing our French Bulldog puppy home to meet our son for the first time was an amazing experience. Bringing your French bulldog puppy home am: Paid via online bank transfer It was the morning of the pick-up! I transferred the money via online banking, then called the breeder who confirmed receipt you can see how much it costs to buy a Frenchie here — it was now time to go pick up our Frenchie puppy! Injections and vaccinations are super important, and I explain more about it in the questions you should ask a breeder before you buy a Frenchie. We were now the proud owners of a French Bulldog and were ready to bring him home! Ideally any dog should be properly restrained in your car when driving, and now Claude is older we use his own car booster seat. Claude the puppy was fine with the drive, but in some cases Frenchies can get car sick. This meant my wife and I had until 3pm to get Claude settled into our house so he was ready for his first day home. The things that I remember very clearly are how he wanted to run around the house sniffing at everything and getting used to his new surroundings. And then, we had to introduce him to our cat! Claude was a lot smaller than her, but being a puppy, he just wanted to run up to her and find out what she was all about. As you would expect, he wolfed it all down in super quick time! For guidance on how much to feed a Frenchie puppy, take a look at this feeding chart. I went to pick our 3-year-old up from nursery — he had no idea we had bought a dog! In the video below you can see the moment when my son met Claude for the first time! This is all because of their vaccinations, with public walks only advisable 2 weeks after their final set of injections which is around the week point. You can read more about how this work in this guide to when your puppy can go outside. He also had his third and final feed of the day at around .He was quite happy to snuggle up to us Frenchies are very cuddly , but we did make sure to take him downstairs every hour to try to get him used to peeing in the same place. You should try to get your puppy into a routine as soon as possible. Bringing our French Bulldog puppy home for the first time had proven to be an exhausting experience. It was now time for us to go to sleep, and we were hoping Claude would too! And, oh, how mistaken we were. What we did was place his crate in the corner of our bedroom. We put him in the crate, shut the door, and switched our lights off. Within 10 seconds he started crying and howling. It was heart-wrenching. We let him cry in his crate for a few minutes before we could take it no more. Handy Hint: Read my guide about French Bulldog crying and how you can start to stop them whining in their crate at night. We got him out and let him come back onto our bed for another 45 minutes then tried again. Frenchies really do suffer quite badly with separation anxiety , and at this age need you so much. We let him come back onto bed for another cuddle and gave him lots of reassurance. He had a comfy blanket in there and lots of cuddly toys here are the toys we used and this time fell to sleep… success! But it does get better… over time he will forget about his mother and siblings and start to view you as his family. The crying will stop over time, and a regular sleeping pattern will develop. In the graphic below you can see what to expect as your Frenchie gets older and how many hours they will sleep a day. The following days… Over the following days we tried to get Claude to sleep in his crate downstairs. It was impossible to do without lots of crying. In the end we gave up and kept him in his crate in our room for about 8 weeks. After two months we decided it was time for his crate to go in the kitchen. We had to be quite tough at first, as he cried the first couple of nights, but soon developed into his routine — him and our cat actually now share a bed! Claude would constantly be attacking our feet, chasing our shoelaces, chewing things like tables, door mats, shoes, and we would have to hide everything away out of his sight! Prepare to puppy-proof your home Firstly, prepare your home. You almost need to chew-proof everything. Also make sure that any potential escape routes and sealed off! We got a 42 inch one knowing that it would be ok for him as he got bigger and older. Inside his crate we placed some soft bedding and a few toys, plus laid down a puppy pad view on Amazon in the corner for him to pee on in the night. Get some toys and things to play with Frenchies love to play. We bought Claude a couple of stuffed toys, a Kong for teething on , and a few balls. You can see all the toys he still loves to play with here. It contains all the nutrition growing puppies need, plus… and this is a biggie… is said to reduce their terrible farts! You can buy Royal Canin Frenchie puppy food on Amazon. Be prepared to give him your undivided attention and be prepared for lots of crying at night. The sooner you can get this behavior ingrained into them, the quicker they will learn. Do you want your Frenchie to sleep with you in the bed or not? Where will he or she sleep? Where can he or she pee? The best is to agree on these rules with the family and make the kids follow them too. You can tell them that they help your puppy by giving clear instructions. Your Frenchie needs to have clear rules and boundaries to become a healthy and happy French Bulldog. They are still very young to understand it from instructions. Remove carpets from the house as puppies pee on it and later it will be very hard to re-train him or her. The final aim is to get them to pee outside. Finally a few tips on how to be effective with training your Frenchie: Start it as soon as your pup arrives. Tell your pup right away when he or she did something bad, never punish later as the puppy will be confused. The tone of your voice matters more than what you say. Use body language to express who is the leader of the pack: stand tall and use your hands to show the instructions. Give plenty of praise when he or she does something good. You can also give them treats based on how satisfied you are with what they did. Please find here more details on training a Frenchie. The article was written based on the experience of the TomKings Puppies Team. TomKings Puppies have been breeding French Bulldogs for 10 years on their farm. All the pictures in the post belong to them and show a puppy from their breed. Check their available puppies here , or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article. New born puppies are very helpless. They are born blind and deaf and unable to regulate their body temperatures, so we have to use an external heat source when the puppies are not in direct contact with mom. During this time period, their mothers have to stimulate them in order for them to urinate and have bowel movements. This is a very busy time for us and we are usually very sleep deprived because we assist the mothers every 3 hours around the clock to make sure that all puppies are latching on well, growing, and being stimulated to urinate and defecate. It is a critical time in which the puppies are so small that an unaware Frenchie mother could accidentally smother one or more of her pups, so we monitor them very closely. Lacey takes a video of each litter at 3 weeks of age and posts them on our website under New Puppies so that our clients near the top of the list, as well as other clients and prospective clients, can get a early look at them. They continue to gain weight rapidly over the next several months of their lives. At two weeks age their ears open and they are able to hear, and another big part of their new world opens up. Prior to this event, about all they do is grunt or mew, but afterward their vocabulary includes yelps, whines, and even little barks. At three weeks of age the more advanced puppies start taking their first shaky steps; prior to this their basic mode of transportation is basic army crawling. They are now able to urinate and defecate on their own and will move away from their sleeping area to do so. Up to this point it is strictly the mothers and us Donna, Lacey, and Bick who have handled the pups with lots of hand sanitizing before and after and they have been kept in their kennel. Even though it is hard on the kids, we do not let them or their friends handle them until 4 weeks of age. At four weeks we start introducing them to solid food initially crushed and moistened. By the end of the 4th week they are eating their crushed puppy food, with no water added, three times a day. Because they are not nursing as long or as often, we provide fresh water for them at all times. The kids are allowed to hold them now closely monitored and with clean hands and we allow the puppies to run around and explore our large main room in the house. At 5 weeks of age they are starting to run around all over the place when they are let out to play, and, when they are in their kennels, they play sometimes rather roughly with litter mates. It is during this time when some of their adult personalities will start coming out. By the end of this week their puppy teeth are all in, and they love to chew on things, including fingers if you let them. However, even at this age, they will spend most of their time sleeping, probably close to 20 hours per day, with only short times between naps when they are alert and active. By the end of the 6th week they are completely weaned from their moms and eating solid food well. We frequently take them out of their kennels to scamper around. They are full of energy and love to play with their litter-mates and the kids. This is the time that we really focus on socializing them and we even start their paper training. By 7 weeks they have already passed through most of their puppy milestones and are continuing to grow rapidly; they are generally in the 4 to 6 pound range. This is when their personalities really start coming out! It is so fun to watch them play with the kids and their litter-mates and observe their new fascination with toys. They have become somewhat accustomed to going potty on pee pads so that when they are out running around the room they often recognize them on the floor and will go potty on them. Though they are fast, active, playful little puppies at this point in their lives, they still are like babies and require lots of sleep probably over 18 hours per day and are still quite fragile. This video will show the color and conformation of each puppy, in addition to its personality. Their their third DAPP and 2nd Bordetella vaccinations are given at 12 weeks and then a yearly booster thereafter. The rabies shot can also be given at 12 weeks no later than 16 weeks. They are also regularly de-wormed and given a medication for the prevention of coccidia and giardia. Occasionally we hold onto puppies a little longer if we do not feel they are quite ready to go to their new homes. Our clients are encouraged to come to our home to meet their fur babies if this is feasible. When this is not possible, we arrange for one of our responsible puppy chaperones to hand deliver our puppies to meet their new owners at their nearest major airport. In fact, even as adults they will sleep at least half of the day in a series of long naps, and probably closer to 14 hours per day. Have More Questions?

