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Archive for January, 2009

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If you are thinking about buying a small dog as a pet, remember that for the most part, they aren’t much different to a larger version. The small dog has some specific needs and the owner has to make the necessary compromise whenever needed. If you look at the daily dog care schedules, you would also notice the several adaptations that have been made to them.

Feeding time:

Naturally you’re going to feed your dog daily, but the standard-size kibble at the grocery store may be too large for your dog to eat comfortably. Make sure that your dog gets a kibble which suits his tiny mouth and you could get these along with the premium brand of dog foods. It is also recommended to offer the Lilliputian canines some canned soft foods.

A place to run around:

It is easy for them to run around and go to the toilet outside providing the area is secure isn’t it? Smaller dogs are much more nimble that larger dogs and what might be a secure environment for one is not necessarily for the other. Another problem is safety from above because it has been known for large birds of prey to swop down and carry of tiny dogs without any problem whatsoever. A simple answer to this problem is to construct an enclosed play area which should stop this from happening.

Training methodologies:

While the training methodologies may be the same for large as well as tiny and are not any harder, but canine experts confirm that more often than not, the smaller counterparts are usually over-mothered. However tiny your dog may be, the small dog is still a follower of pack behavior where the important thing to remember is that you do not lead the pack, the dog does. It may seem like a minor matter but just because they are diminutive and the mess they leave might not be much, it doesn’t mean they do not need to be house trained. To make the dog obey your commands, dog experts recommend that the dog must be made to work for you. Before you reward him with a treat or with his meal for having obeyed your commands, make his sit or run or do small tricks.

Buying dog collars:

When shopping for new small dog collars you want to make sure you are getting a dog collar that matches you and your dogs personality. The local pet store has some small dog collars but to get a wide selection you should browse some of the online stores. When fitting your dog with a small dog collar you will want to make certain it is not too lose or too tight. If you can fit your pinkie finger between the collar and the dogs neck you should be ok.

Your dogs appearance:

A small dog needs special sprucing and you have to bear this in mind. One such specific need for a minuscule pet is that he needs more frequent nail trimming than his larger counterpart since he hardly walks or runs on uneven surfaces which would have naturally shaped up his nails. Brushing his teeth twice a week is mandatory, especially if he is on soft canned foods. Small dog care is not that different for a large one except you have to be aware of certain needs that will affect a smaller animal. Your pet has special needs that may at first seem minor but if you love them and want them to stay healthy and content, it is worth following these guidelines.

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Most people enjoy the feel of soft pup fur, sloppy wet licks and warm hugging! Having a puppy is something that could really excite not only because it could entertain you like no other but most of all, it could really make you a big spender. Even if you admit it or not, there is really that inexplicable feeling as if you were being charmed when you tend to bring home a pup that needs you as much as an baby does. It’s an opportunity to train the dog from an early age to fit your environment and life-style.

Dress up your dog with a jeweled dog collar. They don’t have to be expensive. You can find a cheap but good looking new jeweled dog collar just about anywhere. For the best prices on jeweled dog collars try searching online at different stores or at comparison sites.

You can also teach your children (if you have) the essence of being affectionate to other creatures particularly to a puppy. They will have wonderful memories of growing up with the pup. Passed these lovely images are the other realities of bringing home a puppy – like for an instance, there is always the need for you to undergo your dog to certain trainings such as walking with him on a leash, the toilet training, the Schooling that could make him stop chewing your best shoes but alternatively his chewing toys and all the other stuffs that a pup typically does which can sometimes lead you to the verge of breaking down. Yes, a puppy is precious, but also very needy. Compared to taking care of a mature dog, during the first few months of taking care a pup would usually demand more of your time. The shelters are crowded with dogs – many just a few months out of puppy phase.

Due to the breed or the dog’s history, the choice of which dog is best to bring home to a family with kids will somehow depend to the seller or adoption facility’s proposition as well as which dog is best for adults to have. You’ll know immediately what the dog’s full size is and whether that fits your living space. Just before you make the decision of taking the dog home, try visiting the shelter and see to it that you spend time walking with him so you know your feelings. When you’re assessing a litter of pups from a breeder, make sure you get to “meet” mom and dad. You want to know what your pup will grow up to be like when it’s more mature.

