How to care for your dog

A dog can be a wonderful addition to your family if carefully selected to fit your lifestyle. Research the traits of different types of dog to ensure a good match. Given proper care and training dogs live an average of 10-15 years, making them a considerable commitment. In return you will be rewarded with a devoted, versatile companion.

General

In addition to shelter, food, fresh water, and medical care, your dog needs regular grooming, plenty of companionship and daily exercise. A dog requires two walks a day and active types may need vigorous exercise to keep them happy. We recommend basic training for all dogs. Look for a group class in your area, it's a great way to have fun with your new pet!

Housing

Dogs are happiest living and sleeping inside your home with your family. They should have a place to call their own, such as a dog bed, crate or kennel. Dogs are social animals and need contact with others. A dog that is deprived of social contact will soon show behavioral problems around people, dogs and other animals. Chaining a dog outside is strongly discouraged and is sure to have a negative effect on the dogs behavior and health.

Diet

Puppies need a high quality puppy food, mostly dry kibble with a little canned food. Feed small portions three times daily, with the last meal early in the evening to reduce 'accidents' at night. At six months old a puppy needs two meals a day and after nine months potentially one meal, usually in the evening. Feeding your adult dog only high quality food and taking care not to overfeed promotes good health and avoids obesity. Dry dog food is recommended, with some canned food added if desired. Fresh clean water should always be available.

Cleaning

Keep your dog well groomed, bathed and use a flea control product if necessary. Bedding, food dishes and water bowls should be washed regularly. While housetraining your puppy, 'accidents' are easily cleaned up using an enzyme product.

Mucky Pups are always happy to advise you on the interim grooming regime you should apply between grooming appointments.

Fertility

Female dogs should be spayed and male dogs neutered if breeding is not desired. These procedures can help pets live longer, healthier lives and reduce the desire to roam. They also prevent the birth of unwanted puppies, helping to solve the enormous problem of pet overpopulation.

Health

Thousands of dogs die each year from preventable diseases. Start your puppys vaccinations at 6-8 weeks of age and get boosters at 12 and 16 weeks. Thereafter, an annual booster is necessary. Taking your dog for regular veterinary check-ups will help your pet enjoy a long and healthy life.

Warnings

Natural bones are not recommended as chew toys. It is easy for a dog to chew off sharp pieces that can be hazardous when swallowed. Choose safe synthetic bones, such as Nylabones, instead.

Further Reading

There are a large variety of books available from general to more specific breed books. There are also a multitude of online resources available to the dog-owner of today from discussion groups to information sites and these should help you in your quest to understand your canine friend.

nice info..................thanks

xxxREXIExxx wrote:

nice info..................thanks

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tattoo wrote:

xxxREXIExxx wrote:

nice info..................thanks

ur welcome sir. Welcome dn sa site!

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sarap magbasa,,haha

bottom line, don't just buy dogs if you can't take care of them fully or neglect them after a few months or years, be very sure that you can take full responsibility and take the full obligation when owning a dog or any animal. hehe