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Often occur with allergies and intolerances. Skin inflammations Can be hereditary in certain breeds. Heart disease Can occur frequently in dogs and can sometimes be treated with medication. Breathing problems Dogs with shortened muzzles can often experience respiratory problems. Amyloidosis Amyloidosis refers to a group of diseases that share a common feature: the pathological abnormal deposition of a fibrous protein called amyloid in various tissues of the body. Several organs are often involved. What does a mix of English Bulldog and Shar-Pei look like? A mix of English Bulldog and Shar-Pei can look different, but typically has the head and body shape of an English Bulldog with the wrinkles of a Shar-Pei. How big do English Bulldogs and Shar-Pei mixes grow? English Bulldogs and Shar-Pei mixes can grow small to medium in size, depending on the size of the parents. They usually weigh between kg. What is the temperament of an English Bulldog and a Shar-Pei mix? English Bulldog and Shar-Pei mixes are usually friendly and good-natured, but can sometimes be strong-willed and stubborn. They usually get along well with other dogs and children. Do English Bulldog and Shar-Pei mixes make good pets? Yes, English Bulldogs and Shar-Pei mixes generally make good pets. They are generally affectionate and easy to train. However, they can sometimes be very strong-willed and stubborn. Therefore, it is important to be consistent in training and discipline. Author Sissi Author Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Since then she struts daily her steps with Loki through the world. The Beagdor Labrador-Beagle mix is a therapy dog for children and also accompanies her to schools. Secretly she fancies a French Bulldog as a second dog. Sissi is a blogger since , came on the dog .Useful Articles. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog living as long as possible. Make sure your dog is clean between the folds of their skin to keep them from getting infections. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. One of the toughest jobs in caring for any dog will be maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many dogs are prone to dental issues. You can do this yourself, or have a vet or groomer do it. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. Look for a high quality dog food. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do, it helps spread the oil through their coat. Bathe approximately every twelve weeks. Frequent baths can irritate their skin. After bathing, they need to be thoroughly dried between all the folds of their skin to keep them from getting yeast infections. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, odor, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Bull-Peis could go either way. If they are raised from puppyhood, chances are they will be overly protective every member of their home. Bull-Peis may be more suitable for households with older kids who know how to behave and interact with animals. They can get along well with other dogs, if they are raised with them. Close supervision around other animals is strongly recommended. This mixed breed could be prone to chasing cats and other small animals. Learn more about this pup by reading about their parent breeds, the Chinese Shar-Pei and English Bulldog. However, you may want to try English Bulldog or Shar-Pei breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. This way you know that you are getting the right information from them. They are noisy. Bull-Peis will snore and bark. They require a lot of food. The majority of Bull-Peis will get along quite well with children because of their English Bulldog part of the breed. Every interaction with little children needs to be supervised as this breed is very powerful. They are also likely to chase smaller pets in the household rather than another dog. A Bull-Pei is often fairly simple to train, even though some are more difficult and stubborn. While training, be consistent, patient, and firm. Training your Bull-Pei using positivity, praise, and rewards will be very effective. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They will play with the children and be loving and affectionate with them. They are also protective and will act to keep children safe. Make sure that you are socializing your Bull-Pei early. Before you bring your new puppy home, we want to let you know what you should expect from your new four-legged pal. This will help the transition be a lot easier for you and for your new dog. This will all help them to make the right recommendation for your Bull-Pei. She weighs about pounds and is still a puppy at heart. She is very much a 'social' dog and loves people and other dogs. She is still a great pet and is 'Queen' of our house! It is a cross between the English Bulldog and the Shar-Pei. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She has spent the day protecting our house, chasing squirrels and lizards, and barking at passing dogs. Now she has eaten her belly full and retired for a nap! She plays hard and sleeps hard. It's not unusual for her to wake us up during the night snoring. What a face! She is a very friendly dog and loves people, dogs and even cats. She never meets a stranger and can be very entertaining. She drinks from a bird bath and loves to hang over the tub and watch it fill up with water. She was very easy to housebreak, but prefers the outside. She loves to go on walks. She has a very muscular body and a soft coat. Overall, she is a great pet and this seems to be a good combination of breeds. She has tons of wrinkles and a nice, short coat. She is one of the pups from my current litter. Yazmin the Bull-Pei puppy at 7 weeks old walking around in the grass. She is 8 weeks old in these pictures. Her mother was a purebred English Bulldog and father a purebred Shar Pei. Her coat is all black. Inside her mouth is a tint of blackish blue on her top pallet and some black spots under her tongue. I wanted an English Bulldog and my husband wanted a Shar Pei so we met in the middle hoping that she will not have any of the major health problems from either breed. Although when we go to welcome another new family member into our home I believe we will go with a breeder who is looking to better the breed itself and stick with purebred. After all the back and forth I've read on the internet of people bashing each other over the mix of the two breeds. Of course pure dedication and proper training with time will tell. We believe in giving her the best chance at life and in doing so she is on high quality food and has a vet just a few blocks down the road. I believe if its a mixed breed or a purebred you should always give them the best chance at life. Although if everyone thought that way there would be no dogs in shelters either. Also be careful what you are getting yourself into with the mix of these two breeds, you may end up with an alpha and one very stubborn little pup. With proper training and hopefully she will find her place in our home and enjoy her life. I have been watching a lot of Cesar Millan and I am using a lot of his techniques to help with training. We brought our babygirl home when she was 8 weeks old. She is amazing around children of all ages and loves playing with dogs of all sizes. Cats on the other hand not so much she cries for them and is very interested but they don't like how she snorts all over them lol. One thing is for sure, when ever I get up in the middle of the night you can be sure to find her in my spot once I return!!! She is always trying to steal my spot at night!!! They are solid build, with thick necks, muscular and triangular in shape and are energetic engaging loyal companions. They have lots of wrinkles and loose skin but not all the health issues of a purebred English Bulldog. They are stout, solid fun loving loyal pets. I love their wrinkles! So, get this dog if your ultimate canine is a chill companion who appears quite distinguished. However, it is vital to do your homework about this pup before you take it home. You need to provide proper care and provide everything it needs. They are loyal and loving, and easy to train. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. If you want a dog but you are not so keen on exercise, then the Bull Pei may be for you as they do not require too much exercise. The only thing is that they are unpredictable as you never know which characteristic will be dominant. Generally, Bull Pei dogs are somewhat peaceful and not overly excitable. They can be playful and friendly like their Bulldog ancestors or tough, assured, and independent-minded like the Shar-Pei. These dogs are the happiest and content when they are around their family, so much so that they are never concerned about making friends outside the home. Bull Pei dogs are also reasonably easy to train except for some bit of stubbornness, as well as protective and highly adaptable thanks to their Shar-Pei strain. Are These Dogs Good for Families? A Bull Pei requires early socialization with owners, kids, strangers, and other pets to prevent aggressive tendencies and anxiety. An unsocialized Bull Pei is more likely to lash out towards strangers. It can also be a good companion and playmate for kids as long as you socialize them. The Bull Pei will be loving, affectionate, playful, protective, and quick to act to keep the children safe. However, their Chinese Shar-Pei parents have a dogfighting history, so your pup can instinctively challenge other dogs. Ensure you stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave its food out throughout the day. A Bull Pei is a heavy eater and requires 2 to 3 cups of dry dog food daily. Therefore, it would be best to split the food into two to three meals a day instead of one main meal. Offer your dog sufficient proteins and limit the treats. So your dog will appreciate a short exercise session every day if you want. Plus, this dog also has no issues staying alone for long. Plus, it is bright and works hard where there are rewards and praises. However, these dogs are somewhat independent-minded, a trait that can make them stubborn. You can prevent future training struggles by socializing and training your pup early. Be just be consistent and patient, and avoid scolding and punishments. As a result, they only need moderate maintenance to continue looking good and healthy. You may need to vacuum regularly, though, as these breeds shed moderately throughout the year and increase during the shedding season. Also, ensure that you give them monthly baths using dog shampoo and dry well, especially at wrinkly places. Be careful to ensure that no moisture or grime gets trapped in the wrinkles and folds on the skin, as it may irritate their skin and cause a foul odor. Also, clip long nails or ask a vet or groomer to help. But these dogs may inherit some conditions from either side of their heritage. Here are the most common health issues you may run into with your Bull Pei: Hypothyroidism This condition occurs when the thyroid glands fail to produce thyroxine hormones responsible for efficient cellular metabolism. As a result, you may notice signs like lethargy, temperature fluctuations, weight gain, low appetite, and fur loss. Demodectic Mange Demodectic or red mange is an inflammatory condition caused by the microscopic parasites known as Demodex mites. Reverse sneezing occurs in dogs with brachycephalic skulls, where the back of the head appears flattened. Other conditions that Bull Pei dog breeds experience include eye issues, patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, heat sensitivity, cancer, ear infections, and tartar buildup on the teeth. Minor Conditions.

Tue 25 Jul .The records paint a picture of a strong, growing dog increasingly out of control, including one episode when the first lady, Jill Biden , could not prevent him charging at an officer. According to the group , Commander, aged almost two, broke protocol at least 10 times in a five-month period, including three serious incidents that took place in the space of just a few weeks. Commander might be even more badly behaved than the records show. Judicial Watch points out that only the timeframe from September until January is covered by its request, and his first nine months at the White House, and the most recent six months, are excluded. Email exchanges between Secret Service agents and their managers reveal their disdain for Commander, whom the Bidens introduced in December in a video showing the president tossing a ball to him. Freaking clown needs a muzzle. Barely three weeks later, the situation had become more critical. A series of other biting incidents by Commander, some requiring medical treatment, were reported through November and December .According to Judicial Watch, the dog showed a pattern of aggression in which it would chase people as they walked then leap to bite them. The White House said the Bidens will provide more training and improved control techniques for Commander. Ten alleged attacks by Mr. Biden's German Shepherd, named Commander , were detailed in redacted pages of Secret Service emails, text messages and workers' compensation filings obtained by the conservative group Judicial Watch through a request under the Freedom of Information Act. The attacks took place over an approximately four-month period between October of and January of .None of the injuries described in the documents were serious. The officer said that the first lady "couldn't regain control of Commander and he continued to circle me. The officer in question was treated at the scene by White House medical staff, and was then taken to a hospital for further treatment, according to the documents. In a Dec. Biden, after the dog was taken off his leash, the emails show. The officer said they received treatment from White House medical personnel and was able to finish their shift. Biden "was present and convened in the very quick interaction of Commander and seemed concerned about" the agent, according to an unnamed assistant special agent in charge, who described the injured agent as remaining "professional, calm" and showing "a mature demeanor during and after in the incident. In an attack on Jan. The officer said they did not require medical attention. Commander was gifted to the Bidens as a puppy in December of following the death of their their German Shepherd "Champ" earlier that year. In , Biden's other German Shepherd, Major, was also involved in several similar biting incidents. In a statement provided to CBS News on Tuesday, Elizabeth Alexander, a spokesperson for the first lady, said that the White House has been "partnering with the Secret Service and Executive Residence staff on additional leashing protocols and training, as well as establishing designated areas for Commander to run and exercise. Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said in a separate statement that "for the past several presidential administrations, the Secret Services has navigated how to best operate around family pets and these incidents are no exception. Trending News.

Owner empowerment. Spay and neuter. Over the years, the organization has become part of a movement to stop backyard breeding, encourage breeding regulations, and bring more affordable and convenient services to the community through mobile spay and neuter. This has become our mission. Adoptable dogs Please check out some of the dogs we have available for adoption. If you see a dog you like, you can search our facebook page by their name for more information on them. Rex recently went up to another rescue in hopes that he could find a home. He just wants full run of the house and yard without restriction. He wants to be around his people instead of listen from afar. Can you blame him? This is the part of rescue that no one wants to talk about. Rex is a playful two-year-old who gets along well with other dogs socially but he does need to be an only dog in the home. No cats or toddlers, but otherwise he is the sweetest, most gentle boy! Ozzy This cutie pie was found on the streets of Bakersfield last year and ended up being a foster fail pretty quickly. At the time, he fit in well with the family and existing family dog but circumstances have changed with the addition of a toddler. Ozzy seems uncomfortable with this addition and we feel it would be best to put him in a home with older kids. Very intelligent and used his nose a lot. He would be a really fun dog in competitions like barn hunting! Dislikes: Nervous around toddlers, no on cats, can be fence aggressive toward other dogs and people walking by. This adds friction of you have two dogs in the backyard. We feel some training and direction would go a long way with him! Ozzy has learned some good things from him and they get along very well, but he has not been introduced to any other dogs. Keeping energy levels low, taking dogs on walks together, transitioning them into living together goes a long way! If you have a well socialized, confident dog that you would like to try out with Ozzie let us know! Ryder Ryder is a work in wonderful progress! He loves to be worked with and taught new things. He loves to be inside with you but he can also be a good boy when left outside. His reactivity to dogs has diminished drastically already. He loves going on walks though! He loves car rides. He seems to be between years old but he acts like a puppy. And a clown. He needs to be in a only dog home. Contact Us. If not, here is the form! Get a bite of what is happening at WCBR, our dogs, our amazing adopters and all the incredible people that keep this rescue going! Email Address Woot Woo! We will never keep you chained or leashed to our list. You can run free at anytime, unsubscribe at the bottom of any emails you receive. We are so excited to have you in the fun! His love and compassion for Boxers was felt by those who had the pleasure of spending time with him. Ken loved sports and spending time with friends. He also collected sports memorabilia and other collectibles like Hot Wheels. He truly loved Milo, featured in the the photo with him. Every time we received a message from him he included a picture of him and Milo. He never gave up hope that some treatment would be the ultimate cure. He worked as long as he could and made his journey to the light in late June. His weakened system just couldn't fight any longer. He will be deeply missed by WCBR, and we wish his family peace with his loss. Thank you to so many who have donated to WCBR in his memory. Ken will forever be in our hearts. We need your help. The number of Boxers being surrendered by families and in the shelters is overwhelming. We continue to receive owner surrenders a week, along with multiple pleas from surrounding shelters for Boxers in need. So many Boxer are coming from families that are no longer able to financially care for them, just don't want them, many are dealing with illness or the Boxer's pet parent has passed away, and many just are moving. Without the funding or foster homes, sadly we have to turn away these surrenders. Please Foster, Fund or be a Forever Home. Love to play and give kisses! Pete Rosado is from California, a boxer owner since , and breeds Boxers since .Mum is a 5 generation enhanced pedigree, pups will be KC registered, 1st jags, wormed, micro chipped, ready for collection from the .Male breeders since and we want to help you find the puppy your whole family will love. I'm looking for new homes for purebred boxer puppies. Their tails have been docked, and they have the first round of. She loves to be morgantown pets for sale classifieds for dogs, cats, and I usually let them Puppy 5 AKC registered located in Victoria Texas. They will have their first roun August 17, .The AKC had accepted the late-blooming Boxer in .Missy is a purebred dark brindle boxer. Buster - Boxer Puppy for Sale in go around 11 to 12 weeks of age. He looks at me when i call him deebo. We've connected loving homes to reputable breeders since and we want to help you find the. KC registered Boxer puppies for sale. Boxer puppies for sale sheffield. The Boxer was developed in Germany around through crossing German bulldogs with the English Bulldog. Boxers are medium to medium-large, standing 22 to 25 inches tall at the shoulders and weighing 50 to 80 pounds. This is the price you can expect to pay for the Boxer breed without breeding rights. Search results for: Boxer puppies and dogs for sale Bakersfield Boxer breeders near you using our free Boxer breeder search tool below! Sylvia Walters never planned to be in the food-service business. We love the boxer breed,strive to produce pups to AKC standard. The Boxer is a medium to large breed dog. We have a beautiful litter of 2 "Boxer" pups. Boxer puppies tails docked all shots dewormed dew claws removed mother and father are box. She loves to be california, bakersfield. Avoid scams by acting locally or paying with PayPal. Parrot for sale Bakersfield, California pic hide this posting restore restore this posting. If your looking for a less common cross-breed then please look under one of the parent breeds. Start your search now! Boxer, California » Bakersfield. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Boxer Dogs for Adoption. Find Purebred puppies and mixed breed dogs for sale or adoption here. Americanlisted has classifieds in Bakersfield, California for dogs and cats. Boxer puppies for sale Near Bakersfield, CA. Nice fawn Pets AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Two boxer puppies for. Rehoming my 4 months "Boxer" puppies. They come with AKC registration papers, copy of parents pe. Boxer puppies for sale Bakersfield, California. The average cost for all Boxers sold in the. Dam comes from Anchorage, Alaska. She is a playful but snuggly puppy. Use Petfinder to find adoptable pets in your area. The Molossus blood makes the hardworking Boxer dog courageous, bright, and alert. This doggie dedication starts at home, as every team member of our puppy adoption. Very couch potato. Doberman puppies for sale san jose. They enjoy challenges, both physical and mental good with children: Boxer puppies Bakersfield boxer's body is compact and powerful. If you are unable to find your Boxer puppy in. Tails docked and dew claws removed. While these dogs are definitely brave and smart, there's more to it—the breed is also famously affectionate and goofy male and female eddingschris.Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies for Sale. He's the biggest out of the pack and he's for sure going to grow up to really be big. Search results for: Boxer puppies and dogs for sale 2 girls. Brindle eye patch white healthy male boxer puppy. Boxer puppies for sale Bakersfield, California Introduction of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed originated in Germany and has been around since the late 19th century. Yooshin Kennels is a small-scale hobby kennel. Puppies for sale stockton craigslist. Boxer puppies male and female eddingschris.Cavapoo puppies for sale austin. One Flashy brindle male, One Semi-flashy brindle. Nice fawn Pets Texas Select a Breed. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. You should expect to pay a premium for a Boxer puppy with breeding rights or even Boxers for sale advertised as show quality with papers. Two boxer puppies for sale, 9 weeks male,foan and brown. Q the pitlover alabama, montgomery. Purebred boxer puppies for sale qld. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Contact bakersfield boxer breeders near you using our free boxer breeder search tool below! In the early 20th century, they were imported to America, and became exceptionally popular. Email: [email protected] Website: Trinity Cove Newfoundlands. Tails are docked, first set of shots done and. Boxer puppies for sale in Bakersfield CA The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. F1 refers to a live within households and are owned by people as pets or as working dogs, which makes them domestic for the most part. Boxer puppies Bakersfield Dogs for Sale or Adoption from claz. People love Boxer puppies for sale California for their playful personality, bravery, strength and intelligence! Boxer Puppies for Sale Boxers are upbeat, playful family dogs that have and female boxer puppies for sale. Freeman is a candidate for hospice, Meet Kona! Our boxer puppy for sale is a life long. With a multi champion bloodline from some of the best kennel's in Spain! Chris Rajlal. They enjoy challenges, both physical and mental good with children: Boxer puppies Bakersfield posting restore restore this posting. Adopt Boxer Dogs in California. She loves to be morgantown pets for sale classifieds for dogs, cats, and I usually let them go around 11 to 12 weeks of age. Sire comes from Atlanta, Georgia. Finding the perfect Boxer puppy has never been easier. NKC Registered , vaccinated! Instagram- martinezabulldogs. Wisconsin Border Collie Rescue WBCR is a c 3 nonprofit organization, and is the effort of a dedicated group of volunteering Male boxer puppies x 7 ready for new homes from 14th october wormed, Cute Full Breed Boxer puppies trying to find a sweet the home of. You will find Great Pyrenees dogs for adoption and puppies for sale under the listings here. Address — Heatherwood Dr, Bakersfield, CA Male boxer puppies x 7 ready for new homes from 14th october wormed, Address — Heatherwood Dr, Bakersfield, CA She loves to be morgantown pets for sale classifieds for dogs, cats, and I usually let them go around 11 to 12 weeks of age. Wisconsin Border Collie Rescue WBCR is a c 3 nonprofit organization, and is the effort of a dedicated group of volunteering this posting. Hathaway boxers are available from online stores as well as brick and mortar retailers. Blake - Boxer Puppy for of 8 weeks old. Boxer puppies for sale. Cute "Boxer" Puppies california, bakersfield. More informations Views 85 Listing id .Anything Look…Weird? For the best experience, we recommend you upgrade to the couch potato. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. They began breeding Boxer puppies in and have continued to expand, If there is one thing a Boxer is not, it is a couch potato. Why buy a Boxer puppy for sale if you can adopt and save a life? Look at pictures of Boxer puppies in Bakersfield who need a home. If you're looking for a mixed designer breed we have sections for the most common ones advertised on this site. Bakersfield California. I have x pure breed boxer pups that I need to re-home. Also, be sure to check the Boxer Dog Breeder listings in. Americanlisted has classifieds in Bakersfield, California for. We've connected loving homes to reputable it I have these beautiful Boxer puppies have shots and dewormed tails ducked their six weeks old. Females are smaller and stand between 18 to 21 inches and weigh 30 to 40 pounds. From the no-hassle health guarantees on all puppies for sale — to holding our accredited breeders to the highest standard — we put you and your new dog first. We've connected loving homes to reputable first-generation hybrid puppy that has different parent breeds. And What Determines The. Siberian husky pups for sale. We strive to educate upon and exhibit the wonderful Jindo breed within the English-speaking these online Boxer breeders for you to check as well. Mom and Dad are both healthy family dogs who get along well with kids. Single pairs of Hathaway boxers typi. Search results for: Boxer puppies and sugarcreek, OH. Adopt Boomer on Petfinder. August .She is avery family oriented, playful, silly girl she loves to run, play » Read more ». AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Our boxer puppies for sale near me provide you with companionship, friendship, unconditional love and security. Weimaraner puppies for sale craigslist. Pure breed "Boxer" puppies california, bakersfield. Puppies are seven weeks old. Puppyspot connects dog lovers with responsible breeders online. Male and female boxer puppies for sale. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to dogs and are often described as exuberant, extroverted and at the same time the clowns of the dog world. Attractive "Boxer" puppies for sale. Find items in Finds on Nextdoor - all listings are local. Vet checked and first inoculation done. Boxer Puppy or review it Akc Boxers puppies. Search results for: Boxer puppies and puppy. Dogs for Sale or Adoption from claz. Nickname: Litter of 5 on PuppyFinder. Border collie mix puppies washington. Questions about puppies for sale in Bakersfield? We have answers. What makes Uptown Puppies different from other puppy finders? If a breeder wants to join our network, they must first pass a stringent qualification process. Looking for puppies, Bakersfield? Can I only pick local puppies? Your search for puppies near Bakersfield is over! Want the puppy of your dreams? Uptown Puppies has you covered. We offer listings from all over the United States and breeders who can arrange travel everywhere. This means you can pick your puppy anywhere in the country! Most families choose to fly their pup to their nearest major airport to signal their arrival. Uptown is the best puppy finder Bakersfield, period! How do you screen breeders? We only work with the top breeders in the country to ensure that our puppies come from an ethical home. All of this effort guarantees a happy pup for you and your family! Looking for puppies for sale in Bakersfield, CA? Welcome home! What is a puppy mill? Puppy mills are the kind of business that absolutely nobody wants to be associated with. They provide unhealthy, uncomfortable living spaces for the puppies that live there and breed them under less-than-ideal conditions. The dogs inside of these mills are more likely to have debilitating genetic illnesses that can cause you to spend a lot at the vet or even lose your pup completely. What kind of dogs can I find here? Uptown Puppies is committed to your pet's health and happiness. We have a wide selection of breeds available for purchase. Find your dream dog, Bakersfield, CA! How do I get my puppy? Believe it or not, but most of the families who purchase puppies with our network choose air transportation to bring them home- which is both faster and better for your puppy. What are the most popular breeds of dogs here? Your mind is probably filled with a ton of different breeds of puppies. What are Doodles? Doodles are a group of hybrid breeds, which all have at least some Poodle heritage. There are many types of Doodles, each with their own characteristics and functions. One thing that all Doodles have in common, however, is that they were bred to be family dogs first and foremost. They were never meant to be working dogs, so they tend to be as hypoallergenic and non-shedding as possible. Do you have purebred dogs? Uptown offers purebred dogs in all shapes and sizes. Bakersfield puppies for sale, made easy. We're the 1 Bakersfield puppy finder! Do breeders in your network offer a health guarantee? To ensure your puppy exhibits stellar health, quality breeding practices are imperative. Our breeders are committed to the health of their puppies, ensuring all dogs are given a complete checkup, verified by an independent veterinarian before they go to their new homes. Is this legitimate? We all love dogs, and that's why we're your go-to website for finding puppies. By partnering with breeders who share our love of dogs and our pet adoption mission, we offer a wide variety of the best dog breeds. We want to make the whole process of adopting a new pet as easy as possible. Plus, we never forget to include the puppies! Is it easy to find a dog here? The search for puppies is easy on the puppy finder! You can find a wide variety of puppies with different breeds, colors, and sizes. Simply pick your favorite pup, and we drop you off at their breeder. They can then help you arrange transportation to the closest, most convenient airport. Meet the cutest puppies in Bakersfield, CA! 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Some of these you can help prevent, while others are out of your immediate control. If your GSD carries the genes for ears that lie down, instead of standing erect, then more than likely they will have floppy ears. This means they may have ears that never stand up and are floppy for life. Breeding Some breeders choose to pair parents that both have large, erect ears. And some buyers and owners prefer this larger style of ears for show or aesthetic purposes. But, there is some theory that breeding a German Shepherd with larger and larger ears might contribute to ears that stay flopped over. Always see the parents of the puppy you buy from the breeder on the premises to see their appearance. Physical Damage or Accidents Puppies are active and mischievous and can get into plenty of trouble. This includes physical damage or accidents that have the cartilage or muscles in their ears. If this happens their ears may suffer long-term damage and not stand up naturally on their own. So watch out for a rough play that might lead to ear damage. And, if your pup has been in an accident that hurt their ears, take them immediately to the vets. Improper and Poor Nutrition German Shepherds need balanced nutrition during crucial growing stages, including vitamins and minerals that aid in cartilage and muscle development of their ears. You should ensure your dog gets the right nutrition from the start to avoid any issues. Along with Vitamin D, calcium helps strengthen the cartilage to aid in building a strong foundation for the ears to stand up later. Neglecting Ear Cleaning Puppies still need ear cleaning when dirt and build-up are overly present. Dirty ears that become neglected can inhibit proper growth and cause discomfort for your dog, causing them to excessively scratch their ears which can cause damage. This could cause them more harm! Instead, wipe away the dirt from the skin of the ear with a warm, damp washcloth or use special ear cleaning wipes. A dog with one floppy ear and one ear upright is totally normal. Occasionally, your German Shepherd might have one floppy ear and one ear standing upright. If they are a small puppy then they are most likely growing and the one ear down still needs time to go upright naturally. These are some of the best techniques that will help their ears to stand up. They only need to sit inside the ear enough to support cartilage growth. Make sure you check for any creases or folds in their ears before moving on to the next step. Repeat in the other ear. Make a Popsicle Support Now, take the popsicle sticks and place them at the top of the foam rollers both ears should have foam rollers in them at this point. You might need another pair of hands to help with this, so ask your family or friends to help. Take the self-adhering waterproof tape and place a medium-size piece across and around the two foam rollers and popsicle sticks. This ensures even and symmetrical growth. Make a bridge across their ears instead. If your German Shepherd puppy is 9 months old and their ears still flop over, please see your vet for further assistance. When in doubt, get your vet to show you what to do for their ears. Your puppy might become annoyed with the tape on their ears, so they may need close supervision and even some distraction during the taping process. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a German Shepherd that has floppy ears and putting them at risk to have any unnecessary surgery to get their ears to stand up can cause them pain. Speak to your vet about the side effects and pain associated with ear implants. You can help prevent floppy ears in your dog by taking the appropriate steps to keep them healthy. The top ways to help a GSD with floppy ears include: 1. Feed them a high-quality food Giving your dog the proper nutrition for optimum growth is a necessity, especially when they are puppies and growing rapidly. Choose a puppy food with the correct ratio of nutrients and vitamins to ensure they get the correct building blocks for development. When you choose to give them treats, pick ones from this list of the best healthy dog treats for German Shepherd puppies. Provide them with the proper chew toys Chewing helps to strengthen the muscles that surround the ears. Or worse… Injure them. Learn to play and discipline a German Shepherd puppy the right way to avoid accidental ear injuries or damage. German Shepherds with ears that are floppy are a joy to own, no matter their age! Floppy ears are adorable and give your dog even more character. Go on, and find out what makes your companion the happiest dog on the planet! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Suffice to say that the dog has come a long way from its herding roots. Part of that perfect picture we have of these pups is the erect position of their ears. It gives them the qualities we associate with the breed, such as intelligence and confidence. Floppy ears strike us as a disconnect. These dogs have a dense coat that puts a lot of weight on their ears, relatively speaking. Also, large breeds like the German Shepherd mature more slowly than smaller dogs. It could just be a matter of time. That fact will come into play with the availability and price of the dog. It may have a disqualifying trait , such as floppy ears. This characteristic has a genetic component. Injury or Trauma Damaged the Cartilage Puppies sometimes play rough. They bite at each other, and sometimes the ears get the brunt of it. That often translates into slower healing times. Some manufactures produce tailor-made foods for specific breeds , such as the German Shepherd. That can go a long way to helping your dog recovering from an injury. It can interfere with air circulation in the ear canals, setting up the perfect storm for infections or mites. These conditions are horribly uncomfortable for your pup. Left untreated, it can cause a hematoma or swelling. This condition requires veterinary treatment. Several options exist, from aspirating or draining it to surgery. The best prevention is avoiding the conditions that caused the ear discomfort in the first place. All German Shepherds have floppy ears as puppies. The difference depends on when they start to change and stand up into their adult position. It can take several months. However, the number of adult dogs with floppy ears is about one in five. That may get its ears standing upright quicker. Taping the ears is usually part of the healing process when dogs get their ears cropped. The other concern is doing the procedure correctly. That could lead to ear trauma or a bowel obstruction if it swallows the materials. We suggest that you have your veterinarian do the job if you want to go this route. Final Thoughts The upright ears are an essential feature of the striking pose of the German Shepherd. Nature often has her plan for when that will happen in a puppy. Sometimes, it takes longer in pups with thicker fur or large ears. Healthy nutritional support will help the cartilage develop stronger and quicker. In the meantime, patience is the key. See also:. A common misconception that many people have is that German Shepherds have cropped ears that account for their erect posture. It often surprises some people to learn that the AKC standard calls for naturally erect, not cropped ears. GSD puppies are born with floppy ears set against the side of the head. As puppies mature, their ears usually start to stand up naturally. However, for various reasons, some dogs have ears that stay floppy. You can reasonably expect erect ears by around eight months old. This is because calcium that would generally nourish the ears is reallocated to the teeth during this time. You can expect the ears to become erect after the teething stops , around 20 weeks. After a puppy is no longer teething, they will start retaining enough cartilage in the ears to help hold them up. GSDs ears are heavier than they appear, and the cartilage must be sufficient to help keep that position. A sign of ears likely to stay erect are ears that become pointy once they start to stand. If your puppy reaches four or five months without any sign of the ears standing up, you might need to give them some help. When the ears are not erect by around seven or eight months, they will more than likely retain a floppy position. It is not something that is going to happen overnight. If you notice that your pup can prick their ears up or even just the tips of their ears by the time they are four to five months old, the chances are that the ears are developing normally and should become pointed without any intervention. The best thing to do is to keep your hands off their ears and avoid bending, rubbing, or folding their ears. If you notice that your German Shepherd is shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ears, it may be their attempt to relieve some kind of minor itchiness or irritation. However, if you notice that the head-shaking persists, then you should be concerned, especially as your pup grows. Any trauma to their ears before they reach four to five months of age can affect the cartilage and cause the ears to remain floppy rather than erect. Aural Haematoma: this is a blood blister found on the outer skin of the ear and can appear swollen. This condition is often the result of trauma due to vigorous ear shaking or a dog fight. However, if they are more serious, they will need to be removed surgically, and this can sometimes include the removal of part or all of the ear canal. If not, your pup will continue shaking their head and scratching, which can cause further injury and trauma to their ears. Skin Allergies: The head shaking and scratching may also be due to an allergy. For this, you may have to use antibiotics, antihistamines, or put your pup on a low allergy diet to treat their ears. For more information on avoiding dog ear infections and what to look for regarding causes and treatments, visit AKC. One of the more recognizable features of the German Shepherd dog breed is their large, erect ears and stoic expression. However, a lesser-known fact is that a German Shepherd puppy is born with floppy ears. So, how do you know what kind of ears your German Shepherd will have? The ears should also be pointed. If you got your German Shepherd from a reputable dog breeder, you could expect that their ears will stand erect after they are done teething. However, if you acquired your puppy from a puppy mill or there were less than desirable breeding practices or health problems, then your adult dog may end up with droopy ears. German Shepherd Ears Chart Although there is an official breed standard, in reality, German Shepherds have different types of ears, from ears that are set too high or too low to ears that are too large, asymmetrical, or too small. Some dogs even have ears pointing outwards or inwards or tilting one way. Overall, as you can see in our German Shepherd Ears Chart , there are at least 12 different types of German Shepherd ear shapes. Blood flow into the cartilage will likely increase when you do this, helping the ears keep their shape. Proper cleaning will help prevent infections that can be painful and costly to treat. Make sure you have a towel handy as you drop the ear cleaner into their ear. The towel can be used to clean up any mess as well as massage the ear cleaner solution in and around the ears. You can then use a cotton ball to remove any dirt or excess liquid. Chew Toys Sturdy chew toys will not only help keep your puppy busy but can also play a role in exercising the muscles supporting both the ears and jaws. Chewing helps with teething while also exercising their jaw and neck, and head muscles. Quality Diet The food that you feed your puppy should have high-quality, nutritious ingredients. Foods free from both wheat and corn are some of the best choices. You should also discuss supplementation with your veterinarian. Glucosamine, for example, helps to lubricate joints and supports healthy cartilage. For example, hearing certain noises that attract their attention or hearing their name can make them prick up their ears. Take advantage of this situation by praising them and providing a treat when they prick up their ears in response to this type of stimulus. They will associate pricking their ears up with getting a reward. Regularly Check for Parasites You also want to regularly check your dog out for parasites and ear mites. In addition, tapeworms and roundworms take away the essential nutrients your German Shepherd pup needs, which can ultimately cause poor health and other deficiencies. An ear mite infection can also cause your dog to itch, which causes them to shake their head excessively. Cartilage is