Giving your dog a health check at home, at regular intervals, can alert you to potential health problems. Your dog can’t tell you when he is ill or in pain except through his appearance or behavior. Pay close attention to changes in his body or behavior and get veterinary care when it is necessary to keep your beloved companion happy and healthy.

Schedule your dog’s health check during his regular grooming sessions. Start grooming your dog regularly, if you aren’t! These sessions can familiarize you with your dog’s normal physical condition so you can catch problems early

Skin and Coat

All dogs shed, some more than others, but should not have excessive hair loss with the exception of seasonal shedding periods. Poor health is often apparent in a dog’s coat. Bald patches, reddened skin, scabs, flakiness and other poor skin conditions can indicate health problems or allergies. Dogs can be allergic to many of the same things as humans are, but they react to allergens through changes in their skin, not usually with respiratory symptoms.

While you are bathing or brushing your dog, run your fingers through his fur opposite the direction of its growth. Part the fur and check for ticks, signs of flea infestations or skin problems. Some dogs are more sensitive to fleas (actually, the fleas’ saliva) than other dogs, and just one flea may cause a sensitive dog to become extremely itchy. Excessive scratching can create secondary bacterial skin infections, misery for your dog, and big vet bills for you.

Ears

Once you’ve examined the coat, begin your health check of your dog at its head, and work your way back. Using a penlight, look into your dog’s ear canals. The lining should be a healthy pink color. Redness, crustiness, scabs and swelling may indicate an ear infection from excess earwax buildup or a foreign body (usually plant matter) in the ear canal. Ear mites will create a black, waxy coating in the ear, which can be treated with veterinary OTC medicines.

Never use a cotton swab or other object to reach inside your dog’s ears, or you risk popping an eardrum. Excess ear wax may be cleaned out by putting a teaspoon of slightly warmed light olive oil in the ear and massaging the ear canal. Let the dog remove the oil and dissolved wax himself by shaking it out (but move your dog to an appropriate spot first!).

Dogs who roam in fields and woods often get bits of foxtail in their ears. It’s best to let your veterinarian remove these barbed foxtails from the ears so you don’t accidentally do further damage.

Eyes

Your dog’s eyes should be clear and bright, without cloudiness, mucous, or ulcers on the surface of the cornea. Some dog breeds have a tendency to have “runny” eyes, but the discharge should not be excessive. Squinty eyes may mean that your dog is in pain. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes in the condition of your dog’s eyes.

Nose

A healthy dog’s nose will be cool, moist, and free from crustiness. However, some dogs normally have warm, dry noses. Know what is normal for your dog.

Teeth and gums

Excessive “doggie breath” is not normal and can indicate that your dog is having dental problems, or even kidney or digestive disorders. Check your dog’s teeth by gently pulling his gums back from his teeth. The gums should be a healthy pink color. Press against your dog’s gums with your finger. The spot should blanche and then return to its normal pink color in a healthy dog.

Your dog’s teeth should be white and free from sticky, yellow plaque and black tartar. Dogs don’t get cavities often, but are susceptible to gum disease and tooth loss when plaque and tartar are allowed to build up and create infection. A severe periodontal infection may even threaten your dog’s life. If your dog isn’t trained to have his teeth brushed, break him in gradually by just rubbing doggy toothpaste (human toothpaste isn’t dog-safe) along his gums with your finger. The upper back teeth are the most prone to plaque buildup, so if he only lets you brush his back teeth at first, you’re doing well to concentrate on that area of his mouth.

Feet and Legs

Rub your hands down each of your dog’s legs and feet, checking for lumps, cuts, swelling, or signs of pain. Check between the toes of your dog’s paws for burrs, foxtails, and other bits of plants, especially if your dog is allowed to roam in fields and woods.

General Body Condition

Rub your hands down your dog’s sides, front to back. You should be able to feel, but not see, his ribs through his coat. If you can’t feel his ribs, he may be overweight; if you can see his ribs, he may be ill or underweight. However, some dogs are naturally thin and are healthy even though their ribs show. Weigh your dog each time you give him a physical examination, and record it. Sudden weight gain or loss may be a sign that something’s wrong.

Lift the loose skin on your dog’s neck and let it go. If your dog is well-hydrated, the skin will feel soft and pliable and spring back into the dog’s neck. Dehydrated, the skin will feel stiff and take some time returning to its original place. Dehydration may be a temporary condition brought on by over-exercising or hot weather, in which case your dog will benefit from a cool drink of water. Take your dog to the veterinarian for an evaluation if he appears to be continually dehydrated.

