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Blindness Awareness Month occurs annually every October. What are the most common breeds for guide dogs? Guide Dogs play an important role in the lives of people they assist. According to Guide Dogs UK, there are three breeds that are most commonly used in their programme. Labradors Labradors are widely used as guide dogs, owing to their friendly nature and adaptability. Labs are food-oriented, so are easy to train and eager to please. Their size also makes them perfect for the role of a guide dog, being large enough to physically prevent their handler for getting into danger but not too large to become a hazard to walk around with. Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers are intelligent dogs who love responsibility. These are diligent dogs who have a great temperament and work ethic. Golden Retrievers — like Labradors — are accepted by the general public and are calm under pressure. Labradors and Golden Retrievers are often bred in order to make the most of their incredible guide dog features! German Shepherds German Shepherds are often used by the emergency services and armed forces, but also as guide dogs for those with sight loss. The versatility of a German Shepherd comes from their high-intelligence and exceptional temperament. Originally used as herding dogs, they have fantastic sight and hearing which makes them perfect for the role of a guide dog. Poodles You might think that Poodles are more used to wearing rosettes than a harness, but Standard Poodles are also used as guide dogs. While there are only a few currently on the Guide Dogs programme currently, the Poodle is well-suited to the task. Far from their stuck-up image, the Standard Poodle is an intelligent breed who love to please people. How are guide dogs trained? From newborn to retirement, the life of a guide dog goes through several stages. Before they meet their future handler, all guide dog puppies undergo special training at one of four national training schools. Afterwards, the guide dog will usually complete two weeks of training away from their future home with their handler. Guide dog training will cover: What can guide dogs be used for? As well as assisting those with sight loss, guide dogs can also help with other conditions, including: Dog handling skills Cleaning up after the dog Understanding guide dog behaviour Feeding the dog a nutritious diet Hearing loss Specially-trained hearing dogs support children and adults across the UK in much the same way as a guide dog does. Hearing dogs will alert their handler to sounds they may otherwise miss in daily life — from an alarm clocks and smoke alarms to phone calls and the doorbell. Those with autism, epilepsy or anxiety can receive help and support from dogs. Support dogs can bring medication when needed and provide comfort to help during an anxiety attack. Therapy Therapy dogs can be quite a general term, but their job remains more or less the same. These dogs provide much needed therapeutic support, including hospital patients, school students and those in hospices. The great thing about therapy dogs is that they can be any breed, from a Spaniel to a Great Dane, just as long as they have the right attitude and a calm temperament. Find out more about this super popular and lovely breed and see if it sounds like the right fit for you. The Labrador is a member of the gun dog group, which was originally bred to find and retrieve shot game. This means Labradors are often highly motivated to hold objects. From a young age they will pick up and carry their toys very cute. This natural desire to retrieve is particularly useful as assistance dogs as our clients may need help to pick things up or to retrieve important items like a phone. They are usually yellow, black, chocolate brown or fox red in colour. Scientifically, there is no proven difference between yellow, black, chocolate, and fox-red Labradors. Practical experience shows us that chocolate Labradors have very big characters and a higher level of drive. Their fox-red cousins have even more drive, which is typically too much for the needs of our clients. So, with the odd exception, we tend to train mainly black and yellow Labradors. As a working dog, Labradors can be robust and independent. Most also love to be in or near water and will happily retrieve things from a pond or the sea. As a breed, they share traits, but they have individual personalities too. As with training any dog, getting to know these individual traits is important so you can set your dog up for success. They are therefore fairly easy to train either as a family dog or as a life-changing assistance dog. Labradors are water dogs, so keeping them happy is easy just by splashing in puddles and lakes! They look for human interaction, so training is the perfect way to do this. Learn more about how we train our assistance dogs , including Labradors. Known health issues in Labradors Joint problems such as hip or elbow dysplasia. Bloat — Labradors are prone to bloat due to their deep chests and likelihood to gulp food quickly. Ear problems — more common in floppy-eared breeds. Check regularly to monitor for infection and dry thoroughly after swimming and bathing. Help support our life-changing work.Imagine if everyday tasks were so challenging or physically demanding they affected your quality of life. For many people living with a disability of families with a child with autism, that is their reality. Please help us continue making life-changing differences for people with disabilities through the power of expertly trained dogs. Every contribution, whatever size, is important and helps us make a difference. Support us by. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Because you were wondering. While there are several dog breeds commonly trained for service, Labs are currently ranked as the most popular breed for guide work. This article will cover the history of guide dogs, guide dog training, and what makes Labs the best breed for the job. A German doctor, Dr. Gerhard Stalling, discovered while treating veterans that dogs could be trained to help the blind. When called away from a patient one day, Dr. Stalling left his dog with the patient and saw signs on his return that the dog was looking after the patient. In , Stalling founded the first guide dog training school in Oldenburg, Germany. The school trained both servicemen and civilians from across Germany, as well as Britain, France, Italy, and the U. Today guide dog schools worldwide work to improve the independence of the blind, breeding and training dogs to perform any number of tasks from finding a seat on the bus to guiding their handlers through a snowstorm. These large-breed dogs have the gait and size to walk comfortably alongside a human, maneuver around obstacles, and even occasionally put their bodies between their handlers and obstacles like speeding cars. While each breed has its advantages, Guide Dogs of America reports that the Lab is the most popular breed amongst guide dog schools across the world. Their natural curiosity can turn a trip to the grocery store or the daily commute to work into an adventure. Being a guide dog is a lifelong training process that begins in the early puppy stage. Dogs are specially bred at the facilities that train them, and at between seven and eight weeks old are placed with a puppy raiser. Raisers can be families, single adults, couples, or senior citizens who volunteer to take puppies into their homes for anywhere from twelve to eighteen months. Raisers nurture the puppies in a loving home, attend basic obedience classes, and travel with the dog in public places such as malls, grocery stores, and on public transit. At the end of the raising period, puppies return to the school and are assigned to a trainer after undergoing a health check. Over the next four months, instructors train the puppies in guide work. The puppies learn directional commands such as left, right, and forward as well as how to target objects, locating doors, seats on buses, or elevators. They learn to stop for changes in elevation curbs, broken sidewalks, or stairs , guide their handlers in a straight path, and stop for overhanging obstacles. Matches are made based on a variety of factors, including lifestyle and level of activity. During a class period that usually lasts about 26 days, new handlers work closely with their dogs and instructors, learning the various commands and working their dogs in areas ranging from malls to train stations. They learn how to travel safely across busy downtown streets and on winding country roads, and, most importantly, they learn to trust their dogs. Next thing you know, the dog is planting his paws on your feet, blocking your body with his and pushing you back from the curb as a car comes speeding out of nowhere. What Happens After Training? After training, handlers return home with their dogs and go through an additional period of aftercare training that can last up to two weeks. This is just the beginning of a lifelong journey of teamwork and training because dog and handler will always be learning new routes and exploring new territory together. How can I help? There are lots of ways you can support guide dog programs and various levels of commitment, all of which do their part. The National Federation of the Blind maintains a list of guide dog schools throughout the country, which you can find here. You can also join a waiting list to adopt a retired or released dog. Since guide dog schools offer their services free of charge, they rely on financial contributions from donors. You can also make a larger contribution to sponsor a puppy. For this generous contribution, sponsors have the opportunity to name the puppies. Most puppies get their names from sponsors or breeders. You can sponsor a puppy as an individual, but many businesses, clubs, and church organizations also sponsor puppies as a group. Most importantly, spread the word! If you have friends, family members, or coworkers who love dogs, this is a great opportunity to become involved in supporting the work of service animals and making a lifelong investment in the independence of a person with a disability. Are you still yearning for more information about Labrador Retrievers? One of our favorite books is Your Labrador Retriever Puppy. It has tons of information about our favorite breed. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Just an incredibly well-bred Labrador retriever with beautiful coloring. Black and tan coloring in Labrador Retrievers is due to a recessive gene that each parent must contribute. When both parents have contributed the gene, the pup has lighter tan colored fur above the eyes, around the muzzle, on the chest and legs. Another gene found in Labradors causes tan speckling on the legs and muzzle; this is called brindle. Black and tan and brindle Labradors can be registered with the American Kennel Club, but they cannot compete in the show ring as these colors are considered undesirable to the breed standard. The Guiding Eyes breeding colony has been derived in part from the Whygin Labs, a prominent kennel that was very successful with show and hunting dogs in the s. Some of the black and gene coloring stems from the Whygin line. Because we breed for exceptional guide dogs, our primary criteria are temperament and health, not color. These pups have the same temperament and health traits as their solid-colored littermates. Additional information on coat color inheritance: Black, chocolate and yellow Labrador coloring are the result of the interaction of two genes commonly referred to as the E yellow gene and the B brown gene. A dog with ee two recessive copies of the yellow gene is yellow. The B gene is turned off. This turning off or hiding the expression of another gene is called epistasis. For dogs with Ee or EE, the B gene is turned on. A black dog results from BB or Bb. A chocolate dog results from bb. Another gene present in all Labs is the K gene, which has several variations. KB is responsible for solid coloring, as we see in nearly all Labradors. The most recessive version of K is ky; two copies of ky will allow another gene, A agouti, to express itself in a number of patterns commonly seen in other breeds, such as tan points. A single copy of KB is epistatic to, or sufficient to hide, all the genetic information of the A gene. Nearly every Labrador retriever has two copies of KB. Any of these dogs that are not yellow ee will have tan points. Black AND Fluffy? Welcome, Neutrino! What makes this adorable pup so distinctive? We are so excited to share some details about just how unique he is for our dog population. Guide Dogs for the Blind makes breeding selections based on the highest potential that the resulting offspring will succeed as working guide dogs. At the same time, we try to provide our clients with the opportunity to satisfy personal preferences they may have regarding breed, color, or gender of the dog they are paired with. So what does this all have to do with a long-coated black puppy? To understand how this puppy came to be, we need to review some basic genetic principles. Genes are a set of instructions, contained within an animal's DNA, which determine what traits are inherited and the appearance of the animal, known as phenotype. Each gene has two copies which are inherited one from each parent. There are lots of genes which determine coat length and color in dogs, and many types of inheritance patterns that determine appearance. A gene copy is said to be dominant when it effectively overrules the other recessive gene copy. This means a long-coated breed like a Golden Retriever has two copies of the long coat gene while purebred Labradors have two copies of the short coat gene. Since puppies inherit one gene copy from each parent this means the first generation of a Lab and Golden pairing will result in all puppies inheriting one copy of the short-coated gene from the Lab and one copy of the long-coated gene from the Golden. Because the short-coated gene is dominant, all puppies will have a short coat but carry the gene for a long coat. If that dog is bred to a Golden, then all puppies in the resulting litter will inherit one copy of the long-coated gene from the Golden parent. But the short-coated genes will be randomly assigned: some puppies will inherit the copy of the short-coated gene, while others will inherit the copy of the long-coated gene. This means we can have both short-coated and long-coated puppies in the same litter! In the case of Neutrino, our long-coated black puppy, we have to add color into the mix as well. Goldens are all yellow while Labs can be black, yellow, or occasionally chocolate. By 4 weeks of age, it was clear that four puppies would have short coats and four would have long coats — including Neutrino, to our delight! It is important to note that the selection factors to become a GDB breeder dog are based solely on health and temperament traits rather than appearance, and the same is true when choosing pairings between males and females. We are always focused on breeding healthy dogs who will become working guides or K9 Buddies. In the meantime, welcome Neutrino! Watch Now Our dogs change lives, every day, all day. Our guide dogs, service dogs, and skilled companion dogs provide freedom, confidence, and hope for people who cannot see, for veterans who have seen too much, and for children facing significant challenges. Guide dogs offer independence and freedom to people with vision loss—including veterans and teens—restoring confidence and dignity. Service dogs help veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and other disabilities emerge from seclusion, overcome anxiety, and get their lives back. Facility therapy dogs provide therapeutic comfort to veterans and families in military medical facilities and high-stress military bases around the nation. Emotional support dogs offer therapeutic companionship to veterans, helping improve physical, social, and emotional wellbeing while restoring a more active lifestyle. Gold Star Family dogs give the gift of comforting friendship and hope to children and families who have lost a loved one in service to the nation. Kids Companion dogs enhance independence and confidence for children with vision loss, preparing the way for a future guide dog. We innovate with a rare level of complementary veterinary medicine, and a robust canine fitness program for mental and physical conditioning. Based on their personality, health, temperament, trainability, and suitability for specific careers, most of our dogs enroll in one of the following programs. All are provided at no cost. Dogs for people with vision loss: Guide Dogs — help people with vision loss navigate independently; trained in over 40 skills. Kids Companion Dogs — skilled companion dogs enhance independence for children with vision loss, preparing the way for a future guide dog. Dogs for veterans: Guide Dogs — help veterans with vision loss navigate independently; trained in over 40 skills. Service Dogs — help veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD and other disabilities; trained in 15 — 20 skills. Facility Therapy Dogs — provide comfort in military medical facilities nationwide. Emotional Support Dogs — benefit veterans and help restore a more active lifestyle. Gold Star Family Dogs — comfort military family members who have lost a loved one in active service to the nation. Dogs for children and teens: Guide Dogs — help teens with vision loss—ages 15 and up—navigate independently. Kids Therapy Dogs — matched with adults who assist children and families in adverse circumstances, providing therapeutic reassurance to children in need. What is your mission and vision, exactly? Our mission is to transform lives by creating and nurturing extraordinary partnerships between people and dogs. Our organization operates the most advanced training facilities of any service dog organization in the world. Our experts breed, raise, and train elite working dogs—including guide dogs, service dogs, and skilled companion dogs—and provide life-changing services for people with vision loss, veterans with disabilities, and children with significant challenges such as vision loss or the loss of a parent in the military. Southeastern Guide Dogs has successfully created thousands of guide dog and service dog teams throughout the United States since our inception in , and currently oversees the well-being of over 1, puppies and dogs. All of our services—which include state-of-the-art research on canine health and development; selective breeding; expert dog training; comprehensive on-campus student instruction; and the most robust alumni support program in North America—are provided at no cost to our clients. Donations sustain our mission and give freedom and hope to people who need it most. Southeastern Guide Dogs has the distinction of being dually accredited by the two premier global accreditation bodies: the International Guide Dog Federation and Assistance Dogs International. What states do you serve when providing dogs and services? Southeastern Guide Dogs has a national reach and provides all of our dogs and services at no cost to people in all 50 states. How much do you charge for your dogs, training, and alumni support? Get updates about our puppies and people.

It is suitable for the teeth It is good for the liver. It provides adequate nutrition. It is rich in PUFAs. It is enriched with colostrum. It has a high fibre content. It contains glucosamine for maintaining bone health. It has omega fatty acids. It is easy on the gut. It is uniquely formulated for puppies. It is suitable for weight-watching. It is enriched with DHA. It is suitable for digestion. It helps muscle growth Best overall product: There are many dog food options for German Shepherds available in the market, and each of them has a unique formula and offers exciting benefits. It gives your dog a complete and balanced meal with the right amounts of protein, fats and fibre. It takes care of adequate muscle and bone growth, is easy to digest, and is good for their teeth. Best value for money: For just Rs. It is also great for their coat and keeps it shiny and soft. It promotes muscle development and is easily digestible. It has the perfect balance of vitamins and minerals. How To find the right fog food? We must give our pets proper nutrition with their food. A good diet is the best way to ensure a healthy dog. Dog foods for german shepherds must include the right quantity of proteins, fats and fibres. They should be a balanced meal to ensure good muscle growth, good gut health and a shiny coat. You must also ensure that the dog food provides adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals to make up a sound immune system. Since most dog foods come with flavour options, you can choose the ones your dog likes best and make their meals enjoyable. You may be interested in Product. Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

However, these numbers are not set in stone, as some pups do grow faster, and some a bit slower. From there on, their growth will slow down significantly. Around the time they are 18 to 24 months old, Boxers finish growing. Naturally, larger Boxers will reach their adult size later than Boxers on the lower end of the scale. However, all Boxers will continue to gain girth and fill up their chest cavities well over their first birthdays. If their paws look disproportionately big compared to the rest of their body, they still have some growing to do! Boxer is a medium to large sized breed with a boxy chest and muscular body. Full-grown female Boxers usually weigh around 50 to 65 pounds, and stand around .Male full-grown Boxers usually weigh more than females with an average of 65 to 80 pound body weight. They usually stand around 23 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Full-grown Boxers can weigh anywhere between 50 to 80 pounds, and stand around .We hope you found this Boxer size guide helpful in understanding the sizes and growth patterns of Boxers. After all, knowing the estimated adult size of your Boxer puppy will provide you a better understanding of what type of living conditions you can provide them. After all, what every dog owner wants is for their furry little companion to thrive and live the best life possible! As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. This will be the age when Boxer newborn is fully weaned and ready to go to his new home. His world expands at this time. Some have a difficult adjustment leaving littermates and dam and transitioning to their new family. A planned introduction to the home will set a good foundation for introduction to other situations. Housebreaking should begin at this age. With an excellent plan and follow-through, expect it to take 4 to 6 weeks for your Boxer to be doing well in this regard. Command training simple commands can be worked in with housebreaking and other daily activities. For example a 2 month old Boxer puppy can learn to sit while his harness and leash is being put on and then learn that walking over to the designated chosen area equals a trip to the bathroom. Sleep may be erratic at this time and a Boxer puppy can sleep as little as 9 hours per day rare or up to 18 hours. Most will take quite a few naps during the day and then wake up 1 to 2 times per night. We've seen 2 month old little ones sleep right through the night, but it is rare - in these cases, the dog is able to enter deep REM sleep quickly and stay there, keeping the number of nap times to a minimum. This is the minimum age a dog must be in order to enter a dog show event. Many clubs, such as the AKC require a dog to be 6 months old; however if you truly want to show your Boxer, you may do so at 3 months with many other dog clubs. By this age, the pup has a good idea of his home environment and since the rounds of puppy shots are almost done, owners should plan on how they will proceed in regard to introduction to the world. To a dog, his world is as big as the owners choose. For some, it is just the neighborhood, for others it is the entire town! The reason that we say "plan" is because how a pup is introduced to other dogs, people and new environments affect how the dog reacts and responds. A planned transition to new elements is a huge part of Socialization Training. During this stage, some owners become a bit concerned if their Boxer is not barking ; however this is not a super vocal breed he makes lots of noises like groans and even some purrs, but doesn't typically bark at every little thing. A quiet puppy will often outgrown this and find their voice as they mature. It is at that time that a Boxer will bark when someone comes to the house, etc. By 1 year, if owners follow through, the Boxer is well trained, for both commands simple and complex and house training. Still, the dog has learned the basic workings of the world. He has been trained to know where his belongings are, who you consider to be friend or foe and is very used to his daily schedule. This is a great Boxer age, the dog looks young, still has the mentality of a puppy with playfulness, etc. You'll have a 40 to 55 pound 20 to 25 kg size puppy jumping on you and acting silly. Females will be on the lower end, males on the higher end. The body structure is slim, the chest is still relatively narrow. Over the course of this year, from the beginning of year 1 to the beginning of year 2, most will gain an additional 15 to 20 pounds 6. Height will increase. The most noticeable physical change will be the widening of the chest, a sure tell sign of a 2 year old adult. It is not uncommon for a Boxer dog to seem too skinny during a quick, temporary phase around this mark. Generally from 14 to 22 months old, a Boxer may have some visible ribs and appear too slim as he struggles to catch up to a quick growth spurt. For most, this is nothing to be concerned about. This is a huge milestone. At 2 years old, a Boxer is considered to be an adult. The dog will be at his adult weight and height. If you are offering commercial food, now is the time to switch to an adult formula. Temperament will gradually change. That playful puppy temperament will slowly turn more serious, but even older adults can have a sense of humor. That puppy that used to leap after butterflies in the field may change into the adult that stands proud and strong, scanning the yard for trespassers. The Boxer will now begin to age at a more steady rate. Still active, yet fully trained, this is a wonderful stage. By this age, status in the house if full established. Other family members may have come and gone kids off to college, a new roommate moves in, etc. However, if the dog was properly trained, he knew, throughout any changes, that his place was as Beta to his Alpha human leader. A Boxer dog is considered to be a senior at the age of 7 or 8 years old. Since there is no official age, it is the veterinarian who makes this declaration. Though, even if it has not been declared, with this breed typically living to a range of 9 to 12 years, 9 years is about as long as you can extend this before you dub your Boxer a senior. It is important to recognize this transition, so that geriatric care needs can be met. Regular visits will normally increase from 1 time per year to twice a year. Changes will happen once again to the diet, moving over to one that is a bit lower in fat, yet higher in fiber. This helps a less active dog maintain weight and fiber is one element that aids in digestion. A geriatric screening will check for kidney function. A Boxer dog with decreased kidney function should be fed a lower protein diet. The vitamin and mineral supplement will now switch to a senior formula as well. Don't let the senior age label fool you, Boxers at this age should still be taken for a daily walk for exercise , will enjoy outings to the beach, etc. One thing to keep in mind is that an older dog will sometimes have less tolerance for puppies and young children. It is a good idea to have a designated area for your senior Boxer to retreat to, should he desire.Older dogs still like to see the family and be aware of comings and goings, but will often want to retreat when youngsters or puppies are at play. Each dog has his own tolerance for the loud noises and commotion that accompanies younger humans and dogs. The average life span of a Boxer is years old. At this age, a senior dog most likely has lived through some health issues. A dog of this age will most likely have some arthritis. Movement may become difficult, it is suggested to have steps and ramps for the dog if he or she is used to climbing up onto your bed or the couch. The dog bed should be evaluated for comfort and support. An orthopedic bed is highly recommended. Any time after this age that your dog is still with you is a blessing. Some Boxers live late into their teens; however you should prepare yourself that your dog is nearing the end of his life cycle. Related: Oldest Boxer Dogs in the World - Though this breed generally lives 9 to 12 years, some Boxers have reached into their teens. These dogs can be broadly categorized by having a heavy bone set, naturally hanging pendent ears, a rather short and well-muscled neck, and a short broad muzzle. The compact muzzle places the Boxer in the Brachycephalic group, though to a lesser degree than other short-nosed breeds. The tail is naturally long, with only about half of Boxers in the U. The ears are naturally pendant, of moderate size, with very few in the United States being cropped to create shorter, erect ears. He is considered a medium to large breed in the Working Dogs category, with a short, tightly-packed coat. Puppies have a roundish, soft appearance and adults are well-muscled. Expected Appearance Per Breed Standards The breed standard serves two main purposes; it is a guideline for breeders in their efforts to produce dogs that fit close to the ideal to work towards the 'betterment of the breed' and it is used as a guideline for judges when evaluating dogs in the show ring. So, to first understand Boxer dog appearance, let's take a quick look at some excerpts from both the AKC and FCI Boxer dog standards: AKC: The ideal Boxer is a medium -sized, square - built dog of good substance with short back, strong limbs, and short, tight-fitting coat. His well - developed muscles are clean, hard, and appear smooth under taut skin.His expression is alert.The chiseled head imparts to the Boxer a unique individual stamp. It must be in correct proportion to the body. The broad, blunt muzzle is the distinctive feature, and great value is placed upon its being of proper form and balance with the skull.Substance — Sturdy, with balanced musculature. Males larger boned than females. FCI: The Boxer is a medium sized, smooth coated, sturdy dog of compact, square build and strong bone. His muscles are taut, strongly developed and moulded in appearance.The Boxer must be neither cumbersome nor heavy, nor light or lacking in body substance. In addition, the measurement from the top of the withers shoulder blades to the floor is about equal as from the middle of the chest to the rear of the upper thigh. Size Though there are guidelines in regard to how tall a Boxer 'should' be and what his adult weight 'should' be, many Boxers do fall below or above this. In regard to height, per AKC standards, males are to be inches .In regard to weight, the AKC does not list any certain weight. However, most adult male Boxers will fall in the pound range and females will be slightly smaller, often between pounds. You do need to keep an eye out to make sure that a Boxer is at a healthy weight as being overweight brings along quite a few health issues; however, most large Boxer dogs simply have large bone structure. Modifications - Ears The US is one of the few countries in which ear cropping is legal; and in show, ears may be cropped or natural. More often than not, those who believe that a Boxer may do well in the show ring lean towards cropping the ears many judges do prefer this, independent of the standard's non-bias verbiage. Photo courtesy of Terry Faircloth Modifications - Tail Similar to ear cropping, tail docking is illegal in many countries; however, the United States does allow this and it is actually expected in the show ring. Since this is done within just days of a Boxer pup being born, it is the breeder who decides on this. Many will go by what they know puppy buyers prefer and most if they do not oppose docking will ask the intended owners in advance, if someone has a deposit on a pup. What we see more often than not, is that with a docked tail, the ears are rarely cropped. So, it is uncommon, at least in the U. Once a Boxer is close to the 1 year mark and up to the 2 year mark, he can sometimes be growing so fast in height, that he can't keep up in weight. We refer to this as the Boxer dog skinny phase and it typically only lasts a short while. Young Boxer pups are just power-houses waiting to mature. They are rounded and muscles are not yet fully developed. Just look at how big this pup's paws are; he'll be at full adult size by about the 2 year mark. Atticus, at 9 weeks old Photo courtesy of Anthony Klintworth Nearing the 1 year mark, Boxers have grown exponentially in height. They are, of course, gaining weight as well. This is a transitional phase before full adult form takes place. As the Boxer matures, his chest fills out, widening and really becoming a focal point. Flanks are lean and legs are relatively long, which gives him a great profile. Due to the short, packed coat, muscles are often quite visible, which lends to a sleek, strong appearance. Boxers were used extensively in WWII but both American forces and the British army; not only can they look intimidating, they do very well in regard to training for guard, security, surveillance and as messengers. Today's Boxer is a family dog, yet good breeding gives us super confident looking dogs that are great watchdogs, not only just by their appearance, but also loyalty to protect their family. Stella, at 5 years old Photo courtesy of Kendall Foy Coloring There are only 3 basic colors for the Boxer dog: Fawn, brindle and white. Fawn and brindle are standard and white is an alternate color. Though white is not accepted in the show right, white Boxers can, of course, be registered. Of these, the majority are unilaterally deaf one ear , as opposed to bilaterally both ears. In regard to fawn and brindle, this does not mean that all Boxers look alike; far from it! Color is, perhaps, the one feature that causes Boxers to have such varied appearances. Fawn can range from a very light tan to a reddish fawn. And brindle which is a pattern of striping can range from light to super dark. In fact, some very heavy brindled Boxer dogs may appear to be a solid dark color. A few even may appear to be black, though this is genetically impossible. This often appears on the chest. It may also be on the legs anywhere from just the paws - referred to as mittens - to almost the entire leg. And if he is almost all white with just a bit of fawn or brindle, he is 'extra flashy'.

The coat will be dense with length that can vary. They are a joy to have at home because the Germanees are sweet-natured and kind dogs. Both parents, the Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd, are very similar dogs. Imagine a slightly smaller but more energetic German Shepherd and you have the Belgian Malinois. These are high maintenance dogs that require a ton of physical and mental activity on a daily basis. This cross is not recommended for your typical family. They require serious work. As for physical appearance, these dogs can vary. Both parents have high energy, so you can expect nothing less from the Weimshepherd. They are quick, athletic and powerful dogs. Make sure to introduce training as early as possible for this mutt. Providing them with the a proper outlet is the only way to raise a happy and healthy Boxer Shepherd. Thanks to the Springer Spaniel side, these dogs get along with kids of all ages, other dogs and even cats. In fact, the more the better! But if you can handle this, the Spanierd is an excellent German Shepherd mix for any family! Because of the size of the Great Dane, the Dane Shepherd is fairly large, making them excellent watchdogs and an amazing companion. Depending on the lineage, these dogs can have a short or medium coat. Chances are the Dane Shepherd will have a double coat, so except to deal with heavy shedding during spring and fall. Just the massive size of these dogs can scare away potential intruders. Both parent breeds are large, and so is the Airedale Shepherd. The overall body shape resembles a German Shepherd, but they retain the muzzle and ears of the Airedale Terrier. These dogs are inevitably courageous dogs that play well with children. Despite their large size, they make fantastic family dogs, companions, watchdogs and more. Socialization is a must, while obedience training can be fairly easy. They are known for their beauty, intelligence, and athleticism. Hard working and easily trainable, they can easily fill many roles. When mixed with other breeds, some of their best traits and strengths are often passed along. For example, a mixed shepherd might require a little less exercise than a highly driven working German shepherd or will be a little more mellow yet playful pet while retaining some of the awesome traits of the German shepherd dog. All these breeds have lots of energy and love to have a job and are also very playful. No doubt this mix is the life of the party and enjoys a good time. Would probably be equally happy living on a ranch or with a family as long as she got plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. This dog is absolutely not a couch potato but must get plenty of daily exercise and attention. They love activity and need to be busy. Both these breeds also require lots of grooming and will shed year round. Loving, loyal, and active, they are a delight to own. Both are intelligent and regal. Both need socialization and lots of love but make wonderful family pets. Some other qualities both breeds have in common are that they are both loyal and very trainable and love to play games. Both breeds are quick and agile and love to do a job. Both breeds are protective and very loyal to their family. German Shepherd and Rottweiler - Shepweiller jin. This mix will require lots of socialization, training and strong leadership but with that, will grow into an amazing, loyal companion that will also be gorgeous to look at. German Shepherd and Hound - Shephound zmiksowanykodi Hounds love to use their noses, as do German shepherds. This mix would excel at scent work or barn sports but also make a great pet. Both hounds and shepherds are smart and active dogs so this mix would also be up for lots of fun adventures. German Shepherd Mixed With Floofyness - Shepfloofer Another fluffy unknown mix that just goes to show how versatile and adorable German shepherd mixes can be. Both require lots of grooming, human companionship, love, and a strong pack leader. This mix appears very smart and curious, a strong trait in the German shepherd breed. This one is tall and lanky with the markings of a German Shepherd. German Shepherd and Mastiff — Mastiff Shepherd andrea. Since both breeds can be leery of strangers, this powerful mix would require lots of socialization. It would also need lots of training due to its size but could grow up to be a very loyal and loving family pet. German Shepherd mixed with red puppy - Shepfox This cinnamon spice mix is simply adorable and has many qualities of the German shepherd and looks a little like a fox. German Shepherd Mix growing up-look at those sheppy ears! When placed atop the head of a mixed breed, they take on a life of their own and add a lot of character. German Shepherd and Great Pyrenees — Germanees The Great Pyrenees is also a working dog known for its calm demeanor but protective nature. This mix would create a naturally yet protective watch dog that would be completely devoted to its family. German Shepherd and Weimaraner - Weimshepherd Both German shepherds and weimaraners enjoy lots of exercise and are very active. They love to run and play and then relax as the center of attention of their family. Both are smart, trainable, and love pleasing their owners. German Shepherd and Adorableness - Shepcutie harrythemixedblood This mix is super adorable and loves the outdoors. The keen facial expression gives a hint that both breeds are smart and curious. A DNA test would be so much fun. Both can be trained to do many jobs, including search and rescue and obedience, and competition. This mix would be smart, strong, playful, and have a lot of endurance. The perfect dog for an active family or for a serious job. German Shepherd and Pug - Shug This curious combo is just adorable. Pugs are playful and funny so certainly a pug shepherd would be, too. Pugs are also known to be very loving and very adaptable so this mix would probably fit in just about anywhere. Both can be aloof with strangers but very loving with their family. German Shepherd and Lab - German Sheprador samsarasworld Labradors and German shepherds both make active, family companions. Both breeds enjoy the outdoors, playing, and are up for all sorts of adventures. German Shepherd and Poodle — Shepherdoodle einsteinbeard A combo of two of the smartest breeds, the German shepherd mixed with a poodle is a dog genius. This mix is known to be outgoing and full of fun. Protective, fierce, brave, loyal, active, smart, and eager to work are just a few of the adjectives that describe them. This mix needs lots of exercise and activities to thrive but if a busy working dog is what you need, this mix might be perfect. German Shepherd and Doberman — Doberman Shepherd Another powerful and smart combo, the German Shepherd and Doberman Pinscher are noble in the dog world and very protective of their family. Fun and playful, this mix loves their humans but takes their job of guardian very seriously. German Shepherd and Springer Spaniel — Spanierd bandittheaus Springer spaniels are super loveable but they are also mighty hunters. Mixed with a German Shepherd, you have a dog that lives to please its owner and loves the great outdoors as well as being a snuggle buddy content to watch some television from the comfy couch. Super cute yet rugged, both breeds are herding dogs. Both breeds are known for their intelligence, ability to train, love of agility, athleticism, and playful natures. We hope you enjoyed some of these amazing mixed breed dogs. Please feel free to pass this along to your family and friends. German Shepherd Malamute Mix Here are five ways to tell what your German Shepherd is mixed with: Study several breeds and make observations. What does the dog look like? Look for coat characteristics, muzzle shape, ear types, tail shape, and body type, unlike those of the purebred German Shepherd ex: floppy ears, a white coat, etc. Compare your observations to the characteristics of other breeds. Monitor behavior. Although training will have a lot to do with how the dog behaves, natural instincts are often stronger than training. How does the dog behave when alone? How does it behave with strangers and other dogs? DNA testing. This option is the simplest and most accurate way to gain this important breed information. Talk with breeders. Although breeders are primarily concerned with their respective breeds, they often also have a wealth of knowledge. You might not know where that non-bushy tail comes from, but a career breeder just might. Ask a veterinarian. Few people will know various dog behaviors, traits, and abilities better than a veterinarian. At the same time, many can look at a dog and guess the breed mix with a large degree of accuracy. German Shepherds have long, slender noses, while Pugs have short blunt noses. Though a drastic difference, noting the size of the nose helps determine the natural instinct of the dog. For example, was he born to hunt and track or to fight? The muzzle shape provides a clue. Is it floppy? Canines with dropped ears were bred to hunt because the dropped shape helps block out distractions, leaving them to concentrate on smell. A German Shepherd will normally have pointed ears that stand up. Body shape. For example, many miniature dogs were bred with dwarfism traits. Likewise, if a German Shepherd was bred with a St. Tail length and shape. Most German Shepherd mixes will have long tails, whereas Pugs have short, curly tails. The tail does more than tell us if the doggo is happy. Identifying the breed by its tail can also help owners determine if they will face future back problems. Why Should I Know the Mix? And, regardless of heritage, love trumps all. The first meeting was love at first sight, and that made the decision final. In some cases, there will be one bloodline, and there may also be two. In the final category, the lineage may contain many mixes. Purebred vs. Crossbred vs. Mongrel Shepsky A purebred is a dog with parents and an ancestral line that contains only dogs of the same breed. This type of dog is often sought after because owners can depend on the lineage to predict its size, health, and overall disposition. A crossbreed is the result of intentional breeding. Different purebreds are selected to create a different breed, with the desire to get the best traits of both breeds. Again, these dogs are sought after because of the predictable outcomes in size, health, and disposition. The sire and the dam are often mixed breeds, so the lineage is almost impossible to trace with any accuracy without DNA testing. However, educated guesses can be relatively successful. In the case of a GSD with questionable genetics, a German Shepherd may be a few generations back in the bloodline. This knowledge helps owners make wise decisions for the dog in healthcare, food, and training. Breed Specific Healthcare The likely most important reason to seek what a German Shepherd — or any dog, for that matter — is mixed with is veterinary care. Many purebreds are susceptible to known ailments. German Shepherds, for example, are predisposed to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint ball and socket separate. Therefore, if the dog is mixed with a Labrador, another breed prone to this condition, there may be a higher risk for joint issues later on. Being prone to develop a certain health condition is not a reason to avoid the breed. But rather, knowing that a specific condition is common to particular breeds is necessary to arm the owner with the knowledge to help the pet avoid the condition. This knowledge includes dietary needs, supplements and vitamins to use, and vet care to seek. According to research, mixed breeds are less vulnerable to inherited diseases but stronger carriers. In contrast, purebred dogs have fewer disease genes but are more susceptible to the same diseases. Some even choose to feed a homemade diet. Either way, foods for specific breeds are often unnecessary. When considering food brands, many owners feed their dogs based only on life stages: puppy, adult, and senior. For example, a German Shepherd is a highly active dog that will require a different nutritional plan than a Pug. However, if the breeds are crossed, the resulting Shug will have different nutritional needs than either parent. Regardless of the breed, though, the dog will let you know if its nutritional needs are being met. Food is also important when thinking about health and training, as German Shepherds are prone to many conditions due to their size. Keeping them on a balanced diet that helps them maintain a healthy weight is crucial to avoiding conditions like hip dysplasia. In the instance of hip dysplasia, starting the dog on a Glucosamine Chondroitin food supplement might keep either the condition or the symptoms at bay so you can avoid medicine. According to the AKC, depending on the breed mix and health concerns, you should also give your dog fish oil such as the Zesty Paws Omega Bites check price on Amazon because this supplement helps alleviate skin allergies. German Shepherds are often mixed with Collies. Since both breeds are prone to digestive issues, another supplement to consider is a probiotic. For example, a German Shepherd may require more training in socialization than a Labrador will due to breeding. For example, German Shepherds are bred for protection, at least in part, so they need training that addresses their sometimes aggressive instinct toward new dogs and visitors. On the other hand, Labradors are typically happy, playful, and friendly, so their socialization training will not combat possible aggression but rather keep them from being afraid of new things. Vet Care All dogs need vet care. In addition to yearly vaccines for rabies and other conditions, they need to be checked for parasites and undetected health conditions. But some breeds need more frequent veterinary care to keep them healthy, especially if they reach their senior years earlier. People often adopt dogs from the local shelter, which is an incredibly loving thing to do that they certainly appreciate. But this adoption makes it difficult to determine what the pet is mixed with. Their mixed breeding also offers unique coats, body shapes, and behaviors that only nature can provide. If the desired dog is part German Shepherd, the chances are high that the local shelter will have several options. While a DNA test may not be available, there are ways to make an educated guess. Before leaving for the shelter, study various breeds and start making observations at the kennel gate. Key Takeaways Knowing what a German Shepherd is mixed with is a good foundation for caring for one. Whether the dog is purebred, crossbred, or mixed, knowing his genetics will help you decide on the food, healthcare, and training that will keep you both happy and healthy for many years to come. Related Posts You May Like:. Mixed Breeds By Meg Marrs 11 min read March 13, 70 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. The German shepherd breed is generally considered one of the most intelligent, dedicated, loyal, and family orientated companions available in the doggy world. Throwing in a mix to this breed just strengthens and enhances these naturally appealing traits. Golden Shepherd German Shepherd x Golden Retriever Mix The golden shepherd is a golden-haired beauty that will definitely win your heart with those soulful eyes. This golden retriever and German shepherd mix is an affectionate sweetheart who thrives on one-on-one interaction with her owners and especially adores the tiny human variety. This makes the golden shepherd the perfect family-with-kids choice. Both retriever and shepherd parents love to eat, so make sure you keep this marvelous mix at a healthy weight. The best of both doggie worlds are all rolled up into this one adorable and energetic bundle of joy. This pug and shepherd breed is an extremely loyal companion, loves his human family, exhibits impressive intelligence, and serves as an alert guard dog. Labrashepherd German Shepherd x Labrador Mix The Labrashepherd also known as a Sheprador is a calm, loving and even-tempered animal with a touch of the shyness from the German shepherd parent shining through when he is presented with new situations. Labrador retrievers have a kind and happy demeanor which definitely shines through in this canine cross. This German shepherd Labrador retriever mix is gloriously beautiful and loves a good play session in the park. Siberian Shepherd or Gerberian Shepsky German Shepherd x Siberian Husky Mix A post shared by German Shepherd Husky Mixes germanshepherdhuskymixes This exquisitely handsome boy is a German shepherd husky mix that will have you falling over your feet when he looks at you with that one baby blue. Love at first sight for sure. And the bonus? He loves you just as fiercely. Make sure these energized pups have plenty of exercise, puzzle toys, and activities to provide mental stimulation. Shollie German Shepherd x Collie Mix A unique combination of the collie and German shepherd gives us this gorgeous designer breed. She is amazingly even-tempered temperament, very eager to learn, and easily trained through basic obedience training. Be prepared to groom the German shepherd collie mix every day though, as those locks are relatively high maintenance. Shepweiler or Rottweiler Shepherd German Shepherd x Rottweiler Mix Shepweilers are immensely protective of their owners, family, and surroundings and make excellent guard dogs. Well-muscled, protective dogs who can always be found at your side? Sounds good to me! The German shepherd poodle mix needs your constant companionship and will follow wherever you may lead. The poodle breed genes are relatively dominant in this dog, resulting in the somewhat curly fur coat. What a striking and intimidating doggo. This breed is a cross between a domesticated German shepherd and a genuine wolf. Please keep in mind that these animals are illegal to own in certain areas, so please research carefully to avoid any heartbreak should you not be able to keep him legally. Designer breeders for a cross as unique as this one can be challenging to come by. With a sensitive temperament and above average hearing, you have a guard dog of indisputable qualities. These dogs are natural hunters, so it will be wise to keep him separate from other small pets like cats, rabbits, and hamsters. He is super-friendly but an excellent protector. He does, however, require intensive training, as he loves a challenge and can often be considered a little stubborn. This dog is an interesting mix of German shepherd and the Alaskan malamute. This is one amazingly beautiful animal. They possess the best of both breeds in strength, loyalty, friendliness, and trainability. And such a cutie to boot! Almost like having a teenager in the house, these shepherd-type dogs will test your patience and push the boundaries, so training is vital. These shepherd pit sweeties are sure to appreciate a game of fetch with their favorite human! Innocence aside, the German shepherd pit bull mix is a powerful animal with a high energy level and training is thus non-negotiable. German shepherd pit bulls need a firm, strong, but loving owner and handler. New Shep German Shepherd x Newfoundland Mix A post shared by Sadie Sanderson resolutedogtraining This breed is an interesting mix of the Newfoundland and German shepherd, forming a giant powder-puff who loves water! Well, space of course! This is a giant dog and needs plenty of room to run off all that excess energy. This behemoth is a loyal, loving, and protective, yet intimidating watchdog, probably due to its sheer size. But be honest — what a cutie pie! But beware, do not leave this puppy to his own devices — you might not particularly like the end results! He craves constant attention and will happily be your permanent side-kick. These canine cuties would benefit from an active family. There you go German shepherd lovers and fans. Please leave a comment on what you think the best German shepherd mixed breed out there is, or share your own cross-breed companion that we might have missed! And, if you have your own GSD or GSD-mix at home, make sure to check out our guide to the best dog toys for german shepherds as well as our piece on the best dog food for german shepherds too! What are the specific guidelines for adopting a German Shepherd mix? Good breeders will only sell to a family with a yard and German shepherd experience, as German shepherd mixes need plenty of space for these dogs to run around freely to get exercise. German shepherd mixes as well as purebred German shepherds should also be owner primarily by those who have experience with the breed, as German shepherds are naturally prone to anxiety and need an experienced, confident handler. The breeder should meet our breeder checklist, have been in business for several years, and their puppies should be well socialized. How much does it cost to adopt a German shepherd mix? Are there any health issues associated with German shepherd mixes? If a German shepherd mix is not from a good breeder, then there may be health problems. German shepherds are prone to a number of different genetic health conditions. The most common health concerns include hip, elbow, and joint dysplasia, cancer, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, narcolepsy, and eye problems. Are German shepherd mixes active? While canine crosses can take on any combination of traits from either of their pooch parents, German shepherds require plenty of daily exercise. GSDs have a high activity level and need to be kept busy mentally and physically. Not all German shepherd mixes will need vigorous exercise per day, but you should have the capacity to take on an active furry friend just in case. What is a German Shepherd mix? A German shepherd mix is a breed resulting from the combination of the German shepherd with other popular dog breeds. These dogs are medium to large in size, and can vary in appearance based on what breeds they inherit traits from. German shepherd mixes do not always look entirely like the German shepherd, as they could also take after their other dog breed parents. How should you train a German shepherd mix? The best way to approach training a German shepherd mix is to provide lots of training sessions focused on positive reinforcement. These pups can be fairly sensitive and eager to please. Thankfully, most GSD mixes are super smart and can master just about any trick with a little time and practice. Some of the best German shepherd mixes around. Which one was your favorite? Have you ever met any of these cuties in real life? Let us know in the comments below! Like it? Share it!