Introducing a new puppy to your home The importance of early training How to give instructions The importance of socialization How to socialize your puppy Basic commands - sit and stay Basic commands - come and lie down Training your puppy to heel Training your puppy to fetch and retrieve Rewarding and disciplining your puppy Training your puppy with a leash Your puppy and other people Your puppy and other animals House training Barking - and how to prevent it Biting and chewing Why choose a German shepherd? Congratulations on your choice! German shepherd dogs are the only dog breed to have the word dog as part of their official name. Not many dog breeds have as unique and proud a heritage as the white German shepherd. The breed had its beginnings in Austria in the 19th century when the Queen of Hapsburg reputedly wanted white dogs - to match both the white dresses and the white horses used by the family. German shepherd dogs are popular for several reasons their distinctive appearance, their reliability and their suitability for families. According to the American Kennel Association, in , the breed was the second most popular in the United States only the Labrador Retriever was more popular. Its no wonder that German shepherds are so popular apart from their distinctive appearance, they are also considered to be among the easiest breed of dog to train. Many breeders claim that they are one of the top three most trainable breeds, along with the Australian sheep dog and the Labrador retriever. White German shepherds are also well known for their loyalty and devotion it isnt unusual for them to form a strong bond with a trainer or handler. And not surprisingly, entering them at dog shows and obedience competitions can be rewarding German shepherds enjoy more than their fair share of success. Because they are so easy to train, German shepherds are widely used around the world for various tasks. In France, they are used to track criminals and to search for avalanche victims. Switzerland has a large number of German shepherds in it police force - and in the UK, German shepherd dogs were regularly used by world famous Scotland Yard up until the s. Apart from their suitability for law enforcement, German shepherds are used in other lines of work. In , the first Seeing Eye dog was a German shepherd today, the breed is still the most popular for the job. And the German shepherd is also a great choice for such tasks as herding sheep, pulling carts or acting as watchdog. However, training a dog can be time consuming, frustrating and hard work you will need to have patience and a routine. The task of training your puppy will be a lot easier if you begin the process at as early an age as possible - a younger puppy has generally not had the chance to learn too much negative or destructive behavior. The following pages will tell you how to train your puppy for most situations - house training, biting and barking, and interacting with other animals and people. You will find that the job of training your new friend is a rewarding and happy experience. Introducing a new puppy to your home Training your puppy should begin as soon as you get your puppy home and should ideally be undertaken by just one family member. At the same time it is important to make sure that everyone else in the house as well as any other pets are comfortable with the new arrival. Unlike some dog breeds, German shepherds prefer to live indoors, rather than outside. If possible, bring your new puppy home during a calm time and when you have the time to concentrate on training him. It isnt a good idea to bring home a new puppy during a hectic time when your routine and his will be disrupted, such as holidays or when family are visiting. Try to introduce a new puppy to family members one at a time so it isnt too overwhelming. When bringing your puppy home for the first time, make sure you are organized. Dont forget to have food in the house, as well as bowls specifically for food and water. At first, try to buy the type or brand of food that the dog is eating now you can always switch his food gradually. A sudden change in food can often have unfortunate results - diarrhea or an upset stomach. Apart from food and water, you will also need some toys for your dog if you are bringing a puppy home, its particularly important to have something for him to chew on. And your puppy will need somewhere to sleep many owners find that having the dogs bed close to them particularly at first - can make training easier. You may want to puppy-proof your home, just as you would make it baby-proof. Put any things out of reach you dont want to be chewed, such as shoes. Some rooms may be off limits and you may want to install a gate across the bottom of your stairs. If your puppy will be outside, make sure the environment is safe and secure and he cant slip out anywhere. Ensure that he doesnt have access to such things as paint, medicine and cleaning products. When introducing your new puppy to his new home, immediately start enforcing rules. If he jumps up on furniture, make sure that he understands not to do that using a treat as a reward is more effective than discipline at this point. House training should be undertaken at this time. You may want to make a point of showing your puppy that the family eats before he does and dont start feeding him from the dinner table, otherwise he will routinely expect that. Its surprisingly easy to overlook his water make sure he always has plenty and that its fresh every day. The first few weeks a puppy is in your home can be hectic but important. German shepherds live a long time generally from between 12 to 14 years, so you and your family have many happy years ahead. The importance of early training When it comes to successful dog training its important to start early. The first few months are particularly important as any behavior that has been learned will stay with your dog throughout his life. A young puppy has hopefully not had the chance to learn negative or destructive behavior. Ideally, this learning process should continue for up to two years. If you are the proud owner of a new German shepherd puppy, try to begin training as soon as the dog is in your home - just as you would immediately start teaching a newborn baby how to behave around other babies or animals. All family members should learn to handle the new puppy and be comfortable with the new addition to the family, however only one person should undertake most, if not all of the training. Dogs thrive on a routine, so try to have one that works around your job and other commitments. Its a good idea to introduce a new puppy into your home during a quiet time, and not at the holidays, for example. Training at this stage should include both obedience and hygiene, as well as eliminating any bad habits, such as chewing shoes or begging for food at the dinner table. The first few months in your home are some of the most important to a puppy many of an older dogs behavioral problems can be traced back to this period. Experts say that a dogs experiences between the ages of three and twelve weeks are the most critical and the ideal age to acquire a puppy is at about eight weeks old. This includes getting the animal used to any other pets and family members, as well as house training and teaching your dog to use a lead effectively. And any routines which will become part of your dogs later life should be introduced at an early stage, if at all possible. During much of your puppys early training, the two most widely used words will be no and his name. You should also make a point of exposing your puppy to different objects, as well as people. Introduce your puppy to such everyday but potentially scary things as toys, bicycles, large boxes, and even an umbrella. Its also recommended to take a puppy for short car rides, letting the window down occasionally. A dog is a lifelong commitment. Begin your training early and you have a better chance of avoiding problems later in life. The importance of giving instructions while training You will be giving plenty of instructions and commands while training your German shepherd puppy and its important to know how to give them. When training your puppy, instructions should be given in a firm and clear voice it isnt necessary to shout or become angry. As mentioned before, German shepherds are considered one of the easiest breeds of dog to train. The breed is also known for its patience and an instinctive desire to please an owner or trainer. They also have a keen sense of timing and are admired for their overall agility. It isnt necessary to give lengthy instructions to your puppy. Most of your instructions will consist of just two words your dogs name and the particular command. You will soon learn the importance of being able to effectively give the basic commands to your puppy come, sit, stay and lie down. You may want to master some of those commands before moving on to the command to heel. The secret to successful training is to give your puppy instructions in what you want him to do and not what you dont want him to do. Make sure that your commands are realistic and your dog is able to easily and safely carry them out. Never give a command or instruction unless you actually want it carried out. Much of your training should be done with the lead at first, and later without the lead. If your dog doesnt do what is asked always correct or discipline him immediately as dogs dont retain information for more than a few seconds. If you correct him after the fact, he will have forgotten what it is that he was asked to do! The same principle applies when rewarding your puppy. Remember, you are giving your puppy commands and instructions and not becoming angry or impatient with him with practice, your training will be easy and effective for both of you. The importance of socialization White German shepherd dogs are considered to be among the easiest dogs to train, making them particularly suitable for families with pets and children. Once you have chosen your pet, have taken him home and introduced him to your family, one of your next steps is to learn how to socialize your dog. Experts consider that the most important socialization period for a puppy begins at around three weeks of age and lasts until around twelve weeks. The period during which a puppy is most influenced by socialization is supposedly between six and eight weeks of age. Regardless of how old your puppy is when you get him, you may well have little or no knowledge of his previous life. Socializing your dog includes various things getting him used to other dogs as well as other people and also everyday sights, sounds and smells. And you shouldnt find it too difficult to find friends and neighbors who want to come over to admire your new puppy! Try to bring your puppy home when you can establish a routine and spend some time training him. Socializing is important as it can help to prevent serious behavioral problems in your German shepherd such as aggression, timidity and shyness. A dog that has been exposed to other animals such as cats and horses is better able to interpret their intentions, potentially avoiding a conflict. And a dog that has been thoroughly socialized is less likely to have behavioral problems in the future with other dogs or children. Some trainers even advise that a puppy should meet strangers and visit 50 new places all before he is three months old. You may not be able to do all that but it illustrates how important it is to thoroughly socialize your puppy. If you find socialization difficult, you can actually take your puppy to socialization classes ask at your local vets for details. Try to avoid taking your puppy to training classes that put an emphasis on punishment techniques. Simply the act of taking your puppy to the vets is a form of socialization and it also helps him prepare for future visits. Socializing your puppy correctly can take time and patience but the end results are well worth it and you will understand why white German shepherds are such a delight to own and train. How to socialize your puppy Socializing your puppy is important and will have a major influence on his behavior - start out slowly with socialization training begin with one on one situations with a friend or neighbor. Work your way slowly to more demanding situations with perhaps several people and pets. Make sure you are in control of the situation the object isnt to frighten your dog, simply to get him used to things. Try to ensure that your puppy meets different types of people young and old, loud and quiet. If your puppy only encounters people of a specific appearance for example, young girls he may be fearful or aggressive when he later encounters other types of people. If you dont have small children in your home, try taking your puppy to a park or playground. Try to avoid taking your puppy to areas where unvaccinated dogs may be found, unless your puppy has had all its shots. You may want to deliberately walk where you may encounter other dog walkers or even arrange for a friend to walk their dog at the same time. Your puppy should be exposed to different objects, as well as people things that we all take for granted. Introduce your puppy to such everyday but potentially scary things as bicycles, large boxes and childrens toys. You should also take your puppy for short and then longer car rides, letting the window down occasionally. You should also expose your puppy to things that make noises or move quickly. Try exposing your puppy to such everyday things as the vacuum cleaner, television, washing machine and doorbell. Start out slowly until he has got somewhat used to these things for example, leaving the vacuum out before switching it on. If you live in the country, or on a quiet street, take your puppy to a noisy or crowded area. Likewise, if you live in the heart of the city, take your puppy to the countryside or to a farm to experience such strange creatures as hens, ducks and cows. Dont let your puppy chase other animals during this time. A small puppy treat makes an appropriate reward when socializing your puppy. At first you can reward him every time you meet another pet or person; then progress to the point where you are rewarding him only for non-fearful interactions. If your puppy seems fearful or nervous around people, ask other people to crouch down this helps to put a nervous dog at ease. Dont be discouraged by the term socialization. If you are taking your puppy out and about, meeting people and interacting with other pets you are basically doing that anyway. Basic commands sit and stay Sit is one of the most basic and important commands that you will teach your puppy. Typically, a puppy is ready to learn this command at eight weeks old. And you will also discover that its one of the most difficult commands to enforce - as puppies of course, tend to be naturally playful. The good news is that even the liveliest puppy can be successfully trained. You should train your puppy to obey these commands before any others. Begin your training in a quiet part of the house with no distractions. Some trainers suggest training by the front door a puppy who sits easily by the front door is more manageable when you have visitors. Try to limit each training session to around 15 minutes and be sure to use a firm tone of voice and offer praise and reward when he gets it right. To successfully train your dog to sit, you may want to have him on a lead at first and then progress to training without the lead. Once you have given him the command to sit, gently help your dog to sit by folding his back legs under his bottom repeat this as necessary until he gets the idea. The command stay is often used in conjunction with sit and will help you control your puppy when its necessary. Once your puppy has learnt to sit, practice walking away while giving the command to stay. If he gets up before he has been told to, you should persuade him to sit again, by using the technique above. You should gradually walk further and further away, leaving him to stay for longer periods in general, it takes a week or so to train a puppy to sit and stay for a couple of minutes. After a few months it should be possible for your puppy to stay while you leave the room, for a period of around 15 minutes. You can also use a