Elimination

Check your dog’s anal gland for redness or swelling. Watch your dog eliminate so you’re familiar with his regular habits and what his stools usually look like. Sudden changes may mean that your dog has just eaten something that didn’t agree with him, but if the irregularities persist more than a day or two your dog may have an illness.

Behavior

You know your dog best, and you can tell when he’s just not “acting right.” Your docile companion may become snappish, or your playful, active dog won’t be enticed to romp. Sudden changes in behavior can mean that your dog is in pain or has some other medical condition, or he may just be stressed out. Dogs are just as affected as the rest of the family by major lifestyle changes such as a new baby in the family or moving to a new home. If you can’t attribute your dog’s change in behavior to any such event, take him to the vet for a checkup to rule out physical causes.

This article is written for information only, and not meant to replace the advice of your veterinarian.

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Care is normally often required any time it comes to grooming large canine breeds. Suitable grooming will ensure the health of your neighbors too your favorite puppy. However, a lot of owners of large pet dogs breeds, fail to rise up this challenge. Its imperative that pets care routines are taught to your dog early in existence. Otherwise it can turn our to be a big fight every time you pull the grooming brush or nail clippers. The end result at easiest would be that you and your pet dog will have engaged in cardio training although preparing the bath water and soap. So if you want to have a smaller amount physical strain even though caring for your pet, you\’ll be able to do well to comply with these canine grooming ideas.

Set Your Daily Grooming routine: But it is possible to try to time your grooming routines when your pet is most relaxed. If your dog is especially lively and active in the morning, you are able to opt for a better time instead of struggle with your pet dog. Moreover, this could be potentially dangerous if you are attempting to cut the nails of your puppy. Most breeds of large canines tend to be even more relaxed right after their meals. Some puppies are a lot more sedentary during the hottest hours belonging to the evening others tend to be docile following vigorous physical activities.

Make The Grooming Routines a pleasant knowledge: As you might know, your pet dog is usually extremely sensitive to your feelings, and if it recognizes the desperation and frustration, in you, the dog may possibly react inside a similar fashion. Try to get pleasure from these moments with your pet. It can be amazing to see how well your canine will cooperate.

Big breed dogs pose special challenges considering it could be difficult from time to time to maneuver your dog to the daily grooming session. If it is very hard, you should spend alot more time with him to familiarize the puppy using the procedure. If you\’re sympathetic to your dog needs and persistent enough, your pet will soon look forward to his grooming sessions!

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The Bedlington Terrier looks more like a lamb than a dog, but do not let her appearance fool you. She is not a pushover. She can be very aggressive with other animals and stubborn. She may do well with other dogs as long as they do not try to dominate her. She may get along with cats if you socialize her for cats early. She will also get along with older children well. As a reminder, never leave any young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog for any length of time. She can be raised in an apartment as long as she is walked frequently and her high intelligence is also exercised. She is a good watch dog and likes to bark. Generally she gets along well with strangers.

*Approximate Adult Size. The ideal approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Bedlington Terrier is 16 and one half inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and the ideal female adult height at the withers is 15 and one half inches. The weight should run between 17 and 23 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. All dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed. With the Bedlington Terrier be aware of Copper Toxicosis, Detached Retina, Distichiasis, Canine Micropthalmia, Cataracts, Lacrimal Duct Atresia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Retinal Dysplasia, Renal Cortical Hypoplasia, Thyroid Problems and Kidney Disease.
*Grooming. Bedlington Terriers need weekly combing even though they barely shed and are considered non-allergenic for owners. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and also help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet. Additionally, she will need to see a professional groomer often to be clipped to keep her coat in good shape.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The can live up from 14 to 17 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Bedlington Terrier was originally named the Rothbury Terrier and was kept and bred by gypsies for small game hunting. She was first shown in the town of Bedlington, England, in 1870, hence the name. She was rumored to also be used as a fighting dog. The Bedlington Terrier was approved as a breed by the American Kennel Association on September 12, 1967.

Some Registries:
Bedlington Terrier Club of America. Inc.
National Bedlington Terrier Club (UK)
UKC United Kennel Club
NKC National Kennel Club
CKC Continental Kennel Club
APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
AKC American Kennel Club
FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
ACR = American Canine Registry
Category: Terrier. Galloping or coursing breed.