extremely fragile and is prone to damage. If the cartilage becomes damaged, it can prove impossible for the ears to stand erect. However, keep in mind, this is invasive and does require your dog to go under anesthesia. They will also require pain medication following the surgery, and there will be a lengthy recovery time. Discuss Options with Your Vet You may want to consider having your vet make sure nothing is going on, like an ear infection. Some German Shepherds come from lines that carry genes that lead to floppier ears. Unfortunately, when genetics is the cause, there is little that owners can do aside from being more conscientious about ear health, which is a more significant concern in floppy-eared dogs. Many dogs from show lines, in particular, have larger ears that require more cartilage while the dog is growing to help support a more upright position. In many cases, these dogs will not have ears that stay upright. Broken Ear Cartilage German Shepherds can also end up with permanently floppy ears as a result of broken ear cartilage. This can happen in GSDs for a variety of reasons, including: Injuries. Well, there are a few different possible explanations. Causes can vary from age-related to genetic and medical issues. All puppies are born with soft, floppy ears. This is because the cartilage and muscles in their ears have not developed yet. Although some breeds, like Spaniels and Poodles, always have floppy ears, others, like most Shepherd breeds , almost always have pointy, pricked, upright ones. In such breeds, their ears should start to stand up between weeks of age as the bones and muscles in their bodies develop and strengthen. Are they both floppy — or is only one of them drooping whilst the other stands up normally? Teething Several young puppies experience floppy ears during teething. Teething is a period that all infant mammals go through, in which their baby or milk teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in. It starts at around three weeks old and ends at months of age, although it can take longer. So, their bodies may draw calcium out of other areas, such as the ears, weakening their skeletal structure and making them flop. You may even notice that their ears look different every day during this period. They might be up-right one day, then floppy the next, or even change throughout the day depending on their mood. Their ears will return back to their original shape as soon as their hormones calm down. Although most German Shepherds have up-right ears, some can have floppy or semi-pricked ones. Judges of dog shows and competitions also often look for large ears in the breed. Poor nutrition during puppyhood As mentioned above, calcium is needed to develop and strengthen the cartilage in the ears in order for them to stand up. Vitamin D is also needed to keep bones healthy and strong. This is especially common in rescue dogs that come from puppy farms, homelessness, and neglectful backgrounds. Always buy from reputable breeders! Other symptoms of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies include muscle spasms and joint issues. If severe, nutrient deficiencies can be deadly. Both conditions require urgent veterinary attention, and treatments will likely include special diets and supplements. Similar to malnutrition, this is common in dogs that come from a background of neglect or homelessness. A build-up of wax, debris, or dirt can make the ears heavy and cause them to droop. Poor hygiene As we mentioned above, poor ear hygiene can lead to drooping of the ears. It can also lead to smelliness and infection. All dogs have self-cleaning mechanisms in their ears. However, allergies and hormone imbalances can cause disruptions to the mechanisms, meaning they require some extra care. Dogs can be allergic to environmental allergens like pollen, household cleaning products, and foods like wheat and dairy. Other symptoms of allergies can include skin irritation, coughing, sneezing, runny noses and eyes, and stomach upsets. Each has different symptoms, but they often include drastic changes in energy, coat, thirst, appetite, and weight. German Shepherds are also particularly prone to experiencing hormonal disorders. Ear mites Another cause of ear drooping in German Shepherds is ear mites. Ear mites can be picked up outdoors, or from coming into contact with another animal with the condition. The inflammation from the infestation can cause droopiness in the affected ear. Other symptoms include excessive itchiness, and redness, bleeding, and swelling from the constant scratching. If left untreated, the infestation can cause disease, which can lead to hearing loss and balance issues. Infection Ear infections can be bacterial or fungal, and they can affect both the inner or outer ear. They are most often picked up after exposure to water, and the inflammation can cause the affected ear to droop. Other symptoms can include redness, swelling, irritation, discharge, and excessive head shaking or scratching at the ear. Vets can treat ear infections with antibacterial or antifungal medications, but they need to be treated quickly before they spread or cause permanent damage. Trauma Physical trauma to the ears can also cause them to droop. The most common trauma that causes changes to the shape of the ears in German Shepherds are bites from fighting with other dogs. If your dog has a visible injury to their ear, you should take them to see their vet to check it over and dress any wounds to prevent infection. Make sure to brush your GSD regularly, also around the head and ears — these dogs shed heavily! You can get these over-the-counter at your vet, online, or in a pet store. You can also use a few drops of olive oil for wax build-up, but not too much. To administer, get a towel and ask your dog to lie down in a comfortable place in the home. Then, massage the mase of their ears for around 30 seconds to help it loosen any wax or dirt. Finally, allow your dog to shake their head and use the towel to catch what comes out. That said, if they have particularly problem ears, you should ask your vet and do it however often they suggest, which could be weekly or monthly. However, this is very controversial. It is not yet illegal in the USA, but it is also not something that we would recommend outside of medical necessity, as it can be unnecessarily stressful and painful for dogs. The method known as taping is done by placing something, usually tape, inside the ear to make it stand up straight and grow into that position permanently. It can be effective when done during puppyhood and usually takes weeks to work. As we mentioned above, nutritional deficiencies can cause the ears to flop. Puppies should eat nutritionally complete and balanced food that is enriched with calcium, vitamin D, and DHA for healthy bone and brain development, as well as high-quality protein sources like chicken and fish for strong muscles, and tasty, fiber-rich fruits and veggies. All puppies should have a handful of strong, hardy chew toys to avoid being destroyed during teething, but they can also help the ears to stand up. This is because the ears are connected to the jaw. So, strong jaw muscles means stronger ears, too! Finally, you should avoid playing too rough with your pup and interacting with boisterous dogs to prevent accidents and traumas, which, as we mentioned above, could damage or change the shape of their ears. Dogs communicate with us owners in many ways; they bark, they growl, and they use their bodies. Body language is a key part of understanding how your dog is feeling. Dogs use their entire bodies to communicate; including their tails, their eyes, and their ears! This often happens when a suspicious stranger or an unknown or unfriendly dog is approaching, or when there is a strange noise inside the home. When their ears go back or downwards, it could simply mean that they are listening, or it could indicate either excitement or anxiety. Excited dogs may whine, wag their tails very quickly, and run towards what they are excited about. This happens a lot when dogs are greeting a loved one. An anxious dog, on the other hand, may lower their head and cower their bodies away from what is causing their anxiety. If they are frightened, they may also tremble and whine, and if they are feeling angry or threatened, they may show their teeth and growl. This can happen when a dog is exposed to a phobia or an aggressive dog. It can be difficult to determine exactly how a mixed dog will look. Different pups from the same litter can also present with different traits from their siblings. That said, certain traits, like short hair, for example, are genetically dominant and therefore will be passed on over others, like long hair, which is genetically recessive. Dominant traits are those that require only one copy of a specific gene for the trait to be passed down to a pup. Recessive traits, on the other hand, need two copies; one from each parent. So, which is dominant; pricked or floppy ears? The answer is — floppy ears! Floppy ears are genetically dominant to pricked ears in dogs. That said, different ear shapes in dogs does tend to reflect their original working purpose. For example, the Spaniel, a gun dog, has floppy ears that gather and hold scent particles. This helped them track down what they were looking for much faster back in the day. German Shepherds, on the other hand, along with other wolf-like breeds, such as the Siberian Husky , have pricked, pointed ears. This is thought to aid their hearing during guard work, keep their body temperature under control during strenuous hunts, and give them an alert look to ward off predators. This may be why people are statistically more likely to perceive dogs with pricked ears as more threatening, according to research conducted by James Madison University, USA, in .This is not necessarily true, however, as any dog lover will know. It is likely down to something old and instinctual, as they also discovered that people perceived coat colors differently, too. The type of ears that a dog has can affect their hearing. Whether a dog has pricked ears or floppy ears, they have 18 different muscles that control them to funnel sounds from all different directions. A healthy-hearing dog of any kind can still hear from 40 to 60, hertz, which is more than double what human ears can hear! Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Kentucky-raised English Cream Golden Retrievers since ! Our first golden retriever joined the family as we anticipated the arrival of our first child. From the time Jake dog and Aaron son stepped into our world, there has never been a moment without the excitement that children and goldens bring to a family. We live on 12 hilly acres just a few miles from Kentucky Lake. Our family has enjoyed boating, camping and fishing this area for the past 50 years. We enjoy sitting on our front porch and reading a good book, watching wildlife or visiting with friends. All these activities have been made richer by the presence of a 'friend that sticks close than a brother', a golden retriever. More than 10 goldens have called this hill home, and us, their family. Various shades of gold and a variety of personalities combine to bring unlimited joy and occasional mischief to the people who find their way to our porch and our home. Michael husband and Aaron son love the nostalgia and adventure found in this western setting. It is a most sincere form of flattery for the author, Larry McMurtry. We have always been very intentional in the dogs we choose to bring into our home. We are committed to finding the truest pedigree, the finest temperament, and the healthiest dogs for our family. We breed goldens for the joy of seeing other children and families experience what our family has enjoyed for years. We breed our females a limited number of times, and seek to produce the best puppy possible. We'd love to have you join the Hat Creek family of golden retriever owners. This is a gentle dog and if you acquire your Golden Retriever puppy in Kentucky, you will be delighted to find that your new pup is easy to train because this dog is smart. In time, your furry friend will be loyal, a friend to you and your family, and love to hunt. This is an excellent dog breed for the blind. She or he will be your companion and do quite well in houses or apartments and on the farm. Golden Retriever breeders in Kentucky will provide you with a beautiful puppy, easy to potty train, and will be active with lots of energy. They are swimmers and retrievers as well if you hunt for ducks or other wildfowl. These dogs sense emotions and can comfort you when you are feeling down. They love to please you and appreciate company while enjoying the run. Intelligent and engaging, Golden Retriever puppies are usually available in different sizes, colors, and shapes. Canadian Golden Retrievers are stockier having a light golden to white coat that is thinner than the American and English Golden Retriever pups. There are a lot of dog breeding businesses having deplorable puppy mills and scams. Find a reputable Golden Retriever breeder , such as the ones reviewed here. Your puppy should have undergone a thorough health assessment so that you know when you buy your puppy, he or she is happy and healthful. Golden Acres Farms Golden Acres Farm: Golden Retrievers in Kentucky The farm has two new buildings with fences so that you can see where the puppies and dogs are raised—all on 50 acres. A climate-controlled building is available for the dogs and puppies to go in and out as they like and they can play and romp in the fenced area. The farm is in Adair County about 7 miles from Columbia in cattle farming country on a dead-end road; and, the dogs love to bark at the cattle! Golden Acres Farms assure you that your new puppy will go home with you in the best of health. When you know which puppy you want, make a Puppy Deposit either online at their website or in person. You can also make a Puppy Reservation for a deposit when you are placed on the Reserve List. She also says that the puppies are well taken care of and loved! Emily will go back to Golden Acres Farms in the future and recommends this breeder highly. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Kentucky Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Kentucky? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Kentucky? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Welcome to Goldenstar Goldens Louisville, KY We have been breeding and raising goldens in our Kentucky home for over 35 years while showing in conformation, agility and obedience. The show quality goldens we breed all have four genetic clearances hips, elbows, hearts and eyes. Puppies are placed in loving pet family homes. We call them the velcro dogs… because they always want to be with you. Bobby lost his battle and I lost my husband of 30 years on September 20, .The last six months took ever ounce of my soul trying to be a good caregiver, and the last 21 days where …well there just are no words. So please bare with me as I try to find my life again. I can tell you that my dogs have been my salvation through all of this. They have given me purpose and filled a very sad heart with love. I would not be here without them. My golden family has grown to eight!!! These two have kept me on my toes to say the least, but they have also been so good for each other… Bella Stanley x Emmy joined the family in , and then in Skye joined the family. For what seemed a very brief moment I had eight goldens that I loved and cherished…then the most heart breaking thing happened… May 16, , I lost my precious heart boy, Toby! I will share the story on his page…. I am devastated! He and I were on a cloud that day… January , first time ever I have sent one of my girls Gabi out with professional handlers to enjoy the show ring. I was fortunate to get her first two points and put an International Champion title on her. Well, I have not been let down. She also has 20 Grand Champion points to date!!!!! Shows were cancelled and it took time to be able to get him out again. Deacon had all but three points to finish his title when I had the opportunity to send Deacon and Skye out with Carrie once again. Even winning grand champion points before coming home. Deacon even took a Best of Breed. The day Skye and Deacon both had Major wins!! Deacon finishes his championship. .Skye is close behind! Enjoy our site and our pictures. Road trip!!!!! Knoxville, TN November,

Check them out on Amazon here. To learn more about what to feed your golden retriever puppy, check out this article here. Brush Golden retrievers are obviously very fluffy and need to be brushed often. Check this brush out on Amazon here. Check it out on Amazon here. Chew Toy Check it out on Chewy here he had the size small. Plush Toy This is a plush, squeaky toy that will keep your puppy busy for hours. Interactive Toy Interactive toys allow you to play and bond with your puppy, and are great for teaching or reinforcing commands like drop it, sit and stay. Bonus Items The above list is for the bare necessities of what your puppy will need to get started. Below are some extra things that, although are not necessary, have come in pretty handy. Food Storage Container This is great for keeping food fresh and in a convenient place. Since we get the pound bag of food, we get this container that holds 42 pounds of food. Note that this container does not come with a scooper, so we recommend one like this that has measurements on it. Check out the storage container on Amazon here. Exercise Pen Exercise pens are great for confining your puppy to a smaller area while giving them more space to run around in than a crate. Using a combination of baby gates, exercise pens, and the crate will help you keep them safe while also keeping them from chewing up the house. Get this baby gate from Amazon here. Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook Getting everything you need will help you physically prepare for your puppy, but you also need to mentally prepare for your puppy. This book will help you know exactly what to do before you bring your puppy home, how to handle the first month which is the toughest month! Get the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook here. That means get their crate set up, have their food and water bowls in their designated places, and have a few welcome home toys set out to help your new pup have a great experience in your home right away. Find a veterinarian. Locate the nearest emergency animal hospital. Find both the nearest hospital, and the nearest 24 hour hospital. Find a puppy kindergarten class. If you ask any trainer, breeder, or veterinarian how to have a well-behaved pup, nearly all of them will recommend joining a puppy kindergarten class. The socialization aspect alone is worth it. Puppy-proof your house and yard. Get down on your hands and knees to see what your puppy will be seeing remember this: whatever can be chewed will be chewed , and make sure there are no puppy-sized holes that they could escape through in your backyard. For more tips on how to raise your new golden retriever puppy, check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook. Life With Your Golden Retriever Puppy Although this might seem like a pretty big list, if you have it all when you bring your puppy home with you, it will make the transition time that much easier. Take lots of pictures and videos! Have a question about any of these items? Let us know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is getting a puppy and needs to see this list, please share this with them! Related articles:. Food bowl There are endless options of food and water bowls. In addition, the bowl can prevent gagging, choking, vomiting, indigestion, bloat, GDV, and malabsorption. If you already have a dog bowl, you can simply add a slow feeder insert. Water bowl Ellie has an 8-cup YETI water bow l to keep her water cold for more extended periods and a 4-cup bowl for food. YETI allows you to customize each bowl with a name, initials, or image. Great as a gift! They help prevent your puppy from getting tangled up in the leash and provide better control. Make sure you check out their sizing guide for the appropriate fit. We added a crate pad for noise reduction and comfort. Crate training can be a lifesaver, and most dogs fall in love with having their own space. It is essential that the dog crate is never used as punishment — the crate must always be regarded as a safe and special retreat. Gates Puppies are curious creatures that often need boundaries. Use a gate to limit access to certain areas of your home and reduce unwanted chewing or house soiling. Introduce your dog to small sections of the house at a time. We prefer the walk-through gate for easy mobility through the house. Toys and Chews All dogs have slightly different preferences in toys, so I would start with various items to see what interests your puppy most. However, the last inch of a bully stick can be a choking hazard if swallowed. This safety device allows your pup to enjoy the benefits of long-term chews while reducing the risks of choking. I typically give it to her for 20 minutes, rinse it off, and store it in the refrigerator until the next day, which prevents bacteria growth. Note you probably want to keep it separate from your food. By Susan B. Barnes Susan B. Barnes is a lifestyle, food and travel journalist who is as comfortable bicycling through Italian olive groves and sampling fermented shark in Iceland as she is taking her dog on miles-long walks and hanging out at the dog park. Daily Paws' Editorial Guidelines Published on January 28, We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Though she's happy to snuggle and cuddle up with you, she's also an active dog who enjoys being outside, be that going on walks or hikes , to the dog park , or playing fetch in a fenced-in backyard. As a good dog parent, you want to be prepared for whatever adventures await the two of you, but taking a look at all of the products out there for dogs can be overwhelming. From the right collar, leash and harness setup to grooming needs, food bowls, road trip necessities, toys to burn off all that energy, plus a few goodies for the humans, this list has everything you need to take care of the most golden part of your