hand signal to instruct your puppy to stay, for example a raised hand. At first, this should be done using the lead; then you can progress to doing it without the lead. Once your puppy has got used to these commands, you should be able to command him to sit and stay, by using hand signals alone. With a little patience, your puppy will soon master these basic commands making for a better relationship between the two of you. Basic commands come and lie down Generally, you can start to teach your German shepherd basic commands once he has reached the age of six months. Try to have everybody in your family take part in these lessons everybody will need to use the commands at some point and keep lessons short, ideally around ten or fifteen minutes. As with other aspects of training, you should reward your puppy with affection and perhaps a treat when he does well. If he isnt learning quite as quickly as you had hoped, then you can withhold the reward. Dont punish your dog for not obeying these basic commands he will then associate that particular command with punishment. All the commands that you give your puppy at this stage should consist of just two words your puppys name, followed by the command Rover, come! When giving commands to your dog, make sure that you use a tone of voice thats both firm and enthusiastic. Be sure to praise your puppy when he gets it right. You should start training your puppy to obey the word "come" just as soon as you have brought him home the first time. To train your puppy to come, you should use the lead at first. Extend the lead distance as far as it will go and then use the command while at the same time tugging gently on his lead. If you dont see positive results at first persevere. Make sure you are crouched down on the same level as your dog and are using the word come in a positive, firm way and not angrily. Praise and reward your puppy dont be cross if he doesnt get it right the first time. After he has got the idea, take the lead off and repeat the procedure. To train your puppy to lie down, first command him to sit. Lower one of his favorite food treats between his front paws and say down or lie most dogs will lie down to get at the treat. Once he is lying down, you can then give him the treat. Try to practice the command to lie down from different positions from both a standing and a sitting position. Dogs tend to lie down in two different positions flat where the hips are rolled and the legs are to one side; and sphinx in which his hind legs are tucked underneath. Training your dog to lie down helps to show him who is in command it can also be helpful in a busy or dangerous environment. And a puppy thats lying down is usually a quiet puppy! Training your puppy to heel One of the supreme tests of obedience is to train your puppy to heel. Heeling is the act of walking with your dog close beside you - paying attention just to you and not being distracted by anything else. Once you have trained your puppy to do this, its an easy and safe way to walk through crowded or unfamiliar places with your dog. Ideally, you should first train your dog to sit on command before you start training him to heel, and you should use the lead at first. You should begin training your puppy to heel in a quiet room, with minimum distractions a long hallway or corridor is ideal for this - and you should not lead him to the door or outside at first. Begin your training with your puppy sitting on your left side. Assuming that you are right handed Hold the lead in your right hand, but hold the lead close to your dogs collar with your left hand. Start to walk slowly, using your dogs name and the command to heel. Remember, while training, most of your commands will consist of just two words the command and your dogs name. Give your commands in a firm authoritative tone dont become angry with him if he doesnt get it immediately. Try to keep your puppy close to you and once you have gone a few steps, you can reward him with a treat. If he starts to move away from you, a short sharp tug on the lead will get him back at your side. Once you have done this a few times, you should be able to walk further with your dog by your side eventually without using the lead. Twenty paces is a realistic goal. Once your puppy can walk to heel, the next step is to train him to turn around when you turn. To turn with your dog, put your hand on his collar while you turn and give the command to heel again, practice with the lead on at first, then off. Puppies can be lively and playful and you may not find this training easy. Persevere and the end result will be well worth it. Training your puppy to fetch and retrieve A puppy that runs to retrieve objects is not only getting physical exercise he is also getting mental stimulation. Playing fetch and retrieve is a chance for your dog to get some exercise as well as practice his instinctive hunting skills. And throwing and fetching objects can also keep children happy for quite some time! Before you are able to train your dog to run and fetch objects, you must first train him to hold objects in its mouth. Dont use squeaky toys for this as your dog will then want to chew them! While training your puppy to hold things in its mouth, reward with verbal and physical praise, rather than treats. You can begin training your puppy to fetch things and bring them back to you, once you have taught him how to hold things. Trainers advise that the ideal age to teach a puppy to hold and fetch things is at around six to eight weeks old. Most puppies will learn this fairly easily and quickly, although as with other aspects of training, it depends on the animal and how much time you can devote to it. German shepherds are not generally selectively bred for retrieving, although they can easily be trained. As with other aspects of training, things may not always go smoothly. If your puppy is reluctant to fetch, try to get him excited by throwing a squeaky toy and running with it yourself. If your dog seems reluctant to bring the object back to you, you may have to continue working on the command to come. If your puppy runs to the object but doesnt pick it up, you may need more lessons on the command to hold. And the same applies if he picks it up but then continually drops it while bringing it back make sure your puppy is proficient at holding objects before you begin fetch and retrieve training. Its an easy thing to overlook - dont give your puppy items to retrieve and hold that are too big to comfortably fit in his jaws. Your puppy may bring the retrieved object some of the way back to you but doesnt quite understand to bring it to you. One solution to this is to say no firmly, then retrieve the object yourself and bring it the rest of the way back. And some dog owners say that if your puppy watches other dogs fetch and retrieve, he will get the idea. Training your puppy to fetch and retrieve can give you and your puppy hours of fun but dont force it. Some dogs just seem to enjoy it more than others. Rewarding and disciplining your German shepherd While training your German shepherd, you will soon realize the importance of offering rewards for good behavior or for learning something quickly. German shepherd dogs are quick to learn, are reliable and obedient and it isnt unusual for them to form a strong bond with their trainer. Rewards actually fall into three basic categories verbal praise, treats and physical contact. You may find that your dog is motivated by one, rather than the other. In this case, physical contact would mean stroking your puppy. Be sure to give him long strokes along his body, rather than patting him on the head which your dog may see as a dominant gesture. Its a natural thing to want to use treats as a reward during training but you should be careful not to overfeed your puppy. Many treats are actually rich and fairly unhealthy. If you are using treats as a reward, one solution to overfeeding is to make sure the treat is part of your dogs daily food allowance. Try not to use treats as a reward for your puppy all the time over time you should gradually start to praise good behavior instead of rewarding with a treat. Eventually, during a training routine, you should offer the treat as a reward every other time, and then every 2nd or 3rd time, and so on. Your puppy will need constant praise and encouragement while being trained its a good idea to keep some treats easily accessible. If you are walking or playing outside, keep them in a pocket or backpack somewhere you can easily get to them and then immediately give them to your puppy. Good timing is also essential when you give your puppy a reward you must offer the reward at the same time that the dog has done whatever you commanded, or at least within a few seconds. Dogs are only able to retain information for a few seconds. If you reward your dog for sitting, but he has already stood up again he wont quite get the message. Some effective but humane methods of disciplining your dog are as follows. A puppy that misbehaves can be isolated from other people, for no longer than a few minutes. A squirt with a water pistol filled with water or lemon juice can be an easy way to stop a dog in its tracks. And a stern and commanding voice, along with the word no sometimes works best of all. If you are training your puppy to do something, such as sit or come on command and he is a little slow, repeating the exercise several times from the beginning may also help to reinforce the message. While training, use a firm but enthusiastic voice and offer rewards when applicable you may find you wont need to use discipline much at all. Training your puppy with a leash It is of course, one of the most indispensable items you will have when it comes to training your new puppy his leash, or lead. A properly used leash ensures your dogs safety as well as the safety of other animals and people. In fact you should never allow your dog to run free unless you are in an enclosed and protected area you may even have leash laws in your neighborhood. You should actually use two types of leash for training a long houseline with a bolt snap for indoor training, and a standard leash for outdoor use. Collars come in different styles and colors a well-fitting collar should allow you to slip two fingers underneath it with comfort. If you are choosing a collar and leash its a good time to make sure you have identification on your puppy, too. Most dogs particularly German shepherds dont have a problem wearing a collar and leash, although some dogs take longer than others to be completely comfortable. If your dog seems a little bit slow it doesnt mean he is are any less intelligent, he just needs a little more time. Start out by simply training your puppy to be comfortable with the leash. Let your puppy smell the leash and inspect it. Have your dog wear his collar and leash while eating, over a period of a few days this way, your dog associates his leash with the somewhat enjoyable task of being fed. During this time, the puppys leash should just trail on the ground. After a few days of this routine, you can start to lead your dog around the house while hes wearing the leash - then repeat the exercise outside. Gradually begin to walk longer and longer distances ideally, in a quiet environment with few distractions. Your dogs leash should not be too long between four to six feet is ideal. Some dog owners think the retractable lead is a wonderful thing this type of lead lets your dog roam up to 30 feet away, but still be under your control. However, be careful when using the retractable lead alongside busy roads. One of the problems you may encounter with a boisterous puppy is that of climbing up the lead or trying to jump on you. Train your puppy not to do this by saying no firmly and moving away or commanding your dog to sit. If necessary, repeat the exercise that you were practicing before he started jumping. One of the biggest challenges you may face while training your German shepherd to use a leash is that of pulling on the leash. If your puppy does this, he may be excited or bored. Try praising him if he remains at your side. Keep the leash loose at all times if your puppy starts to run off, abruptly change direction so that hes suddenly behind you. If your puppy is pulling on the leash, dont pull him all the way back again give a quick tug and then immediately release and make the leash slack again. With a little bit of perseverance, youll find that your puppy is comfortable with his leash after all, most puppies usually love to have their leash put on as it means they are going outside! Your puppy and other people Perhaps one of your most important considerations will be successfully training your new German shepherd puppy to interact with other people especially if you are bringing your dog home to a large family. Fortunately German shepherd dogs are not only easy to train they make an excellent choice for a family with children or pets, as they generally get along well with both. As with all aspects of training, try to begin this training when your puppy is less than four months old. These first few months are particularly important as any behavior that has been learned will stay with your dog throughout his life. This process should continue for up to two years. Training your puppy to comfortably interact with people, other animals and situations is known as socializing your dog. Socializing is also important as it can help to prevent serious behavioral problems in your German shepherd - such as aggression, timidity and shyness. A puppy often barks at strangers this is actually your dogs way of protecting or warning you. Try to get your dog as familiar with strangers as possible by introducing him to people who call at the house and having them give your puppy a treat. If this is still a problem, you may have to leave blinds or curtains closed to eliminate distractions from outside. German shepherds tend to be dependable with children; however you should still exercise caution. Babies tend to figure largely in a puppys life if you have a baby or toddler in your home, its important to make sure they get used to each other. You should allow your puppy to inspect the baby, but hold him on the leash while you do it the first time. Never tease a dog with a baby. Young children can be almost as challenging as babies. A puppy just cant help joining in if theres a group of small children running around and playing. Playing is acceptable, but make sure your children don't tease your puppy - teasing a dog is actually the major cause of children being bitten by a pet take it seriously if your child is jabbing or sticking fingers into the dogs face. Older children are better with a puppy the ideal age for a child to have their first dog is between the ages of 8 and .Youll soon discover that even the most responsible child generally needs some reminding to help look after their puppy. Children this age actually make excellent trainers for a puppy they tend to lack the self-consciousness of adults and are of course, learning themselves. Aggression towards people is an extremely difficult thing to correct. German shepherd dogs are known for their placid nature and their ability to bond with people, so you may never have this problem. To effectively deal with an aggressive dog, you first have to try to determine why he is aggressive he may be frightened or being teased. Fear biting is a possible symptom. Training your puppy to interact effectively with people can be hard work - fortunately you have one of the friendliest breeds that there is. Training your dog to get along with other animals Training your German shepherd to interact with other animals can be a challenge, as most dog owners know only too well. However, German shepherd dogs are considered to be one of the easiest dog breeds to train they also tend to get on with other animals and people particularly well. Try to create a relaxed atmosphere when you bring a new puppy into your home for the first time its all too easy to have a frantic environment which just makes the dog excitable. Your puppy will find himself the center of attention and its easy to forget the basics of training him. You will find it easier to get a puppy used to other animals and people socialized, as it is known if your puppy is less than four months old. A puppy thats older than four months may find if difficult to fully socialize with other animals and you may find it more difficult too. If your home has other animals, such as cats or guinea pigs, it can be effective to first introduce your puppy to the smell of the other animals. As far as your puppy and cats are concerned, you should keep them separate for the first few days. At the first meeting, hold your puppy securely on a lap or floor and allow the cats to smell the puppy with no contact. Once the animals have all inspected each other, you can allow the puppy to walk around the room with the cats be sure to keep an eye on all the animals. If your puppy chases the cats or barks at the cat, a firm no should persuade him not to do that you may also want to give him something to chew on. After a few weeks of this, your dog and cats should be able to live together peacefully. Another effective way to achieve harmony is to put a small piece of the other animals bedding near the place where your puppy will be sleeping. A new puppy is far more likely to accept the other animals as harmless family members if he first becomes accustomed to their smell. If you are walking your puppy, you may have trouble when encountering other dogs. A puppy that has been socialized exposed to other dogs, people and things will generally have fewer problems in this respect. You should start getting your puppy used to other dogs just as soon as you can, by taking him to parks, playgrounds etc or allowing people with dogs to come and visit you. Fortunately, German shepherds are well known for their ability to get on well with most other animals so you should have no serious problems achieving a peaceful environment for all your pets! House training Once you have your new puppy home, one of your most important considerations will be house training your puppy. As with most other aspects of puppy training, its best to begin as early as you can expect the training to be complete only when your dog reaches six months old. Nearly all dogs respond to house training fairly well the German shepherd is one of the most receptive breeds. Perhaps the first thing you need to know is how frequently your puppy may need to go. On average, a three month old puppy needs to urinate every three or four hours, while a puppy that is five months old urinates every four to five hours. Generally speaking, as a dog grows older, it can go that much longer before having to urinate. There are certain signs that your puppy may need the bathroom after a while, you will be able to spot them and anticipate. If he suddenly puts his nose down and sniffs intently, its usually a signal. Your puppy may appear agitated, or begin to whine or pace if he needs go. He may also run behind a piece of furniture, squat down or raise his leg. If your dog urinates in the house when left alone, this is actually a form of separation anxiety. Its caused by stress and the dog usually does this shortly after being left alone. One solution is to train your puppy to feel comfortable with his crate and to leave him there the problem may go away after a few weeks or months. Other than that, try to leave your dog alone as casually and with as little fuss as possible. One of the biggest problems for a dog owner is the dog who goes to the bathroom in the house but wont go outside. There may be several causes of this: a dog that has been confined indoors for at least a month has simply got used to relieving himself indoors he doesnt know any better. If your dog goes to the bathroom indoors, rather than out, make sure you are taking him outside as often as he needs. A puppy should be taken outside several times a day immediately after waking, and after eating or playing. While walking your dog outside, try to be alert to any signs that he needs the bathroom. If your dog has an accident inside the house, immediately and thoroughly clean the area so your puppy wont assume that spot is for going to the toilet. And if your dog goes in an approved spot in your yard or outside leave the droppings there, if practical. The next time your puppy sniffs that spot he will be encouraged to do his business there. House training may not be the most glamorous aspect of training your puppy but as most of us would point out, it is one of the most important. Barking and how to prevent it All dog owners are going to have a problem with unwanted barking or howling at some point although German shepherds are easier in this respect than many other breeds. In fact, a lot of German shepherd owners firmly maintain that their dog only barks when absolutely necessary! To deal effectively with barking, you first need to determine why the dog is barking. A puppy barks for several reasons. He may need exercise or he may need to use the bathroom. He may simply be bored and need attention. And some puppies bark because they are excited or theres just too much going on around them. A bored dog tends to bark a lot. If you feel your puppy is barking because hes bored or neglected, try not to give your dog attention as soon as he starts to bark. By doing this, you are then saying that its acceptable to bark and that barking leads to a positive thing your attention. Instead, you should make sure your dog is getting enough attention when hes not barking Your puppy may bark if left alone for too long although you might not know this unless the neighbors tell you! If you do have to leave your puppy alone, make sure he is exercised before you leave him and that he has plenty of water. Some owners even advise putting some music on for the puppy. If your puppy barks for no other identifiable reason, he may simply need to go to the bathroom. On average, a three month old puppy needs to urinate every three or four hours, while a puppy that is five months old urinates every four to five hours as he gets older, he will go less frequently. A dog shouldnt be punished for too much barking or howling which is after all, an instinctive thing. Any action you take to stop a dog barking must be undertaken at the time that they are actually barking and not sometime afterwards. Dogs are not able to retain information for more than a few seconds. If your puppy is barking for no apparent reason, simply try silencing him with a firm no. If you are desperate, you can purchase a no bark dog collar manufactured by several different companies. When your dog barks, it triggers a harmless spray of lemon liquid which supposedly stops the dog from barking. The disadvantage of the collar is that most dogs are too clever they will sooner or later learn to bark without the spray affecting them. An alternative to the spraying collar is the shock collar. As the name suggests, this device triggers a mild electric shock whenever your dog barks. The shock collar is completely humane and most experts consider it to be generally more effective in stopping barking than the no bark dog collar. A puppy that barks too much can certainly be annoying. But keep in mind there may be occasions when you want to hear your dog barking - noises outside in the yard, or a smoke alarm, for example. After all, German shepherds do make excellent watchdogs. Biting and Chewing Biting and chewing may be annoying to us sometimes but they are perfectly natural activities for your puppy. A puppy that bites does so instinctively and has probably learnt to do so from his siblings over time, your puppy will outgrow this behavior. However, there are some steps you can take now. Biting is most common with young puppies although most young puppies do not bite often, and if they do, something has caused them to bite. Ideally, a puppy should be trained not to bite before he is four months old. Normally, a puppy learns not to bite from his mother or other puppies if he is an only dog he learns from his owner. Many people think puppies are just playing when they bite, but in fact puppies can bite for several reasons. They may be teething puppies teeth for about a month, usually at four months old - or trying to strengthen their fairly new jaws and teeth. A puppy that bites may be exploring, or trying to compensate for an unbalanced diet - or he may just be bored. If your puppy is biting due to teething, the good news is that he will outgrow this. You can also buy toys designed specifically for teething dogs that help soothe the discomfort. A puppy may also be biting because he doesnt get to bite enough while eating - in this case your puppy will appreciate a nice bone. Chewing is also a common problem with puppies - be prepared to deal with your puppy chewing as soon as you bring him home and have plenty of chew toys in your home and ensure they are accessible. Some trainers recommend having up to 20 different chew toys available and rotating them periodically, to add an element of surprise and to keep your puppy interested. As with biting you shouldnt punish your puppy for chewing. Instead, you should gently remove the object and substitute something he can chew on such as a chew toy. Be sure to praise your pup for using the chew toy. German shepherds are well known for being easy to train and communicate with. However the breed is particularly prone to what is sometimes called fear biting which is sometimes genetic. Fear biting also sometimes results from having been ill-treated or from inadequate socialization of a puppy. A fear biting dog also often suffers from low self esteem, is often nervous or apprehensive and can frequently cower when introduced to strangers. You may need to get a professional to help train your dog to overcome fear biting, but there are some steps you can take. You need to gradually expose a fear biting dog to the things that hes afraid of. Its rather like the process of socialization all over again. Another technique you can try is to have a friend walk away from your dog with a dog treat and hold it out in the palm of their hand. The dog should be allowed to walk up and take the treat, and you should gradually progress to eye contact, verbal praise and stroking the dog All it takes is 15 minutes a day for a well trained dog. Have fun! Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. For serious owners only: If you want to master potty training, stop jumping, and everything a new dog owner needs to teach their dog, check out The Ultimate Puppy Training Bundle by SpiritDog. When should I start training my GSD puppy? You can start training your German Shepherd puppies as early as they are 8 weeks old. Crate training and potty training are the very basic skills your puppy will need once she gets home. You can start right away when she comes home. How is it different to train German Shepherds? German Shepherds are very intelligent and they learn fast. This makes training very easy. Many GSDs are play-motivated in addition to food-motivated, which makes it very easy to train new behaviors with a toy or ball as the reward. Timing is VERY important If you want to reward your puppy for doing the right thing, you must do it right after she exhibits the desired behavior. It is therefore extremely important to have your reward treat or ball ready in your pocket so you can give it to your pup immediately. Rule of thumb: Keep training sessions short After all, your puppy weeks old is still a young child at this age. She has a limited attention span and may get distracted easily. It is suggested that you train your puppy the same trick several times a day, repeating times in each session, preferably minutes each time even shorter sessions puppies. Your pup will quickly learn what she needs to do to please you. Voice Always praise your puppy with a lively and happy voice when she does something right. Treats Treats are essential when it comes to training a dog. It works especially well with food-motivated puppies. Playing or Petting If your dog is not food-motivated, you can reward them with their favorite toy or petting as an alternative. When you first started, you may need to try on different treats based to see which one your pup likes. The treats should be in bite-size and easy for your pup to chew. Cheese cubes, cooked chicken, or small bread cubes are quite popular with young puppies. To further motivate your pup, you may also like to have different kinds of treats in one training session. This will keep your puppy looking for more. What to Expect? Not only will these training sessions prepare your puppy to exhibit the desired manner, you will also take advantage of the time spent bonding with her. The more you practice with your puppy, the better and faster your puppy will learn. There will be accidents and at times your puppy may just turn around from you. After all, she is only a baby, you need to give her love and patience. Are you ready? Table of Content.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Goldendoodle Puppies In Los Angeles It might seem at first that Goldendoodle puppies are becoming so popular that every other person or pet store claims to be a Goldendoodle breeder in Los Angeles. Well, that could not be farther from the truth, since not all breeders are cut from the same cloth. In the last decade alone, Goldendoodles have become so popular. Puppy mills are notorious for breeding unhealthy puppies from unhealthy parents, while Doodle scammers will take your money, while leaving you empty handed with no money and no puppy. Although it might cost you a fraction to adopt a puppy from these breeders, it will cost you a ton more in cash and mental strain to take care of a puppy that comes from a seedy background. Responsible and reputable breeders dedicate a lot of time and resources into breeding healthy Goldendoodle puppies from only healthy parent dogs. With genetic testing, ethical breeders can and will! Just as important is to opt for breeders who offer at least a two-year health guarantee for their litters. Health guarantees do not cover injuries from accidents or diseases stemming from poor diet or living conditions. Unfortunately, there are countless breeders who claim to breed only healthy pups, but provide absolutely no proof of their health and genetic testing, not to mention health guarantees. Another tip is to check if the breeder is mentioned on the GoodDog website, which ranks reputable breeders who take extra good care of their parents and puppies. Check their reviews on Google, Yelp, and other online communities and forums like here at Doodle Doods. Ask around in your neighborhood, family, and friends. Additionally, you might be interested in buying a Goldendoodle in Los Angeles from a breeder who has at least a few years of experience and a proven track record. However, experienced breeders are usually well-versed in their job and already know what to expect and how to successfully breed and raise healthy new litters. This exceptional breeder strives to breed only healthy puppies from carefully selected parent dogs. The main focus is on health and genetic testing, but also providing the puppies a loving home environment before going to their families. What Makes This Breeder Unique? New litters also get their first vaccines, shots, and dewormings, along with microchips with prepaid lifetime registration. Waitlist: Yes. Windsong breeds Goldendoodle puppies that are healthy, happy, and well-socialized. We help each family select the right puppy for their lifestyle while keeping the individual needs of each puppy in mind as well. Love Our babies receive round-the-clock care from birth until they join their new family at 8 weeks. In fact, our babies spend the first weeks in our master bedroom as this makes for easy nighttime checks! They are loved on from their first day of life by children, cats, and most of all me! At 4 weeks they move to my living room where they can observe and interact more closely with our family. Health A high-quality diet, proper supplements, and the necessary genetic testing is our key to raising healthy puppies. We are passionate about health and are proud to offer a 2-year health guarantee on all our puppies. More info Happiness The happiness and well-being of our moms, dads, and puppies are extremely important to us. All of our breeding dogs live in our home or in loving guardian homes with their forever families. We believe there is a right and wrong way to breed. We are not a kennel, all of our dogs are well-cared for and cherished family members.

