Dog Toys: Do’s & Don’ts

The best dog toy is that which is not harmful to the dog, but affords him hours of fun.  Let’s look at some do’s and don’ts when purchasing a dog toy. Depending on the breed, some dogs prefer a particular toy over others.  In fact, while it may not be a toy at all, some dogs may become attached to an inanimate object much like a child will hang on to a security blanket. Generally, however, dogs love toys that squeak.  Doesn’t matter what shape or color it is, as long as it squeaks,... [Read more]

Where to Get your Puppy

You know that you want to have a puppy for a companion.  But, where do you get a puppy?  There are a few places that will provide a good variety and a few places that you should probably try to avoid. Owners want a puppy that is happy and healthy.  The health and temperament of your new puppy depends in part on how well he has been cared for before you acquire him.  Puppies that have been neglected or abused can become problem cases down the road. One place to consider purchasing your puppy from is... [Read more]

Introducing Puppy to your Cat

Puppy may not be your first pet. He may be another in the growing brood that is your pet family. Because of this you’ll want to introduce puppy to your other pets with care. Dogs are social animals. Most puppies love being a part of a group. In their natural habitat, puppies in a group must establish their place. Your puppy will try to determine his place within your family and amongst the other pets in the house and remember this is normal, even instinctual. When you introduce your puppy to the cat,... [Read more]

Choosing a Name for Puppy

What will you call your new companion?  He may be brown with long ears, short, with a coat like a snowball, or tall and muscular.  Choosing a name is a big decision.  It will belong to your puppy for the rest of his life. As humans, we select names for our children based on heritage and meaning.  You can do this with your puppy, but it is not necessary.  Puppy doesn’t care that “Lily” is a beautiful flower or that “Jack” has English origins.  He just wants to know what you want him to respond... [Read more]

Your Puppy’s First Year

It is important for any puppy or dog to have training. The amount of training is going to be determined by what you want to accomplish. Most of us just want a fun loving companion that can be taught a few commands and fit into our homes. There are several things to consider in the puppy’s first year regarding training and how some things should be handled. First, we will look at punishment. Punishment must be effective. You have to have some type of punishment that will not degrade the dog or be disrespectful,... [Read more]

Tips to Stop Puppy from Chewing

Puppies love to chew – on anything.  Chewing can cost you thousands of dollars in damaged furniture and household goods.  Follow a few simple tips to keep puppy’s teeth free of your valuables. Puppies are so lovable.  People are entertained when puppy chews on a sock as if it were a snake in the brush.  He wags his tail at it, pounces, and then chews until it lies in tatters on the floor.  Puppy suddenly becomes less lovable when it is your Italian leather couch he is munching on.  A lot... [Read more]

Choosing a Vet

Veterinarians are doctors for animals.  When puppy joins the family he needs to find a doctor, too.    A vet will care for your pet throughout his life.  He will be the second line of defense against disease and illness.  In an effort to find the right vet, ask questions.  Learn how to find the veterinarian that will care for your new puppy the best. Interviewing veterinarians is okay.  They expect potential clients to check them out.  You don’t have to take your spy kit with you, but be thorough... [Read more]

How to Get Rid of Fleas on Your Puppy

When you have pets that live both indoors and outdoors, you run the risk of fleas.  Fleas not only attack your pets, but also the other people living in the house.  Here are a few ways to rid your puppy and yourself of this miniscule menace. Fleas are a fact of life for animals.  Your puppy will get them if he ever goes outdoors.  Fleas are small, so they can jump from puppy to another surface like the couch and then to you.   Fleas bite – hard.  For most puppies, the bites are irritating and... [Read more]

Things to Look For When Deciding on a Dog Breed

There are certain things to look for when deciding on a dog breed.  Let’s examine what those things are. Choosing a breed that compliments you and your personality is one factor.  If you are choosing a dog as a family pet, ensuring the dog gets along with children is another.  Selecting a breed based on the type of group it falls into is another consideration.  For example, are you looking for a small dog, such as a Pekingese, Poodle, or Terrier?  Or perhaps you’re looking for a Bulldog,... [Read more]

Tips for Choosing the Right Dog Breed for You

So, you’ve decided that you want a pet.  That pet will be a dog – a puppy to be more exact.  Now it’s time for the bigger decision that needs to be made.  What breed of dog will your puppy be? The “breed” decision comes with many considerations.  First of all, a potential dog owner needs to think about their own personality as well as the personality of their new best friend.  Puppies and their owners should be compatible. If you are an active, outgoing person, you’ll want a puppy... [Read more]

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