life. Featuring a collar, leash, and waste bag dispenser, you'll be prepared for your walks and your golden will love all the compliments on how handsome she looks. This harness, with its padded chest and belly, is fully adjustable for a perfect fit with leash clips in the front and back. It comes in a variety of colors to coordinate with your dog's leash and collar, too. The adjustable height means the serving tray can grow with your golden, and the pads on the bottom prevent slipping while she eats and drinks. Place a mat under the bowls to catch any water droplets. The stainless steel bowls can be removed and popped into the dishwasher for easy cleaning. Not only will she have to slow down to find the food, but she'll essentially work out a puzzle which keeps her mentally stimulated, too. Choose to purchase just the cover and fill it yourself with old pillows, towels, sheets, or clothes, or you can opt to purchase their eco-friendly fill made from plastic bottles or their memory foam insert. The extra-large size is recommended for full-grown goldens. Not only does the shampoo leave your pup fresh and clean, but it moisturizes and conditions so that after-bath brushings are tangle-free. It's terrific for dogs with sensitive skin, too. With a dense outer coat and thick undercoat, it can take some time to brush out all the layers, but this undercoat rake makes quick work of their luscious locks. One Chewy reviewer wrote that the medium-tooth rake was "so wonderful to get my two golden retrievers' undercoat combed out. Also, the gel grip is quite easy to hold on to. The non-slip handle works for both right- and left-handed users, and ensures you maintain control to avoid any mishaps. One reviewer says: "I stumbled across these supplements while trying to find some joint relief for my golden, Sandy. After only a week I already saw some improvement in her movement and she had an easier time getting up into and out of the car, which was becoming a struggle. Her coat is also looking healthier and she seems to be less itchy. Not only does this fleece-lined coat fit snugly for maximum warmth, but it's waterproof and has reflective strips to stay safe during nighttime walks and winter hikes. They can also help older dogs find traction on slippery floors. Tip: use the printable sizing guide to measure your dog's feet before ordering to ensure a perfect fit. And send us videos of your dog trying them for the first time! This seat cover is not only comfortable for your pup, but waterproof, too. When it's time to go, simply lay the cover over the seat, loop straps around the head rests, push the anchors in, and voila—you're ready to hit the road! One way to do that is to use a harness that doubles as a seat belt: simply attach the harness to the seatbelt using a carabiner, and you'll both be on your way safely and comfortably. Fill the bottle, twist on the top that doubles as a bowl, and when your golden's ready for a drink, squeeze the bottle and water will fill the bowl. Release, and the water disappears back into the bottle. Pop some treats in the holes, cover them up, and watch your pup work her magic to figure out the puzzle and find those tasty rewards. Just like a ball you use to play fetch , this one flies through the air but when she retrieves it, she'll spend some time figuring out how to get to her favorite treats inside. When your pup drops the ball into the top of the launcher, it'll throw it 10, 25, or 40 feet; choose the "random" setting to keep her guessing. Buy Now Change up your game of fetch with this fun Frisbee alternative. This flying squirrel is made of a double canvas material that is durable enough to withstand rough play, yet still agile to spin and tumble in the air, keeping your golden guessing and enticed in play. Shop now: Chuckit! The sturdy sole ensures you'll stay on your feet, and the bone-printed liner is a fun and unexpected treat. Embroidered on percent cotton canvas, and if it gets a little dirty, simply pop it into the washing machine, air dry, and it'll be back on your furniture in no time. The rubber backing prevents slipping when your guests wipe their paws before stepping inside. It's hilarious enough to be a favorite gift for any golden lover on your list, too! Perfect for the dog park, running errands, around the house, or really anywhere you please! The design can also be used on totes, hats, and more. Read the full disclosure here. This comprehensive list covers all the essentials, plus some added extras. Food: Every dog needs food! See our puppy food guide for recommendations. Bowls: Your puppy is going to need something to eat that food from. Something to think about. Bedding: Your pup will need a comfortable bed to call their own. You can decide whether to choose a puppy-sized one or one that they can grown into. To avoid buying more than one crate, you can get one big enough to fit your adult golden and make it puppy-sized using dividers. Brushes: Get your puppy some brushes suitable for a longer-coated dog. The sooner you get pup used to being brushed, the easier it will be in the future. Toothbrush and toothpaste: These are daily essentials in your grooming routine. Be sure to choose a dog-specific toothpaste as the human stuff can be dangerous to canines. Treats: Essential for training. Pick high-value treats for when you really want to motivate your pup. Chew toys are essential to help direct chewing away from your belongings. Tug toys, balls to play fetch and treat-dispensing toys are also nice to have. Travel harness or dog guard: To keep your dog safe in the car. These are the main things you need to think about when puppy proofing your home. Put them up high or away in their proper place. Not only will it leave you out of pocket if your pup chews something expensive, many such items are also choking hazards. Be careful of plants: Make sure you remove any plants that are poisonous to dogs , both in your house and your garden. Common offenders include foxglove, wisteria and yew. Secure medicines and cleaning products: Both medicines and cleaning products can be highly toxic to dogs if ingested. Hide electrical cords: If a puppy sinks their teeth into an electrical cord, it can prove fatal. Try not to have electrical cords running across the room or out in the open where your puppy can get to them. If needs be, you can get cord concealers, cord wraps or even pvc pipes to secure them. Planning Appropriate Puppy Socialization Socialization, with both humans and other dogs plus other animals, if your new puppy is going to be around them , is one of the most important things to think about with your new puppy. A well-socialized puppy should turn into an adult dog who interacts well with all dogs and people, which makes your life so much easier as a dog-owner. It might sound a bit over the top, but it will stop your pup from getting confused or overstimulated and it sets some ground rules for the humans involved, too. Pick out regular meal times for your puppy and try to stick to them as closely as possible. Also take your puppy out into the garden on a schedule, as this will really help with toilet training. You can also schedule in training sessions, play sessions and, when your puppy is old enough, their daily walks. Learning How To Train Your Puppy You might think that training your new dog will be intuitive when you get them home, but dog training is a skill you learn, not one you just pick up as you go along. Once your puppy is old enough, group puppy training classes are an excellent idea. Not only will you learn more about training your pup, your dog will also get to socialize with other young canines. The ideal option is to have the puppy in the back seat in a car harness and have a passenger sit next to them, who can hold, pet and comfort them on the journey home. Some people forgo the harness altogether and have a passenger simply hold the puppy, wrapped in a blanket or towel. However, before you even get your puppy into the car, you should try to get them to relieve themself first , to avoid any toilet-based accidents on the journey home. Once you get your precious pup home, all that effort and preparation will have been worth it to give your new four-legged friend the best start in life. You May Also Like. However, avoid retractable leashes whenever possible: Although they seem easier during walks, retractable leashes are actually dangerous, especially for young puppies who are still getting the hang of walking on a leash. Keep your puppy on a regular leash with a maximum of six feet of space between you both. Snowy Pines recommends slip leads: Slip leads are what puppies are taught to walk on from a young age at Snowy Pines, since they give you as the walker more control over the puppy as he gets the hang of normal walks. You can also opt for an embroidered collar if your puppy seems bothered by the noise or extra weight of the dog tags. Many puppy owners choose embroidered collars since dog tags should be removed when the puppy is left alone as they can pose a hazard. You can stick with a small food and water bowl. Puppy Food Your puppy will need high-quality food to grow strong! In most cases, this means his own dog crate. A good dog crate should be large enough for him to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. You can choose a crate that expands as it grows to save money in the long run. Most of our puppies at Snowy Pines will do well in a inch wire kennel with a divider that you can remove once he gets bigger. Be sure to check out our dog bed reviews too! Remember that most toys should not be left alone with your puppy since unsupervised playtime can lead to a choking or blockage incident. Image Source Puzzle Toys Puzzle toys keep your pup mentally stimulated while they also have fun. Additionally, these interactive toys provide help with weight management, satisfy natural hunting instincts, and even relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. These toys can easily become a comfort item and help curb any potential anxiety as well. Chase Toys Golden puppies need to have regular exercise. Chase toys are simple things you can buy at any pet store, like ropes and balls, but some interactive chew toys are designed to add a little zing to your daily play routines. So, for example, if your puppy just woke up from his nap and pottied, but you need to do laundry and load the dishwasher, the exercise pen is a perfect solution. It enables your pup to enjoy safe solo playtime. Training Treats Food is a powerful reinforcer , so treats are incredibly beneficial in the early stages of puppy training. Try offering him a treat when he potties outside or uses a chew toy. Quick Tip: The treat should be small and chewy so that he can eat it fast and keep his attention on you! With the proper carpet cleaner and enzyme spray, you can quickly combat any potty mistakes anywhere in the house. Dog Shampoo and Conditioner The Retriever family has a unique, double-layered coat designed to keep them warm in winter and cool in summer. It also dries quickly after becoming wet. It is such an impressive coat that it is essentially self-cleaning when it comes to dirt and debris. Pooper Scooper and Poop Bags A pooper scooper is a handy tool that many homeowners with yards find essential. Instead of bending down every time your pup goes, you can use a pooper scooper to clutch onto the waste and quickly throw it in your outside garbage bin. They are also expected as a common courtesy to other people outside. So before your English Cream Golden puppy comes home, be sure that your home, backyard, and car are puppy-safe and puppy-proofed. In the Home: Image Source Keep the toilet lid closed. Believe it or not, open toilet lids have the potential to be drowning hazards. Secure medicine and cleaning products. Keep these products high up or use childproof locks and latches on lower cabinets. Garbage should be kept lidded and secure. Lidded, secured bins are the best type of garbage cans you can have with a young puppy. Not only do you want to avoid spilled garbage, but a locked lid will prevent your puppy from getting into any potential hazards. Hide electrical cords and blind cords. Exposed electrical cords and long blind cords can prove to be fatal for curious puppies. Keep electrical cords hidden away, buy cord wraps to keep them safely covered, and be sure that your blind cords are tied high and inaccessible. Invest in a pet or baby gate. Gates can be used for doorways or staircases to keep your puppy away from certain areas of the house. In the Backyard: Be careful of plants and landscaping that may be poisonous or dangerous. Many plants are toxic to dogs , so be sure to triple-check if any are growing in your yard. Secure your yard with fencing and add gates around bodies of water. If you plan to let your puppy roam freely in your backyard, you should have complete fencing with no puppy-sized gaps around the perimeter of the property. If you have any ponds or pools, block them off with appropriate fencing to avoid accidental drowning. Keep your yard landscaped and manicured. Long grass and brushy areas can invite ticks, which can be extremely dangerous if any potential bites are not discovered early on. Generally speaking, your grass should not be higher than a couple of inches and potentially even shorter while your puppy is still young. In the Car: Image Source Move any chewable items and lock loose items in the glovebox. Confine your puppy in one area of the vehicle, like the backseat. Keeping your puppy confined to one area of the car is safe for everyone. Many puppy parents choose harness seat belts and car seats for younger dogs, while older dogs are big enough to safely sit in the back seat or trunk with cargo barriers. As your Golden Retriever gets older, you may find yourself opting for different barrier methods that will better suit his size. Kennel your puppy while in the car. Crating your puppy is the safest mode of transportation while in the car. Deciding on a Daily Routine Like children, puppies thrive on a fixed routine because an orderly one instills structure and confidence. Sticking to a schedule can also help reinforce potty training and prevent behavioral issues , like separation anxiety and barking or whining. Think of a schedule that works best for your puppy, which should include: Feeding: Pick out regular meal times and stick to them as closely as possible. Golden Retriever puppies will need three daily feedings until they are six months old. After that, stick to feeding twice a day at the same time each day. Fixed meal times will help you predict when your puppy needs to potty each day, which better ensures easier potty training. Scheduled potty breaks: Take your puppy out to the yard or on a walk to potty immediately after a meal and after they wake up to enforce a schedule that will help with house training. Playtime and exercise: Playing and mental stimulation are key to a happy puppyhood. Even though they will mellow out in personality as they become adults, Retriever puppies are high energy! Place the dog crate in a quiet part of the house since we kennel train at Snowy Pines, and it helps ensure their safety and comfort. And now is the exciting part: Your puppy is finally home! But now what? Puppy Socialization Socialization is vital for young puppies, especially between 8 to 16 weeks of age: A well-socialized puppy will grow into a happy and confident adult that feels secure in various situations. You can also invite friends and family over to meet the puppy. In this case, more is always merrier! To help your puppy feel comfortable around humans in general, expose him to different types of people when he is still young. We also recommend holding off on public settings like dog parks until your puppy is settled into his new home and routine so as to not overwhelm him. Once your puppy is vaccinated, you can consider signing him up for puppy socialization classes. These classes, alongside training courses, can help prepare your pup for a long walk or a day at doggy day camp. Training Techniques Training is just as essential as early socialization. He may become disruptive and exhibit poor behaviors like jumping on visitors, chewing on furniture, and barking incessantly, among other frustrating challenges. Your puppy may also struggle with separation anxiety. They will comprehend basic commands and learn things such as his name, housebreaking, and early manners. They will be able to take on more advanced training and commands, and they should understand what good dog manners are. This age is essential when it comes to instilling how you want him to behave through adolescence. Puppies will begin teething at this point. Your new puppy might use anything possible to exercise his teeth, so you must start teaching him not to use your hand or furniture as chew toys. Anytime your puppy chews on something undesirable, have a toy nearby to put in his mouth instead. You can also try using bitter apple spray to deter biting and chewing on household items. Be firm but loving with clear, consistent commands and minute training sessions each day. Quick Tip: Keep in mind that at this age, this is when the key socialization period ends for your puppy: From this point forward, everything your puppy has learned will influence the way he behaves around people and other animals. While this is good, this age will also be a challenge because he will try to determine his ranking in the household, which can be frustrating when hormones play a role! Although spaying and neutering are standard for most breeds around six months old, studies have found that doing so for Golden Retrievers can actually increase the risk for joint disorders. Therefore, the standard for this breed has recently changed, and many vets suggest waiting to spay or neuter until 12 to 24 months. Training can be an overwhelming process, which is why many Golden puppy owners opt for working with a dog trainer or enrolling in training classes. Snowy Pines offers three levels of training when adopting one of their golden retrievers, which can save you tons of time and frustration in the long run. At your first checkup, you can also ask about getting your puppy microchipped!

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. If you are looking to bring a new puppy into your life, it is important to learn about the different sizes and needs of pets to ensure that the pet you are getting works out for your family. Mini Australian labradoodle puppies for sale can be beneficial to many households. Here are some of the benefits of selecting mini Australian Labradoodles near me. Mini Australian labradoodle puppies for sale tend to grow no more than 14 to 16 inches in length and weight around 16 to 25 pounds. Someone who lives in an apartment, condo or other small dwelling may want the companionship of a dog, but they may not have a lot of space in their home or a large yard to provide for a larger dog. In these cases, a smaller dog is perfect. A smaller dog needs less room to roam, allowing those who are in smaller spaces the ability to own, love on, and have a small dog as an acquaintance. Mini Australian labradoodles near me may also be a great companion to those who are elderly or have disabilities. Controlling a large dog while out on a walk requires strength and force. Not everyone has the strength to control these larger dogs. A smaller dog does not require as much strength, and most people can easily pick up these smaller dogs if they needed to. Are you ready to learn more about mini Australian labradoodle puppies for sale and if they are right for you? Reach out to us at South Florida Australian Labradoodles with all the questions you may have. Proudly created with Wix. What is an "original" Australian Labradoodle? The Australian Labradoodle is different from all other labradoodles. Dogs from this cross typically were bred to each other over future generations, whereby the Australian dogs are also know as "Multi-generational" Labradoodles. The resulting labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other, continuing the multi-generational tradition. Even when the other types of Labradoodles are bred on for generations, the result is not an Australian Labradoodle, as the attributes of the infused breeds were not included in their ancestry. The Australian Labradoodle Club of America was founded exclusively to foster and protect the original Australian Labradoodles that have come directly from Tegan Park and Rutland Manor breeding stock, or their offspring. Our mission is to maintain and improve the quality and soundness of the Australian Labradoodles, and to carefully monitor the further development of the breed. All member breeders are carefully screened to help ensure the future of the Australian Labradoodle. Our member breeders must breed to the highest standards. We have Breeder Mentors to assist member breeders and to help new breeders get off to a good start. If someone in your family has allergies, a multi-generation Australian Labradoodle from Red Desert Doodles should be your first choice. Each of our breeding dogs is fully health tested before they are eligible for breeding. Our puppies all come with a two year health guarantee. Where in the world are our Red Desert Doodles Families? Follow Us On Instagram. Healthy and perfect size for our family. Pam does it right,returns emails and phone calls the same day. Goes out of her way to accommodate her forever home pet owners. Thank you for Copper! They are so loved and well cared for and it shows! As a new puppy owner you are also set up for success with all the information and support you are given. We are so happy with out new addition to our family! I would highly recommend Green Mountain Australian Labradoodles! The love and caring that Alex and Pam put into the raising of their pups is extraordinary! My family did not anticipate having to search for a puppy; we unexpectedly lost our 16 year old Cockapoo in March. Pam, especially, made this process seamless. She answered emails within a few hours and answered ALL questions thoroughly unlike other breeders. She kept us updated when the puppies arrived and as they grew up. The amount of time and love that Green Mountain gives to each litter is incredible. I highly recommend them and their doodles! Bentley is the best puppy I have ever met!

As a printmaker, I need my focus and concentration, to work without distraction. Is there a perfect breed of studio dog? I think I need a quiet companion, though we can all benefit from morning and evening walks. Can someone who lives happily without a dog learn to live happily with one? Dogs are angels sent from heaven to make us into better people. A few minutes of petting a dog releases oxytocins into the bloodstream of both dog and human, reducing stress and lowering blood pressure. Dog people may live longer. Every puppy begins in joy and ends in tears. Sometime ago I wrote about the loss of our former dog, Emily. The email condolences that came in here were overwhelming. Lining up trusted dog sitters is vital. Having said that, a dog will increase your studio hours and prevent you from wandering off and getting into trouble. A loving tail-wagger in the studio goes a long way in a profession of loners. I happen to think that dog people are the best people, perhaps because dogs, just like artists, have excellent dreams and fantasies. But there are cat people too, and they are just as passionately converted. Gerbils, weasels and rats do it for some folks, particularly as starters. You have a good husband — I think you should also have a good dog. Forget about the ready money. Stanley Coren Esoterica: Dorothy the Airedale has a particularly spirited personality. Good for my cardiovascular, she is always eager to go for a walk. Uniquely, she is also content to play ball with herself. She is a happy girl, rather overly bonded but universally friendly. An occasional garden digger, as I write this she is curled up with dirty feet in a pile of paint rags. To her credit, she steps carefully around paintings when they are casually thrown here and there. Living happily without? Besides being constant muses for me, my two dogs are wonderful company. There are 3 comments for Living happily without? From: Jim Oberst — Jun 07, I also prefer humans. I am now 60, and we are lucky enough to still have our original dog, Riley, as well as three others. How lonely we would be without our pets! For a wonderful, laid-back companion, we both recommend a golden retriever. A dry painting is even worse! My pets have been endless inspiration and I do pet portraits in any medium including on glass mugs! If you provide a cuddly bed the dog will lie there out of your way — usually. But then, we live in the country with a big fenced yard and a big dog-door, so no worries there. We now have two Great Pyrenees — our favorite breed so far for intelligence, kindness and watch-doggedness out here in the woods, though they do tend to lay their massive bulks right behind me when I work at the easel! You are so right about the dog-sitter, but our travel schedule is determined by when SHE is available. We made the mistake of telling our retired traveling friends about her. They are now 13 years old, ancient for Great Pyrs, and are facing a double-departure, perhaps this fall. It takes courage to take on the love of a new dog knowing that it will end with a broken heart! I still have a hard to thinking of her, because it still hurts my heart so much. I have had alot of dogs, but Tango was, by far, the best. She was so kind, and so smart and so beautiful that people would stop their cars to look at her and talk to me. I miss her still. Tango was 10 yrs. Thanks for sharing. From: Libby — Jun 07, Your colors are stunning! From: Tatjana — Jun 07, Beautiful painting! My heart is with you … losing our four-legged family members is one the hardest things to do. Your creativity will grow in leaps and bounds because dogs teach us to be new. To be new we must be willing to be clumsy as being clumsy means you are exploring and never on solid footing. Being new means never having to apologize for being different, creative or failing. Being new gives permission to rest and dream. Being new presents a life without judgment. Being new is curiosity in full bloom. Being new allows laughter to come from deep within your belly. Being new opens the door to creativity. Being new invites quiet. Being new is pure love. Their favourite things to do in life are to go from 0 to75 km an hour in search of the most comfortable couch in the house. They will also sleep for hours at a time without moving which makes for a great subject to paint. There is a reason artists have kept greyhounds and other breeds of sight hounds in their studios over the centuries… They are just a great breed of dog for artists. From: Debra LePage — Jun 07, Your beautiful painting looks just like our late Samantha-a perfect companion, indeed. She spent many hours curled up on a futon in my studio while I worked. From: Deb Munro — Jun 07, I agree with your comments. I have a lurcher greyhound x collie who is the most calming gentle soul I have ever known. Contrary to popular belief, greyhound types require a short run or two per day followed by hours of sleep on a comfy bed. Ideal companions for artists and others to! The latter are all carefully trained to lie calmly where they are told — either beside the artist or nearby under a table no worry about stepping on them or any part of their anatomy. I have two rescued pit bull mixes who think nothing is better than to lie beside me or on the futon behind me all day until I get up to refill my coffee or head to the bathroom. Then they would like to have an hour in the huge dog pen on our rural property, going on walks with me only early in the morning or before dinner. But other than that, they do what they are told when they are told. There is 1 comment for Rescued pit bulls ideal companions by Amber Grey From: linda b — Jun 18, i have a hearing dog and have lived with her for 9 years. She is a pit bull mix. This dog is the absolute best behaved and most loving dog who has shared her his life with me. As you said, she is content to lie on her bed for hours, only getting up when i do. I take her out many times a day and give her extra attention. I have no trouble getting people to stay with her when i am away. Most people want to take her home with them. Her name is Acadia. Some dogs are like soul mates. You know each other immediately. He travels nicely beneath an airline seat. He sleeps with us at the foot of the bed unless I invite him up to be squished like a stuffed animal while I fall asleep. Tony my dog loves my work. If I feel like reading, he warms my lap. I cannot imagine living without a dog. It would be cruel and unusual punishment for me. I would say do a little homework and notice breeds that work with your lifestyle and surroundings and be prepared to do a little training at first for your investment in your future. Think of it as courtship. I have been without dogs once or twice and it was just plain sad. They make my life far less serious. I also admit that one of our labs likes to be smashed between us on a cold nights. But as one who has just plunked down an irrational amount of money to get on the waiting list for a puppy, I just had to write and express how your words buoyed me this morning. So your words are an affirmation of what I know emotionally, if not yet intellectually. The real remaining worry is that, in my application, I failed to specify that my puppy must have a good eye for composition, temperature and values. However, every hour and a half or so, she will come to the door to remind me that she needs attention as well and so I take a break and we go out and play for fifteen minutes or so. This not only serves to keep her happy but also gets me up and moving for a bit since I tend to paint sitting down at a table and a break is really beneficial. This can be advantageous as I often get too focused on details and fail to look at the whole. Hence, my dog is contributing to improving my art. I also get to transfer some of that love of dogs over into my art as animals, and especially dogs, are a large part of what I do. Not to mention the fact that exchanging that unconditional love with your dog opens you up to deeper relationships with people as well. But I do love all animals and would love to have a dog, too, but Mr. Munchkins vetoed that. After almost losing our cat this winter, I decided no more animals because saying goodbye is too painful. I find cats to be very quiet studio partners. The best advice mine has given to date is to just relax. And Mr. Munchkins adds a great deal of texture to my paintings by way of a film of fine white cat hair in and over everything. I once had a cat, a trickster type, who loved to take a sip when opportunity presented. He prefers yoga to long walks. And we paint to choruses of birds through open windows as much as possible. If the dog feels safe and comfort just from the holders serenity it might be much easier. On the other side… a dog helps a lot to calm you down. For example… a dog can be used from the very beginning to an indoor bench in case of a puppy already large enough for the adult. Quite soon it learnt the positives from this sheltering. Most dogs love staying inside there and learnt that the open! For that purpose use covering towels or plaids on the bench top including the sides, except the open bench door. My dog learnt to step aside when I appear. You can have any breed… it all depends on how you interact with your dog. Even non-acting means for dogs a communication. Without such breaks I would live unhealthy and forget about any breaks. My dog is my personal gain. My collie Riley is my studio buddy, my walking companion, my muse, my model, my confidante and so much more. Clambering, pestering, poking into everything. They are loved in this home but banished from the studio. Give me a dog any day! He walks me daily to get me out of the studio for some exercise, and keeps me generally sane. I have noticed in many older photos of artists working in their studios, that a dog is curled up somewhere near the workspace. I cannot imagine not having one to keep me company in this solitary endeavor of painting. The poodles were wonderful, devoted pets who loved to be in the studio — or anywhere I was. The cockatoo is more likely to be out chasing birds from the yard. But I missed the company and devotion and now have my little Romeo. Most dogs want to please their owners, so teaching them is the first responsibility of a dog owner — and pick the right dog for you, and your lifestyle. From: Barbara Carter — Jun 02, Dog people are good people. Dogs know that which is why they overlook all our shortcomings and concentrate on our positive qualities. But people have to know themselves to pick a breed that is compatible with their lifestyle and personality. Read about the breeds before you choose one. And remember that there are many dogs at the shelters waiting to become a best friend. As for me? I may be a bit biased toward dogs since I currently share my life with five of them. The personalities of my Westies are as different as they can be — one pops like popcorn on a leash, one is a sedate and gentle lady until she hears the word bird! People in North American should get to know Brussels Griffon more. They ask only one thing — to be with me. They can outrun the wind and look over their shoulders to see if I am watching. Dogs are great. And they seem to believe that we are great too. There are no small dogs — only little dogs. From: Bette Laughy — Jun 02, My Airedale experience was a lovely dog who occasionally visited our neighborhood. In spite of her effect on our cat, we looked forward to her occasional visits; she was truly special. She is selectively deaf, blind enough to prefer to walk on a leash, now allows her brother the cat to lick her and even occasionally licks back, and is my companion in everything including painting. She is my joy, and I will not travel far from home as long as she is with me. Every day is a gift. And I am still dogless, though I have a cat who thinks he is a dog and does all the doggie things, including accompanying me on walks. However I would like to say that TWO dogs can be easier than one. They bond with each other mine were littermates and so keep each other content when one is busy. Saying goodbye is really terrible. The memories are stellar. A large golden retriever comes to be babysat for a week at a time, though, and we have long and important murmurs about painting, weather, and food. From: Randena Walsh — Jun 02, Oh, I love the companionship of a dog in the studio, and in the field as well, where I get my inspiration for my work. However, from experience I can tell you my previous Goldens have been wonderful studio mates and convenient models. I am sure my pup will get there too. Loving human companionship as they do, Goldens are happy to just be in the same room with you. Exercise is a must, though, for a happy artist and her dog! From: George Forder — Jun 02, As a master of the esoteric, their are few places my mind has not fathomed at some time or another. But the biggest quandary remains unsolved. I grew up with 6 dogs, but when I left home, gradually realised I was a cat person. Cats find me. I find cats. We share a purrfect love. Kitty love is the purrest kind of love. I tolerate dogs, but am old enough to not have to fake it anymore. Every argument voiced for dogs can be applied to cats. But if a cat decides it wants you, you will burn in the radiance of its light. I think Dogs vs Cats is about control and dependency, but I could be wrong. My cat is a consumate critic. He listens attentively and then asks for food. Like art in a way, letting go, not sure of the outcome but welcoming the opportunity to express. To me a Dog is an expression of pure love. Getting through the Puppy stage and then the adolescent stage is a challenge at times, more dogs are surrendered to shelters during their adolescence than any other time I am told. Once again like art perseverance pays out in the end. Socialise them, guide them and you will be rewarded ten fold in love and loyalty. I cannot be whole without a dog in my life. There are so many sweet, loving older dogs in shelters who no one wants. Everyone wants the cute puppy, but when you get a puppy, you might as well have another child. Puppies are wonderful, but require a lot of time and attention. From: leslie ditto — Jun 03, well I think a dog in the studio is a great idea, my studio space is kinda small right now so I have a cat, I did have to do some cat proofing. But I would probably not suggest a cat for everyone because they can get into alot in a studio. But as any animal in our studio goes, make all toxic materials are up and out of the way. And here is one thing that I had to learn the hard way. .From: Betsy Doody — Jun 03, I paint best with a minimum of 4 dogs around me. What is life without a dog? Betsy Doody From: Susan Stetson — Jun 03, I cannot see myself without a dog, actually two at the moment, cocker spaniels. Even if they have just come in from outside…they go out the studio door, run about the yard, come in and Reilly settles on the couch, Lily under the ottoman the tail and paws stick out a bit? After an hour or so they are just as excited to go have a cup of tea and dog cookies and again with such enthusiasm we go back to work. It brings a smile to me when they do it and now when I picture their little paws running down the steps. What fun to have such enthusiastic and quiet working buddies! From: Troy Gervais — Jun 03, As my faithful companion is now reaching his final days it is bittersweet. He has been my best friend since he was a few weeks old. He has listen to my rantings and the many ideas I have bounced off of him. He has gotten me out for a walk every day of his life even when I was reluctant to do so. I have witnessed many spectacular sunrises and sunsets that I would have probably missed otherwise. I have drawn and sketched him many times. How do I thank a friend like that? He has never forsaken me like some humans can do. He has always been honest especially about his dislike of cats and his love of a soggy tennis ball and a good dinner. When I think back at all the times we have had how can I do anything but thank him for the time he spent here on this earth with me and wish him well on his next journey where ever that might be. Thank you my friend. Not sure if that works so I added some comments here. I am a doggie lover. The hugs, kisses and companionship are great. They do look at you like they understand what your saying also. I think they pick up on the emotion too and comfort me at times. Yes, I am over the doggie edge. Plus, it is a great way to meet and talk to people. There are so many wonderful, loving, sweet dogs in the world. Yes, you take a chance when you get a shelter dog but if you give the dog love they give it right back. It is important to have great doggy sitters when you go out of town. We keep our dogs at home. Some people drop their dogs at a friends or neighbors house who have dogs. Whatever works. I also painted a picture of Currie and Missy with acrylics. They inspire me and love me. It is wonderful! I attached some pictures of Missy, Currie and my back yard where I hang out with the dogs. The other pictures are of flowers I was painting one day. Thanks for talking about doggies. I took off work today and am going to take the doggies for a walk this morning. I agree that it is great exercise too. Have a wonderful day. Lepore — Jun 03, From: Sandie Halyk — Jun 03, When I paint my golden retriever Jessie is right there in the art room, usually curls up and sleeps. It is such a comforting feeling. Wherever we are, that is where she is. She is also our 4 legged physiotherapy. She is a devoted, caring and loving dog. Initially there is a big committment to the training and also there are frustrating times when you have a puppy. We are now starting to go through hip problems as she is older, we do physiotherapy, heat etc. Just be sure you are willing to put in the time to look after a dog as they will put in the time to look after you and be there for you. Hope this is of some help in assisting you to make up your mind. From: Pat Kochan — Jun 03, I was debating over 3 different paintings to put into an up coming art competition; so I put 3 cookies on the floor, one in front of each painting and the one my sweet dog picked was the one that went into the show. It won a top award. Mindy lived 18 years and was the greatest companion and friend to our whole family. From: Bunny — Jun 03, I have a just turned one year old puppy Buddy named by my grandson , who is my studio buddy. He has a pile of toys nearby and is content to chew on those, usually. I had to learn to watch before I step back, get the paper towels that accidentally fall to the floor quickly he loves paper , — or pencils; otherwise he is a great studio friend. From: Cindy Mawle — Jun 03, I like to take my 6 year old chocolate lab, Jesse, with me while painting outdoors. She keeps an eye out for bears and lets me know if someone is coming. I am able to totally absorb myself in my work without anything sneaking up on me. I just have to put up with a few loud sighs from her at the beginning after she realizes that we are staying put. Once on the kettle river she put up a big fuss and I looked up from my work and a coyote was intently watching us from the other bank. As a woman painting out there alone, it can be peace of mind as well as great company. Recently had to give up my cats for adoption due to asthma. Their presence in and around your life lifts you up. Their antics make you smile and their unconditional love are a reminder to us as to why we are here — to enjoy the passing of time with those who give our lives meaning. Their loss leaves a hole in your heart but right now the neighborhood dogs are getting great hiking experience. He was great. Learned not to sleep where I walk, and then all he wanted was just to be with me. The perfect studio companion…slept most of the time, until it was time to wake up and go for walkies. I currently have a 10 mo old chocolate lab, so leaning glass against the wall or work bench is currently a no no. She is, however, learning to put the brakes on before she enters the studio, so my need to modify my behavious will change with time. Love having her with me, and at the moment, a crate is my best friend. Lately I can leave the crate door open and she goes in willingly for a nap, and nudges me when she wakes up. From: Linda C. Dumas — Jun 03, Blaze, a