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Barely sheds.
Is non allergenic in most cases.
Good watch dog.
Intelligent but sometimes difficult to train.
Can run very fast.
High energy dog.
Will tolerate both heat and cold.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Not a guard dog.
Will fight a dog that tries to dominate it.
Likes to dig.
Needs to be restrained as she likes to chase and is very fast.
Can be stubborn.
She likes to bark.
May either go over or under a fence or both!
Has serious potential health problems.
The breed has a wide variation of personality.

*Other Names Known By: Gypsy Dog, Rothbury Terrier

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Even though many breeds are no longer used just for sporting or hunting, these dogs have become popular favorites among those who need a hypoallergenic dog that has an easy temperament. Sporting dogs are considered intelligent, playful, and obey their owners when given commands. Hypoallergenic sporting dogs include Poodles, Australian Terriers, and Kerry Blue Terriers. Each of these dogs has been used to hunt small and large game and also to hunt for rodents and other pesky animals that carried disease. Now these animals are kept in the home as pets. While still playful and easy going, these dogs are now treated more like friends that as sporting partners.

Each of these breeds has a short coat that is more like human hair because it is soft and thin. Unlike other breeds, these dogs do not shed as often and when they do, it is usually not noticeable. People who want to own a medium sized dog will appreciate any of the breeds mentioned above. Grooming is an essential part of their care as is brushing their coats once or twice a week to prevent matting.

The Poodle comes in a few different varieties that are all hypoallergenic. Poodles have been used a sporting dogs, show dogs, and lap dogs for those who wanted a breed that would sit still on command. The Poodle is a friendly dog that does not make a lot of noise. They are very active and enjoy getting their exercise. People who want are thinking about buying a Poodle should conduct more research to see if this is the dog they truly want. Even though the Poodle can live for many years, they may suffer some health problems as they age.

The Australian Terrier was once used to catch mice and rats, but today it is kept at home because of its pleasant disposition and its long hair that does not shed. You can choose to cut the hair closer to the body if you choose. For those looking for a smaller dog, the Australian Terrier is a good choice. These dogs are considered companion dogs, meaning that they enjoy the company of people.

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a relative of the Australian Terrier, but is much larger and has a more pronounced head and chest. Their head is almost square shaped. Their cost is soft and curly. It will not shed and needs to be groomed often to prevent matting. While the dogs are actually gray or black in color, a blue sheen can be found on their coat. This is where they got their name.

Kerry Blue Terriers need daily exercise that can range from long walks to running in the park with other dogs. If you have a backyard, you can let the dog run around and it will tire itself out. People who live in larger homes should consider buying a hypoallergenic dog like this one.

Even though these dogs are no longer used primarily as sporting dogs, this does not mean the dogs prefer to sit around all day long. Exercise is very important for dogs like these because they have been used for generations for sporting parties and long hunts in the woods.

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Dog care may come in all forms, depending on the requirements of your pet, but thanks to modern veterinary medicines, dogs are now living healthier well through their golden ages. dog care is much like extending your dogs life through providing healthier lifestyle and productive maintenance, given that they are affected with environmental and genetical factors.

Smaller dogs have greater life expectancy than that of the bigger breeds, actually, a large breed is already considered senior if they have reached the age of five, on the other hand it would take ten to thirteen years before a small dog comes into its prime age.

Dog care is an essential part of a dog’s life. If not properly attended, they may acquire certain diseases that are undisputedly shortening their lives. Some of these may include diabetes, tumors, liver cancer, kidney diseases, joint pains, obesity, and many dental problems. In these, it is very important that you manage your senior dog’s health through ensuring necessary dog care.

Senior dog ailments may be controlled if preventive dog care measures are observed. Dog care routines must include vitamin supplements, regular visits to the veterinarian, nutrition checks, and a regimen of exercises.

Additionally, dog care may come in forms included in the general grooming of your dog like:

· eliminating the dog fleas and ticks on your pet’s coat,

· bathing once in a month or as frequently as needed,

· providing your pet with quality dog foods,

· giving him his necessary vitamins and food supplements,

· vaccinations,

· nail trimming, and

· for some, dressing their pets

Whatever dog care methods may be applied so long as they have the common aim of maintaining the dog’s over-all well being.

