Feeding for standard size Doodle puppies at 8 weeks of age is usually 1/2 to 3/4 cup per feeding.  Smaller sized pups will likely eat on the lower size of that portion, larger pups on the higher side of the portion.  Mini/mediums near the same feeding amounts, likely slightly less.  A general rule is whatever the puppy can eat in 10 minutes, keeping in mind that some puppies are "chow hounds" and will eat fast and overeat if larger portions are given for 10 minutes.  Feeding amounts are to be increased as your puppy grows. 

Pups should be fed three times daily until 4 months of age, then divide the daily portion into two feedings, breakfast and supper.  We start to slowly switch our own pups to adult food at 4 months of age, with a complete switch by 5 months.  This helps to slow the growth rate and weight gain which could cause joint problems later.  Some vets recommend puppy food until 1 year, in our vast experience this is not necessary nor needed healthwise for the pup.

All our puppies receive a vitamin supplement called NuVet Plus which all our dogs get.  They received it through their mother during gestation and during nursing.  There will be a sample package of the vitamins in the puppy package that will come with your puppy.  The puppy should receive 1/2 a tablet a day until about 4 months of age, then 1 tablet a day thereafter, you will have enough for only 6 days in the sample pack so it would be a good idea to order some prior to running out.  The vitamins give a softer more shiny coat, help in promoting bone and joint development as well.  You can visit the website of the vitamin supplier at NuVet , use order code 00405 when ordering, the code is mandatory to place an order.  We've found it to be an inexpensive way to promote our dogs' health, especially the mothers.  Canadians can't order from the website but can order by phone at 1-800-474-7044 with the same order code.  Be sure to order them in advance so you have them before your puppy comes home!

In the beginning stages it's important to minimalize the changes in diet for the puppy to avoid stomach/digestive upset.  We suggest giving bottled water for the first few weeks if you have treated tap water rather than well water (which is what they are used to), then slowly make the switch.  If you can't find the food that we recommend please find a chicken and rice formula to lessen the change in the pup's diet.  Treats aren't that important to a puppy at first, try using pieces of kibble for reward treating until official training or classes, again this will help limit the dietary changes.  Avoid foods/treats containing corn, we have found that to trigger itching and ear infections.

Here are a few types of toys that our puppies are already accustomed to playing with, they are durable and easy to clean ~ The Rock, The Ball, The Twig, The Orbee medium, Woof and Fetch Ball, Diamond Plate Orbee, Medium Heave Hose, Sqwuggies, Holee Rollers and Frequent Flyers.

Another recommendation would be for a Snuggle Puppy, these are stuffed dogs with a heart beat which comfort a new puppy because it sounds like its mom. 

One thing to remember is that you shouldn't towel dry a long haired dog, no matter the coat type.  Towel drying increases the mat frequency and can turn a mat free coat into a very matted coat very quickly, so if your Doodle loves to swim be sure to let it air dry and avoid towel drying, this rule also applies after baths. 

Bathing should only be done every 6 to 10 weeks unless your Doodle gets very dirty or stinky in the meantime.  Over bathing will lead to dry skin and itching, not to mention matting of the coat.  We prefer to use an oatmeal based shampoo, don't overuse the shampoo either, it's best to dilute then have a build-up in the coat and be sure to rinse thoroughly.  To keep the coat soft and easy to brush, use a good quality conditioner after shampooing.

There are many different types of brushes and combs on the market.  My personal favorites are a slicker brush, stainless steel comb and dematting rake.  Other tools that have been suggested to me by some of our Doodle owners are:  pin brushes, dematting tools, Bamboo rotating combs and Les Poochs brushes.  Good grooming/brushing sprays are The Stuff, Cowboy Magic and Infusium 23, these will help you work through mats if brushing alone isn't getting them out.  If matting becomes out of hand then a trip to the groomer will be necessary.  Be sure to instruct them specifically on the look you want or your Doodle will likely come home looking like a Poodle.

A Doodle's ears are an important part of the grooming process.  Ears should be checked weekly to make sure they are clean and free of hair.  If your Doodle has hairy ear canals you will need to pull that hair out regularly.  Ear powder can be found in any pet section or pet store.  Apply a little powder to the hair in the ear canal and pull it out.  The powder acts are grip as well as an antiseptic.  A weekly or bi-montly rinse of your Doodle's ears with a half water, half white vinegar solution will help prevent ear infections which are common in floppy earred dogs.  Always be sure to dry your dog's ears after swimming or bathing.  NEVER insert anything into the ear canal, only surface cleaning and washing.  The ear solution can be sprayed into the canal but let the dog shake it out on it's own, just dry the edge area.

Always be sure to keep your dog's nails trimmed.  My preferred tool is the scissor type clipper.  Don't cut too far or you'll cut into the quick and cause the nail to bleed.  If that does happen apply corn starch or baby powder to the tip of the nail to help the blood clot faster.

"The Other End of the Leash" by Patricia B. McConnell PhD

"Cesar's Way" by Cesar Millan

"The Dog Listener" by Jan Fennell

"Amichien Bonding" by Jan Fennell

"Marley and Me" by John Grogan

"Goldendoodle" by Kathryn Lee - Kennel Club Books