golden retriever mix, was a gentleman from the day he was born. Pancho, the Maine Coon cat, would climb into his little box and sleep the studio time away. Annie, mini-Australian Shepherd and current dog, is very well behaved, but decided she found the studio boring. I bought some special treats, and whenever we went to the studio, she got one. At that point, we will adopt an older rescue dog that has passed the puppy stage. Look for breed characteristics. A beagle is probably not the most fortuitous studio dog — darling dog, but way too energetic. From: Mike Young — Jun 03, Please remember that for some of us dogs, cat and birds produce unwanted allergic reactions such as rashes and asthma. For me this has been since childhood and in spite of series of desensitization shots a reaction still occurs in the presence of such pets, albeit somewhat reduced from my childhood. Studios with pets are out of bounds for me and many like me. Love my cats too. Although when I am doing graphics at the computer they want to have their say…. .All I can add is that is their form of love… just being with me. Now I do occaisionally get black hairs in my polymer and metal clay work. Thanks for the post. I lost the latter last year but I know she is still there, barking away, voicing her opinion on everything. The Collie loves to come to the studio, check out the perimeter desert but mostly sleeps peacefully as I, alas! The cats stay at home. As a rabid animal lover, I strongly recommend adopting or fostering — but do get a dog by any means! As Robert Says, dogs will help you not only live longer, but more happily. I enjoy having them around…. I think Emmy would like to pickup a brush and paint on a canvas herself…. Dogs are wonderful…. Here are some tips: provide puppies with wet frozen washcloths to chew on. This will numb their gums. Our oldest dog is now receiving a round of adequan shots which are helping with her arthritis enormously. She is now off of her pain meds. I cannot live without dogs. They possess true empathy. Surely they were created to be our companions. Thank you Robert for saying dogs are angels sent from heaven to make us better people. So true. From: Mary — Jun 03, Your story reminded me of the best cat we ever had. A Himalayan mix. When I was working on drawings including ink drawings she would carefully leap and land on my table not disturbing a thing. Then sit there moving her head this way and that watching my pen. Always wondered what she thought of my work. They keep the mouse population at bay to save your canvas being turned into bedding and they make great models. When I had a studio cat and was lacking inspiration I would paint my cat. They are the perfect gesture model while bathing, they will pose for long periods if they are occupied with a window to look out and only ask for a meal to compensate them. Yes, dogs drool and in the Studio Cats rule! From: Laudine Borges — Jun 03, Dogs are wonderful. Choose a breed compatable with your lifestyle. Visit dog parks or breeders to see how different breeds behave. It took me a long time to choose the right breed for my lifestyle, a walk by the ocean in the morning and then working in my studio. My dog adds so much to my life. As fulfilling and wonderful as my life was with them, they ruled our lives. We paid for the Vets second home in Maui. And sadly, when they passed, I was not only devastated, but it lead to an immediate break up. When asked at the park how long my dogs would live, I wondered if people would like if they were asked how long their child would be alive. People kept asking me if I was going to get another dog. I felt like I had lost my children. Dogs are wonderful creatures and very loving. Dogs want to be with you. So, as long as they feel included and are in your line of vision, any dog will be a wonderful addition to your studio or home. My experience with Dalmatians is they are particularly hyper dogs. And while they are loyal to the family, they are not great with children. They can also be terribly inbred which can lead to all sorts of heath issues. So, make sure to find a good and reputable breeder. And realize a dog is a commitment and the sign of a good dog is a good owner. Last year I lost Sophia, my Calico cat. She was always there keeping me company while I painted. At times she would sit on a high stool beside me and look out the window; at other times she would be curled up on a chair or maybe inside a box that was open. She was even known to sleep inside an empty frame! Occasionally I would feel her rub up against my leg, and I would run my hand through her soft fur, giving me that warm fuzzy feeling. Well yes, there was that one time when she was young. She came in through an open window with mud on her paws and walked accross my latest watercolor on the drafting board…. .Her calming presence was well worth any inconvenience! My studio is very empty now that she has gone. I have lost my muse. They will reward you with their great love and devotion. After my 14 year old Golden, Andy, passed away in August of , I considered not getting another dog. Life would be easier and less heartbreaking right? I could sleep in in the morning with the cats. I could get right to working. For six months I did without. I did. I realize now I will not live without a dog as long as I can. For six months, I had missed out on sharing quiet, early morning walks in the outdoors to observe and discover nature. I had missed out on conversations with neighbors and being a part of my community. I had missed out on having a friend who nudged me with a wet nose, reminding me it was time for a walk, a break from studio work, to get outside and experience life. So despite the animal hairs that occasionally end up in paintings, the concern about getting home to let the dog out, or the vet bills, I would not have it any other way. It has been a joy to have a dog as a companion and cats, too! The pros outweigh the cons in my view but only you know in your heart, Janet. You have to be committed from beginning to end for it to work…. From: Kathleen Kelly — Jun 03, I have a Wheaton terrier that lays in a corner watching me paint or simply sleeps…. From: Marilena Fluckiger — Jun 03, I think the Chinese Crested Hairless dogs are the most intelligent and the best studio companion dog! They are the total parcel albeit with minimal packaging…hey, eco friendly, too! She was such a loving girl. She also stayed with me in my studio, and lovingly stared at me while I worked, and followed me back and forth to the sink to wash out my brushes, or sharpen my pencils. As a second best, I lay on the floor close to my table, and thought of work I would do when I was better. The trouble was that Woofer lay beside me. This was fine. But she kept creeping closer and closer. Finally, she laid her head my chest, and lapped my face lovingly. I think her endless wet kisses spurred me to get better even faster. Soon, I was back at my easel, and even taking Woofer for her usual walks around the neighborhood. No, she took me. From: Miranda Gray — Jun 03, I am an egg tempera painter, which is a very slow, tedious, time consuming medium. One day I set my painting down on the floor to get a better distance look at it, when the phone rang. I turned my back on the painting to talk on the phone. My mistake. I heard a slurping noise, and low and behold, my dog had licked off many days of work from the painting. Fortunately, egg tempera is a very forgiving medium, and I could repair it. I truly need my dog in my studio to keep me company while I work, but I no longer put the paintings in tongues reach. I too believe that dogs are angels sent to make us better people. From: Cindy Fankhauser — Jun 03, I so needed to hear this answer to a very good question. Can I love it as much as I loved Bailey? I really just want my Bailey back!! But, after reading your letter, I am thinking I better go puppy shopping and give my heart away again! From: Rick Rotante — Jun 03, All the beneficial health reasons for dog ownership are renowned. I have two that seem to have an infectious smile on their faces all day long except when my wife or I have to leave. My wife and I doubly blessed and will probably live doubly long because of them. From: Diane Overmyer — Jun 03, Our family is made up of two parents, three young-adult children and two middle-aged dogs. Unlike my children, my dogs never complain, sulk around or slam doors. They are getting older so if I am quiet they tend to be quiet as well. They often sleep or lay on the floor and look out one of our glass doors. When the weather is nice they spend a good deal of the day out in the yard. The breeds we own are a Sheltie which is a very intelligent, well mannered, loving dog, but ours is more high strung that our other dog. The second dog is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, which is also pretty smart, but ours sometimes reminds me of an eager two year old. Our Corgi is very protective of me and wants to be near me whenever he can. What a special dog she was to you. I was in the gallery then too. Looking forward to seeing you in Penticton at the Shatford building and the reception for the first 3 Chapters Show. A dog can be so much work, and yet give so much back in love, exercise and companionship. I think Jane will find that the rewards outweigh the negatives. I agree with you about the only 2 drawbacks to owning dogs. From: Susan Vaughn — Jun 03, I agree — dog people are special. I have 2 dogs — A German Shepherd and a Malti-tzu a cross between a Maltese and the Shih-tzu They both come into my studio when I am painting and curl up together and sleep while I paint and listen to my iPod. They are great dogs and I enjoy their company. I think I am a better artist because of the love they give. Before Buddy, Angel would spend hours with me in studio and when she thought I needed a break she would let me know and we would stretch and take a walk…. Now that Buddy is in the picture I had a weak moment and adopted him they spend time on the verandah while I am in studio. I can peak out the window and keep an eye on them and know exactly when we need a break! The daily dog walks are good for clearing the mind and for inspiration. Besides, as has been pointed out, dogs need you and your attention and are happy as all get out when they get it. All they want to do is eat and find a sunny spot to take a nap. Oh, and sit on the brick wall out back at two in the morning and serenade the neighborhood. So loyal, so devoted, so positive. If only we had just a portion of that in our people lives. My big mutt Bruno is the perfect studio dog. Part Chow, German Shepherd, and Akita, he lives for loafing and really improves the ambiance in the home and studio. My little Shia-poo Grady is a napping expert and will happily join and inspire you in this important past-time. My other buddy, Snickers the Papillon, is a ball fetcher extraordinaire and keeps me in shape. I like cats too, but dogs are much more interactive. They want to be with you, to worship you. How can you not like that??? We lost Hershey to cancer very unexpectedly just last Saturday. I have art photos, paintings and drawing of them and they always were nearby often chasing squirrels or rabbits in their dreams. They were excellent companions in the print studio as well. Our lives will never be the same without them. When I take the dogs for a walk in the local park I always pet other dogs and talk to people there. They inspire me. From: Kay Rodriguez — Jun 03, Oh but cat people can get the best support. .I never have to take her out for a walk though she will take one on her own if the door is opened. Sofy takes a nap right there beside me patiently waiting for me to finish. She is a fine forgiving companion gives me room to do my work under her approving eye. Cat people get to watch those personality crazy funny things that make you want to call up your friends to tell them. Dogs have been my life long Co-pilots. They all had distinctive personalities and yes I mourned when I had to put them down. It took me a year to recover from Zeppie, my red merle Aussie with blue eyes. He was the closest and the easiest to train but I can easily live without the shedding. He would lie at my feet while I painted. Now, I have a very independent minded rare breed Canaan Mackie who is nearing his 13th birthday. He is from Israel and was really a basket case when we got him. He still is dreadfully afraid of any engine sounds but has finally given up watching airplanes as they pass overhead. Mackie is much too intelligent! Pavlof training worked once and that game was over. After he has inspected and sized up the intruder, he retires to his bed or near the ac vent in hot summers. As I age, I know that in the future I need a smaller dog something like Toto to be my side as the tornadoes blow into NC. I have had a good feeling because my last three dogs have all been rescued. There are no bad dogs only bad owners who need to learn how to properly train their dog not to be a pest. That bond is strengthened with the attention you give in training your pup who to fit into your life. They want to please and be loved. I know that we will be first in line to enter those pearly gates if God happens to be a Dog. I agree wholeheartedly! Breed does not matter so much, and dog pounds let you test drive. Just a thought!! From: Bruce C. I had the opinion that this breed was high energy because they were used for racing. I was also surprised to find out that they have universal blood. From: Larry Moore — Jun 03, You want a quiet companion? Get a cat. No walking. Might be some issues with hair in your wet paint and hairballs but, overall. From: Catherine Orfald — Jun 03, I agree! My dog Gita is an essential companion. She happily accompanies me on long walks to scope out new scenes and spends long days outside with me when I paint. I have attached a painting I did with Gita as subject this winter: Dog and Snowmobile. My cats occasionally stroll through the studio, but are also too busy and noisy to stay. The best companions I have there are two rabbits. They joyfully race around the studio when I let them out of their large pen and then they settle down contentedly while I paint. I like having different folks for different strokes while I work. From: Guy Giersch — Jun 03, I would recommend a rescued greyhound. These dogs are big couch potatoes. Loving, and always ready for a walk; but stately occupying the couch as you work. Training is key. Plenty of sources to help you decide on the dog for you. I agree totally with you about dogs and dog people. They are high energy puppies but at about the 4 year mark they are content with ball throwing, long walks and just being by your side. They are great friends. My heart constantly melts! For the record, here is my studio companion, Teddy. I got him at a shelter about a year and a half ago, and his acclimation has been very challenging. He still hates to be left alone, only tolerating it begrudgingly, which keeps me on task when I want to roam. While I paint, he dozes and chews his chew bones patiently and only interrupts me for scheduled walks and feedings. Plus, he announces with great vigor that the UPS truck has again arrived to deliver my next eagerly anticipated art book. Removing paint from dog hair is not fun. I have attached a pic of my own German Short-haired Pointer in my favourite studio chair. One other bonus that you neglected to mention is the fee-less modeling these animals are willing to do. He has great angles and curves and moves around a great deal so the challenge is to capture my favourite bits in the time he allows. The companionship is wonderful and, as you yourself are aware, completely non-judgemental! He just oozes love and affection and is quite the centre of attention wherever we go. I have attached a picture of His Royal Cuteness Yukon so you can see his smile. Our cats are more intrusive than our heffalump of a dog! From: Susan Faye Martin — Jun 03, I know what it is like to have disruption with my sweet little pup in the studio. But since she has turned 2, we seem to have more harmony. I have a covered garbage can now to prevent the dragging of miscellaneous items around. I also have learned to leave everything beyond her reach if I want it to stay the way it is. Life is wonderful with a dog in it :- From: Janie Cohen — Jun 03, More times than not I think you are my doppelganger; or you at least follow me around and hear my every thought and anxiety concerning my art. Your loving doggie stories are always welcome here, for I have a very special artigiana without whom I could not paint. Having been diagnosed with stage IV cancer in in remission 5 yrs. Clara is a rescued kitty from a local shelter. These are the tiny greyhounds, not the big ones, but 2 or ours are rescues. Your service of directing surfers to websites sounds interesting. If there is not more info on your service, can I get more? Recently I finished my first book which involves dogs, mystery, fantasy and God knows what else. Your service sounds like it could be very helpful once I get the website for the book finished. He is a treasure. While we still miss all of the dogs we have had the joy of sharing our home with we must admit that 5 large dogs that need to be kept away from each other as the boys were not neutered and wanted to be Alpha and one female who actually was in charge was quite an experience. Even though there were some very interesting and heart wrenching moments when they visited my studio, they were still my favorite models. From: Marilyn S. Mylrea — Jun 03, I just recently got a kitten and cats can also make great companions. My cat loves to watch me paint in my studio. He is not a distraction at all as he just lies there and stares up at me. I love that he is the first being outside of me to see my art as I know his love will always be supportive. I also like dogs and may someday get one. The famous American artist April Gornik also has pets and is a big animal lover. And Emily Carr preferred animals to many people. I think they lift our spirits which is always great and inspirational! At that time, she was given one month to live, and here she is, still with us today, bouncing and pouncing, good days and bad, but so loving and giving. Her little short stubby tail tells all. We also have a lb Labrador, who is a geriatric, however the tail never stops wagging. Love them both. They are small, lively, and do nothing but love people I hope. Thanks for touching on this subject. My home is my studio. Or vise-versa. I am a big fan of adopting animals from the shelter, and of mixed breeds. You do have to devote time and energy to pets, which I find healthy. The walks, play sessions, cuddling all help keep me happy. Life in the studio is way too quiet alone. I have an Australian Shepherd. They are one of the smartest breeds and love lots of exercise. Not only do we get the blood flowing first thing, but during our walk, with the juices flowing, I work out my plan for the day. We come back refreshed and invigorated, ready for a day of painting. She takes a nap on her bed in my studio and I can get my work done. When I need to let paint dry, I play the piano and she comes along side to listen. Currently I have two of these wonderful dogs and I know I am going to be a sad puppy when they leave. I always forgive them and they never hold a grudge. You are right about them being angels. From: Janet Badger — Jun 03, Thank you all so very very much for your supportive and helpful ideas. I feel surrounded by caring friends, and I hope to prove worthy of the dog that will eventually become part of our family. They make very good and docile pets—some people even prefer them to dogs—especially when raised from infancy. In the USA there are laws preventing owning them in some cities, but most states issue licenses for them in rural areas. It would not be too cute for Janet to have a badger as a motto, a logo and a spiritual presence that would help people remember who she is. From: Judy Feldman — Jun 03, My dog, Cleo is my muse — I love sketching her and she appears frequently in my paintings. From: Adrienne Moore — Jun 03, Hi Robert, your most recent letter The dog decision set me thinking about losing my beloved Chewbie, a cross Pyrenee lab retriever,to cancer at the age of eleven. He had