Sunday, September 30, 2007
When the Scratching is Too Much
Excessive scratching is a huge problem amongst household dogs. If a dog has any dermatological problem, three out of four times it will result in too much scratching. Scratching itself even amplifies the problem enormously. Excessive scratching may develop from skin infections, parasites, allergies, or sometimes nothing at all, but regardless of the cause, it must be treated quickly and the scratching must stop.
Just like in the cartoons, the most common reason that dogs feel an itch is due to fleas. Fleas are parasites that make their home on your pet’s skin, but their habitation is easily prevented. There are an enormous host of flea preventative products sold in stores that are safe and efficient, but many pet owners never take the time to take control of the problem or keep it from happening. There are monthly topical applications, weekly treatments, collars, and more, so there is a method for every owner and every dog. Dogs pick up fleas and other tiny parasites in their own backyard, so no pup is too good for proper flea treatment. Sometimes the itch from fleas becomes so overpowering that dogs will scratch bald spots on their skin and create very intense deep epidermal rashes.
Actual infections are somewhat less common, but do occur in dogs as well. