How to Take Care of A Dog...the RIGHT Way!
If you're sniffing out information on how to take care of a dog, you've just barked up the RIGHT tree!
While a dog doesn't need as much care as a small child, she does need attention and regular care to keep her happy, healthy and well-balanced. What YOU get in return is a life-long, wildly loving relationship with your pet. And you want that don't you? (Otherwise you wouldn't be reading this.)
Sooo... get ready to commit to these FIVE dog care basics...
Commitment #1 - FEEDING
How to Take Care of a Dog with Mmmm-mmm Good Dog Nutrition
Providing good dog nutrition means you need to feed your dog regularly with enough healthy food for his (or her) breed type.All dogs are different and have different nutritional needs. However, all dogs' diet should include a combination of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats and proteins. If it does, then your dog's needs for growth and tissue repair will be met.
Since dogs have different needs at various stages of their lives in terms of nutrition, just be prepared to feed your dog accordingly.
>>> Top 5 Dog Nutrition Tips:
There are several feeding and dog nutrition tips I could present here, but here are the top five . . .
Water, Water, Water!
There's no comprmise here... make sure your dog always has fresh, clean drinking water each and every day.0 points
Puppy Feeding
Ensure your puppy's dietary needs are met by introducing them to 'solid' food as they are being weaned. Any new foods should be brought in gradually so as not to upset the young stomach. Special puppy canned and dry food is available. Note: Puppies will need to be fed a few times a day until six months old, then twice a day until they are twelve months old. After that, you may only need to feed your dog once a day.0 points
Quality Dog Food
Dry dog food of a good quality (and/or properly prepared homemade dog food) is often considered the best food for dogs. [Note: Fresh meat alone will not provide adequate dog nutrition.] Leftover vegetables and meat scraps can be added to dry food for variation in texture.0 points
Crunch Is Good
Make sure your dog gets hard dog biscuits (and in some cases, raw bones) included in his diet. Feeding your dog only soft food, will lead to plaque build-up on his teeth.0 points
>>> More on 'Dog Nutrition'
WHY Water Plays Powerful Role in Your Dog's Health
Your dog's health depends on an all-important nutrient: water.0 points
Dog Nutrition: Setting Good Eating Habits for Your Dog
Dog Nutrition: Here are ways to set good eating habits for your dog.0 points
Protein's Role in Dog Health
Dog Health: Discover why protein plays an important role in your dog's health0 points
Commitment #2 - EXERCISE
How to Take Care of a Dog with a Dog Exercise Plan
In humans, the importance of exercise has been proven time and again. But what about our canine friends? Is it enough to just feed them properly and give them 'occasional' walks?A dog needs plenty of exercise... and generally the bigger the dog, the more exercise it will need. If you are not prepared to exercise your dog on a daily basis then perhaps you should think about getting another kind of pet.
Not only is regular exercise good for your dog's health, but it also gives him the opportunity to be with you! Afterall, dogs crave company and like to be with their 'pack' as much as possible.
>>> Dog Exercise: How Much?
However, just like feeding, choosing the right amount of exercise for your dog should depend on several factors: age, size, and type of breed.
- Age: Puppies require daily exercise for proper muscle development. Their high energy levels need to be released in some form of constructive activity, and giving them their daily exercise is the best way to do it. Not being able to release their pent-up energy can lead to destructive behavior such as chewing or digging. On the other hand, a mature, aging dog needs less exercise because of their lower energy levels.
- Size: Large dogs do not necessarily need more exercise than small dogs. In fact, many large breeds like the Mastiff or Great Dane would rather relax and sit on the porch all day then go out for a 2 mile run. Nevertheless, they also need their daily exercise, perhaps one or two 30 minute walks everyday. On the other hand, many types of small breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier or Chihuahua still keep on going even after a three-mile walk.
- Type Of Breed: Your dog's breed is also a big factor on the amount of exercise required. For instance, dogs that were originally bred to herd such as the Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie, and German Shepherd need to be exercise daily. Another example of a breed that requires daily exercise are those that were originally bred to hunt (hunting dogs). Examples of these dogs are the Beagle, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and German Hunt Terrier. And finally,sled dogs such as the Siberian Husky, Samoyed, and Alaskan malamute share the same high level of energy as the herding dogs and hunting dogs and therefore, need to be exercised on a regular basis.