been my trusted friend and shared my studio since I adopted him as a pup. He was an alpha male , strongly independent and was always pushing boundaries, so determined was he to have things his way. His antics were amazing and I kept a journal about the amusing situations he got into. When he was no longer with me ,I composed a book ,illustrated it with a few colourful paintings and recently received the first edition which I published. The entire process of writing the book was an opportunity ,to some degree ,to make our parting more bearable. I watch dog owners with envy and I will get another dog one day but first, it is time for me to travel because my favorite companion kept me close to home for many years. .One of the artists, a wee gal with big dreams was hanging large abstracts with limited color schemes. One of the painting, a large creme one was the hit of the show. She decided to leave it and it was the hit of the opening! They are usually trained and their personalities are evident and they are grateful to have a companion. From: Allan Pitfield — Jun 03, Badgers are notoriously nasty animals. If you have one, get it to a wildlife rehabilitation place asap. They are not good pets. Further, they are not interested in art. They are not just my constant companions but my dear little friends. As with Mr. I live alone on my farm, my reward for having raised 6 children by myself, I think, and I cherish the medicinal solitude and Nature all around me. My dogs are comfort, succor and even inspiration to me, if only because they live life so simply but so pure: all about love. I agree with other posters here, look to animal rescue-shelters for a great dog you can train to be with you as you work. In their eyes, there is no judgement, no rancor, none of the negativity humans sometimes bring, only love shining brightly…. That pretty well says it all. My yellow lab, Sunshine, is also cognizant of when things are going badly. He thinks that this is a good time to pat the dog. He is correct. The distraction leads to re-focusing and getting back on track. I take my little guy with me most outings. Here however, we had many friends and acquaintances stopping by to chat, as it is a busy spot for cycling and dog walkers and wide open views up and down the path. One of my breakfast buddies had decided he would try to connect with me later that afternoon, as he was curious to see my setup. After a half hour visit, he roared off and would return to see the finished piece. I continued my painting only to look on Zeke and found he was nowhere to be seen. Picture my panic, yelling and jogging in the direction that our friend had gone in, finally I saw him. All dogs know who have the treats and who are the treat babas. From: -Loraine Wellman — Jun 04, Cats make good studio companions too. However, it could be that they are a little bossier. I get to pause and think- and a lap gets provided. Joe was a rescue dog who used to live with pigs when he was young. He was uncared for so he began to wander our village in search of food. Yes, my horse would drag Joe along by his leg, ever so carefully and the two of them would butt heads and wrestle for hours. When Joe was two, the village decided that we should keep Joe. While in British Columbia we hike in the mountains to paint, sometimes alone and at other times with two friends and their dog. Joe and I are now wandering the Italian Alps and a lovely valley called the Valchiusella. Joe now has two languages, he loves Italian food and has even found some delightful Italian, dog friends. From: Denita Tizard — Jun 05, Thank you! I have been given an opportunity of a beautiful puppy to join our family, and I nearly said NO. From: Jackie Knott — Jun 05, As artists, we tend to travel a lot. This next year will involve even more travel. Because of this we decided not to replace our old dog we lost last year. I always noticed the dogs suffered more anxiety over our absence than the cats. Our dog used to be my shadow for days upon coming home, obviously stressed … our cat is glad to see us return but is back into her routine immediately. Yes, we all love our pets … but one must consider their affection as well. From: Ceci Lam — Jun 05, I totally agrees with your observations on the wealth of having dogs, and of the two primary difficulties. Saying goodbye to a companion of 10 or 12 years is heartbreaking, but the joy and adventure of a new dog is good medicine. Having an ex who uses my garage to restore his British sports cars in exchange for house and dog sitting is invaluable, as I write you from France. Every good home deserves a dog and every dog deserves a good home. I think having a good animal around the home is such a blessing. Aldous Huxley once advised an aspiring writer to get a cat—preferably two cats—to learn more about human psychology. Only once did anything bad happen with one of my cats and my paint, and that was all my fault: I did not realize I had a glob of wet dioxazine purple acrylic paint on my sleeve when I pet Dana until I saw it get transferred to her white flank. Fortunately for me, Dana was the sweetest, most trustworthy and gentle cat that ever lived she died three years ago and I miss her so —she let me hold her under a running faucet so that I could wash the paint off her fur. From: Sheila Minifie — Jun 06, What a wonderful outpouring of appreciation for our hairier companions from everyone. It just flowed out unobstructed, joyfully and quietly in one long digital river. Strolling into the studio in the morning with a cup of coffee and a furry friend at your feet makes the blank canvas much less daunting. Though cats are equally wonderful pets, I have found them to be less than adequate as studio companions. I love cats. I have never been without one or two or three. But they hamper my process. I had to start using a portable palette so when I see Phineas coming I can put the lid on. He likes to sit in the middle of my palette. Scamper always wanted to be right next to me no matter what I was doing…he would climb up the drawing table which was at an angle and then slide down, all the while trying to grab hold with his claws. He would then promptly fall asleep on my arm which was still across the table. It took all this for me to realize why my grandfather never allowed the cats in his studio when I was growing up. I have included a sketch of the cat my grandparents had when I was young. I put my paintbrushes down for 8 months and devoted every possible minute to her. She had never felt the warmth of a human touch before that, had no social skills, nor even knew how to play. She greets us warmly and faithfully every day upon our return, plays all the time and even has learned to place her own signature paw prints on several of my paintings. What joy she brings us! Give a stray or shelter animal your time and love. I have my friend Ferghus at my side most days in my sewing studio. He is also a Therapy Dog and we visit seniors. After losing our last dog at age 7 — I was not keen on another dog yet now we have Ferghus age 3,the joy us greater than the heartache. From: Ted F. If you are to focused and may not hear some one coming they let you know and when you need a break they are always ready to put their head on your lap for some petting and always ready to accompany you whenever you like. This past winter we were to learn that he had cancer, and sadly would not be with us for very long. I asked for one last sit, in the studio. I felt such a profound and deep closeness to him during what was to be his last painting sit with me. Her last days were spent accompanying me while I completed two paintings and started on the third, meant for a group exhibition. The show was cancelled and the third painting has remained unfinished. I guess, though she was almost completely blind and deaf, she could feel my excited vibes. I have three cats, used to have a dog who passed on. Becca stands next to me as I paint, purring, waiting to be petted, giving me the most beautiful green-eyed gaze. Bert—well, he chases Melie, thus livening things up. I always get slightly older, shelter cats. They are healers, angels, guardians of the soul, which is why cats seem to choose us. It makes me immensely sad when I hear cats slandered, or hear of them being discarded or abused. And there was plenty of fur around with the dog, too, huge drifts of it. From: sarastar — Jun 07, I have found that if I point the fan away from my art and keep my studio well swept that hair from any pet is a minimal issue. From: Kathleen Kuchar — Jun 07, I have a terrific studio dog, a standard poodle that I acquired when he was 8 years old his owner died. I quickly learned that he liked to eat my Arches watercolor paper. I wonder if it is the sizing he likes so much. Anybody have a clue what to do about this behavior. Other than that, I call Modie MR. I highly recommend an older dog that is already trained and one that has been rescued. I love my poodle. One day, one day soon. From: Susan Williamson — Jun 08, Last week my Cavalier King Charles spaniel Lily passed away after fifteen and a half years of devoted companionship. I say go for a dog, Janet, and I would recommend a Cavalier. Perfect for an artist. Give your head a smack lady. Get a dog or two!!! Izzit a walk? I think I like this pack! I am a pastel painter. Turns out full tails are not so helpful in the studio. The Workshop Calendar provides up-to-date selected workshops and seminars arranged in chronological order. Each match was with a forfeit up and seasons of schooling and conditioning of each dog. That day, I bought seven or eight dogs from a young man by the name of Danny Burton. At this time, I was trying to buy the dogs bred closest to the ones in Earl Tudors yard. Before this, Danny had spent a few years being friends with Earl Tudor. She was almost fawn color. I was using dogs from most every family of dogs bred in those times. And the ones I was winning the most with was the ones bred the closest to Earl Tudors purest family. It was the same with the others in the game at that time. Everyone in the game at that time, who was at the core of the game, was trying to get dogs bred as close to Earl Tudors yard and purest families as they could. At this time I was going to Earl Tudors shade tree two times a year. We would talk each time from sunup to sundown one day, then I would go home and think for weeks and weeks about what all he told me. A number of times, I had a tape recorder and taped hours and hours of he and I talking to each other. In those days. They all were trying to push him from the mountain he had proven in the game. Many times, when Earl and I talked, he would break down and cry and rub tears and talk about how the game never gave him his due. He told me more than one time about the many dogs that were bred off his yard, then the new owners would change their breeding and try and make A name in this game, they will come after you for themselves. He said, from all over the mountain trying to prove you wrong. I matched him into a painter friend from East Dallas; his name was Billy Purdue. Billy had become friends with an old timer in the Dallas area called, Frank Fitzwater. Billy and Frank had a red rednose family bred dog, bred by Frank. He had been schooled and worked since he was a small pup. He was bred from the purest families from Earl Tudors yard. Frank Fitzwater had been a friend of both Bill Lightner and Earl Tudor and over the years, became a breeder of their family of gamedogs. Frank and Earl had climbed into the pit with one another more than once. Frank had won over Earl and Earl had won over Frank. Frank Fitzwater was matching dogs a number of years before Earl Tudor matched his first dog. When we met at pitside, after going near a season without seeing one another, I could see Billy had lost weight and Frank was drinking some good whiskey. This was the way of the match till near 40 minutes. Both dogs had been off their feet but, only for one or two seconds at a time. Frank was a tall man of over 6 ft. He was slim and never a man to show any fat. Frank was known as a long dog walker. He learned his conditioning from Lou Bowser when he was near 20 yrs. His stories were very interesting and he would match a dog into anyone who would match a dog. Frank was known over the U. Billy and Frank were both ready to give up the Match as we got a handle. When the ref. His next match came one weekend when there was a big show in the area. There were a number of people who were coming from every area in the U. The pits were out in the open or under a grove of trees. Over the pit and seats were a light cover for shade. Most all of these big Texas shows had near 10 matches each show. The number one dogs and dogmen of that time were meeting each-other at every show. And in those days, winning was a big part of the game. Earl was making a number of the shows in those days but, most he missed as his health was a wreck and his nerves were near out of control. Earl, in his late years, became a man many found very hard to be around. He was like an animal that would go wild within two seconds. When he talked he went into his stories to tell you the different looks on the different peoples faces at the time of the stories. And when some stories reached a point, he would begin crying, taking his eye glasses off and wiping tears from his eyes. His stories I listened to for hours each visit. Many of the stories Earl told me were stories I had heard but, told to me in a different way. And, in a room like that at a show, there would be many stories told about the different areas and gamedogs and the people who play the game. It was as if most were trying to push Earl from his true area on the mountain. It was plan to see the way the game matched itself into Earl Tudor in many ways as he proved himself. We all prove ourselves over a matter of years, and years, and years of playing the game. And talking of Playing the game; at the time when one of the big Texas shows came off in this area, there were a number from California who had come to my shade tree for a visit. One was an Indian Chief called Indian Sonny. Another was a large land owner in California, his name Larry McCaw. Another was a good gamedog man called Freddy Jones. He was fast to try and get Freddy and I together for a match while the Indian was trying to get into my pedigree and Picture collection. In my dog yard in those days, there were no shade trees. The dogs and their houses were in an open area with the grass kept cut. Each dog house had a lean-to shade on one side of their house. Each dog had a water hole beside or under their house. At that time, a field investigator for the Humane Society called Jerry Owens was starting to make headlines and TV news about how he was investigating dog fighting in this Texas area. The next show that came off in the spring of , was a show where it rained all the day long and pit side was near people who watched the matches all day till the last match ended under the light of a lantern. When this show came off, Jerry Owens got into a line leaving the motel to get to the pit side, then left to go buy him and his friends some rain coats. The pit was set up on the father of the Asst. District Attorneys ranch. Jerry Owens made it to the phone and called a number of different laws but, could not get a hold of any who would make the bust. For the next few weeks, Jerry Owens wag on headlines and TV shows talking about the size of the pit and the washing and weighing of the dogs. The story was on the headlines of all the papers in the Texas area. About this time, the number one Texas Ranger in Texas came to the shade tree on the mountain, his name was Boss Hogg. His name was Jimmy Wimmberly. George Gilmen, who was at that time, a close friend who he and I had matched near 20 dogs together; he was backing me with money. One week later Jimmy called and asked if he could turn the dog over to another old friend called Roland Fontenot. It was near 2 weeks till match time. I told him to let Roland have him to work. The deal was made and the fourth day in front of the matches, I drove into Louisiana with a large truck and the pit sticking out the rear of the truck. There was three of us from this area that made the trip with the pit and bleacher seats and five dogs that was matched at the show. We set up camp at pit side beside a river in a grove of tall pine trees on a sandy road behind an old half vacant house that was lived in by a horse jockey. When I got the dog from Jimmy, I put him on a 70 lb. We talked on a few hours, as we ate duck and drank wine. We were all looking forward for-the matches; we all had our pockets full of money to bet on the ones we liked. The next day before the last feeding, we drove the truck and dogs to the motel where everyone was staying. We got a large room for all the dog people to meet, talk, drink and smoke in. The dog talk was stories from every area in the U. A while after sunset, in drove two station wagons with five people in each car. It was the dog men from the West Coast. It was as if he was putting on a show of his body as he stood and then licked Freddy in the face. Pit weight dog and had won one match at 48 lbs. Bull Plug had won an off the chain match at 52 lbs. This was a big money match, it was the match we had more money on than any of the matches. In this area, the talk about these two dogs was being bet on in many areas. Four weeks before the match,, the betting became even. The betting, at the weigh in and wash tubs, was being made one after another as the California people were calling all bets. Then he was fast back into the broken shoulder. He took a deep hold between the chest and shoulder and rooted in deep. He was also getting hotter and hotter. These two big dogs fought one another hard for near two hours; they scratched 10 or 15 times each. On his way home to Ft. This was in the fall of .This stone and tree can still be seen in Ft. Worth, Texas in Bull Plugs dog yard. The next match was males at 43 lbs. Maurice was using an outcrossed bred dog that was bred from some good bred dogs he had at one time. How about us matching for the gate money? He was young and had little time being schooled. The next match was a big money match with females at 27 pounds into a 29 pounder. We, the North Texas dog men, were matched into number of dog men from Tennessee. Billy was a top rated boxer in Pro Boxing. He conditioned and handled his 29 lb. Bush, from Alabama. That match was Picked up when the show was busted by the Mississippi law. John was a man with lots of money and a few were trying to get in with him. He lost his forfeit but, had two lbs. The next match was between the North Texas dog men match into Floyd Boudreaux and his cajun friends from Louisiana. The match was males at 33 lbs. When we made it home near two in the early morning, we went straight to bed. Then, up at seven in the morning to take the dogs out of their crates. Maurice was selling black Pups for a hundred dollars more than the other Pups he sold. A short time later, the Con of Bulldog Hill called the Indian. Then the Indian called me, then the Indian got out of the game for a few years. Many times when we play the game, we stray from the truth. Not just a few of us but, the very large percent of us do sometime stray from the truth. Then, in later years, the truth becomes proven and it has a way of making one a bit sick if they were one of the ones who strayed to far from that truth. Today, truth is being proven by many of each generation of our past. Kennedy is having a number of books and movies of the man he was. Frank S. The higher we climb the mountain, the more we prove ourselves. If one never does any climbing, they never get the chance to prove their true gameness. The truth of all of us will be proven as we climb the mountain in all games, no matter what game; a movie star, a dogfighter, a dog lover or a president. All games of life. The ones who climb the mountain are proven truth. We all, at a time, live in the pits of hell and high on the mountain as more will be proven true about that person. Mountain climbing and proving truth is a-way of life that comes after a climber has played in one game for a number of years and reached a peak in that game. How high anyone climbs in any game of life is up to the gameness within that climber.