It is more likely that a puppy can adjust to your household easily compared to an older dog; but, an older dog not having to love your home is not something that this thought implies. The necessary attention and care or time and effort that a puppy would need simply differs to that of a mature dog’s requirements. Training a puppy should start from the fundamental principles. Some schooling might have been given to an older dog, nevertheless, if proper nutrition and care with regards to its health wasn’t given that much attention, you are likely to have extra expenses for its healthcare or for vet bills. Or maybe, the aging dog became unruly and no longer had the inclination towards children like it used to be when it was just more youthful.

The reasons why you desire to get a new dog or a dog for the first time may vary, so instead of focusing your time and efforts towards buying a pedigree money that can surely cost you a lot of money, you might as well consider adopting a mature shelter dog that needs a loving home and family. But if showing or breeding is your goal, a puppy with papers might suit your needs more. A puppy with complete documentation can surely cater to your desires if you want to show it off or breed in the future. If you plan to show off your dog or have it breed in the long run, then getting a puppy with all the relevant records can surely go with whatever you want or need.

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The benefits we can reap from having a pet can be thoroughly rewarding. Due to their unconditional love, friendship and loyalty dogs are rightly known as ‘Man’s best friend’. Dog lovers can return the favour by taking good care of their pet.

It might sound like a lot of work at first but caring for your dog, after the puppy days, is relatively easy and most of the chores can fit neatly into your daily routine.

This article talks about some of the essentials you need to know about dog care.

Collar and ID Tag

The first thing you want to do for a new dog is give it a proper dog collar and an ID tag with your name, address and contact information. This increases the likelihood of your dog being returned to you if you are separated.

Laws

Check with your local animal shelter, veterinarian or humane society to find out what vaccinations your dog needs and be aware of dog fouling laws!

Spay or Neuter

If you are not planning on breeding dogs, help reduce the number of unwanted and stray dogs and improve the health of your pet by having them spay or neutered.

Training

Whether you purchase a book on dog training and teach them the basics at home or enrol in a class, having your dog learn basic commands will have a positive benefit on their behaviour and safety.

Register with a Vet

Regular visits to the vet will ensure your dog’s health and avoid future issues. If you need assistance locatting a good vet, check with a local animal shelter, other dog owners or a breeder.

Your Dog at Home

Give your dog a proper place to live. Dogs love to get out and run around, but need extended time out of the elements. Guard your dog from exposure to extreme weather. A big yard with a dog house is wonderful, but spending time with your dog inside and having a comfortable place to sleep, like a dog bed, is essential.

Dog Diets

Feed your dog a nutritionally balanced diet and make fresh water available to it at all times. Consult your vet for information on the type of dog food and amount to feed them in proportion to their size and age.

Dog Leads

A good, strong lead is a must-have item. There is a simple rule to follow; if the dog is off your property, the lead is on. Always ensure your pet is under control at home AND out in public.

Exercising your Dog

Dogs of all sizes and breeds have one thing in common. They love to run around and play. A fit dog is a happy dog, so spend time together taking walks and with dog toys such as balls and games specially developed to keep them mentally alert and . Taking frequent daily exercise is good for both of you and helps build the bond between you and your dog.

Groom your Dog

A clean dog is a well cared for. Sure dogs like to play outdoors and run around, and there are few things better for their health, and your relationship, than to give their coats a regular dog shampoo bath, trim hair if necessary and groom them with brushes and combs. Dog clothes like coats, hats and boots are also increasingly popular, and can help shield your dog from extreme weather.

Dogs like Companionship

Any relationship is a two-way street. You will have a pet dog that brings plenty of love and joy into your life if you are loyal, patient and faithful to your companion.

These are just the basics of dog care and picking up a book about dogs is highly recommended. Select a book that talks about various breeds, their traits and the care you should give them.

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