>>> More on 'Dog Exercise'
Dog Exercise: Walking, A Great Way To Keep Your Dog Fit
Dog Exercise: Read how a simple DAILY walk can keep your dog (and yourself) fit0 points
Audio: Dog Exercise: How much?
Audio Dog Care Tip. . . Dog Exercise: How much and what types of exercise is good for your dog?0 points
Commitment #3 - GROOMING
How to Take Care of a Dog with Regular Dog Grooming & Hygiene
The importance of dog grooming is not only for aesthetic purposes but also adds to your pet's holistic growth, both - physically and psychologically. Daily or weekly hygiene routines just makes good 'health' sense and the time spent with your pet creates opportunity for bonding. >>> Dog Grooming Checklist
Here's the scoop on regular examinations of your pet:
- Coat: Look out for bumps, hot spots, inflammation, irritation, vegetative matter, and parasites like fleas and ticks in his coat. Get rid of fleas by using a fine-toothed comb while ticks can be tweezed off. Brushing doesn't only remove mats, it also takes away dead hair, thus eliminating animal odor. Tangles can also be very painful for your dog that may lead to skin inflammation. Grooming during shedding encourages growth of new coat, so brush especially after physical exercise.
- Ears & Eyes: Your dog's ears and eyes must also be cleaned often and watched for diseases. For example, droop ears are inclined to infection which can lead to permanent hearing loss. A damp cotton cloth is used to remove mucus from your dog's eyes and a coarse rag is appropriate incleaning your pet's face.
- Teeth: A dog's teeth are very important and care is required to keep them healthy. Dental hygiene is maintained by using dog toothpaste and toothbrush with soft bristles twice a week.
- Paws & Nails: Examine your companion's pads - dirt, grime, pebbles, chemicals can get caught that can infect his paws. You may also need to clip your dog's nails on a regular basis. Nails should be trimmed every month, especially if your dog has a hard time walking.
- Bathing: Different breeds require varying bath frequency. You can consult your Vet, an online source or a local pet grooming shop if you're not sure how many times you should bath your dog. When bathing your pet, make sure that you brush away dead hairs first to clear all the mats in his coat. Soak your pet in warm water. Apply a pet shampoo in small amounts. Target areas are the eyes, ears, rectum, toes and under the chin. Avoid getting soapy water in his eyes and ears. You also have an option to apply coat conditioner after bathing.
>>> More on 'Dog Grooming & Hygiene'
DIY Dog Grooming: Finding the Best Location to Groom Your Dog
DIY Dog Grooming: Finding the best location to groom your dog0 points
Your Dog's Dental Care
Clean teeth and gums are important to the overall health of your dog. Here's a brief list of the most common dog dental problems and ways of preventin...0 points
Bath Time: 7 Tips on Choosing the Right Dog Shampoo for Your Pet
Any old dog shampoo won't do. Take these helpdul tips under consideration...0 points
Dog Coat Care: A Tangled Mess? Dog Hair Mat Removal
Dog Hair 911: Here's a tip on dog hair mat removal0 points
Commitment #4 - VET VISITS & VACCINATIONS
How to Take of a Dog with the Assistance of Dog Health Professionals
Once you've brought your dog home, be prepared to take him to the veterinarian for health check-ups and vaccinations on a regular basis.How regularly should you take your dog to the veterinarian? What about vaccinations? What treatments are considered basic for good dog health?
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It is recommended that you take your dog for an annual examination to the veterinary clinic. Your veterinarian can check your dog for illnesses you may not be aware of and assess his overall health. A heartworm blood test is suggested every year. Veterinarians will also check your dog for any worm infestations and will prescribe correct medication to eradicate any problem they may have with these parasites.
The veterinarian can also give you advice about external parasite control. New methods for flea and tick management are always coming out. Discuss the best options for your dog with the veterinarian.
Your dog should be vaccinated on a regular basis. Traditionally, vaccinations, given by your veterinarian, will begin when your puppy is about eight weeks old and continue over a scheduled period of time (within months and then annually). These vaccinations are meant to immunize against DHLPP (parvo virus, distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis and parainfluenza) as well as against rabies, Bortadella or Lyme diseases. Bottomline, discuss the need for these shots with your veterinarian to find out what is required in your area.