How do I train my 8 week old German Shepherd puppy? It is quite normal for young German shepherd dogs to be hungry but constant hunger does concern me. Ask the vet to check if the worm treatment is working. Two other potential causes are maldigestion and malabsorption. Pancreatic insufficiency is common in German shepherds. How much should a German shepherd puppy eat a day? To begin with follow the guidelines provided by the feeder, the feed manufacturer, or by your veterinarian. For example, you could expect to start feeding your puppy a total of around 3 cups a day of a high-quality kibble. Dogs and people, too need sugar for energy. Is it normal for my puppy to always be hungry? Your puppy might always be hungry because they need more daily calories. They may also have adopted bad habits caused through eating human food. Some dogs and puppies will naturally be more prone to food obsession. Do German Shepherd puppies eat a lot? Your GSD pup eats nearly double the amount of an adult in order to maintain growth rate and their higher daily energy needs. Balanced formulas keep their bones and muscles strong throughout their growing periods and can ward off later joint issues, a common breed problem, as they mature. What time should I feed my German Shepherd puppy? Feed 3 times per day from 8 to 12 weeks of age and twice per day thereafter. If you want to change the food, always choose a high quality puppy food labeled for large breeds. What do I do if my puppy is always hungry? Always stick to your feeding schedule. Should I let my puppy eat as much as he wants? Puppies need to eat a lot—and not too much. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs, and they should have a visible waist when you look down at them. Why is my puppy eating so fast? They get excited to eat, they see the food, and they all rush over to the bowl. Some puppies will quickly get over that behavior, but others will keep at it until they are taught to slow down. Should puppies eat 2 or 3 times a day? Puppies need small, frequent feedings. Is my puppy hungry or greedy? If you are feeding a quality dog food and if you are following the feeding instructions properly — then it is likely that your dog is just being greedy. How do you know when your puppy has worms? What are the signs your dog has worms? How much food should a 6 week old German Shepherd eat? How much should a 6 week old German Shepherd puppy eat? How much should I feed my 8 week old German Shepherd puppy? At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should eat 3 to 4 small meals per day. My puppy is always hungry is a sentence most veterinarians hear all the time. But what about when you have the same problem with an adult dog or even a senior one? This leaves them not just having to adjust to a new living environment, but their body might also require some time to adjust. Newborn puppies have a feeding source available right there next to them, in the shape of their mother. Suddenly, your puppy is going from a constant supply of food to eating only two to four times a day. In the wild, dogs are opportunistic eaters. They can spend days without any access to food. This is the same reason many dogs express food aggression. Many wild dogs and wolves will scavenge for food and bury any leftovers so they can have them later. Does that sound familiar? If your dog is constantly trying to dig in the trash can, he is simply following his survival instincts. Survival Mode If you have an adult dog that is always hungry, chances are you adopted him when he was older than a few months. In fact, some puppies are even born with a parasitic infection they inherit from their mothers. They will stick onto the intestinal walls and absorb all the nutrients from the food your dog eats. This can lead to an increased appetite and malnutrition. If a dog has this disease, his body will produce too much glucocorticoid, a stress-regulating hormone. Too much glucocorticoid causes your dog to be hungry all the time. Dogs with diabetes will lack insulin, which normally helps glucose get into the blood cells. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, making your dog hungry all the time. Keep in mind that young puppies have a much faster metabolism than older dogs. They can eat a lot without weight gain. However, if you notice they are becoming underweight, this is a red flag. The smartest thing would be to talk to your vet about the right amount of food your puppy requires. Most of the time, this will depend on things such as dog breed and size and his activity levels. Large breeds that are active will require more calories than small lap dogs. If you have a small puppy, be prepared to feed him about four times a day. Puppies require lots of small meals as their metabolism is faster, which is also the reason puppies will want to poop much more often than adult dogs. An older puppy should be fed 2 to 3 times a day. Adult dogs should eat no more than twice a day — unless they are working dogs with higher activity levels. Active dogs require more small meals a day as this can provide them with enough energy to go through their day. Food Needs The amount of dog food required will depend mostly on the size of your dog. This should make sense. A large dog should eat more than small breeds. However, the main indicator of how much food a puppy should eat is his weight. For example, a pound German Shepherd puppy will require 2 cups of food daily not per meal! On the other hand, a small, 5-pound Chihuahua puppy will need no more than one cup of food per day. A pound Bulldog puppy will also require 2 cups of food, just like a pound German Shepherd pup. They will require more calories and high-quality dog food without any fillers. Keep in mind that puppies should eat wet food until they are old enough to chew on a kibble. For large dogs, this is usually when they reach 10 weeks of age. Smaller dog breeds have smaller teeth, which is why they might not be prepared for dry food until they are at least 14 weeks old. Fortunately, there are ways to notice whether your puppy is underweight or overweight. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself when looking at your pup: 1. Can I easily see his ribs? Can I easily feel his ribs? When I look at my dog from above, do I see his waistline? The answers to these questions will tell you everything you need to know. Underfed puppies have a too slender waist, while overfed ones tend to not have a clear waistline at all. Most puppies, just like babies, have a little bit of tummy fat. If you think your puppy is really overweight, you might even want to take him to the vet. Of course, all puppies are different, and some dog breeds will always look chubbier than others. However, these guidelines are a general rule of thumb that can help you determine whether your dog is eating too much or too little. Bad Habits Many pet owners make mistakes when feeding their pets. They do this out of best intentions, as they simply cannot stand the thought of their beloved companion being hungry for a second. Feeding Dogs Table Scraps Giving human food and table scraps to your dog is always a terrible idea, especially if you have a growing puppy. This makes it challenging to keep track of what your dog is eating. Of course, this means your entire family has to be with you on this. Overfeeding We cannot stress this enough: overfeeding is the main reason dogs become obese. While chubby puppies might look cute, there is nothing healthy about having an obese dog. Obesity can lead to many problems, especially in large breeds prone to orthopedic problems such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Overall, the best possible thing is to stick to your feeding schedule, no matter the event or the behaviors your dog is expressing. There are a couple of things you might want to try if you want to speed up these efforts: Give More Frequent Meals When you bring a new puppy home, you should give him many small meals. As mentioned before, four meals should be enough. This will ease his transition from breastfeeding. As time goes by and your puppy gets used to eating wet food, lower the number of daily meals. Add Water to the Kibble When a puppy starts eating dry food, he might not be used to it. This can make him eat more or less of it than he should, which will make him hungry all day long. He might even eat slower than he normally would, which will help his tummy feel full. As he grows older, reduce the amount of water until you leave him with nothing but kibbles. This is the healthiest way to ensure he is eating the right amount of food and that his transition to dry food goes well. Use Some Type of Obstacle One of the reasons your puppy might be feeling hungry all the time is that he is eating too fast. The same happens with humans. Adding a cup in the middle of the feeding bowl can be enough. Your puppy will have to eat around it, which will make him eat slower than he normally would. You can even find many specially designed food bowls made for fast eaters. These can also help prevent bloating or calm down puppies that get overly excited during mealtime. Consult Your Vet If you feel like there is something wrong with your puppy and his eating habits, you might want to consult your vet just to be on the safe side. Unfortunately, there are some medical causes behind the constant hunger some puppies feel. This can help you sleep calmly. The Final Word All puppies have unique needs. Is he too big or too small for his age? If your puppy is being annoying and constantly begging for food, the most important thing is to not give in to his begging. The sun is out and the weather is nice. Everything is going well until they pull hard on their leash all of a sudden. Then you hear a crunching sound. They resist with all their might. And now everyone is looking at you. What a relief! You often wonder: Why does this happen? Your German Shepherd may be starting to discover new things. Especially if they are still a puppy or they are in a new environment. This includes sniffing and having a taste of anything they could get their hands on. Or rather, their paws. Sometimes, they really are just eating machines! This is why they are considered as some of the most effective guard dogs. Yes, they do sniff. But they also treat themselves once in a while. Through licking and eating things. But before you give your canine some downtime, try to understand them. Why do they do these things? One word: wolves. But after some time, they learned the ways they can scavenge food from humans. And then they were able to eat without having to hunt. But the food was limited back then. So they used to stuff themselves with everything before the food ran out again. This instinct is still intact until today. Our dogs will go through our trash or would eat scraps from our table. They would eat anything we offer them. All was going well until they drove their heads right in the picnic mat. You cover your face in embarrassment. Goodness, gracious! Even if your dog just ate a minute ago, they always look for food. Why is that? The reason why they eat everything could be because you are not feeding them enough. German Shepherds are large dogs. Their average weight ranges from 49 pounds to 88 pounds 22 kg to 39 kg. With that weight, they have to be fed correctly. If not, they will look for food sources elsewhere. Your dog loves to eat grass. Wherever you go for walks, they stay in one place and gobble on some fresh greens. Then they vomit them. Especially when they also love to give you kisses afterward. This could be because they need certain nutrients. If they eat grass all the time, they could be lacking in fiber. Or they just love the taste of organic goodies. Well, unless they are eating poisonous plants. In which case, you should take them to a vet immediately. The stool may have parasitic worms that can lead to stomach problems. But if your dog eats feces, it means they may have nutritional deficiencies. You can resolve this by letting them take multivitamins. If your German Shepherd is eating non-stop, this could be because of medical reasons. They may have a parasite in their small intestine such as tapeworms that can cause them to be hungry all the time. Think of it as being pregnant. A mom could be eating for two: herself and the baby in her womb. Whereas your dog is also eating for two: for themself and the tapeworm. Taking them to the vet for some medications should do the trick. Dogs also experience this. Pica is a compulsive disorder which could be caused by behavioral reasons such as fear or stress. An example of this is when they fear punishment for destroying something. So to get rid of the evidence, they would eat it instead. Note that this behavior is dangerous. It could cause a loss of appetite, stomach problems, and choking. The endocrine system is responsible for the production of the hormone cortisol. So what exactly is cortisol and why is it important? It regulates weight, tissue, and skin conditions. In effect, your German Shepherd will be more vulnerable to disease and infections because of a weak immune system. Do German Shepherds Shed? What feeding plan you enforce from their puppyhood days should be stuck to throughout their lives. There are a few dog feeding plans, choose the best one based on what character your dog has. A full bowl of food usually dry kibble is placed out allowing your dog to eat whenever they want to. Also, if you have many dogs, they can access the food from the same bowl. They can eat whenever they are hungry and not have to wait for feeding. This feeding plan gives owners more flexibility and freedom. But, on the other hand, there are disadvantages. A greedy dog can easily eat beyond his fill, making him overweight and prone to obesity! Plus, in particular, one dog could bully the other dogs and stop them from eating their fair share of food. Do German Shepherd Like Water? Can They Swim? After this, it is taken away. So while scheduled feeding may make your dog eat fast as he is afraid you will take his food away, overeating is not a possibility. But, if your dog is a slow eater he could end up feeling hungry all day long. People even mention this as a cruel method of feeding. Portion feeding is especially good if your dog is on a diet plan. He will stay within eating limits. On the other end, portions allocated in portion feeding could be inadequate for your dog if you miscalculate! Also, this type of feeding requires you to feed your dog multiple times. Do German Shepherd Drool? Causes of Drooling 5 Anxiety Just as humans are prone to overeating due to anxiety, dogs are the same. An anxious German Shepherd can easily eat too much or eat too frequently. As his owner, it is your responsibility to observe these eating changes. But first, you must get down to the source of the problem. Why is your German Shepherd anxious? Dogs can get anxious for a number of reasons. The most common ones are insecurity and loneliness. If a person or animal has moved in, your dog could be feeling uncomfortable or unsafe. If someone your dog cares about has moved out, your dog could miss him, making him feel anxious. His peak appetite will be when he is an adult as his metabolism and energy expenditure are both high in adulthood. But, as your dog enters his senior years his body is not what it used to be. He will be unable to digest food the same way he could. This actually leads to vital nutrients and minerals not being properly absorbed by the intestine. A condition called malabsorption. As a result, your senior German Shepherd is prone to feeling hungry all the time. Fortunately, you as an owner can help to deal with this. If you have recently adopted a German Shepherd from a shelter, he is likely to feel hungry all the time. This is because of the insecurity that he feels. Perhaps he feels he may not get food again for a long time. Eventually, after he settles down this may not be his fear anymore. But, not all dogs learn to let go of this instinct. All you can do is offer up support and love and hope he feels safe and loved by you. If your dog has a dog sibling that has just joined the family recently, this instinctive eating could be seen. This is because they feel that the other dog might eat all the food and he will remain hungry. So, to assure he is fed and fit, he will definitely eat a lot! A German Shepherd can eat most meats like beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and duck. You can give your dog raw meat to provide all the required nutrients. These meats can be eaten cooked but nutrients may be lost in the process of cooking. Fruits and vegetables are essential for dogs as they are for humans. Carrots act as a crunchy snack besides being high in vitamins and a nice way to incorporate fiber into their diet. Nuts are a great energy-boosting snack but only give your German Shepherd hazelnuts or peanuts. That too, in moderation. Other foods safe for your German Shepherd are whole grains, honey, peanut butter, and quinoa. Can You Shave German Shepherd? Meats like shrimp and fish are not advisable and require monitoring. Some fish can have parasites that can affect your dog. Dogs cannot eat some fruits. This includes avocados, grapes, pears, grapes, raisins, and persimmons. Nuts have high calories and influence weight gain in your dog. Macadamia, pecans, walnuts, and pistachios are the main nuts your dog cannot eat. Other foods you should never feed your dog are chocolate cacao , caffeine, xylitol, salt, and potatoes. All human junk and fast food are not good for your pet dog. These items usually taste good but increase weight and cholesterol and sugar levels. The monthly cost of feeding a full-grown German Shepherd fluctuates. The cost of feeding a German Shepherd depends on the age of your German Shepherd, its appetite, and the food brand chosen. The total monthly cost of owning a German Shepherd is more because of other costs pertaining to vet bills, toys, and other bills. Why is my German Shepherd not eating in summer? It is very common for a German Shepherd to eat less during summer. Hence, requiring less energy. But, it is not common for them to stop eating completely! Take them to a vet as there is probably an underlying reason for this. Final thoughts 1. They sometimes treat each opportunity for food like it may be their last one. They believe deep down on a genetic level that food can very well become a scarce commodity and a limited resource. Their feeling is that they are not guaranteed a meal every day, or even every few days, and this may cause their survival instinct to kick in. If this becomes the case with your German Shepherd, then you are going to have to take control of the situation and exert your inner Alpha Leader. Then, come up with a regular feeding schedule, and above all, stick to it! Refrain from allowing anyone, family or visitors, from giving your dog any type of human table scraps or handouts. And with treats, only allow your dog to have them when it has earned them by following instructions or being calm and submissive. This is when you will remove the bowl, whether the entire meal was eaten or not. This will serve to help your dog learn the schedule of mealtime, and that they can expect to not be getting anything until the next meal. As your dog gets in tune with a schedule, it should work to remove the desire of always looking for something to eat. Psychology Another reason that your German Shepherd may always be acting like it is hungry may very well be based on psychology. Dogs are very habitual creatures, and as such any change in their mannerisms may indicate a deeper problem. If your German Shepherd has always presented as a somewhat passive eater but then seems to become more greedy in nature, then it may be time to investigate the possibility of something more than just basic instinct at work. Dogs, much like their human companions, can suffer from psychological issues. And when they do, often the first indication is a sudden and unexplained change in their personality as well as their habits. Some examples would be: Have you or your family recently moved? Has the German Shepherd recently been rehomed? Changes such as these are known to bring about feelings of insecurity and anxiety, which in turn will lead to extra added stress on your German Shepherd. In the case of a change in the pack dynamic, such as the case of the addition of a new dog to your home, you will need to supervise meals for a while. It is best to make sure that the newest member of the household is not trying to push the older member away from the bowl during feeding time. Improper Nutrition When most owners think of improper nutrition, they think of it in terms of a loss of appetite, not increasing appetite. However, the problem can have both effects on your German Shepherd. When it comes to store-bought, processed dog food, manufacturing companies pack the cans chock full of grains, starches and most of all fiber. Fiber is not as beneficial, or even beneficial in the same manner to dogs as it is to humans. Fiber, much like in humans, can aid in a dog feeling full after a meal. However, science shows that carbs from starches, as well as from fiber, are but a small percent of the daily healthy requirements for our dogs. This will then lead to food-seeking behavior. To make sure that your dog is getting a balanced and protein-rich meal, it is crucial that you feed them a nutritionally complete fresh food diet that is species-appropriate. A consultation with your vet can go a long way, as they can suggest the best feeding choices for your individual dog. If the proper food is fed during each meal, then your German Shepherd will be less likely to be seeking an additional meal later. Aging As our canine companions age, their physical systems will go through some changes. One of those changes can unfortunately be the inability of their system to properly digest, absorb, and make use of the food that they ingest. For this reason, many dogs, as they enter into their golden years, will appear to be hungry all the time. This condition, more commonly referred to as malabsorption. This is an ailment that originates in the gastrointestinal tract of a German Shepherd, resulting in the effect that no matter how much food the dog eats, it will still feel hungry almost all of the time. The treatment for malabsorption in aging dogs varies depending on what the root cause may actually be. In many instances, the German Shepherd will need to have a significant restructuring of their meals. This meal restructuring may include the prescribing of a diet that is gluten-free in an attempt to ease the feeling of hunger, which in turn may help towards managing the condition. Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth The intestines of most living creatures normally have lots of bacteria present. However, the number of intestinal bacteria can sometimes grow too quickly, and this abnormal rate of growth may sometimes become the start of the problem. With bacterial overgrowth in dogs, the area affected is that of the small intestines. The most commonly exhibited signs of small intestines bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO , are those of diarrhea and flatulence. With the idiopathic form in the German Shepherd breed, some dogs may appear overly and excessively hungry, as well as engaging in the act of pica or stool ingestion. The most commonly prescribed treatment for bacterial overgrowth is a series of broad-spectrum antibiotics that are taken orally. As a rule, the medicines most often chosen for use are those of tylosin, oxytetracycline, and metronidazole. Onset of Diabetes Dogs owners are sometimes surprised to learn that many of the illnesses that we as humans suffer from also apply to their dogs. One such malady that affects both humans and dogs alike, is diabetes. Diabetes mellitus , or uncontrolled levels of sugar in the bloodstream, is a disease that has a variety of factors that play into its development. Although it is widely thought that the German Shepherd is not genetically disposed to contracting diabetes, know that all dog breeds are susceptible. When a German Shepherd develops diabetes, and the fluctuations in blood sugar that comes with it, they may present with constant and ferocious hunger. The treatment for dogs diagnosed with diabetes is pretty much the same as with humans. Dietary changes are also commonly prescribed, which should help with the sudden spikes in blood sugar that are known to occur often. The treatment for German Shepherds diagnosed with diabetes can be long-term if not a life-long requirement. When this happens, the dog will show all the symptoms of starvation, including an ever-present hunger and appetite. At this current time, there is no cure known to work for EPI. A dog diagnosed with EPI does will not necessarily experience a shortened life span. If properly diagnosed, and the condition is treated properly, the dog can continue to enjoy as full and as active of a lifestyle as any other dog. When the enzymes are added to its food each time a dog is fed, the supplement works to help break down and aid in the digestion of the food from each meal. Hyperthyroidism This condition presents the same in dogs as it does in humans. Because the thyroid controls all of the systems in the body, there is no one system that remains unaffected by the condition. Hypothyroidism itself is brought on by the excessive production of the hormone thyroxine. This increased production is generally diagnosed as a result of aggressive thyroid cancer. The thyroxine is the very fuel that causes the increase of metabolism to occur. Although the condition may be triggered by a diet that contains high levels of hormones, the usual culprit is that of an aggressive cancer of the thyroid, resulting in a tumor. Unfortunately, more often than not, this diagnosis is terminal. Treatment is usually determined by one of multiple factors, including the size of any tumor present, and if said tumor has already metastasized to other organs or systems of the body. The medical term for the syndrome, hyperadrenocorticism, is one in which the adrenal glands overproduce certain hormones. The adrenal glands are commonly located near the kidneys of the dog, and are vital to the function and sustaining of the body systems needed for life. As for treatment, that depends on which form of the syndrome that the German Shepherd is diagnosed with. Treatment could simply mean the halting of any steroids that are being given to the dog, to the possibility of surgery to remove any tumors that may be present in the adrenal or pituitary glands. Your vet may also introduce a different course of treatment, which will most often have to be followed to the letter and maintained on a regular and consistent basis. Intestinal Cancers As mentioned above, when the intestines of a German Shepherd are affected, then there is usually a problem with the absorption of nutrients. Many types of cancers that develop in our dogs are gastrointestinal in origin. The cancers usually present with tumors in either the rectum, stomach or the intestines. Both of these types of tumors are known to grow at a rapid pace. Although the current treatment is surgery, a lasting cure seldom results, as the cancer has more often than not already metastasized. Chemotherapy may be suggested but is usually found to be unsuccessful. If a dog suffers from either of these types of cancers, survival time is usually anywhere from two to ten months. In most cases, painkillers are highly advised, in an effort to lessen any pain that may be associated with the cancers. The sudden onset of increased appetite in German Shepherds may possibly be an indication of one of several other underlying conditions. Contact your veterinarian at this point for further evaluation. If you suspect that any of the above are reasons that your dog may be experiencing constant hunger, it is highly advised to consult with your veterinarian.