We have answers. For example, breeders with different experience levels, dog pedigree, puppy coat color.Fortunately, a big part of our MatchMaker process is setting you up with breeders and businesses who fit your budget, too. Partners in our network are real pros when it comes to arranging travel for your puppy to your nearest major airport. How do you vet German Shepherd San Jose breeders? All of the Shepherd companies and breeders in our network are followers of our strict, binding Breeder Pledge, and we never work with unethical breeders or puppy mills. We believe that Uptown is the fastest, easiest and most fun way to meet your perfect puppy. When you buy a dog from a pet store, you can almost be certain that dog is coming from an unethical breeder or puppy mill. Puppy mill dogs are far more likely to get sick, lash out at owners with dangerous behavioral issues, and even die younger than properly raised dogs. Do you have long haired German Shepherd San Jose breeders near me right now? What is the MatchMaker process like for German Shepherd puppies? In our humble opinion, MatchMaker is totally awesome. How can I guarantee Uptown Puppies is an ethical company? Backyard breeders and puppy mills are infamous for neglecting the health and wellbeing of their dogs in order to make more money. We breed to the world standard and concentrate on the working ability and structure of the the German Shepherd breed. Our trained driver can transport your German Shepherd to our kennels for puppy purchases, dog training or dog boarding. Trust that your German Shepherd will be transported with care: our driver is knowledgeable about the breed, trained in dog handling and transport, and our transporting service is bonded and insured. This service is exclusive to Nadelhaus purchased German Shepherds. We do not transport dogs that were not purchased or imported through Nadelhaus. Pricing below are estimates only. Our transportation services are generally limited to Northern California, but we encourage you to contact us with any inquiries for your location or for a price quote. Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos are added every month. We couldn't be happier with our Nadelhaus Shepherd. Traci picked the perfect dog for my family. Great disposition, physically healthy, and structurally put together like a true German Shepherd quality dog should be. Can't say enough about the ongoing support from Nadelhaus. Love you Traci! Her temperament and size is perfect! We have had other German Shepherds in past but I honestly have to say she is a miracle!! Sweetest German Shepherd ever!! Our little Leo is a delight. He slept all the way home in the car, is loving doing his business in the garden already! Last night was a little rough for us. We all slept but you know how that goes. Leo will learn and we will all adjust. We'll be in touch when we have questions, but just wanted to thank you again. We continue to use Traci for boarding and training. She is an invaluable source. He is absolutely one of the most beautiful things I have seen in my life. In addition to being absolutely gorgeous, he has amazing temperament and is a hit with kids and adults. He is our own nanny dog! We are so glad we went with Nadelhaus, and will definitely go back to Traci for our next pup. We are in love with the breed and the amazing Nadelhaus pups! We are a two-hour drive from the North Bay and nearly a 3-hour drive from San Francisco. Our customers come from all over including Sacramento, the Central Valley, the Bay Area, Southern California, and even from out of state. Not only do we breed German Shepherd puppies, we offer puppy and dog training , dog boarding , and can import fully-trained German Shepherds. What is the price to buy a Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppy? Our Puppy Application page will provide you with more information on the application, deposit, and matching process. Once you have read through these steps, you can click through to the application form and view the prices for both Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppies as well as import German Shepherd puppies. If I buy a Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppy, can you ship it to me? If you are not able to pick your puppy up from our facility in Northern California, we can ship a puppy to you. Shipping rates vary by location and include a health certificate vet visit, transportation costs, and an airline approved crate. Contact us for shipping details. Will my puppy have its shots and vaccines? Puppies need a series of vaccinations throughout their first year of life. All of our puppies receive their vaccinations and are de-wormed to the date of pick-up. They are vet checked at six weeks old. Once a puppy is picked up from Nadelhaus, new owners will need to schedule remaining shots for their puppy with their local veterinarian. Will my puppy be micro-chipped? Visit akcreunite. Can I have a German Shepherd puppy imported from Europe? Puppies bred at Nadelhaus sell quick and even with a deposit, there is generally a wait list for our puppies. If you are interested in skipping the wait list, consider having a puppy imported from Germany. Importing a German Shepherd puppy is a special opportunity to acquire a very beautiful dog with special bloodlines. Both the female mother and male stud are often top V and VA dogs in Germany and come from very popular and highly sought after bloodlines. If you are interested in importing a puppy, simply fill out the same puppy application and click the checkbox that you would like to import a puppy. If you can help, click here Application to send us your application. Then, email us here foster gsrnc. Not all of our rescue Shepherds are lucky enough to go directly into a foster home; some have to start in a kennel. Every rescue dog must be in a foster home before it can be adopted. In a foster home it will experience the love, care, and attention it needs and deserves while it is waiting to be adopted and we will observe the personality of the dog to help place it in the best possible forever home. Our network of rescue volunteers is there to help you with advice, and Rescue pays for the care of the dog including food and authorized veterinary expenses. Won't you consider fostering a German Shepherd who wants a second chance at a happy life? Fostering is a very rewarding experience, not only for you, but for the dogs too! Join us on October 7th for Wags to Riches! Register now before we sell out! Help us save dogs while putting yourself in the running for some great prizes! Click on the "Lucky Dog" for full details and to order tickets! Shop online at Pet Food Express by clicking on the puppy. Visit Our Dogs on YouTube.

Why choose NLD for your future puppy? Professional and Ethical At New London Doodles, we believe in the transformative journey of bringing a new doodle puppy into your life. Our dedicated team ensures excellence by meticulously selecting breeding pairs, conducting comprehensive health testing, and providing optimal nutrition. We prioritize early socialization and crate training, fostering confident and well-rounded puppies. NLD's commitment extends beyond adoption, offering ongoing support for a seamless transition. Trust us to give your puppy the best start in life through our dedication to genetic health, proper care, and continuous support. It truly takes a village to raise a puppy! Click here to meet our team. Non-shedding and Allergy Friendly We pride ourselves on offering something truly special: multigenerational doodles with meticulously tested, non-shedding coats. We understand that finding a furry companion who won't leave a trail of fur behind is important to you. That's why we invest the time and effort into a rigorous breeding process spanning generations, coupled with thorough coat testing. This ensures that our adorable doodles inherit allergy friendly non-shedding traits consistently. With NLD, you'll never have to worry about getting a shedding puppy! Click here to read more. Visitor Friendly and Free Delivery We believe in making the adoption process as transparent and hassle-free as possible. That's why we have an OPEN door visitation policy. We are extremely proud of our team and facilities and want YOU to come visit! For families unable to visit we even go the extra mile by providing free delivery to your home in Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, and Washington DC! No hidden fees, no financing tricks. We believe in straightforward and honest transactions because we genuinely care about finding our puppies loving homes. Click here to read testimonials. Lifetime Support Our responsibility to our puppies extends far beyond their time on our premises and are committed to providing ongoing support and guidance for the life of your puppy. Our professional team is always available to offer valuable advice and assistance, whether it's about training techniques, health maintenance, or breed-specific needs. We want to ensure that the transition of your puppy into its new home is not only smooth but also successful. With our lifetime support, you can feel confident knowing that you have a dedicated team by your side, ready to provide the guidance and expertise you need to nurture a happy and healthy relationship with your beloved furry companion. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near West Lynchburg Virginia and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!

How Is Skylit Different? There are a number of ways that Skylit Labradors are different from other Labradors and breeders out there. Each of their pedigrees was unique. Several were the sons or daughters of show Champions. Others came from strong working lines. Skylit Labradors pedigree lines are unique to New Zealand. At Skylit Labradors I have the ability to produce a range of different shades — the darkest and lightest of yellows, the traditional black, chocolate, and yellow colours, as well as dilute versions of those colours. I do not breed strictly for colour but am aware that people have personal preferences. Health, temperament and fit-for-purpose are my primary focus with colour next on the list. I love developing their special traits and sharing their abilities with the community. I have a purpose and goal for each litter that I produce as well. That purpose may be to produce a litter of fantastic family members. Or it may be to produce great candidates for therapy or service dog work. It may be to produce a litter that will work well for active families, competitors or weekend hunters. It may be to find the next best scent dog candidate. I look for the natural tendencies in my Labs… what they gravitate toward… and that is where they are likely to excel. This in turn allows me to make better matches for those looking to add a Labrador puppy to their family. Life at Skylit If you want a Lab that will live outside or in your barn, then by all means, get a puppy that started life outside or in a barn. If you plan on keeping your dog in a kennel, then be sure that its parents were raised that way as well. Skylit Labs begin life immersed in both dog and human family life. They begin life in our shared home on 40 acres in the Manawatu. The dogs spend their days lounging around and playing with each other, me or friends but they also go on playdates, hang out at cafes, have visitors over, plod around the property, go for swims in the pond, lay by the fire, curl up on the couch, go on road trips across country, have sleepovers, and regularly run often boring errands with me. Health Testing I am a strong advocate of health testing. My Labs are genetically health tested for the common diseases found within the Labrador breed as well as several other diseases. Their elbows are also assessed by OFA. Hip and elbow evaluations help me to ensure I am making good breeding choices and reducing the risk that offspring will develop hip or elbow dysplasia due to a genetic predisposition. Note: No breeder can guarantee that their puppies will not develop hip or elbow dysplasia as both conditions can be caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Breeding for good health is a non-negotiable rule for each of my litters I plan. What that means is that I feed what I feel is the most applicable species appropriate diet for canines — raw meat, bones and organs. They primarily eat beef, chicken, fish, lamb, duck, venison as well as the occasional quail, rabbit and wallaby. They are fed twice each day. Raw feeding plays a major role. The Puppy program Pre-Birth Producing a great litter begins long before the breeding takes place. It begins with properly assessing your dogs to ensure they are fit to breed. Are they healthy? Have they fully recovered from any previous pregnancies? Are they physically mature? Are they mentally mature? What are their weaknesses? What are their strengths? Do the potential mother and father compliment each other? The care of the mum-to-be before and during her pregnancy is paramount to a successful whelping. I have been blessed with wonderful mums and I hope that continues for as long as I breed! By taking the best care of them, they take amazing care of their babies. My key role in the early days is to support the new mum. That way she can do an exceptional job whelping, raising and nurturing her babies as life intended. Weeks Once the babies are born, their weight is tracked daily for the first two weeks to ensure proper growth. Each puppy wears a different colour collar so that I can be aware of each puppy individually. This helps with things such as fireworks, children crying, doorbells, thunderstorms, and much much more. Around 3. At 4 weeks of age the puppies begin separating themselves from mum and start exploring the outside. At this age the door is removed from their cubby so that the puppies can come and go as they please to use their potty boxes or to begin exploring outside. Weeks By 5 weeks of age the puppies are spending full days outside in their puppy play yard. Their mum is primarily nursing them in the afternoons and I am providing meals for them. Typically my mums finish nursing around 6 weeks of age but the puppies still have much to learn before they are ready to leave Skylit! This consists of my removing the potty boxes and putting the door back onto their cubby. Now at night time they are placed into their cubby and I will let them out through the night as needed. Within nights the puppies are sleeping through the night without needing to go out and they are alerting me if they DO need to go out to go toilet during the night. At this point I begin separation conditioning by initially splitting the litter into two cubbies and then three cubbies etc. I have found this process makes the departure from Skylit so much easier on the puppies AND their new families. Puppies are settled in their crates which is especially important for those puppies that fly to their new families. Other key events happening during this time period include a variety of visitors interacting with the puppies, exploration walks around the pasture and main house yard, as well as water play in the puppy pool. The puppy play yard adjoins the adult dog yards so the puppies frequently have doggy visitors as well. The puppies have their full vet checks based upon when they will be leaving Skylit and that involves their first car trip into town and lots and lots of cuddles at the vet clinic! Puppy Placement The Right Fit Labs vary considerably in their build, energy level and natural tendencies. Some live to retrieve, others to swim, and still others to cuddle up on the couch. Others are happy-go-lucky. Some are incredibly smart and love to learn. Others… not so much. Some are food driven. Some are toy driven. Some have big thick blocky bodies and some are built like extreme athletes. Like humans, each Lab is an individual. There are some traits and tendencies that tend to pass from parents to offspring. There are also signs of what that puppy may be like as an adult that begin developing from a very young age. As a Breeder I strive to get to know my puppies and look for how they are similar or different from their parents or other puppies I have raised. I have an application process for my puppies. They are not placed on a first come, first served basis. Instead I look for families who will embrace that puppy as a member of their family, loving and caring for it as fiercely as they would any family member. But my diligence is to your benefit. If approved for a Skylit Labrador, you have an advocate at your side that will do all in her power to ensure your puppy is a good fit for your family. I made a promise to my girls when I started breeding that I would only ever place their puppies in environments that would be at least as good, if not better than, the life I could give them if they remained here. New Family Guide In order to help each new family through the process of adding a Skylit Lab to their family, I have developed a step-by-step guide for my families. As new questions arise, I continue to add to the New Family Guide so that it can hopefully be a wonderful resource for each new Skylit Lab family! While the Sales Agreement may change slightly depending on the litter, the terms and conditions are fairly consistent. This is to protect the integrity of my program. I have invested countless hours and money into building my breeding program. It requires little to no thought and very little if any investment to throw two dogs together in a backyard and produce a litter. That is not how I breed and those are not the type puppies I produce. Breeding in that manner can do irreversible damage to the reputation of my program and its future success. If a family should desire a puppy from their Skylit Lab, I encourage them to reach out to me and we can look at whether it may be possible in partnership. This is due to several of my foundation Labs carrying the Dilute gene. While other kennel clubs around the world are more accepting of this gene, Dogs NZ has chosen to not permit the registry of dilute-coat-coloured Labradors nor any litter that had the genetic potential to produce dilute-coat-coloured Labradors. To learn more about this colour gene and the