Spaying & Neutering. If you do not wish to breed your dog, basic veterinary care will involve getting your dog spayed or neutered. Female dogs are spayed and this involves removing the uterus and ovaries. Male dogs are neutered, which means having the testicles removed. These operations should take place at six months of age for both male and female dogs.
Dental Check-ups. Your veterinarian can also assess your dog for any dental problems. If you have not been cleaning your dog's teeth and plaque has built up, your dog may need a professional dental treatment by the veterinarian. This involves cleaning, scaling and polishing your dog's teeth. Dental care should be a standard part of your annual trip to the veterinary clinic.
>>> More on 'Dog Health'
Dog Parasites: Internal Parasites That May Plague Your Dog
Dog Parasites: here are five nasty little critters that can make your dog very sick.0 points
Tick Alert: Keeping Your Dog Tick Free
Learn how to keep your dog tick free. . .0 points
Dog Fleas: How to Detect
Dog Fleas: Here are ways to detect them on your dog. . .0 points
Vaccinations: Should You Vaccinate Your Dog?
You may ask if it's safe to vaccinate your dog. Read about the pros and cons of dog vaccinations to help you make an informed decision...0 points
Commitment #5 - TRAINING
How to Take Care of a Dog with Proper Dog Training
Your dog needs guidelines to be a 'socialized' dog and obedience lessons will help you set those guidelines for him.Who should train your dog? Well, you of course! But you'll need to be trained to train your dog. That's what effective obedience training classes do - train the owner in the correct techniques to train their dogs.
There are many dog trainers around and you need to be aware of what you want from the sessions.
Trainers and/or training books and videos can be found online, through word of mouth, the yellow pages, recommendations from your veterinarian or the humane society.
Great Online Dog Care Resources
- The Dog Care Digest
- Top tips from dog owners and experts on a wide range of dog care topics... all in one place!
- The Dog Breed Digest
- Searching for top-notch dog breed information and resources? The Dog Breed Digest is your online source!
- The ASPCA
- A great resource for pet care info. . . The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was founded in 1866 as the first humane organization in the Western Hemisphere. The Society was formed to alleviate the injustices animals faced at that time and today, continues to battle cruelty by rescuing animals from abuse, advocating humane laws, and sharing resources with shelters across the United States.
Also Check out . . .
and . . .
Only Natural Pet Store
For Your Book Shelf
Is This Lens Helpful?
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SylviaD
You forgot one important point... exercise your dog and you exercise yourself. Works for me! I can't believe how my vitality and energy has improved since I got my Belgian Shepherd who REALLY likes long walks. ;-) Posted June 02, 2008 |
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jessicareynolds
This lens is really great, because I have visited this site for last time. From that day onwards I have following these tips and precautions, so at present my dog is very active and no health problems. I have created on lens that focuses on hair removal Posted May 05, 2008 |
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RichardPT
Very nice lens. Enjoyed all the related info especially the importants of exercise. Posted April 18, 2008 |
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SylviaD
You are so right about dogs and exercise. I had an American Eskimo who wanted to go right back out as soon as we returned from a 1-hour hike. My lab/chow, on the other hand, was happy relaxing around the house after a relatively good walk. My current Belgian Shepherd seems very tired after our 1/2 hour walk but he's very robust during the walk. The vet said it's important that he exercise every single day. I got the impression it was especially important for the Shepherd breed. If you want more dog care tips, why not visit my lens at http://www.squidoo.com/dognutritionanddogcaretips Posted April 15, 2008 |
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Angel-Eleven
Great information, You covered the subjects nicely. Posted January 23, 2008 |
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shush
Great lens. Dog lovers - you've got to read this article train-a-dog Posted December 29, 2007 |
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Adrie
Hello, Posted November 23, 2007 |
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CountryEstateBulldogs
Very helpful information and nice lens! Posted October 21, 2007 |
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HarryJames
Hey pretty good lens. Gave you 5/5 on the star chart. I've just stared my own lens on my experiences with my own dogs over the years.Come on over and say hi. Posted October 16, 2007 |
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HealthyHappyDogs
Great information, nDee! Posted October 13, 2007 |
