Puppies & Doggies World

Things to Consider before Adopting a Pooch
When going to the shelter to pick out your new puppy, bear in mind that all puppies start out small. Research breeds as to what their size and temperament is likely to be as they mature. You don't want the surprise of your puppy growing into a 150 pound dog if you are living in a small apartment! Before adopting any dog, be aware of the difference in breed specific behaviors. Especially if you have children in the home, some breeds make better pets for children than others. What kind of dog traits are you looking for? What about personality? His size when full grown? Temperment? How much food will he eat? How much exercise will he require? If you hadn't given it any thought it's best to do so now before you adopt.

Puppy Personality
No matter what the breed puppies are bundles of seeming endless energy. Who will need very close attention at playtime. Puppies like to chew and you must be watchful that he doesn't ingest any harmful substances.

Adopting An Older Dog
If you don't think a puppy is right for you, consider adopting an older dog. Older dogs are often overlooked by potential dog owners at shelters. Many people have concerns about adopting older dogs, but these dogs will make wonderful first time pets. They have already been in households with humans and should already know the basic rules and already have been housebroken and are well past the excitable puppy/ younger dog stage.

Question About Adopting Older Dogs
Won't I be adopting someone else's problems? If the dog were so wonderful, why wouldn't they have kept him?
Answer: Older dogs lose their homes for many different reasons....most of them having nothing to do with problems the dog has, but rather with those of the person surrendering the dog. Many folks think dogs who end up at shelters or in rescue are all genetically and behaviorally inferior. But, it is not uncommon for very expensive, well-bred dogs to outlive their usefulness or novelty with folks who bought them on impulse and no longer want to take responsibility for them. Other reasons older dogs become homeless: death of a guardian....not enough time for the dog...... change in work schedule..... new baby.....need to move to a place where dogs are not allowed.... kids going off to college.... allergies.... change in "lifestyle".... prospective spouse doesn't like dogs. (All these reasons are taken from real case histories.)

Adjustment Period
After your new dog/puppy arrives home he will a bit scared and anxious being in a new environment. This is normal. Give your new dog time to make the adjustment. Keep him confined to a room or crate when you cannot be there to supervise his activities until he is house trained. Not only will there be adjustment period for the new arrival but for any current resident pets as well. Take the introductions slowly, and make extra efforts to show resident pets they are still number one in your affections. Your resident pets will need time and space to adjust to the new comer, this will help avoid possible territorial disputes.

Supplies
You should get in the necessary supplies you will need for your dog before you bring him home. Here is a list of some things you will need...at least to begin with.

Collar/leash/harness- Collar, harness and leash should be of the appropriate size for the size of your dog.
Crate- For house training your dog.
Food/water dishes- Choose the appropriate size bowls for your dog. Puppies and small dogs can have bowls that sit on the floor. Larger dogs will need raised bowls.
Food-Dry and wet food- It is best to start with the same food the shelter/breeder was feeding then slowly switch over to new brand if you want to change foods.
Bedding- There are many kinds/ shapes and sizes of dog beds on the market today. Some are for regular use and some are for the specific needs of special need dogs such as dogs with arthritis. Find one that your dog will fit onto or into comfortably.
Grooming supplies- Bushes, combs, shampoo.

Other Dog Need To Know Stuff
Crate Training
Crate training can be beneficial when house training your puppy or dog. It will help him learn where to "go" and where not to "go". When done properly it is a effective training tool.

Separation Anxiety
< Separation anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues in dogs. Dogs are very social animals and do not like to be alone. Some dogs are fine alone while others go into a panic attack and cry and bark for long periods. While still other dogs go into a destructive frenzy and you come home to a destroyed house.

Grooming
Dogs should be groomed daily. Start getting your dog used to daily grooming while he is still a puppy. Different types of coats require different amounts of grooming and it is best to get your dog accustomed to the routine while he's still young.

Nutrition
Dogs are carnivores and need meat. Be careful to read ingredient labels on the dog foods you purchase and buy the one with the best ingredients you can afford. Not the cheapest you can get away with. The cheaper brands of pet food contain mainly meat-by-products and corn ingredients which are not a healthy for pets to be eating. Choose foods that are free of dyes. Dyes are used solely to make the food look more appetizing to the consumer, but it makes no difference to the dog what their food looks like. Plus dyes can cause illness in some pets.

Obesity In Dogs
Just as in humans, obesity is a serious health risk in dogs, leading to health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Check this weight chart to see what shape your dog is in.

Flea Medications
If you find your dog has fleas do not run out and buy over the counter flea products and shampoos, these have proven harmful and sometimes fatal to animals. Take your dog to the vet to get a safe flea treatment for your dog. It may be a bit more costly than what you can buy in the store but your pet's health is well worth it!





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