controversy related to it, click HERE. I register all litters with Dogs NZ that meet their dilute gene requirements. I do not breed to any Labradors that are not kennel club registered unless they were born here at Skylit and I can therefore be assured of their pedigree. If at any time you can no longer maintain or no longer wish to maintain custody of your Skylit Lab, they are to be returned to Skylit. They will either remain at Skylit for the rest of their life or should I happen to find a well-suited home for them, I will place them. If there are any proceeds from their re-homing I will return them to you. You can see a sample copy of the guarantee HERE. My puppy families know that they can reach out to me at any time, night or day, days a year. I take my commitment to my Labradors and their families very seriously. I WANT to know if they are struggling. I may be able to help. I am not a vet but my experience with my own Labs, all the puppies I have raised, my puppy families experiences and also the research and learning I do gives me a unique advantage to possibly be able to provide insight into what may be going on should a challenge arise. The same goes for training. I am not a professional trainer but I am happy to share what I know and perhaps it can help or perhaps I can recommend a resource that may be able to help. I truly care. The Skylit Labrador family is a community of puppy families across New Zealand, the UK and Australia that have one key aspect in common: They all have added a Skylit Lab to their family. They very likely followed your puppy from birth, may have a relative to your puppy, and have been in your shoes with raising their own Skylit Lab. Given that they may have a relative to your puppy or even a littermate! Many Skylit families reach out to others in their area for play dates as well. There are Skylit families who are more than happy to watch your Skylit pup for you should you be going away on holiday. Here we share in the joys and challenges of raising our Labradors. It is a devoted group that is truly interested in you and your puppy. We also have regular social get togethers with our dogs and even Skylit road trips! Being part of the Skylit family is a wonderful and unique benefit of adding one of my puppies to your family. Manawatu, New Zealand. They currently are:- Hip and elbow Radiographed and scored by a recognised panel DNA test for PRA [ or both parents DNA clear ] So this means if you breed a puppy that is by a clear over a carrier that meaning it can only be clear or carrier you can then put it to a clear dog A current eye certificate. Owners should not allow any of their dogs to roam at large or to cause a nuisance to neighbours or those carrying out official duties. Owners should ensure that their dogs should wear properly tagged collars and should be kept fully leashed or under effective control when away from home. Owners will clean up after their dogs in public places or anywhere their dogs are exhibited. Owners should agree without reservation that any veterinary surgeon performing an operation on their dogs, which could alter the natural confirmation of the animal, should report such an operation to the New Zealand Kennel Club. Owners should not agree to breed from a bitch in any way which is deleterious to the bitch or the breed. Owners should take care to ensure that when selling dogs there is a reasonable expectation of a happy and healthy life and will help with the rehoming of a dog if the initial circumstances change. Owners should provide written details of all dietary requirements and give guidance concerning responsible ownership when placing dogs in a new home. Owners should not sell any dog to commercial dog wholesalers, retail pet dealers or directly or indirectly allow dogs to be given as a prize or donation in a competition of any kind. Owners will not knowingly misrepresent the characteristics of the breed nor falsely advertise dogs nor mislead any person regarding the quality of the dog. Owners will ensure that all relevant New Zealand Kennel Club documents are provided to the new owners when selling or transferring a dog. Advises new owners about the NZKC Register that the dog is recorded on and explains any endorsements that may be applied to the puppy and why they have been applied. Permanently identifies breeding stock by DNA profile and microchip or tattoo. Makes use of health screening schemes as they become available , relevant to their breed, on all breeding stock. Ensures their puppies are well socialised before going to their new homes. Provides written advice to new owners on feeding, worming, socialization, exercise and future training of their puppy. Provides a written record from a veterinarian on the immunisation measures taken to date on the puppy. Is available to give reasonable post sale advice to the new owner. Provides the new owner with a Sale and Purchase Agreement, detailing any of the endorsements that may have been placed on the dog. Advises the new owner about the requirement and recommendations that apply to them as an Accredited Breeder and also make the buyer aware of the NZKC Complaint Process. Provides written advice, in the Puppy Sales Wallet on the continuation of socialisation, exercise and future training. Important — The Labrador Club is not liable or responsible for any puppy bought from a breeder promoted on the Labrador Club website. If you do feel that a breeder has not honoured the above declaration please correspond with the Club in writing. The Labrador Club does not guarantee the service of breeders on our Breeders page and the buyer should review and take responsibility for all contracts with the breeder. The Labrador Club does have a Code of Ethics and we strongly suggest you read it. Display Email Mistybrook Labradors are excited to announce that we are expecting a very special litter very early September !! Litter of 7 has arrived, all black! Our main interest is in producing happy, healthy, sound and typical Labrador Retrievers with exceptional temperaments. We breed, exhibit and compete with the dogs we love that are raised in the family environment. Our aim is to build a distinctive line of Labrador Retrievers we can be proud to take anywhere, do anything with and relish in the beauty and love at the other end of the lead. Puppies going off to their new homes will be DOGSNZ Registered, fully health and vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped and will have already started to have been integrated into our family environment. Generous Puppy Feeding Packs will also be available as well as feeding instructions. Jan and Peter Wallace are always available for any questions or advice. Extensive written instructions and advice on puppy Labrador rearing within the Puppy Pack. Visitors are always welcome at Mistybrook Labradors. For all further details, you can ring or email mistybrooklabs gmail. Display Email We David, Anne and son Andrew have been involved with Labradors since the early 80's - shooting over them, showing and occasionally breeding. We are a small kennel who have imported several from England and Australia, one from Sweden and semen from both England and Australia, all in the interests of breeding the best we can. We breed to the highest ethical standards and only from parents who have acceptable results from the health tests required by Dogs NZ. We breed primarily for us to have something for the show ring, although some do not make the grade! Despite our focus on showing most of our pups are sold as pets to approved homes. We have some yellow and some black bitches no dogs available for stud at present and typically produce pups in those colours too. We do not usually breed chocolates. We very occasionally have older dogs available for re-homing to approved homes. Please contact us if you would like to discuss buying an adorable Charing puppy, or taking advantage of a Lab who is a bit older. PS We are delighted that we have a litter of yellow puppies expected at the beginning of October. We are happy to take enquiries from people who want family pets.

Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Pugs are the one of best dog breeds to have if you are looking for a small, loving, playful, and fun to be around companion. Because of its size and well-adaptability, they can adjust to small-sized apartments with ease. Hence, they go well with the New Yorkers. Pugs long for affection. They want constant companionship and attention. Besides, in a suitable environment and through training they can become ready for dog shows too. So, it is very important to do thorough research on the breeder if you are thinking of getting a pug. To assist you on this matter, we have picked out 8 reputable Pug breeders of New York. Give it a read and choose wisely. It is a family based breeding program. The breeders are extremely fond of their dogs. They raise them in their bedroom where the dogs bring new babies to the world, get treatment etc. Fairytale Frenchies is the home of French Bulldogs and Pugs. The dogs are AKC registered. All the dogs are free of health problems and diseases. Unlike most breeders, Fairytale Frenchies give lifetime guarantee to their pets. They never abandon their dogs. They are ready to take them back anytime if it is needed. Besides, their contract includes a three years health guarantee too. They aim to upgrade the breeds and ensure a good-loving puppy to the adopters. They also hope to get their dogs in a caring family. They are very selective in choosing homes for their Pugs and French Bulldogs. So, contact them if you think you are interested in adopting and able to get them a suitable environment and facilities. You can also let them know if you have any preferred dog in specific color and sex. All the required contact information is given on their website. It is the home for Pugs only. Gayle Mckrell ensures the good health of all dogs at the time of adoption. He also clarifies that he has the right to deny adoption at any given time during the adoption process with full refund issued. If you think you are ready to give home to these cute little Pugs, go ahead and contact them. All the necessary information is given. You can also do that through the website directly. The journey starts from having one female Fawn Pug named Muggize. Later, the family extends after the arrival of Onyx, a male Pug in the family. But their most favorite is Pugs. According to them, the reason behind it is the unconditional love they feel for the Pug. They prioritize the necessities of their dogs before anything. Their customers are mainly the previous buyers and their referrals. If you visit the testimonial section of their website you can find all the wonderful and heart- touching feedback of the buyers. Their genuine expressions of gratitude and the condition of the dogs are there in detail. They make sure to earn the trust of their customers. Visit their website and then if you feel like they meet your needs contact them. You can contact them directly through the website or you can also call them on their given telephone number. They have been breeding AKC puppies since .It is situated in Long Island. According to them, all of their puppies are genetically tested and of good qualities. They own six acre space for this breeding program. You can visit their website and take a look at the delightful comments and feedback given by people of Long Island. In Long Island, many people say it is the best place to get a dog from. The website contains a small description of every dog breed they own. In the Pug section, there are few details of how Pugs are like and their requirements. You may figure out from there if it is the right choice for you or not. So, if you want to have a look at their dogs go to their website. Contact them through their given telephone number or email address if it raises your interest. It is situated in Stanfordville, New York. The journey of Andi Pugs starts from Eileen Barbieri. Andi Pugs is a reputable dog breeding program. Their website contains all the captures of the proud moments the Pugs earned throughout history. Visit their website if you are curious to know in detail about the champion dogs. The list of the champions along with their pictures and achievements are there. Most of these dogs are now in pet homes now. So, if you find their program and Pugs fascinating as we do, then go ahead and send them an email. Maurer is the proud owner of its. She started the Pug breeding business in .They are located in Western New York. Her initial journey does not start with dogs. It starts with horses and cats before that at the age of seven. Besides dogs, Kelly owns Finch birds which she sells too. Their homebred dogs have the reputation to be AKC Champions. The motto of the breeders of Kelz Pugz is to produce the finest breed to be suitable for AKC, ensuring their wellbeing and fitness. They give these Pugs to only the people with the same motivation. They give the regular Pugs to families and pet houses. As Kelz Pugz is very conscious about the health of their puppies. They maintain all the health required necessities. In a year, they do not produce more than 24 puppies. They give their puppies to the new homes after consulting from their veterans. They also give the complete health chart of the chosen puppy as every dog is different. They ensure you have the best quality Pugs. Kelz Pugz wants full devotion from the customers. They want the puppies to get the best homes. They encourage in face to face conversation with the interested buyers. But as it is not always feasible, you can also fill out their application form. We want to encourage you to go to their website if you are interested in their Pugs for a family companion or even for AKC Championship. It contains all the necessary information if there are any queries from your side. It is a well-known dog breeding program especially to the people who are interested in showing Pugs to reputable dog competitions. It is situated in Upstate NY, near Syracuse. Annie and Cassi get their first Pug named Luke in .Later they realize their interest lies in Pugs that they can represent in the American Kennel Club. They aim to breed dogs mainly to make them suitable for AKC standards. For this reason, they only breed dogs that meet their needs. Annie is also a member of the Pug Dog Club of America. They give the puppies up for adoption which are not for shows. Once the puppies are 12 weeks old they are up for adoption. Sometimes they give older dogs too. Their website clarifies the expected price range of the puppies. They do not ship dogs. Before adopting from them, you must visit their website. All the necessary information is given there. They require you to fill out their application form only if you purchase from them. Otherwise, they highly discourage it. We want to recommend you their breeding program especially if you are interested in showing Pugs. They raise the Pugs as family members in their homes. It is situated in Martville, New York. According to the owner, her devotion towards breeding Pugs is because of her late mother-in-law, Beverley Raponi. She spent 20 years of her life breeding Pugs. They became the owner of a large family of Pugs because of Beverley. They hope to give a good companion to your family. For that, they provide the best quality and healthy dogs to the buyers. The breeders deworm the Pugs at the age of 2, 4, and 7 weeks. At 8 weeks of age, they make sure to get a complete health check done by the vet. Their website contains some heart-touching pictures of the family members with the Pugs. The genuine smile and friendly nature of the Pugs tells us a lot about this loving home. Besides, the lists of available puppies are there too. So, if you want to purchase from them go to their website and do a quick research. If you stick to your decision just give them a call or mail them at their given contact information. Pug Puppy Breeder Details:. Deciding to make your own dog food at home brings excitement and challenge at the same time. Puppies for Sale in Buffalo, New York. Feel free to browse hundreds of active classified puppy for sale listings, from dog breeders in Pa and the surrounding areas. The Benefits of Owning a Small Dog. As with humans, canines tend to develop arthritis as they get older. Reporters' Notebook: May 12, — Free parking. It is a pet search website that helps in buying and selling dogs online. German Shepherds for Sale in Buffalo. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Search by zip code to meet available dogs in your area. Use our search tool to find houses for sale in Buffalo, New York. Not just in our puppies, but the joy they will bring to you and your family. When a dog is ready to have puppies, it will not be interested in eating for 24 hours before, it will lick its vulva and it will have tighter contractions in its stomach that may or may not be noticeable to the owner. Small dogs are not only adorable and cuddly, but they can also be a great addition to any family. With a spectacular range of puppies for sale, Buffalo NY can still enjoy the little bundles of joy that Allies Pet Corner has to offer. Buy and Sell Dogs and Puppies, post local free classifieds in Buffalo. He will be available for his f… more. Puppies under the age of 16 weeks are also available as foster-to-adopts. He is up to date on vaccinations and dewormer. Find Puppies in your area and helpful tips and info. Good with cats and dogs. Are you thinking about getting a pet? If so, you may want to consider the many benefits of owning a small dog. The labor process includes the first stage, where uterine contractions begin; hard labor, in which the puppies are born; and the final stage in which the mother dog passes the placen. Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today. Cockapoo puppies for sale in Buffalo, NY from trusted breeders. Only a short drive away, Allies Pet Corner helps you find the right pup for adoption, right here in New York. Treatments for Canine Arthritis. For the second time in three years, the county has put up a "for sale" sign on the former. The page suit from survivor Latisha Rogers and three victims' families was filed in New. Made in WNY: Sahlen's hot dogs. All the brilliant breeders you find on Pets4You want the best homes for their beloved pups, so they will help with everything you need before you choose your dream dog. Search for dogs for adoption at shelters near Buffalo, NY. You get the chance to take a more personalized approach to providing the food that your friend and pet gets to eat every day. Find puppies for sale and adoption, dogs for sale and adoption, yorkshire terriers, siberian husky puppies, He will be available May 31st at 8 weeks old. Maybe not in looks - as some grow quite big - but always in your heart. However, there are options available to allevia. Search — for sale — Buffalo News. Find puppies for sale and adoption, dogs for sale and adoption, yorkshire terriers, siberian husky puppies, bulldogs, german shepherds, labrador retrievers, beagles, golden retrievers, boxers, dachshunds, rottweilers and more on free claasifieds. Humans have raised dogs for millennia. Lauren Zaninovich, an animal cruelty investigator for the. He love to just cuddle and love on you! Hamburg Cheap Pugs For Sale. What Is the Best Dog to Own? Find Puppies and Breeders in your area and helpful information. Puppies for Sale. Rottweilers for Sale in Buffalo. Find homes for sale in Buffalo, NY. He is rambunctious and energetic but also very loving and sweet. At PuppySpot, we have the widest selection of puppies for sale on the internet. Dogs for Sale: Family and Companion Dogs. Regardless of cause, here are a few remedies to get yo. Small Dogs for Sale Big attitude meets small size when greeting members of the small dog breed family. Here are those Top 10 Dogs for sale websites that you can use to buy and sell dogs online. Whether you're looking for a purebred Australian Shepherd, a hypoallergenic Mini Poodle, a dashing designer breed like the Goldendoodle or the Cavapoo, or the ever-popular Golden Retriever, we've got what you're looking for. He is all white with blue eyes. Puppies will be ready for their new homes after June 22nd .Playful, Loving and very Sweet. Maps listing all the sales are available at the Greater. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Mutts combine the best qualities of all the breeds in their lineage and are often the best behaved and most lovable pets to own. All puppies found here are from AKC-Registered parents. To place an ad by phone call: .Angola Pug Puppies For Sale. Several major tech companies were hit with a massive wrongful death lawsuit over last year's racist grocery store massacre in Buffalo, New York, for allegedly feeding the convicted shooter "racist, antisemitic, and white supremacist propaganda. North Collins Free Pug Puppies. Only a short drive away, Allies Pet Corner helps. Dogs for Sale in Utica, NY. The best breed of dog to own is a mutt, according to Business Insider. Inside, the Niagara County SPCA seized 25 small-breed dogs — 16 adult dogs and nine puppies ranging from 2 weeks old to 2 years old. The following chart shows 12 of the most popular dogs for sale in Australia. Poodles for Sale in Buffalo. Puppies for Sale Buffalo, NY. Where to buy the most stylish designer products for your pet SPCA offering free health clinic for dogs Tuesday at the Broadway Market Registration begins for two free Erie County rabies clinics. Only Puppies from Licensed Breeders. At Allies Pet Corner, we value the quality that comes from responsible breeding. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. If you need more pictures email gregwashington yahoo. We provide a connection for upstate New York residents to find puppies from reputable breeders across the state, with a variety of breeds available for. When there are so many dog food brands and products on the market, finding the right option for your four-legged friend can be a real challenge. Dogs typically live within households and are owned by people as pets or as working dogs, which makes them domestic for the most part. Both people and pups benefit from dog adoption. Prices for Cockapoo puppies for sale in Buffalo, NY vary by breeder and individual puppy. Dogs for sale in British Columbia. Saturday with 86 households participating. Dog sellers can post dogs for sale advertisement on this dog classifieds website for free. All are registered, mother and father are both on site and available for viewing. Fortunately, a few dog food brands — and specific products — stand out from the pack. Here you will see puppies for sale by breed, from breeders right across the U. Dogs go into labor when it is time to have their puppies. There are one female and one male ready for their new home. Mixed breeds can vary, but overall, Cockapoos are easily trainable and ready to play. Buy, Sell or Adopt Pets in Buffalo. With our puppies for sale Buffalo NY residents only need to make a short drive to discover their forever pup. Here are some of the top benefi. Please note, these dogs are from rescues and shelters nationwide and are not available through the ASPCA. Phone: Email: patpuglady57 aol. Patti bought her first black Pug in and named her Ebony. Today she breeds pug puppies full-time from her home in Tottenville. In fact, Patti loves Pugs so much that in , she decided to legally change her name to Patti Puglady Pugz. Patti takes care of all her newborn pugs for eight weeks to make sure that they are well-fed, healthy, and ready for their new homes. Patti is proud to say that she remains friends with almost everyone that buys Pugs from her. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.

Rachael Ray Nutrish is another brand I love for Labrador Retriever puppies as it is packed with DHA for healthy brain and eye development and specially formulated for young, growing dogs. You can also select different sizes and recipes. My favorite is chicken and brown rice. Bedding And Toys Lab puppies need quality bedding and toys for teething. Labrador puppies grow quickly and have sharp claws and teeth. Puppies also go through a teething phase and will need special teething toys to help soothe their sore mouths and help keep your furniture safe. As far as bedding, the best bedding for a Labrador puppy is going to be made of high quality material that is soft and plush while also being sturdy enough to keep them off the floor and support their growing bodies. KONG toys are wonderful tools to use during crate training , but they also help with separation anxiety , boredom, and the teething stage that all puppies go through. Enter the Nylabone Puppy Starter Pack. These flavored chew toys come both textured and regular to help get your pup and your furniture through the teething stage safely. Cuddly toys like the Smart PetLove Snuggle Puppy Behavioral Aid Toy above can help your new Labrador puppy adjust to sleeping on his own, assist in crate training, and may even help alleviate anxieties including noise phobias and separation anxiety. Puppy blankets are a must and can be used for multiple purposes in your home for your pup. My favorite puppy blankets are blankets that are specially made for dogs, like the Luciphia fleece blankets above. While you can use any blankets on hand, blankets that are specially made for dogs are usually a bit more durable, easier to wash, and have been made with quality and safe material for your pooch. Puppy blankets just make it easy to always a comfy place for your puppy to rest his head no matter where you are. Ultra Squeaker Ball is an absolute favorite in my house and with my clients. I especially love using this toy for puppies who are just getting the hang of playing fetch. For puppies, picking up on how to play fetch can be tough. Balls that squeak or make noise when thrown help to make the game more exciting and help encourage young pups to chase whatever is making that high pitched sound! Leashes, Harnesses, and Collars Collars, leashes, and harnesses are important tools to help socialize your puppy. Getting your puppy used to wearing a leash, harness, and collar is an important step towards socializing them. So even though your Labrador puppy will outgrow his harness and collar quickly, I still suggest investing in these items. Here are five of my favorite leash, harness, and collar products for Labrador Retriever puppies. As I mentioned above, puppies are especially fragile so steer clear of attaching a leash to their collar and try to help them adjust to wearing a harness that is comfortable. What I like about this harness is that it is adjustable so you can use it a bit longer as your puppy grows. Best of all it is the perfect length five feet for puppy training and is a leash your Lab puppy can take with him into adulthood. It is built like a standard leash, but it offers you control over how far away your puppy can get. This is excellent for puppy parents who live in busy neighborhoods or who are working with a puppy who likes to wander. Large breed puppies like Labrador Retrievers require crates that grow with them. This is why I love crates that come with dividers so that they can grow with your Lab puppy. I also recommend playpens, as Labrador puppies are notorious for being very active and energetic. Lab puppies are also incredibly curious and tend to chew a lot in their first few months, which is why indoor dog gates will also be an important part of puppy proofing your home. Take a look at some of my favorite puppy-proofing products below. Nobody likes cleaning up potty accidents. Of course, no one wants a big, bulky pen that takes up half of their home either! I also love that the pen is big enough for puppies to grow into and allows them to learn how to explore a space larger than their crate while keeping them and your home safe from their curiosity. And since crate training is such an important part of puppyhood and actually helps your puppy adjust to being alone and feeling secure, we recommend investing in a good, high quality crate you can use for years. It has two separate doors for entrance and exit and it comes with a divider so it can be adjusted to the size of your dog as he grows. Just remember to leave your pup inside his crate with a KONG and some bedding so he is comfortable, and remember that puppies who are younger than six months old should not stay in their crates for longer than four hours. For those of you who plan to leave your puppy out and about while you are gone and after he is trained, of course , then a crate that folds may be your best bet. The MidWest Foldable Dog Crate posted above is one such crate that is not only made well, but also stores well. Like most crates ideal for Labrador puppies, this crate also comes with a divider so it can grow with your dog. Along with crates and puppy playpens, you also might consider getting a gate to keep your puppy from entering places in your home that may pose a risk to him. Many of my clients keep gates up in their kitchen entryway, or gate their living rooms where puppies are tempted to chew on wood furniture. Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate Sale Buy on Amazon For those of you worried about installing something or accidentally damaging walls or paint, there are always free-standing gate options, like the Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate. I do like the way these gates look and the simplicity of them, however, they are not always the most secure and may not stand up to a strong and curious puppy. These gates are also not ideal for leaving puppies unsupervised as they can sometimes find ways to knock them down. Grooming your Labrador puppy early on not only helps to socialize him and prepare him for a life of vet visits, groomer visits, and physical contact with people, but it also helps to keep him clean and healthy. Like babies, puppies are more sensitive to certain products and require products that are specifically designed to be gentle on their sensitive skin and fur. Be selective of the shampoos, dog brushes , and other grooming products you pick for your Labrador puppy and make sure you always use high-quality products. Some of the products I recommend most for grooming a Labrador puppy are listed below. Pet Care Sciences Puppy Shampoo. Top Picks For Our Dogs Preparing Your Home For A Puppy You should treat the preparation of your home for the arrival of a new puppy in much the same way as you would for the arrival of a baby because the process is almost identical. You must be ready to provide every little thing your puppy needs in life, making sure they have water, are fed, comfortable, happy, catered for and safe. To achieve this there are 4 main things that you need to do: Go shopping for equipment and supplies Puppy proof your home and garden to make sure your puppy stays safe Set up an area for your puppy to sleep and spend time in when you cannot supervise them Decide on the rules and routines required to successfully raise a puppy Without such preparation, things will be difficult. A Nutritious Puppy Food The most important supply needed for a new puppy is a highly nutritious puppy food. Hopefully your puppy came from a responsible breeder who was feeding them a high quality, complete and nutritious food. If so, you should ask what they were feeding, stock up on and continue feeding this if possible. If not, then puppies are incredibly active, growing fast and developing bone, muscle and more every day. Because of this they need almost double the calories, more protein and have different nutritional needs to mature adult dogs. Furthermore, they have far smaller mouths than adult dogs so puppy food comes in smaller chunks more suited to their size. Click here to see our recommendations for the best puppy food for labs Bowls for Food And Water There is a bewildering array of dog bowl choices out there so choosing the best can be difficult. Looks and design aside, I recommend going for stainless steel bowls because they are long-lasting, cannot be chewed and are very easy to clean. I also recommend buying bowls with heavy rubber bottoms so they stay rooted to the spot and are harder to spill or flip over. Unless of course you buy bowls in a stand, then these problems are already solved. A Puppy Crate And Bedding A good crate is one of the most beneficial things you can provide for the good of yourself and your puppy. First of all, supply some bedding to place inside for your puppy to sleep on. My recommendation for this is VetBed. Many puppies can chew and ingest normal bedding which can result in medical emergencies and VetBed is the most durable bedding on the market. During these times you need to provide a larger, but still safe enclosure to confine your puppy. You might also like to buy a plastic sheet and some puppy pads or use lots of old newspaper for them to use as a potty in your absence. Puppy Chew Toys Puppies chew. A lot. And they seem to prefer chewing phones, footwear and TV remotes more than anything else. Just make sure whatever toys you do buy are suitable for a puppy as many will be too large for their little mouths to begin with. Interactive Puppy Toys So you can play games with your puppy, provide exercise and mental stimulation, you will want to buy a few toys that encourage the two of you to interact. Balls for throwing and chasing, soft toys and ropes for playing tug, other toys for fetch, there are many available. You will also need a collar to provide a place to attach an all important ID tag. ID Tag An ID tag is an essential means to be reunited with your puppy should the worst happen and you somehow lose them or they run away. Clicker A clicker is an extremely useful tool used during training as a reward marker that dramatically improves the timing of communication between you and your puppy when you want to reward a behavior. Although not essential, I do highly recommend you use one. Puppy Training Treats Tasty food treats are the go-to reward used during training so you will want to make sure you always have a good stock at hand. They need to feel happy with being bathed, happy having their coat and teeth brushed, their feet touched, nails clipped and having their eyes and ears inspected. To do so, you should fake going the process, getting them used to being handled, the sight and feel of the tools and so on. To achieve this, you will need to buy and get them used to the following items: Dog shampoo Combs and brushes suitable for a Labrador Scissors Cotton balls Toothbrush Use these tools right away and often, and give your puppy praise and tasty treats as you go so they form positive associations with grooming. Puppy Proof Your Home and Garden The process of puppy proofing your home is very much like baby proofing before the arrival of a child. Except a puppy is far more curious, active and destructive and can get themselves into far more trouble. A puppy is a new-born. Everything is a toy and they will run and pounce and jump and chew on anything in their environment. So before you bring your puppy home you simply must make it safe for them. For things you cannot move skirting boards, table legs etc. To keep them safe while still providing an area for them to play in and stretch their legs, you want to restrict their access to a single room, or otherwise create an enclosed space for them. To do so, either buy a pet barrier or baby gate that goes across a doorway to restrict them to an easy to clean and safe room, or buy an exercise pen puppy pen to create an enclosed space in another room. I also strongly recommend buying a crate for many reasons, but initially, mostly just to provide the perfect place for them to sleep. I shall discuss crate training a little later in this article. All of this must be decided BEFORE you get your puppy home because consistency is a key part of raising a puppy successfully. Everyone must enforce and live by the same rules for your puppy to thrive. Initially they have no idea how you want them to behave, or how and when they can expect the things they want and need in life. The more consistent everybody is with the puppy, the quicker they will learn all this stuff and the happier everyone will be. So decide and write down if necessary when your puppy will have all their needs met, make sure everybody knows who is responsible for each task and make sure everybody knows the rules. You might think the collection and journey home