When your concern is the infestation of fleas on your pet’s coat, it is not always recommendable that you employ the use of poison powders or sprays. It commonly observed that flea combs work well in eliminating the fleas on your pets, not to mention the enjoyment your dog gets with this form of dog care.

However, there is now a popular medication available in the market, which your veterinarian may recommend. This is called the Program, which in general may prove worth the use. On the other side, maintaining the cleanliness of your home may be one of the best ways of eliminating these pests. A vacuum once every two days will keep them off fr many days.

Moreover, dog care may apply also with your yard, meaning the use of pesticides sprayed throughout your yard may prove beneficial for you and your pet. Pesticides which come in liquid forms such as the malathion, duisban and the likes are most commonly applied as they not only reduce the number of fleas in your place but also kill other pests as well.

Ultimately, dog care reduces the chance of your dog having acquired diseases, some of which may be fatal. An example is the heartworms. They are known to kill many dogs and it is best if you have your dog checked by a veterinarian every year to give him corresponding medications. Vaccinations as part of your dog care routine would significantly affect his over-all health.

Your dog’s diet must also be watched. Many generic and commercially produced dog foods may contain harmful ingredients to your dog. To carefully ensure productive diet for your dog, it is best that you give him foods that are scientifically formulated.

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When people choose to own a dog they are responsible for it. Apart from the moral responsibility, the owner is required to provide:
Adequate food daily.

Free access to clean drinking water at all times.

Shelter from the elements and sufficient exercise.

Control of the dog for it’s own safety.

Veterinary care as required.
First and probably most important of all, unless you’re planning to breed your dog, you should look into spaying or neutering your pet. Every year, too many unwanted pets and accidental litters have to be put down. As a responsible pet owner, it is your duty to help control this practice on your end. The cost of your pet’s spay or neuter surgery is a lot less than the cost of having and caring for a litter.
Did you know that dogs are susceptible to about sixty different types of diseases? Twenty of those diseases are transmittable to humans. To help protect your dog (and yourself) against these diseases, make sure your dog is protected by vaccination.
Feeding your dog a well-balanced diet is certainly necessary to keep him fit and healthy. Make sure it’s the same amount of food at the same time(s) each day. Make sure their water bowl is always full with clean fresh water. Other activities such as exercise, grooming, training and regular visits to the veterinarian are just as important.
Exercising with your dog not only strengthens the bond you two share, it also helps control his weight and maintain a healthy heart, lungs and muscles. This can also really benefit you aswell, walking your dog helps to lower the chance of health problems. It also helps to maintain your mental fitness and enables you to keep tension free.
As you exercise with your dog, consider his needs and present physical condition. Leisurely walks may be best for an older dog while a young dog has ample energy for a vigorous exercise program.
A dog is more than just a pet. It is a friend you can always count on when things go wrong and no one seems to care. Having a dog for a pet is not just about feeding it and giving it a good home. It also takes maintenance to keep that dog strong and fit.
Spending time with man’s best friend will further deepen the relationship between you. It tells the dog that you love being with it and by either playing or working together; it strengthens the communication, understanding and respect between man and animal. A good relationship is built on love and trust.

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The pet daycare is divided into two different categories: actual daycare and boarding services. Boarding services are open to animals from horses to hamsters. Usually, the pets whose owners are away for a long time are taken care of. The duration varies widely from even overnight to a period of six months or even more. Such daycares are approached if there is a lack of space at home for large animals like horses and others. They are provided with toys, feeding dishes and sleeping space.

Unlike this there are even pets that are left alone only during the working hours of the owner. For such cases there pet daycare centers that function for these kind of animals every day. The pets are left in these centers and are later picked up after their work. Usually they are mainly opened to small dogs and sometimes other animals. As usual feeding bowls, toys and bedding are provided by the organizers. At certain doggy daycares exclusively for dogs they are trained by staffs for better health management, safety and for good dog behavior.

Usually the puppies are taken care of separately away from the older ones. Puppies are given special attention providing them a separate area. They are given the basic training and are always kept active and playful. There is always time allotted for naps and play. Basically doggy daycare centers have many features and the best daycare suited to us can be chosen.