We are an in home breeder of the Australian Labradoodles established in .Our goal is to produce, happy, healthy and sound Australian Labradoodle puppies with wonderful temperaments. We do extensive health testing on all of our breeding dogs, and take extra measures to promote the health and well being of our pups. We strive to produce pups that will be the perfect family companions! We have some exciting new litters planned that will be opening up shortly! If you have submitted an application at a time where there was no availability, please submit when you notice new availability. Thank you for your patience. We promise that your new puppy will definitely be worth every bit of the wait! Note: We are in the process of transitioning to this new website! Currently we are behind on responding to emails and applications so please be patient with us as we transition and upgrade our site to make it more user friendly for you! Breeding the finest quality Australian Labradoodles since Learn about our Guardian Program If you live within 30 miles of Northern Rhode Island, have a fenced in yard, and a family member who is home most of the day, we would love to hear from you! Please read about our guardian home program prior to inquiring to be sure you are eligible! Only eligible families that apply will be contacted. Please be sure to read the guardian home information page to see if you are eligible! We specialize in miniature, medium, and large medium size Australian Labradoodle puppies with beautiful allergy friendly coats in all colors with exceptional temperaments. We are blessed to have our puppies reside all over the world. For information on available puppies for sale, please be sure to visit our upcoming litters page! They live pampered lives where they are spoiled to death by their families, and have never been exposed to a kennel environment. A few of our dogs live here with us, and the majority live with their wonderful local guardian families as a forever family pet. .Our breeding dogs are social, happy, healthy, sound, and live the best lives that any dog could dream of living! While in our care, all pups receive proper veterinarian care, are up to date on all of their vaccinations, microchipped for permanent identification, and ESN prior to leaving for their forever homes. We hope you enjoy browsing our website, and look forward to hearing from you! We have answers. What should I know about Labradoodle puppies for sale near Newport Beach? Labradoodles are a cross breed of Labrador Retriever and Poodle, often some combination of the two. These intelligent dogs can be found in sizes ranging from Mini to Standard, and they come in a variety of colors including Parti and Phantom. Labradoodles are known for being extremely friendly and wise, often making them great companions for children and families. They are eager to please, and are highly trainable, making them a perfect pet for obedience and agility training. Are Labradoodle puppies for sale in Newport Beach non-shedding? Labradoodles are generally low-shedding or non-shedding dogs. While some Labradoodles may shed a bit more than others, they still tend to generate far less fur on their coats than other breeds of dogs. These types of coats help reduce shedding because there are no loose hairs that can easily be left behind on furniture, clothing, carpeting, etc. What's the best dog food for Newport Beach Labradoodle puppies for sale? Labradoodles are known for being very active and energetic dogs, so it is important to provide them with an age-appropriate and nutritious diet. To ensure the best nutrition, choose a high-quality, all-natural dog food that contains a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Look for dog food that is specifically formulated for Labradoodles or other large breeds. Your veterinarian or a knowledgeable pet store employee can help you select the right food for your pup. Am I ready to adopt Labradoodle puppies in Newport Beach? To prepare your home for a new Labradoodle, you should first consider what type of environment the dog will be living in as well as the other animals living there. If there are children in the home, you'll want to look into setting boundaries around playtime. Decide in advance what space is the dog's and mark it off with a gate or baby barrier to limit access to certain areas. Are Labradoodles for sale in Newport Beach considered small dogs? Labradoodles can vary greatly in size depending on the genetics of the parent breeds used in the cross. They range from small, toy-sized Labradoodles to large, Standard-sized Labradoodles. Generally, a toy-sized Labradoodle stands between inches at the shoulder, while a Standard-sized Labradoodle will be between inches at the shoulder, providing a range in size for what can generally be considered a small-to-medium sized dog. How many minutes per day should I walk Labradoodle puppies near Newport Beach? The amount of exercise your Labradoodle needs depends on the age and energy level of your pet. Generally, a healthy Labradoodle needs at least 30 minutes of walking every day. A younger dog may enjoy longer walks of up to an hour each day. Of course, you should always be mindful of weather conditions, health concerns, and your Labradoodle's specific needs. Additionally, it's important to provide ample opportunities for playtime and interaction with other dogs in order to keep your pup happy. Are Labradoodles in Newport Beach good family dogs? Yes, Labradoodles make excellent family pets. These intelligent, friendly, and loving dogs get along well with children, other pets, and strangers. They thrive with daily playtime, exercise, and companionship, which makes them a perfect option for families with active lifestyles. In addition, Labradoodles have a low to non-shedding coat, so they are great for people who suffer from allergies. In addition, they are an incredibly easy breed to train, so they have the capacity to pick up quite a few commands throughout their lifetime. Are Newport Beach Labradoodles for sale considered smart dogs? Labradoodles are undeniably intelligent dogs. Their parent breeds, the Labradors and Poodles, are among the most intelligent canines, providing them with a natural aptitude for learning. Loyal and eager to please, Labradoodles excel at a variety of canine tasks such as agility, obedience, dock jumping and even acting. They have reliably displayed the ability to comprehend words and respond to commands by an early age. Labradoodles also possess an astute emotional knowing adjusting their behavior according to the mood of their owners.

You may find yourself on the dog food isle trying to make sense of all the ingredients, types of foods and categories. And all you want to know is… How often and what should I feed my Pug? Every dog is different, every type of food has its specific quantities and it even varies between brands. Start simple and figure out all the details and methods. I have collected information about the different types, brands pros and cons of dog feeding to try and give an unbiased as much as I can look, so you can make a better-informed choice which will be right for you and your Pug. Remember, people care deeply about their dogs and will often get very emotional about the health and feeding they chose. Having been the owner of a pet store, I have learned that although I have my personal preferences and very good reasons for them, others may have different choices and they believe they are the right ones for them. There are a lot of issues to consider. How Many times a day should I feed My Pug? A mature Pug can easily live a healthy life with one meal which provides all his nutritional needs. In most cases, it is more convenient for both us and the pug to split this to two meals. If your Pug had a full meal in the morning, be sure he will nag you like crazy in the afternoon. Puppies have smaller stomachs and need, relative to their size, a larger quantity of food so it is better to break it up to three or even four meals a day. If you are around your Pug all day and prefer to give 4 meals a day to a mature dog, there is no harm in it, as long as the overall daily quantity stays the same. Free Buffet or Set meals? Pugs are notorious for becoming overweight and need to be limited to a set amount. If your Pug is not typical in that sense, you are welcome to put the full daily portion in the bowl and see how long it lasts. One more reason for set meals is monitoring. You want to know how much you Pug eats. If you want your Pug to lose weight, you need to know how much he is eating in order to cut down. On the flip side, if your Pug is not eating the usual amounts it may be an indication of a medical condition. What food do Pugs Eat? Pugs love food. They love treats, dry food, wet food, table scraps, raw meat, cooked meat, spicy meat and meat gone bad. In rural areas and farms, they may have also got more meaty scraps. Our Pugs who grew up with Emperors and Royalty were probably treated to high quality scraps. Today, dry bagged kibble or canned wet food are the standard for most homes, although there is a growing number of people and companies promoting more natural diets of either raw or cooked food for dogs. Every type of food claims to be the healthiest, more appropriate, tailored and nutritional. Kibble Kibble is the most common dog food available and has become the staple for the average dog. Pros of Kibble The makers of dry food claim it has the most balanced and scientifically based formulas to provide the best nutrition for a dog. They also tailor these formulas to dogs of different size, breed, age or other needs. Even the most discerning dog owners should be able a composition to satisfy them. The ingredient list is unclear and misleading. There are numerous food recalls yearly. There are websites dedicated just to keep up with the recalls. Teeth are going to need cleaning. Wet canned food Aside from the meatier texture and the higher water content, there is little difference between kibble and the canned, wet counterpart. The ingredients can be similar and so are the health benefits. Some dog owners report that wet food makes for softer stools when fed exclusively. Many dog owners will give a combination of wet and dry food. Home cooked As with human food there is a growing number of people fed up Pun intended with commercial and over engineered food. Raw food Also called the BARF Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods , the idea behind it is that the dogs digestive system has not evolved as their behavior, and much like wild dogs or wolves, they should eat the equivalent to small animals they would pray on in nature. Since dogs are also scavengers this diet will include some vegetables, berries etc. The pros As with the home-cooked diet, you have total control of ingredients and quality No preservatives, additives, fillers etc. You need to learn how to make, takes time Ingredients like bones and internal organs may not be available in your area. Can be pricy. Even More expensive if buying ready and frozen. Takes freezer space Raw Disclaimer I am a little bias towards raw food. I used to own a pet food store specializing in raw food for cats and dogs and I have been feeding my own Pugs raw food for over twelve years. Obviously, I am very happy with the raw diet and its outcomes as switching to dry food would have been easy and cheap. I believe it is the better choice for myself and my dogs. I believe I have presented the facts fairly objectively as far as the other feeding options go. There is no standard or way to measure what natural is and what the added value of it is other then the origin of it. Natural color could come from some secretion of an insect. Special Needs Puppies These little ones need the most nutritious and high-quality food you can find. If you want to find an economic way to feed your dog, please do it later in his life. Allergies Pugs are relatively sensitive to allergies. In some cases, this is due to an external source such as home detergents, but more often than not it has to do with their diet. There are a few brands that you can try with low, or no grain. If you are feeding your pug home cooked food or a raw diet, taking the carbs and grain out would be easy. Our Pugs were and are on a raw diet from day one and we never had any issues with allergies, except for one time. We started noticing that Preston had pinkish skin around his paws and around the nose fold. Since we owned a pet food store specializing in raw food, at the time convenient, I know we tried different types of meats, but nothing helped. It took us some time to realize the cause. We had our baby daughter at the time, and since she was very close and intimate with Preston, and he was eating raw, we made sure to wipe his mouth and feet with baby wipes after every meal. The baby wipes were the culprits. We switched them both to hypo-allergenic wipes and the skin went back to normal… Hip Dysplasia Pugs are ranked as one of the breeds with the highest chances of suffering from Hip Dysplasia. This can lead to trouble in walking and running and arthritis may follow as well. If your Pug is suffering from Hip Dysplasia to any extent you may want to either supplement their diet with Chondroitin and Glucosamine or to choose a