with your new puppy is no big deal, but there are many things can go wrong. Therefore, you should never take a puppy before 8 weeks old. During the first 8 weeks, a puppy learns a lot from their mother and litter-mates: Bite inhibition, canine body language, acceptable play and interaction with other dogs and how to accept discipline. Things you will find it very hard to teach them later yourself. The flip side of this is that the 7 to 14 week stage is the most impressionable for a puppy, where they bond strongest with people and must be socialized to all the sights, sounds and smells of the world so they grow up confident and comfortable with their surroundings. So anyway, for the journey home there a few things you need to consider: Safety in the car, the need for water and toilet breaks and the possibility your puppy will be sick. Having a loose puppy in the car presents a very real danger of leading to a crash, they can easily climb out of a box and now is not the time to use a harness and car safety belt. If the crate is small enough you can place it on a front or rear passenger seat and secure it with the seat-belt, or you may have to place it in the trunk of your car. Fully line the crate with absorbent paper in case there are any accidents, this will keep most of the mess off your puppy and make cleaning easier. And finally, place a chew toy or two in the crate to keep your puppy occupied. If you have another person to help you, your puppy can ride home in their lap if the journey is short. They must be under your passengers control. They will also need to potty every half or so. Therefore, you should plan breaks along the way every 30 minutes or so. Stop the car, allow them to drink, then wait for them to wee before setting off again. When you stop, make sure your puppy is on leash and tightly held by someone before letting them out of the car. And as an extra precaution, carry your puppy and only put them down to do their business, then carry them back into the car. Take with you some towels, plastic bags, kitchen roll and deodorizer to take care of any accidents. And when driving, take all corners slowly, and accelerate and brake gently. If your puppy is on a passengers lap, they will be able to see some warning signs that puppy is about to be sick: Their lips will curl, they will excessively salivate and then eventually start to heave. When your passenger spots these signs, they can place a thick towel beneath the puppy to catch everything and avoid a mess in your vehicle. When bringing home a new puppy, make sure you collect them and then drive straight home. Your puppy is having the most stressful day of their short life so far, try not to make it harder than it already is by taking them to strange places and passing them around to strangers to say hello. You want to get them home quickly so they can start the process of settling in as soon as possible. Whether this is inside on paper, or a spot outside, as soon as you arrive home carry them there, set them down and wait for them to do their business before doing anything else. This might take 30 seconds or it might take 10 minutes, but patiently wait and when they go, praise them profusely. Well done! Shut them in another room away from the puppy as things are intense enough as it is. Explain they have to be calm and gentle during the first introductions. Let them sniff and look around, getting used to the area and their new little world. You can now let people come and say hello. Have people sit or kneel to greet them. Once everybody has said hello, you should stay with your puppy, show interest but stay calm. Allow Your Puppy To Sleep After all the excitement, stress, massive change and huge amount of mental stimulation your puppy has just been through, they will likely need to sleep soon after arriving at your home. So as soon as they either start to look tired, or the introductions to their new living space and family have ended whichever comes first put them to bed for a short while. On the other hand they might feel completely overwhelmed, retreat into themselves and show reluctance to explore. They might slink into a corner silently and sit there watching their new world with wonder but apprehension, before falling asleep for hours. And when it comes to the first night they might sleep right through, or they might cry and whine the whole night. As your puppy begins to get used to everything, their character will start to shine through and you will begin to see their true personalities. Exactly what this will be is different for every puppy…it will be fun for you to find out! And by being the provider of everything they need in life, giving them all that is good, it will only take 2 or 3 days for your puppy to learn to love you and get excited and happy to see you when you turn up. So your task is to set up and stick to these schedules, begin training your puppy and help them to learn how you want them to behave and when they can expect the things they need in life. What should you feed your puppy You should feed your puppy the same food they had at the breeders because an abrupt change in diet almost always leads to stomach upset. Complete and balanced means it has everything a puppy needs, and in the right quantities. So seek out this kind of wording and check the internet for other owners reviews. Puppies need to eat a lot because their rate of growth is very high. For puppies up to 12 weeks, you should divide their daily requirement into 4 portions, for puppies 12 to 26 weeks, feed them 3 times per day and from 26 weeks on feed them twice per day. You should also aim to feed them as close as you can to the same times every day and evenly spaced throughout the day. This will help their body clocks fall into a pattern and will help your house training immensely because they then potty the same times every day. For example: 8 to 12 weeks old, 4 times a day at AM, AM, PM and PM 12 to 26 weeks old, 3 times a day at AM, PM and PM 26 weeks old and ongoing, 2 times a day at and Obviously you can adjust these times to take into account when you get out of bed and to fit around your life. Also… The first few nights have the crate or exercise pen your puppy sleeps in placed in your bedroom. One night move the crate next to the bedroom door. The next night move it outside the door, but leave the door open so they can still see you. The next night further into the hallway. Finally to their eventual resting place. They might take to sleeping on their own OK, they might whine and cry. NEVER go to them to comfort them if they cry, you must only get up to take them to potty and then silently and without fuss put them back into the crate. Rewarding silence and ignoring noise is the only way they will eventually learn to be quiet at night themselves. Any time you cannot closely supervise them, you have to confine them, either in their crate, an exercise pen or a puppy proofed room secured with a barrier across the doorway. The point of confining them as a puppy is so they can enjoy all the freedom in the world once they are an adult. By confining them with treat dispensing chew toys they get rewarded for chewing the right things and develop a chew toy obsession. Confine them now, they form a good chew toy obsession and have no chance of developing bad chewing habits. Then once they are over their adolescent chewing stage you slowly open up the house to them and eventually they can have free roam and be completely trusted. A little sacrifice when young for a better life later. And a second hugely important reason for confining your puppy when you cannot supervise them is for speedier house training. In fact if you read my comments from earlier, you will see you start the very first moment you finish the journey home. In essence, house training is about creating good habits while avoiding bad ones and for the speediest success you want to start immediately. Wherever your puppy is able to potty has the chance of becoming their favored toilet spot for many weeks or months to come. So you want to prevent them pottying inside, and encourage them to potty outside. The main ingredients of a successful house training program are preventing mistakes and praising heavily for doing the right thing. Achieving this is all about schedules, supervision and confinement. Now, your puppy will need to potty anywhere from every 15 to 45 minutes. So to start with, take them outside every 30 minutes and adjust this schedule to suit their natural rhythm. You must also take them outside immediately after they wake up from any sleep, after any eating or drinking, after play and after any heightened excitement. These are times that often lead to a puppy needing to potty so take them outside at these times and you will avoid many mistakes while taking advantage of predictable opportunities to praise them for doing the right thing. In the first week or so, you will likely find your puppy almost instantaneously leaks with little warning. Simply do your best to take them out to potty extremely often so they go in the right place as often as possible. And confine them to a single enclosed room or in an exercise pen for the first week or so to protect your carpets. Crate training goes hand in hand with house training, being one of the best tools to help speed up the process. Therefore, you want to start crate training very early on, after just a few days of getting puppy home, and I personally aim for 9 weeks old to start. I prefer to wait a week or so to avoid them pottying in the crate as much as possible, doing the most I can to preserve their instinct not to soil where they sleep, the instinct that helps most when using a crate for house training. But by all means sleep them in their crate at night if you wish and I do. For more information on crate training your puppy and using it for house training purposes, please see the links below:. Non-slip bottom dog dishes Puppies naturally move their dish around as they are eating, especially if the dish has a flat bottom that easily pushes around the floor. We have found that dishes with a non-slip bottom can help so that your puppy is not chasing around his food dish. Make sure that it is large enough. And since dogs grow fast, that means they will likely grow to that size within a year to a year and a half. Almost all dogs we train eat between 4 -6 cups of dog food a day. So, make sure that your dish is large enough to accommodate this many cups. Water dish It is vitally important that your puppy have access to clean water for drinking. With the puppies we raise, we have found that it can be challenging to keep a small water dish full, so we prefer to use these 2-gallon water dishes. They are easy to fill and allow us to only have to fill them a couple times a week instead of several times a day. We suggest that you introduce a lead to your puppy as they start to grow in confidence and walk further from you when outside. There are two great reasons to do this early on. First it teaches your puppy how to handle the pressure of not being able to go wherever they want whenever they want. And it keeps your puppy from developing a habit of running away from you. A Flexi-lead works especially well if you want to give your puppy a little more freedom to go do his potty business but still keep control. Toys Puppies need toys. If you do not give them toys that they CAN chew and play with, they will chew on your sofa leg, or a book or a blanket or anything else they can find. So, purchase some good durable puppy chew toys. But watch your pup carefully. As they get older and stronger, they will be able to rip apart cloth toys and ingest them. Or they will chew rubber toys into small pieces and eat them. When your pup gets strong enough to destroy toys, it is time to take away the puppy toys and give them only dog toys designed for older , larger dogs or quality rawhides that they can chew that will not cause digestive problems. Stay away from rope toys. Many puppies have managed to ingest strings and ropes requiring surgery to remove them. Puppy-sized bumper If your plan is for your Labrador puppy to become a hunting or competition dog, you should have a puppy sized bumper. Learn more about teaching your puppy to fetch in this post. Barriers I recommend that you section off a small portion of your home and not let your puppy have full run of the entire house. Learn more about housebreaking your Lab puppy in this post. To section off a part, it can be helpful to have some child-gates available or an area of your home that you can close doors. This means that you need to show your puppy where the boundaries are and what is and is not allowed. To do this, you will need a few more tools. This is often when we see dogs that are running away from their owners, playing keep-a-way when retrieving and just basically being naughty. A lot of this could be avoided with the use of a check cord. Yes, a check cord can be cumbersome and often a pain to use, but it only takes one or two times of your puppy running away from you to make it worth it. Put a check cord on your puppy and allow them to drag it around with them. This alone is a great lesson for a dog. Dragging the weight is a type of pressure that they will need to learn to deal with. Occasionally, step on the rope and allow your dog to feel the pressure of being stopped and controlled. These sound like such minor things, but you would be surprised how much more well-adjusted your puppy will be just from learning these minor lessons. Chain or prong collar As your puppy gets stronger, it will get more and more difficult to control your puppy with a lead just hooked up to a nylon collar. As you notice that your puppy is getting harder to control, is pulling you around or dragging you down the street, you need to move to a chain or prong collar. Actually, it would be best if you changed to a chain or prong collar long before this becomes an issue. Remember, it is always easier to fix problems when they are small rather than waiting for them to become huge problems. Larger bumpers for retrieving dogs As your dog gets larger, you will want to move away from the puppy bumper and start using regular sized retrieving bumpers. We prefer to use plastic or rubber bumpers since they do not get as dirty or smelly as the canvas ones. They also last a lot longer and can be used for both water and land retrieves. Learn all about the different bumpers used for training hunting dogs here. Orange is a color that is difficult for retrievers to see, so that color should not be used for young dogs that are just learning about retrieving and hunting. Save the orange ones for advanced dogs working on blind retrieves. Final thoughts on What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? There are many things that you will need for your new puppy both now and in the future. Take some time to prepare before you bring your puppy home so that you will avoid buying things on impulse that you may or may not need. If you are planning on using your puppy as a hunting or competition dog, check out 6 vital tools every gun dog trainer needs. You can email me at ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. What do I need to buy for a Lab puppy? However, a healthy six-month-old labrador will grow significantly in size. Some of them can weigh up to 50 pounds. For a more balanced diet at six months, you can shift from feeding your puppy three smaller meals per day to two meals a day. To counteract this, you can drop the amount of food and gradually increase it. Setting Your Lab Puppy Up for Successful Potty Training Training an animal to control their bladders until you get outside is no different than potty-training for toddlers. In other words, crate training speeds up the potty-training process for your pet. Effective crate training depends on two things: Praising and rewarding your puppy for relieving itself outside. They come to understand this as a desirable behavior. Preventing your puppy from going to the toilet within the home. So, why is using a crate to train your puppy to go outside so effective? Initially, this should be every hour or so. As labs grow older, you can reduce the frequency as they learn to hold and release independently. Step 2: House Training a Lab Puppy Housetraining or potty-training small labs can be, well, frustrating. As a pet owner, there are simple ways to train your puppy to understand ideal behavior quickly. Instead, they simply forget that they should control it. This helps avoid any issues early on. Keep small labrador puppies off the carpet. How to Feed Your Dog for Optimal Growth Feeding your labrador puppy a balanced diet could be an entire guide all on its own. It can feel overwhelming because you do have many options when it comes to feeding your dog. For example, if you work from home, it would be easy to feed your dog homemade dog food. Similarly, you might work a and yet want to reap the health-related benefits of a raw diet. Make sure to speak to your vet first. You do have choices for what to feed your puppy and you can mix and match these. Popular feeding options for any animal include kibble, wet food, raw food, and home-cooked food. Remember, a puppy is still growing, and they need a complete profile of nutrients and minerals to support their development. There are many commercial brands of dry food or kibble to choose from and you can adjust what you buy based on the ingredients. Do your research and find a brand you trust, with as much bioavailable nutritional content as is helpful. These can harm your puppy. In order to maintain good health and prevent simple ailments, your puppy can also benefit from taking a supplement. Some families choose to mix scraps or raw food with kibble to provide moisture and decrease the amount of food versus the calories consumed. Any veterinarian will tell you that a hard and fast rule is not necessarily the type of food but the amount. Obesity is a condition that can lead to many health issues for this breed. Over-exertion, especially for a puppy, is possible. This includes activities like playing fetch or tug and release. However, breeds that worked as a hunting companion for humans love to be active. Again, this goes back to the strengths