These days the current trend is daycare for pet spas. The focus is basically on smaller animals. Here they are exercised, pampered and groomed in the similar manner as done to humans when they visit a spa. Their hair, teeth, nails and ears are taken care of and they are massaged, walked and played with. They have trained staffs to take over these tasks. These services are exclusively for small animals like ferrets, guinea pigs, rabbits, dogs and cats. Even overnight stays are provided along with boarding facilities. There are do-it-yourself centers where the owners have to train and groom their own pets to increase the bond between them. The spa provides the necessary space and also shampoo, grooming equipments, wash basin and nail clippers. They can serve the best for such animals.

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Dogs that are considered hypoallergenic may cause fewer allergic reactions in people who own them other breeds. There are many breeds of long hair, short hair, and hairless varieties to choose from depending on your particular allergies and what you are looking for in a dog. Hypoallergenic dogs are sold mostly by breeders, but you can also find them in pet stores and sometimes in animal shelters. If you decide to buy a hypoallergenic dog, there are ways to care for them that may require a little more work than non-hypoallergenic breeds.

Caring for your hypoallergenic dog begins with caring for their coat. While many hypoallergenic breeds such as Terriers, Schnauzers, and Poodles have short hair, this hair can be coarse and will continue to grow unless the dogs are properly groomed. These dogs do not shed and have hair that can be compared to human hair. You will have to keep your dog groomed in order to prevent matting. Matting can cause skin rashes and other health problems if the dog’s coat is not taken care of.

Brushing your dog is also important especially in breeds that have longer hair such as the Afghan Hound. While these dogs are considered hypoallergenic, their coats are long and shiny. They do not shed either, so brushing and grooming are important. Brush your dog at least twice a week to keep excess hair from building up.

Some hypoallergenic dogs have undercoats, while others do not. Undercoats protect dogs from cold temperatures by storing body heat. Dogs that do not have an undercoat will not survive long in cold temperatures. Unless a breeder says you can keep your dog outside, you should keep the dog indoors.

If you have a hairless dog, you will have to protect their skin with lotions and skin creams. You should not leave these dogs outside for long periods of time as they will suffer from sun burn and dehydration.

Caring for your dog is not only making sure their coat and skin are protected, it also means making sure that they get enough exercise and time with you each day. Dogs that are left alone for long periods of time can become destructive. Training your dog by developing a routine will help them adjust to the times when you cannot be at home. If you will be out of town for more than two or three days, you should find a friend that can check in on your dog or you should consider boarding the dog until you come home.

Protecting your hypoallergenic dog from cold temperatures, the sun, and from developing skin rashes are ways that you can help your dog live a long, healthy life. Because many breeds of hypoallergenic dogs are small in size, they are prone to arthritis, eyesight issues, tumors, and other problems. While you cannot predict how your dog will age, you should research different breeds to see what types of health issues they may have some day. Regular checkups with a vet will help your dog live a long life.

Should I Get a Dog?

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. They have enjoyed this status for a very long time, probably from the time 10,000 to 15,000 years ago when Stone Age cave dwellers lived and hunted with dogs.

If you think you want a dog, you’re following a well-established tradition.

Why You Might Want a Dog

There are a number of reasons that people think they might want a dog for a pet. The most universal is the desire for the companionship of an animal who will be a loyal friend for many years. Others think it would be nice to have a watchdog to guard the house, and some people are interested in participating in dog shows, agility trials or other organized activities.

If you’re thinking about getting a dog, it’s important to determine if you can care for him properly. Dogs need several things from a pet parent:

Time

Commitment

Attention

For your dog to stay healthy, he will need to be fed correctly, exercised sufficiently, groomed regularly and taken to the vet for regular checkups and shots. If you want your dog to be well-mannered and a pleasure to be around, you will have to make sure he is thoroughly socialized and trained, which requires spending many hours with him. Dogs also need set schedules so they know when they’ll be fed and when they’ll be let out.

If you’re a very busy person who works long hours and travels a lot, dog ownership may not be for you.

Things to Consider Before You Buy a Dog

Owning a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have, but before you even begin to think about what kind of dog you might want, you need to ask yourself some serious questions about how well your lifestyle will suit any dog.

Many people fall in love with a cute puppy at a pet store and bring it home only to face a brutal truth. That cute puppy will have to be taken out to relieve himself first thing in the morning. Every single morning. Even weekend mornings. Even if it’s raining or snowing or 100 degrees in the shade. And he’ll have to go out more than once a day, sometimes several times more than once, especially when he’s young.