brand that is made for joint support. Vets and nutrition. Having said that, if I needed nutritional advice, I would go to a nutritionist and not to my Doctor. The nutrition training vets get in many schools is provided by agents of the commercial food companies who are bias at best. Skipping meals Dogs will sometimes skip a meal. It is natural for them as food is not something that was always available on daily base. It is not typical for Pugs but it may happen. If it happens it will probably be a one meal deal. If your Pug misses a few meals in a row you may want to consult a vet. Treats and snacks I try and think of treats and snacks the same way I think of candy for my daughters. If the amount of treats your Pug is rivals the actual food, in quantity, you should reconsider or at least re calculate it. If you are using kibble both at meals and as treats for training, and your stubborn Pug ends up consuming a lot of treats, just take it off the next meal. The same goes for snacks. They should be a part of the total daily feeding and not extra. How long can a pug go without eating? An adult Pug can probably survive many days without food, but no Pug would stand for it. Unless your Pug has a medical condition, he will surely let you know he is hungry. Do make sure that your Pug is not deprived of fresh drinking water at all times. More so if the weather is hot and if he is on a dry food diet and has no other source of hydration. What if my Pug is overweight? Pugs love to eat and have a tendency to eat too much. A chubby Pug is very cute, but at some point, it becomes a health issue. Overweight Pugs may suffer from a wide range of conditions and or aggravate others. Conclusion Food is an important part of your Pugs life and will directly affect his health and well-being. Do make sure you know what your Pug is eating, the quality as well as the quantities. Actually, yes. This is an actual condition called Eye Displacement or Proptosis. It is not a common occurrence but with extreme trauma or circumstances it may happen. In most cases the condition is treatable. More on the condition here… Are Pugs Loving? Pugs have been bred as companion dogs for over two thousand years. Being with people is almost in their DNA. So yes, Pugs love to cuddle, snuggle and just be in contact or as close as they can to their human friends. More on Pug Love here. Best Dog Foods for Pugs Choosing the right dog food for a Pug is essential as this will ensure that it gets proper nutrition. However, this can be challenging and time-consuming, considering that there is a lot to choose from. Whether you choose to feed your Pug commercial, homemade food, or raw food, make sure that they are of good quality and recommended by a trusted veterinarian. Proper nutrition is one of the factors that affect their lifespan. Below is a list of the best dog food choices for your Pug: Dry Food: One of the best options for Pugs is dry dog food as it is widely available, cheap, and has a long shelf life. These are packed with all the nutrients essential for your Pug. Wet Food: Wet dog food is another good option for Pugs. Its flavor and texture make it more appealing to Pugs than dry food. Wet food contains fewer grains, making it healthier and easier to digest. However, wet canned food has a shorter shelf life and should be consumed immediately after opening. Wet foods are also more expensive than dry foods. Homemade Food: Your Pug may benefit from cooked food consisting of chicken, eggs, fish, rice, and vegetables. The process is time-consuming, but it is less expensive and more convenient in the long run, especially if you plan on giving them a grain-free diet. Raw Food: Raw food diet for most Pugs results in better digestion, healthy skin, and a stronger immune system in Pugs. Mixing any of the aforementioned food choices is also good. Hence, you may want to try dog food alternatives to fit your budget. With their sensitive little stomachs, some foods can be poisonous, cause allergic reactions, and can even be lethal. Below is a list of food that you should completely avoid feeding to your Pug: Alcohol: Any amount of alcohol is hazardous for Pugs. Pugs do not have the enzyme to metabolize alcohol. Ingestion can cause hypoglycemia , metabolic acidosis , breathing problems, and central nervous system CNS impairment. Avocado: Avocado contains persin , a fungicidal toxin that has been linked to the death of many animals, including Pugs. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and heart damage in large quantities. As a result, even small amounts of chocolate can cause poisoning. Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins contain tartaric acid , which causes vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and kidney failure among Pugs. Unfortunately, even one whole grape can cause irreversible damage and death in small breeds like Pugs. Macadamia nuts and walnuts: While the exact reason why they are poisonous is unknown, it is best to avoid giving them to your Pugs entirely. In Pugs, macadamia and walnuts can cause diarrhea, weakness, breathing problems, and pancreatitis. Onion, garlic, leeks, and chives: All these vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide , which damages the oxygen-carrying substances in red blood cells. Ingestion of these vegetables can eventually lead to hemolytic anemia. Xylitol: In Pugs, xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia, lethargy, collapse, and seizures. It is frequently found in gums, candies, syrups, and toothpaste. Pugs should avoid the foods listed above at all costs. Food with high sugar content: If your Pug consumes too much sugar, it is more likely to develop health problems such as diabetes, obesity, and tooth decay. Food with high sugar content can also give Pugs an upset stomach. Salty food: Just like sugar, too much salt can cause health problems in Pugs. If left unchecked, it has the potential to poison your Pug. Excessive salt consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and kidney failure. Milk and dairy products: Because the majority of Pugs are lactose intolerant , dairy products can make them sick. They will have digestive problems because they are unable to break down lactose. This causes gastrointestinal blockage and death if left unattended. If you think your Pug has accidentally ingested any of the aforementioned foods, bring your dog to the nearest veterinary clinic for appropriate treatment. Transitioning to a new brand or type of food may be beneficial to their well-being and development. For most dogs, transitioning to new dog food can be difficult. Fortunately, Pugs are not born picky eaters, so changing their diet will be easier. The ideal transition for Pugs should be gradual changes spread over three weeks. Do this until they are comfortable with the new food. Below is a more detailed breakdown of how to transition your Pug to a new food: Days. Aug 25, Share An important part of taking good care of your Pug puppy is making sure that they are properly fed and that they get all the nutrients that they need to grow strong and healthy. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and if your Pug is like most, they seem to like anything that they are fed. Luckily, there are many commercial foods available on the market. There is also the raw doggy food diet that seems to keep getting more popular as time goes on. But what kind of dog food is right for your Pug? How much should you be feeding them? What will the dog not eat? Are there special considerations for a senior Pug? The answers to these questions and more can be found in our Pug feeding guide below. What you do decide to feed your pooch should be based on the quality of the food, no matter the type, and your personal feeding preferences. Here is what can be on the table for your Pug. Image credit: PxHere Commercial Dry Food Kibble Commonly referred to as kibble, commercial dry dog food is the most common and widely available option on the market. Manufacturers of this type of food work hard to balance the ingredients and create a completely balanced nutritional profile for dogs like your Pug. In fact, some brands, like Royal Canin, offer puppy and adult foods made just for Pugs. Whether you choose a dry dog food made just for Pugs or one made for dogs in general, it should include real meat or animal meal as one of the first ingredients on the list. The upside to commercial dry dog food is that it is affordable and easy to administer. It is also typically easy to store for the long term without worrying about it spoiling. The downside is that it tends to be dehydrating, so water should be available to your Pug throughout the day. Commercial Wet Food Commercially made wet dog food tends to be more nutrient-dense than dry food because it contains fresher ingredients and usually has fewer grains, if any at all. Most wet foods have real whole meat or seafood and broth as the first ingredients. Sometimes, veggies are thrown in for good measure, but many are meat-centric to meet the high protein needs of your growing Pug. Wet food is not as easy to store as dry food is, because it must be refrigerated after being opened. However, Pugs tend to enjoy the flavor and texture of wet food more than dry. Wet food is also a little more expensive than dry food, especially when trying to feed Pugs that are full-grown and in their prime. Raw Food A raw food diet is said to result in better digestion, a healthier coat and immune system , optimal dental health, and less susceptibility to allergies among other things. A raw food diet typically consists of quality meat, a source of calcium such as bones , animal organs, and a lower fat count than most commercial foods offer. Feeding your Pug a raw food diet will take commitment and a strong understanding of the nutrition that they need. This type of diet can be expensive and can require storage space in the fridge and freezer. It is recommended that you consult with a veterinarian to put together a complete meal plan to follow if you choose to go this route. It is a freeze-dried raw food supplement that is delicious and nutritious. The process requires about a day of cooking in the kitchen, but the time that you spend in your kitchen should yield enough food for your pooch to eat all week long. You will just have to store the leftovers in the fridge each day until the entire batch has been offered and consumed. Homemade dog food usually consists of whole meat like chicken, eggs, fish oil or flaxseed, brown or white rice, possibly vegetables like carrots and peas , and maybe even supplements of some kind. It depends on what kind of recipe you decide to follow. Any recipe that you consider feeding your dog should be approved by your veterinarian first. But you can quickly tell whether your pooch is being underfed or overfed by checking out their physique every day. If your dog is underfed for too long, you could notice signs like lethargy and an unwillingness to interact with family members. If your dog is overfed, they may succumb to problems like diabetes. If you find that your dog is getting underweight, start feeding them up to an extra cup of food each day. Reduce the amount by up to a cup if your dog is getting pudgy and out of shape. To help avoid under and overfeeding your dog, follow the feeding directions on the packaging of any commercial food you buy for them. If you decide to go the raw or homemade food route, your veterinarian can provide you with a feeding guide. You are free to use this image, but please give credit back to Hepper. Extra immune support is also typically present in puppy food. Once Pugs become adults, they are not as active as when they were pups, and they are not growing at exponential rates, if at all. Therefore, they need food with less protein than what puppies get. Pugs can typically switch to adult dog food between the ages of 9 and 12 months because much of their growth will be complete at this time. The tricky part is the actual process of switching your pooch from puppy to adult dog food. If not done slowly and intentionally, switching to a new food can cause digestion issues for your dog that could create messes around the house. Lethargy and nausea may follow. Finally, offer only adult food. There are many reasons why your Pug might seem like they do not have an appetite. The first thing to consider is whether you are overfeeding them. If your pooch does not want to eat their last meal of the day, they could simply be full and satisfied. However, other issues could lead to a pup not eating such as: Dental Problems. If your Pug has a toothache or some other kind of dental problem, they may not be comfortable eating. Check for red gums, bleeding, and tenderness throughout the mouth. If something unusual is detected, consult your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Recent Vaccinations. Vaccines can cause side effects, including a lack of appetite. So, if your Pug does not seem to want to eat for a day or two after getting vaccinated, this is normal. Uncomfortable Surroundings. If your pooch goes on an adventure with you and is expected to eat their meal in a situation that is not familiar to them, they may pass on the meal altogether in favor of waiting until they get to what they feel is a safe space