of the breed. Keeping up with your puppy could be a task-and-a-half, so in the first months of life, you should be keeping them in your backyard or playing with them at home. As they become house trained and get all their vaccinations, you can turn walks into light jogs or runs if you want. In the long-term, exercise will help keep dogs healthy and disease-free. However, early dog training can eliminate common problems with puppy temperament and help make sure that your fur friend is always as friendly and happy as possible through the years. Puppy socialization simply means making your puppy open to and familiar with new experiences. You want to provide stimulation and encounters with experiences that they will probably face as adults. The window of opportunity to make sure your puppy is always a happy and friendly pooch closes around 14 weeks. Pre-Vaccination Lab Puppy Socialization Any veterinarian will tell you that a puppy is all done with their vaccinations after 12 weeks of age. The main point is to keep your puppy away from other dogs who may not yet be vaccinated or the excrement and markings of other animals that could carry data diseases. You can head to an off-leash dog park to allow them to explore and meet other fur friends. You can also take them beyond your backyard to the countryside to enable them to swim or set up obstacle courses and play with them. Another thing that people forget about is spaying or neutering their dogs. Spaying or neutering your dog could help with behavioral issues and can also reduce the onset of certain health conditions. At the same time, spaying or neutering a puppy too early may also lead to health issues. For many people, this is a worthwhile and even enjoyable trade-off. A happy, sociable dog is always the result of consistent training. Training your dog is a significant aspect of their early years. The different stages include: Get it — Using positive reinforcement, trainers will help your dog carry out actions without commands. Teach it — This stage harnesses the progress you made in the previous stages. Your dog now knows the word and the action that goes with it. Proof it — Proofing is where many people get stuck. Your dog will learn to listen and obey commands at this stage even when they are engaged in other things. Maintain it — Consistently using the techniques you learned to keep your dog following the same desirable behavior. All breeds of dogs respond best when you train them. Every labrador retriever relies on their human taking control and showing them how to respond in any situation. You can be sure that if you follow these tips that you will be taking proper care of your new puppy and will be able to make sure that your puppy will live a long and healthy life. Share on. Lab Puppy proof the house. Things like dangerous chemicals, solvents, cleaning solutions, paint and other dangerous substances need to be secured. As well you will need to look at cords hanging and things falling on the puppy if they accidentally pull something down. Stairs need to be gated off until your puppy is older and learns how to walk down them without trying to jump off. Purchase a quality dog food. It never ceases to amaze me how some people end up feeding a low quality food to their dog, or something experimental like a vegan food, or even feed them a so called raw diet and not balance their nutrition requirements. The single biggest thing you can do for your dog is feed them a proven diet with nutrients delivered in the proper ratios. A second thing to consider is where your food is made and how you can be notified if there is a recall. At the time of writing this there is a popular food under recall for toxic levels of vitamin D. There have been numerous cases of deaths related to this and yet the company claims they independently test their ingredients. The food we recommend is such because we have years and years of experience over 13 years with it using it ourselves and recommending it to those who adopt our puppies. We have actually had so few health issues with our puppies and aging adults eating this food that we have increased our warranty to 4 years and include all major organs. Bottom line, feed a high quality proven food from the day you bring your puppy home, not necessarily one with the most protein. We will provide you with feeding suggestions once you place your reservation for a puppy and a proven puppy food to feed them. Visit the pet store for the required equipment. You are going to need a large dog crate with a divider so in the beginning your puppy will have just enough room to sleep. Crate training is the best way to protect your puppy while making them safe when unsupervised. As your dog grows you can remove the divider so it has room to lay down and not touch the walls. We stock the most popular toys and cover all the different types you will need so that you can get them when you pick up your puppy. They come with explanations of how the different types are used to both stimulate, calm and play with your puppy, how to cycle them, teething, and more. A stainless steel water and food bowl is also another good choice. I would wait on getting a collar so that you can fit them properly. We have inexpensive training leashes that adjust to any size for you to purchase when you are here. Have a family meeting to establish expectations. Every human in the home will need to follow the same rules consistently so that your puppy understands what is expected of them. Schedule an appointment with a good Veterinarian. Not all Veterinarians are of equal experience. We have heard some pretty crazy stories, so we suggest you get some referrals of some long term relationships of people you trust for a Vet. You should take your puppy to the vet a couple of days after you get home so it has time to get use to its new surroundings before being taken somewhere. Prepare fore the Drive Home 1. Your puppy can last about 2 or 3 hours without a potty break. We normally feed your puppy early in the morning on the day of pick up so that it has time to go potty before the drive home. Our recommendation is to give your puppy some water every 3 hours and then let them have a pee. This could also go along with letting them play or explore outside a bit. When you stop, find an unused grassy space to potty on. Arriving at home with your puppy 1. First quickly bring them to the spot you want them to potty. This is the beginning of your dog being house trained. They will likely have to go right after you get out of the car. So when you stop, give them a drink in the area you want them to relieve themselves in. Wait until they go and then you can take them into the home. Treat your puppy like a puppy. It is breakable and will be a puppy for about a year. Things like playing with larger dogs and such should be carefully supervised. Constant supervision. Your new puppy needs to be constantly supervised until they can be trusted and you know that they understand the rules. Constant supervision means either you or someone watching them, they are in their crate the crate is the supervisor , or that they are in a section of the home baby-gated off or also an outside run with a kennel and a cement floor so they cannot dig under the fence yes they will dig. After a potty bring your puppy to the room with their crate. Introducing them to their crate perhaps with a few pieces of kibble in it will show them where their safe space is. This is also where they need to be comfortable enough to self-calm and fall asleep. If you have another dog, first introduce them outside on neutral territory. Bringing a new puppy and simply coming straight into the home could have one of three effects. The first being that both dogs might be ok with it. Second is that the older dog has an issue with a new strange animal in its territory. This would result in your older dog being defensive, maybe even protective or possibly anxious and scared and once this has happened it is out there. Undoing this type of trauma could take days or weeks. Relax and let them get to know each other and all will be good. After some get familiar time begin training your puppy without distractions using Positive Reinforcement training methods. We suggest that everyone participates in some training classes either in a group format or private. The important thing to understand is that you are training you to train your puppy. Your puppy will also lose any training it has done if it is not reinforced by everyone in the home. Other resources are 80 Puppy Training tips that you can learn as well as an excellent site with video called Puppy Trained Right. We have a discount code available for those who are taking home one of our puppies. This will allow them time to eliminate most of their food and urine and will give a better chance of sleeping the night without having to go potty. Prepare their crate in a quiet, dark spot. Make it a sleepy place, place a blanket over the top and down 3 sides to block draft and to make it den-like. Some mild exercise or training just before bed. Just like a human, you want them to be tired before bed. So for example if you let them sleep from 9 to 11 pm they may not need to go down at 11 to sleep. The last while before bed try to stimulate them mentally and physically so that they are ready to turn in. This can be training sessions, a walk, a play session or even fetch in the house. One final potty around 11 pm. After you prepare them for sleep take them out one more time and give them ample time to relieve themselves. Bring them back in, let them settle in the crate, put an item of clothing in there that smells like you for them to snuggle on. The quicker they learn the new pack and learn to settle in the crate the better and that happens by not reminding them of their old litter. If they smell their old litter they will whine for them to find them. Settling in their crate. Once your puppy goes down you will want to be teaching your puppy that the time in their crate is for sleep, they are safe in there, and that if they bark or whine they cannot summon you to save them. So, what if they really have to go? This is something you will have to figure out. It may be possible that they must go outside to relieve themselves, but, they may also just want you to hold or feed them. If they go, just put them back in their crate to settle and go back to sleep. You will know within reason that next time they are just lonely. This normally stops after about 2 or 3 days. Whoosh them out to their pee spot. Pick them up and carry them quickly to their pee spot. When they go reward them with praise and say the potty word that you use. Feed, and then woosh them out again to their pee spot. Puppies often need to poop right after they eat, or sometimes while they are eating. Some exercise, training and mental stimulation. After waking up and eating they will be ready for a walk and some training. Setting them up for their first full day in the home. Plan their day out so that there is a balance of play, training, napping, eating, and potty. In the beginning your puppy will need about 20 hours or so of sleep a day so be sure it is getting enough. If your puppy gets nippy they may be trying to tell you they are tired and want to be left alone in their crate. Every opportunity that your puppy presents in the form of nipping is a training opportunity to teach bite inhibition. Coming home to your puppy after work. Learning how to greet them. If you work full time it is important to understand that a young puppy cannot hold their bladders for more than 3 or 4 hours. If you work full time you will need someone to watch them or at least visit them once or twice during the shift to let them out, drink and play. When you arrive home this is the time to teach them manners. Most dogs will be excited and will jump on you to greet you. Be sure you teach them how you want them to greet people. We will teach a dog to sit in front of us before it gets any attention. No attention means no talking, no eye contact and no touching. Will they need to relieve themselves? If they have been in a crate you will likely need to let them go potty, a walk or some fetching would also be good at this time because they likely have some energy to expend. Training pre or post feeding? There are also some Labs who are not food motivated. So if your Lab is not responding well to training after they are fed, you may want to train them before eating so the hunger is on your side. Socialization with people other than your family, and animals other than those in the home. While socializing you want to expose them to many people while not overwhelming them. To start we recommend 1 new person each morning and one new place each night. After you can see that your puppy is not overwhelmed you may decide to increase the frequency of exposure to new places, animals and things. Prepare for night time routine. Get your new furball ready for bed time as outlined above. Setting your puppy up for success. Avoiding dog parks and strange dogs. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated around 14 weeks old they are vulnerable to other diseases by unknown dogs. By all means, if you know someone who has a dog and you can verify that their dog is up to date on all shots such as Parvo, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Kennel Cough, Distemper, Hepatitis, Corona and Para Influenza, 2. Get into a reputable training class or private training with a reputable trainer. Training classes are mainly to train you. Ask around in your area for a recommendation of a good trainer at a reasonable price. Gentle, regular exposure to everyone and everything. For example, while you are exposing them to people you will need to expose them to female babies, toddlers, pre teens, teenagers, young adult women, middle aged women and older women. You will need to include women with glasses, hats, soft voices, loud voices, etc…. Adjust their food as they grow and as their activity level increases or decreases. If for example your dog is much more active or much less active then the recommended feeding amount will not be correct. Instead use your eyes. You might have to adjust the food amounts up or down as your Labrador gets more or less activity. Positive Reinforcement training by everyone in the pack. When you get into your car and you to go somewhere, you tell your gps where you want to go. Dogs are the same way. Instead teach your dog what you want it to do. Instead of scolding, simply withdraw your attention. This is enough punishment. Then, get back to showing your dog what you want it to do. If your puppy is not eating or has a loose bowel movement. Not eating much is pretty common when a puppy goes to its new home, however if it stops drinking then that would be cause for an immediate vet visit. In a new home your puppy might not be comfortable for a couple of days and eating might be just grazing. This is ok as long as it is drinking and seems to be playful. Loose bowel movements in the beginning could be due to nerves or your puppy could also have a parasite. At this young age puppies put everything, and I mean everything into their mouths. It is quite common for puppies to get loose stool from a parasite. This can be addressed easily if you take a stool sample into your Vet for analysis. What is a puppy emergency that requires a visit to the vet? Our rules for an emergency trip to the vet are: Uncontrollable bleeding, puppy not breathing properly, broken bone, puppy is not drinking and appears lethargic. If any of these present themselves you may want to consider getting help right away. Other things can normally wait until the next morning to be addressed because they are not critical. Depending on where you live however you may have a vet that is open 24 hours and even on the weekends. So this is a start for you to think about when you take a Labrador Puppy home. Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. Frankly and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact pressreleases franklymedia. Be among the first to get breaking news, weather, and general news updates from News 9 delivered right to your inbox! Morning Headlines. Vet bedding fleece on a roll is ideal puppy bedding. You can line both his bed and his car crate with this. Buy several pieces so that you can pop one in the washing machine when it gets dirty or if he has an accident. There are lots of lovely beds you can get to go around the house, but in those first days veterinary bedding is an essential alternative to keep his crate cosy and clean. Puppy Toys For Labradors Puppy toys need to be sturdy. Many puppies destroy soft toys quite quickly though they are so adorable, you may not be able to resist buying one or two. Kongs and rope toys are very tough and seem to survive the onslaught of puppy teeth. A Radio If you intend your puppy to sleep alone in the kitchen from the first night, you may find it helpful to leave a radio next to his crate. Just a simple, cheap Portable Radio with the volume turned down low can serve the same role as some human company. It just helps him feel less along during those first few nights when he may be feeling very homesick. Puppy Harness There is no rush for this, but once your puppy is too heavy to carry, and going out and about on the ground, he needs some kind of safety restraint. These days I usually recommend a harness as they avoid pulling on the puppies neck. The kind where the lead attaches at the front and on the back are ideal. You can find an expert review of the big brands of harnesses, from a professional trainer here. When he is older and has learned to walk next to you, you can buy him a collar. To let your puppy know when he has done something you like. It is a really useful tool to help you teach your puppy to be quiet, and to learn simple skills. It will make training your puppy much quicker, easier and a lot more fun. Getting a recall to whistle established at an early age gets your puppy training off to a great start. I recommend the Acme Dog Whistle. There is plenty of information on the use and choice of dog whistles in this article: Should you buy a dog whistle .It will help to get you off to a great start with your new puppy.