That’s just the start. Here are some other things to seriously consider before plunging into dog ownership:

Allergies

A bad allergic reaction to dogs in a member of your family can result in your having to find a new home for the dog–a sad experience for everyone. Some individuals are severely allergic and can’t even live in a house where a dog has lived. Others are much less bothered and can make adjustments so that they can live comfortably with a pet. An allergy may be to the dog’s saliva, hair or dander. Not all dogs cause the same allergic reaction. Certain breeds are known to be less allergenic because they shed very little or not at all. These include the Chinese crested, which has no hair, and breeds, which can range in size, such as a Basenji, Bichon Frise, and a Standard Poodle.

What Do You Want in a Dog?

Is your main concern to have a house pet who will be a good companion? Do you want an athletic dog who can go with you when you run? Will you take your dog on camping trips and will he have to be big enough to carry his own food? Do you want a dog that can be a credible watchdog and guardian? Do you want to show the dog? Do you want to participate in agility, obedience or field trials? You will want to study the different breeds and then talk to breeders and members of local dog clubs to find out what characteristics will best fit your expectations.

Can Your Children Adjust?

Children love puppies, but both children and puppies need supervision. Kids can play too rough with a puppy, and a young child will not understand that the puppy is tired and needs to rest. A puppy who is hurt or tired of playing is likely to growl and snap, and sometimes bite, to get the child to leave him alone. An older dog can be a serious threat if he is not used to children. There is one rule NEVER to be broken: Babies and toddlers should never be left unsupervised with a dog, no matter how much you trust the dog.

Can Your Other Pets Adjust?

If you already have pets, you will need to consider how the dog will adjust to them and they to him. If you have cats that have never been around a dog, you may have a long period of adjustment or the combination may not work at all. Puppies will usually learn to live with cats if care is taken that the initial meeting is not too traumatic. If you are considering an older dog, try to find out how he has previously reacted to other pets.

How Much Space Do You Have for a Dog?

This is an important consideration. A large, active dog, such as a retriever or German shepherd can run and play in a large, fenced-in yard. Often, though, the dog doesn’t do much playing if you aren’t available to be with him, and he will simply lounge around on the grass just as he would if he were inside on his dog bed. Large dogs can be happy even in an apartment if they get a long walk or two every day.

Housing

Unless you live in the country and spend a great deal of time outside with your dog, he will not be happy as a strictly outdoor dog. Outside should be for playing and exercising. A dog should never be left outdoors in hot weather without shade and water or in cold weather without well-insulated shelter. If your dog spends much time outside, he will need a fenced-in yard or a large kennel.

Can You Afford a Dog?

Your dog will have to be fed and groomed and provided with toys and treats. You may want to take him to obedience classes. If you travel occasionally on business or you’re going on trips and can’t take your dog, you will need to arrange to board him or to hire a dog sitter who will take care of him in your home.

Veterinary Care

Your dog will need regular veterinary checkups, which will include vaccinations, worming and flea and tick prevention. A medical emergency can cost several hundred dollars. As your dog ages, he may develop chronic health conditions that require regular visits to the vet. Veterinary charges vary from city to city. If you have not owned a pet before, you might want to call to see what the rates are in your area.

Grooming

If you don’t have time to groom your dog, don’t have the facilities to give him a bath conveniently, or if he requires special grooming, you will need to pay for a professional groomer. You will also need brushes and combs for maintenance.

Licensing

Dogs are required to be licensed. Fees are set by the county or the city and vary widely. To find out about licensing, call your county animal control office. Your vet and the local animal shelter will also know where you should go to purchase a license.

Exercise and Companionship – Do You Have Time?

Some dogs need only a short walk once or twice a day, while others are built to run all day. Be honest when you consider what level of regular exercise will be comfortable for you. If you have a heavy work schedule, taking the dog for a walk in the evening may be a burden rather than a pleasure. An active dog who only gets real exercise on weekends and holidays is likely to be unhappy, not to mention bored and destructive. In addition to exercise, your dog needs time with you. If you have a full work schedule and a busy social life, your dog is likely to be lonely, bored and destructive.

Size and Energy Level of the Dog

Before you even think about getting a young, highly energetic dog, such as a golden retriever, you need to ask yourself if you are strong enough to control and exercise a dog that will want to run and play and that could easily knock you down by accident. Don’t buy a puppy that will turn into a 150-pound athlete if your energy level is more attuned to a stroll with a toy poodle.

Is Your Lifestyle Stable?

