A dog is so much more than just a pet; they squiggle their way into your heart and lives in an adorable fashion.
However, there is more to caring for a dog than many people realize which is one reason the shelters are overflowing with unwanted animals.
If you have been thinking about getting a dog, here are a few things you should know about proper care for a lifetime.
When puppies are first born, they are dependent upon their mother for everything.
She will feed, protect and clean up after them until they are a few weeks old.
During this stage of the game, you can handle them occasionally, and enjoy watching them develop right before your eyes.
It is during the first week or so that you will want to schedule a vet visit to check for congenital defects.
Mother dogs generally begin the weaning process around 5-6 weeks of age; this of course may vary among breeds and particular mothers.
Some will keep pups longer some less and you should trust the mother to know when the time is right.
As long as puppies are able to eat and drink on their own it is okay for mom to wean them.
Once your pup has been weaned, you will need to get them vaccinated.
While puppies are dependent on mom, they are also covered by her antibodies against common ailments such as parvovirus and canine distemper.
First shots are recommended at five weeks, combination shot at six weeks, rabies vaccination by week 12 and another combination shot around 15 weeks.
This is followed annually by their adult booster shots.
There are many different options available to you for feeding your new pup.
Many dog food companies have special formulas created for promoting growth and health in a young puppy.
Puppies have different dietary needs from their adult counterparts.
There is also the option of a raw diet, homemade dog food or organic feed.
There is much debate about which is best, but generally, it comes down to personal preference.
An often-overlooked aspect of health and well-being is proper training.
As soon as possible, you should begin teaching your puppy proper ways to behave.
Dogs come from a line of wild animals that operate on a pack mentality, one dog is the "alpha" and he or she determines the rules for the rest of the group.
Your goal is to achieve this alpha status with your pet.
Begin by teaching them to sit, stay and come on command.
These are the foundation commands upon which the rest of your training will be built.
Taking care of a dog is much more than feeding, cleaning and petting them on occasion.
They are completely dependent upon you for all their health care needs, proper training, diet and exercise.
You should educate yourself as much as possible about your chosen breed, and if you choose to adopt a mutt then learn about the dominating characteristics of your dog.
The more you know the better prepared you will be to manage their health and training which results in a happier and healthier dog.
However, there is more to caring for a dog than many people realize which is one reason the shelters are overflowing with unwanted animals.
If you have been thinking about getting a dog, here are a few things you should know about proper care for a lifetime.
When puppies are first born, they are dependent upon their mother for everything.
She will feed, protect and clean up after them until they are a few weeks old.
During this stage of the game, you can handle them occasionally, and enjoy watching them develop right before your eyes.
It is during the first week or so that you will want to schedule a vet visit to check for congenital defects.
Mother dogs generally begin the weaning process around 5-6 weeks of age; this of course may vary among breeds and particular mothers.
Some will keep pups longer some less and you should trust the mother to know when the time is right.
As long as puppies are able to eat and drink on their own it is okay for mom to wean them.
Once your pup has been weaned, you will need to get them vaccinated.
While puppies are dependent on mom, they are also covered by her antibodies against common ailments such as parvovirus and canine distemper.
First shots are recommended at five weeks, combination shot at six weeks, rabies vaccination by week 12 and another combination shot around 15 weeks.
This is followed annually by their adult booster shots.
There are many different options available to you for feeding your new pup.
Many dog food companies have special formulas created for promoting growth and health in a young puppy.
Puppies have different dietary needs from their adult counterparts.
There is also the option of a raw diet, homemade dog food or organic feed.
There is much debate about which is best, but generally, it comes down to personal preference.
An often-overlooked aspect of health and well-being is proper training.
As soon as possible, you should begin teaching your puppy proper ways to behave.
Dogs come from a line of wild animals that operate on a pack mentality, one dog is the "alpha" and he or she determines the rules for the rest of the group.
Your goal is to achieve this alpha status with your pet.
Begin by teaching them to sit, stay and come on command.
These are the foundation commands upon which the rest of your training will be built.
Taking care of a dog is much more than feeding, cleaning and petting them on occasion.
They are completely dependent upon you for all their health care needs, proper training, diet and exercise.
You should educate yourself as much as possible about your chosen breed, and if you choose to adopt a mutt then learn about the dominating characteristics of your dog.
The more you know the better prepared you will be to manage their health and training which results in a happier and healthier dog.