to eat. Even if your dog seems fine in every other way, a lack of wanting to eat could mean an illness of some kind is brewing. If you cannot find any other reason for a lack of appetite, you should see your vet as soon as possible. Adult Pugs will generally eat about a cup of dry commercial dog food each day or the equivalent, although certain differences might scale this amount up or down as time goes on. Here are the most important factors to consider. Active vs. Sedentary More active dogs will require more food than those that tend to be sedentary. If your pooch takes multiple walks every day, spends a great deal of time playing with kids throughout the day, or enjoys outdoor time with family members each afternoon, chances are that your dog will need a little more food than the average pooch. If your pooch takes only one short walk each day and spends most of their time lounging around the house, chances are that they should be fed as sedentary dogs. Spayed vs. Neutered Sometimes, dogs that are not spayed or neutered eat more than the average pooch. This is because they tend to be more active and excitable, which results in the need for more calories to support their energy needs. Pregnancy Pregnant Pugs need up to twice the amount of food that an adult dog would need. Instead of feeding your pregnant dog puppy or adult food, consider a food designed for all life stages that indicates its suitability for pregnancy. This type of food offers more protein and fat than adult food to support the extra growth they go through, but not as much as puppy food, which could make them overweight after the birth. What Foods Are Bad for Pugs? Image By: Momentmal, Pixabay There are a few foods that you should never feed your Pug to ensure their good health and to avoid serious problems like poisoning and even death. Here are a few food items that should be avoided at all costs: Alcohol. This feeding routine should be followed from 8 weeks to 6 months old. But how much food should that be exactly in each feeding session. How many cups of food should I feed my Pug puppy and adults? Before you check out this Pug feeding chart below, you may just want a quick reference to how many cups of food you need to feed a Pug. The common guidelines say you should feed a Pug puppy of 8 to 20 weeks different cup sizes depending on their weight and age. You can see the cup amounts in the chart here: Puppy feeding amounts This Pug puppy feeding chart explains just how many cups of food you should give them and the regularity. It will be 3 times a day, then twice a day as they get older. As your Pug ages, the number of cups of food you need to him or her will change, as will the regularity. Take a look at the guidance in the graphic below. Adult feeding amounts This is feeding chart for adult Pugs explaining how many cups and how often in the day the feeding times should be. The Pug feeding charts you see above have been scanned from the Royal Canin brand of dog food. This is a very trusted brand, and you will find it being sold in vets all over the world. It contains all the nutrients your Pug puppy will need and is great for starting out with and into adult ages. Almost every time, this happens by the age of 3 weeks; and puppies should not leave their mother until at least 8 weeks of age. They will be like eating machines at this age because they have so much energy to burn. You could also try to sit your Pug down on some scales, but good luck with trying to make them sit still. Instead you can weigh yourself if you have accurate scales, and then get someone to pass you your Pug puppy to see what the difference is. The age of your Pug You might find it hard to get your Pug used to commercial dry food at first. The commercial puppy food should be high enough in calories and nutrients to make up for what they used to get from their mother. In terms of adjusting for their ages, Pug puppies of 8 to 12 weeks old can have one and half cups of food each day, split into 3 servings. By the ages of 6 to 9 months, Pug puppies will be in a regular eating routine where they drop to two meals a day — and this is how it will stay as adults. The dangers of over-feeding Some Pug owners might decide to go to 4 meals a day, but still with the same amount of food. This is because tinier Pugs might find the half a cup 3 times daily, too much of a large meal. Overfeeding is something to keep a strict eye on. If you feed your Pug puppy too much, he could get gastric dilatation-volvulus see definition on ACVS. This is the medical term for a twisted gut and can actually be fatal. Feeding more senior Pugs As Pugs get older, they will start to get less active. With reduced levels of energy comes the need for a lower calorie intake. But only if they are reducing their exercise due to age. With an older Pug you might start to see them putting on weight. If you do see weight gain, start to pull back on the portion sizes. Sometimes your vet may even recommend you go to a higher frequency of daily meals albeit smaller portions , almost like they are puppies again. With senior dogs this can help with weaker stomachs. Overweight or underweight? The average Pug puppy will weigh between 2 and 4 pounds at 8 weeks. These are healthy weight ranges. If you do have a Pug puppy who is clearly underweight, start to add a little bit more food to each of the daily meals until they come back into the health weight range. With overweight Pugs you do the exact opposite but mix more exercise into their daily routines as well. Handy Hint: If your Pug is losing or gaining weight and how much food they eat makes no difference, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Health problems related to Pug feeding Not all dogs are the same, and all the guidance on this page is very generic towards how much you should feed a Pug. The bottom line is that your vet will be able to properly tell you how much your Pug should eat due to their age and weight. Raw food vs. I understand why people feed their dog raw food though; they say commercial food has too many additives plus preservatives, fillers, wheat, corn, and proteins. Consult with your vet for a professional opinion. Pugs that eat their food far too quickly You should also monitor how quickly your Pug is eating. Puppies are used to having to compete for food, and even when they are home alone with you, they will still have an instinct to wolf their food down. This can cause indigestion and vomiting, so there are a few things you can do to slow their intake down. Use a muffin tin evenly spread the portions throughout the tin. The best dry dog foods should have a high percentage of meats and fish in. Omega-3s are healthy fats, so those will also be a good sign if listed. All of the notes and guidance are based on my own personal experience of raising puppies, with exception to the feeding schedule which is from the Canin dog food brand. However, the Canin Pug feeding charts you see, are exactly how I have fed my puppies and adult dogs. Once your dog reaches adulthood, the best times to feed your Pug will be breakfast and dinner times. Keep a regular feeding routine, and your Pug will stay at healthy as our dogs have! You might also like… If you have found this useful and are new to Pug ownership, you might find these other handy guides useful during the puppy phase:. And the total number of dogs all breeds in the reports are .So while this is something that should be monitored and many more studies need to be done, it's important to keep in mind that this is a very small number compared to the estimated 77 million dogs in the U. The latest update is that there are no recalls at this moment that are linked to this issue. The Best Food for Pug Puppies and Adults What to Avoid: Quite a few ingredients that are found in a lot of dog food brands can be severely detrimental to a Pug and cause everything from allergic reactions itching, rashes, wheezing, running eyes, etc. Corn which includes as corn germ meal, corn gluten meal, and corn bran High grain counts which includes high levels of wheat, oats, barley, and other cereal grains which may be listed as hominy feed. Rice can be an exception; with rice, the hull, bran layer, and cereal germ is removed and for this reason, rice is often tolerated very well. By-products which are animal body parts deemed unfit for human consumption and can include brain, lungs, undeveloped eggs, and more. Generic meats or oils which can legally include roadkill and deceased zoo animals. What to Look For: All-natural preservatives; there are vitamin blends that work very well to preserve dog food and this often will show as mixed tocopherols. Natural flavoring Protein will come from wholesome animal sources including chicken, turkey, lamb, fish, bison, and beef. There will be no by-products or generic meats. If you offer grains, gluten-free grains are usually best. No other fillers or controversial additives. Helpful extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin beneficial for joint health , omega-3, 6 for healthy skin and coat , probiotics for immune health and antioxidants to help prevent disease. Some of the best food for Pugs includes: Best Formulas with Grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health for Small Breeds. The base of this kibble is turkey and oatmeal which is easy on the stomach for most Pugs. There is also salmon, brown rice, peas, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, blueberries, and apples. There are excellent levels of a wide-range of vitamins and minerals, good levels of omega-3 and 6, and glucosamine and chondroitin which are extremely beneficial joint supplements for Pugs. This is made in the US. Note that this offers puppy and adult formulas as well as 'healthy weight' for Pugs that need to lose a few pounds, and a senior formula. This line of Halo offers holistic recipes. This one has non-GMO produce and meats that are antibiotic-free and hormone-free with factory-free farming. The grains in this are oatmeal and pearled barley which are generally known for being well-tolerated. This is sized ideally for Pugs, and has no artificial additives, by-products, or corn. And, this is made in the US. Best Grain-free Formulas: 1. This is one of the best grain-free kibbles for Pugs; it's really top-of-the-line. The base is chicken and turkey. There is a wide selection of vegetables and fruits compared to some other brands spinach, broccoli, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, apples and blueberries. Levels of omega fatty acids are ideal, via both salmon oil and flaxseed. And, there are good levels of glucosamine and chondroitin which as mentioned earlier are important for joint health. There is no corn, wheat, by-products, fillers, or artificial coloring, flavoring, or preservatives and this is made in the USA. This is another excellent choice that is formulated for dogs under 70 lbs. There are several great bases including lamb, beef, chicken, and salmon. There are zero chemical preservatives and no artificial ingredients. Added extras are healthy antioxidants, omega-3 and 6, and the very important glucosamine and chondroitin which are very beneficial for breeds like the Pug that are prone to joint and hip issues. This is a holistic kibble that offers non-GMO veggies and fruits and sustainably-sourced wild-caught fish and is ideal for Pugs that are carrying a few extra pounds. The base is salmon and whitefish, so most dogs love the taste. There are no chemical preservatives, corn, by-products, coloring, or fillers. Switching a Pug onto a Different Food If you just got a new Pug puppy, you may want to feed your little guy or gal something different than what was being given. And in many instances, this will be a good idea. The sooner you start your pup on a superior food that you've chosen yourself, the better. If you have an adult Pug, you may decide to switch foods due to an intolerance to certain ingredients some dogs do best with certain proteins like beef as opposed to chicken or vice-versa or maybe you realized that your Pug was not on the brand and you want to make a change. No matter the circumstances, if at all possible, it is best to change to a new brand of dog food in a gradual way because a quick switch can disrupt the digestive system. The goal should be a incremental change over the course of 3 weeks. Home Cooking Owners decide to home cook for their dogs for a variety of reasons: It can be less expensive; though, this depends quite a bit on what you buy and if you can purchase ingredients in bulk. It may be done to fully avoid preservatives, additives, by-products and other subpar ingredients; you know exactly what you are putting in. This can help avoid an intolerance or allergic reaction to an unknown ingredient. It is very flexible and adjustable. It can be a good choice for picky eaters. Other sources include beans such as lima beans, kidney beans, and butter beans must be cooked. Vegetables - This includes peas, carrots, spinach, zucchini, green beans, bell peppers, and butternut squash. You can also offer asparagus, kale, cauliflower, and broccoli in moderation since these foods can cause gas, Pumpkin in moderation is fine but typically reserved to help ease upset stomach issues. Fruits - This includes blueberries, raspberries