Puppy Care

It is difficult to make sweeping generalisations about caring for your dog as individual dogs have different requirements; however, the following should be taken into consideration.

Food & Water

A fresh supply of clean water must always be available – it may sound obvious but a dry or dirty bowl is easily overlooked.

The quantity and type of food your dog requires will vary depending upon breed, size, age, health and lifestyle (level of activity). There are many different types and brands of food now on the market, all of which carry manufacturers’ guidelines on feeding levels - it is a question of what suits your dog and situation. The following will help to reduce the risk of your dog developing dietary problems.

If feeding a dried food only, check whether it is a ‘complete’ diet – not all dried foods are.

Do not give semi-moist food to puppies unless it is especially formulated for them.

Remove uneaten food, especially in warm weather.

Any changes in the type of food given to your dog should be made gradually.

Feed your puppy at the same time each day this will have the added benefit of helping with toilet training.
If you experience any problems, it is wise to seek advice from your vet.

Exercise

Dogs are reliant on their owners with some types of dog requiring much more exercise than others. When exercising your dog, keep it under control at all times and don’t let it be a nuisance to other people. Remember – your dog must wear a collar and tag in public places.

Do not forget pets need mental exercise too, especially working dogs bored minds can lead to mischief!

GROOMING

Regular grooming is important for your dog’s well-being preventing the coat becoming matted, tangled and uncomfortable (especially in longhaired breeds). It can also help to build a bond between you and your pet and gives you the opportunity to check your dog over for signs of illness or injury that could be well hidden beneath a thick coat. It is wise to get your pet used to being groomed as soon as possible and it is also worthwhile handling your dog as they would be by the vet – this makes life a lot easier if veterinary treatment is required.

VETERINARY CARE

Vaccination Please ensure that your dog is vaccinated on a regular basis; although vaccinations do not come cheap, they can save you a lot of worry and your dog uncountable suffering. Vaccination involves an initial course of injections, followed by a yearly booster – remember the protection is not maintained if the booster is not given regularly.

Worming Roundworms and tapeworms are the most common type of worms found in dogs. In order to control these parasites, your dog should be wormed regularly. Use a proprietary work medicine available from your vet and make sure you give an accurate dosage. Treatment must be more frequent for puppies although they normally only require treating against roundworms.

Flea Control Fleas can easily be picked up by your pet, especially in the summer. If you suspect your pet has become infested, check for signs; flea dirt is often more apparent than the fleas themselves and may be seen as small brown specks at the base of the hair which, when put on a damp tissue, turn red. Treat with a proprietary flea preparation available from your vet. Remember, it is also necessary to treat your pet’s bedding and, in some cases, your carpets and upholstery.

Ear Mites If your pet is persistently scratching at its ears, it could indicate the presence of ear mites. Another sign to watch for is a brownish grey discharge inside the ear. If you suspect your pet my have such a problem, consult your vet.

Accident & Illness

Inevitably, not all trips to the vet will be for routine treatment; it is likely at some point that your pet will require treatment for illness or injury. In order to cover yourself for such an occasion, it is sensible to consider an insurance scheme.

Toys - Never let your dog have small toys that may be swallowed and be especially careful with toys that can come to pieces or be chewed, resulting in sharp edges or small bits that can be swallowed.

Cow Hide Chews - These will give endless pleasure to your dogs with the added benefit that they help keep teeth healthy and prevent your dog chewing things that it shouldn’t!

Collar & Lead - As we mentioned earlier, your dog must wear a collar and tag in public places. Ensure your dog collar is of the correct size and is properly fitted. Take special care with collars on young dogs; remember – they are growing so make sure the collar size increases with them. Ensure your lead is strong enough for your dog. (Please note the retractable style leads indicate the maximum weight of dog for which they are applicable.)

Time

Training your dog requires dedication, however, the time you spend will be well rewarded; a well-behaved obedient dog is a pleasure to own and is generally happier than one which has been allowed to run riot and is constantly being told off.

Be A Responsible Dog Owner

Don’t let your dog be a nuisance to others.

Ensure your dog is under control at all times you could face prosecution if you don’t.

Don’t let your dog stray your pet will be at risk and you may have the dog warden to contend with.

Don’t allow your dog to foul; there are fewer things more likely to encourage anti-dog feelings! If your dog defecates when out on a walk – remember – always ‘scoop the poop’!

Ensure your dog is wormed as some worms can be transmitted to humans.