One common reason that dogs are given up to animal shelters is that the owner has had to move, and the new living quarters don’t allow pets. Or the owner has married, and the new spouse doesn’t like dogs. Are you likely to move frequently? Is your family life stable? Does your job require you to travel often or for long periods of time?

Puppy or Older Dog?

Most people automatically think about puppies when they think about getting a dog. While puppies are cute and fun, there are benefits in getting an older dog. It’s much easier to housetrain an older dog. Puppies don’t physically have the capacity for holding their urine for long period of time and must be taken out frequently. You will not have to wait for an older dog to grow up to see what size he will be or what kind of temperament he will have, and if you get your dog from an animal shelter or a rescue organization, you will probably be saving his life.

The First Steps

If after having read all this, you still want a dog, congratulations! You’re probably eager to take the first step, and you want to dash out to the pet store, or the breeder, or the shelter, or the rescue organization, but don’t rush out and pick up a dog just yet. It’s important that you take the time to read as much as you can about selecting, introducing and keeping a dog. Browse through the other articles on our web site. Check books out of the public library or visit a bookstore.

Consider what kind of dog you want. Do you want a purebred dog or a mix? Do you want a male or a female? Do you want a puppy or an older dog? Talk to other dog owners that you know. Where did they get their dogs and what was their experience? Where do you want to look for the perfect choice?

Once you decide to get a dog, choose an occasion to bring him home when you and your family will have time to give him plenty of attention; bringing him home at the start of a long weekend or a vacation, when you will have more time to spend at home with him, will definitely make the transition to his new home easier for him as well as his new family. Prepare for his arrival. You’ll need to know what to expect and how to care for him when he first comes into your life.

If you have carefully chosen your new canine friend and properly prepared for him, bringing him home can be one of the most joyful experiences of your life. He will become part of your family and will love you without reservation. Return his love, and he will really be your best friend.

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Come Home To a Happy Dog

Coming home to your happy dog, which never fails to greet you with a wagging tail, palpable happiness, and absolutely no retributions for anything you have done – this is all part of owning a dog.  Since time immemorial, dogs are said to be “man’s best friend” thus your pet is going to rely on you to be his best friend as well.

Some canine pets require a lot of time for grooming therefore you should be aware what breed you are considering based on the time and effort you will have to spend on grooming your canine best friend.

Unless you plan to breed your new pet, the shelter is the best place to consider getting a dog.  There are so many available, and they all greet you as their best friend the moment you walk into the kennels.

Consequently if you are ready and willing to part with care, food, and attention, they will pledge their allegiance to you and guard you as though you were the most precious thing on earth, which of course, to the canine mind, you are!

Nutrition

In order for your pet to live long and yes, prosper; you need to purchase dog food that is nutritious. This is not the time to acquire junk food and expect your pet to thrive, just as junk food is not nutritious enough for most humans, neither are the low-priced cans of dog food contain cheap fillers.  Also, just as humans need treats, so dogs need treats as well, but you should be judicious with them.

Training

Dogs need to learn manners, tricks and other ways to bring you pleasure, for bringing you pleasure is essential to their happiness.  A well trained dog is one who relishes pleasing their owner, thus it rests on your shoulders to train the dog yourself, or attend the local dog training sessions so that your dog is not a nuisance but instead the “true friend” that you seek.

Grooming

In order for your dog to be the attentive companion you seek, you must be sure to either groom it or have it groomed.  Depending on the breed you’ve chosen, it will require, to be well brushed so it maintains a pleasant coat.  The longer haired breeds may need to have their coats trimmed at intervals to prevent painful knots from forming. Also, you will need to clean the dog’s ears and brush their teeth. Of course all dogs need an occasional bath, which you will have to provide.

Exercise

Making a commitment to a dog means that you must be ready to walk your pet so that it can relieve itself and get the exercise it needs.  The larger the breed, the more exercise it will require.  Make the walk a fun time for you to bond with each other.

Health Care

Just as you see your own Doctor at specified intervals so will a good veterinarian set up a schedule for your pet.  Yearly shots are necessary but you also need to keep a careful eye on your pet so that you can bring your dog pal to seek help as soon as possible.  Just as a human becomes listless when they are sick, so do our canine friends.  As you become accustomed to your dog’s specific habits, you’ll note a difference in your dog when they are ill.

All in all, you’ll have years of pleasure with your dog if you follow the tips listed above, and most importantly you’ll discover why a dog is known to be “man’s best friend!”

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