both are low calorie, high in antioxidants, and water-packed , strawberries, huckleberries, banana, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, pear, peaches no pit , plums no pit , nectarines no pit , fresh pineapple, and apple no core, no seeds. Additional - This includes oatmeal plain , white or brown rice if no intolerance , quinoa, potato, sweet potato, cottage cheese, plain whole white yogurt, and eggs most dogs do best with scrambled eggs vs. Read more about home cooking for a Pug. Snacks and Treats We've covered the frequency of giving snacks and treats, but let's recap. Dry snacks, meant to satiate a dog in between meals should be given 3 to 4 times per day. And moist treats, meant to reward training and reinforce good behavior, should be given as needed. Now, the question remains on what to offer. All snacks and treats should be held to the same high standards that you have in place for your Pug's meals, meaning no synthetic preservatives, artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, soy, corn, by-products, high wheat levels, or generic meats. If your Pug's calorie intake needs to be carefully watched due to issues with weight gain, there will also be a need to opt for some low-calorie treats. And, to see more options, including moist treats for giving reward, continue on to the best snacks and treats for Pugs. After 2 to 3 days, if the problem has resolved, adding in additional ingredients can be done. Any diarrhea lasing longer than 3 days or moderate to severe vomiting lasting more than 12 hours should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian. Water Different elements will dictate just how much water a Pug dog requires , though a general rule of thumb is that each day, dogs need to drink about 1 ounce for each 1 pound. Offer bottled spring water or use a filter device like the. Related Articles: When a Pug is a Picky Eater - If you find yourself constantly scrambling to find foods that your Pug likes and their taste buds seem to change weekly, this will help you get things back on track. When a Pug is Always Hungry - If your Pug's appetite is ferocious and nothing seems to satisfy, these issues may be at the root of the problem. When a Pug Won't Eat - If your Pug puppy or dog refuses to eat or getting them to eat feels like a chore, these tips will help. How to Stop a Pug from Begging - If your Pug wants your food and is relentless about getting it, these guidelines will help stop this sort of behavior. Top 10 Pug Dog Eating Problems - A roundup of the most common eating-related issues seen with this breed and exact steps to resolve them. Do you have your book? All rights reserved. Privacy Policy We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Kibble, cans and specialty foods Proper Nutrition Since puppies need energy to grow big and strong, their food is higher in calories and packed with more nutrients. This includes more fat, protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. So always choose a food that is labelled for puppies. Since a Pug is a small toy breed , they will grow very quickly and reach adulthood much faster than larger breeds. Toy dog breeds actually need more calories per pound than larger breeds due to their higher metabolic rates. The structure of their flat muzzle and facial folds , while appealing to look at, unfortunately causes a number of serious health problems. This causes soft tissue to block the airways, making breathing very difficult. Their jaws and teeth can also cause them problems. Remember, slimmer is better. How Often To Feed Your Pug Puppy I always recommend feeding puppies small meals at scheduled times several hours apart, and then decreasing the frequency as they get older. For puppies under six months go with something like 7am, 12noon, 3pm then 6pm. As they grow you can reduce this routine to three or even two times a day, but there is no harm continuing with multiple feedings as long as you dividing their daily rations evenly. Kibble vs Canned Food Dried puppy kibble is affordable, easy to store and transport, and readily available. Serving is as simple as opening the package and pouring it into the bowl. Canned or wet food will sometimes offer more meat protein and fewer carbohydrates than kibble does, but you will usually pay more as well. Wet food is also associated with an increase in periodontal diseases , which is not ideal for a dog already prone to these issues. Specialty Pug Puppy Foods The introduction of breed-specific formulas to the market has made it even more confusing. However, there are some Pug puppy formulations that address some of their health issues that might be worth considering. Some kibble is designed in a shape and texture that makes it easier for short-nosed puppies to pick up and chew easily.

Different sizes and breeds of dog, naturally, need different amounts of food. But how much should you be feeding your English bulldog or puppy per day? How many cups of food should I feed my English Bulldog? How much you need to feed your English Bulldog will depend on their age and weight. It can vary between half a cup to 2 cups of food a day. Adult dogs are fed twice, puppies should be fed 3 times. English Bulldog puppies are still developing and will burn through calories quicker, meaning their feeding schedule should be 3 times a day. English Bulldog feeding chart and guide Below you can see an English Bulldog feeding chart which gives you a great overview of how many cups of food you should feed an English Bulldog puppy or adult. This is how many cups of food you should feed an English Bulldog puppy or adult according to the Royal Canin pet food company. How many cups of food should I feed my English Bulldog puppy? English Bulldog puppy at 2 months: 1 third of a cup, 3 times daily English Bulldog puppy at 3 months: 1 third of a cup, 3 times daily English Bulldog puppy at 4 months: 1 third of a cup, 3 times daily English Bulldog puppy at 5 months: Half a cup, twice a day English Bulldog puppy at 6 months: Half a cup, twice a day English Bulldog puppy at 7 to 12 months: Half a cup, twice a day This English Bulldog puppy feeding schedule should continue until they are 12 months old. After that point your English Bulldog is an adult and should switch to the recommended feeding guidelines shown on the feeding chart. What vets say about English Bulldog feeding amounts When you first get your English Bulldog, your vet should be able to recommend you an amount of food and how many times a day to feed them. Puppies need less food than an adult dog, and as the dog gets older you will gradually have to increase the amount of food you give them. There are several different types of food available for dogs, each having its own pros and cons, and with each dog having their own preferences. Dry food: including kibble and flaked cereals, has very low moisture content, meaning that they will have a higher appetite. Dry food is also often made into dog treats and dog biscuits, which can be a great occasional in-between meal snack to keep your dog occupied or to reward them for good behaviour. Wet food: is far better for keeping your dog hydrated, cooked at high temperatures and being incredibly fresh. Unfortunately, they have a short shelf life when opened and can be a messy option for over-eager dogs. Semi-moist: has a combination of the chewiness of dry food with the hydration of wet food. Coming in sachets, they are a popular alternative for those who are unsure if wet or dry food is the best option for their dog. How much food should I feed my English Bulldog puppy? Feeding a puppy is rather different to feeding an adult dog, needing smaller amounts of food more often throughout the day, with their eating habits changing as they grow older. Your vet should be able to recommend an amount per day to feed your new bulldog puppy if you are unsure about how to understand the puppy feeding chart shown earlier. English Bulldog puppies are typically fed three times a day, with around a handful of kibble each time around a third of a cup per portion until they are around 6 months old. However, your vet may recommend a larger amount if they do not think they are getting enough. English Bulldog puppy feeding schedules will differ, with 3 times a day being recommended. When feeding English Bulldog puppies, make sure that the food is easily accessible, and that the food bowl or tray is not set too high that they struggle to eat it. English Bulldogs have naturally short muzzles and can sometimes struggle to lift their heads up high, so setting it lower down will make it easier for them to swallow. If your puppy is turning its nose up at its food, make sure it is fully hydrated and well before trying out a mixture of dry and wet foods; every dog has different preferences to food, so finding out what your puppy likes can really help make dinner time easier and less stressful for you both. Handy Hint: Your English Bully can throw up after eating too much food, but the vomit could also mean something else. Here are the top reasons why this breed throws up so much. What food is best for English Bulldogs? With so many different dog foods on the market, it can be difficult to choose what the best kind of dog food for your bulldog is. It contains Omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, as well as other antioxidants and vitamins. Made in the USA, it contains no fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors or added sugar. Natural Balance — Ultra Premium Wet Dog Food: made with real beef, this wet dog food comes in many different flavors such as Beef, Chicken, Lamb and Liver, all mixed with brown rice, carrots and potatoes. What human food can bulldogs eat? Sometimes you want to share your food with your English Bulldog, but you do have to be careful as many foods we eat every day can prove harmful if not fatal to our furry companions. Aside from meat, some other human foods that dogs can freely eat are: White and brown rice: with many dog foods containing some form of rice as an ingredient. Dairy products: in small quantities, this does not include lactose intolerant dogs, who should not eat dairy products at all. Peanut Butter: this is a favourite for many dogs, make sure that it is natural, unsalted peanut butter with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs. Fruit: such as blueberries, goji berries, bananas, cucumbers and watermelon are all suitable for dogs to eat. Make sure any watermelon has been deseeded before allowing your dog to eat it. Vegetables: everyone needs their five a day, and English Bulldogs do too. Green beans, carrots, peas, sweetcorn, cauliflower and broccoli are all safe for your dog to eat, with many already included in dog food. Related questions Now you know how many cups of food your English Bulldog should eat, the types of food they can eat, and what the best feeding schedule is see chart , you might want some extra information. What can English Bulldogs not eat? There are certain foods that English Bulldogs should never be allowed to eat. This is due to differences in their digestion and immune system that means that harmless human food such as chocolate is fatal to dogs. English Bulldogs will often eat whatever they can find, most dogs do, but what should you keep away from them? Chocolate: the best-known no-go treat. Dog-friendly chocolates are available, but human chocolate can cause major issues for dogs. Grapes: unlike other fruit, grapes can cause everything from nausea to kidney failure in dogs. Mushrooms: wild mushrooms are especially toxic to dogs, as they are humans. Other vegetables that dogs should avoid include asparagus and onions. Bacon: while the meat itself is fine, fatty and crispy bacon can cause your dog digestion and pancreatic issues, slowly losing its functionality over time. Macadamia nuts: these have only been recently discovered to be bad for dogs, although nearly all other animal species do not suffer the same issue. How many calories should an English Bulldog eat? While amounts of food per day are usually measured in cups for English Bulldogs, there are recommended guidelines about how many calories a bulldog should be eating, depending on its age. While your vet will be able to recommend a more personalised eating regimen, once your dog has grown out of its puppy stage, young, energetic adult dogs eat around 1, calories a day, while less active adults only need around 1, calories per day. A lot of this depends on how active your English Bulldog is on a day to day basis, dictating how many calories they burn off and how much needs to be replaced. Most packets, cans and bags of dog food contain a recommended serving size for certain types of dogs, so check the packaging for more information. Handy Hint: English Bulldogs need daily exercise. Conclusion Now that you know how many cups of food you need to feed your English Bulldog; I would also recommend implementing a decent exercise regime. Without it, your furry friend could develop a lot of health issues including diabetes. Especially if they start eating more cups of food that is recommended in the English Bulldog feeding guide. Vets say English Bulldogs should have at least 20 minutes of exercise each day. You might also like…. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.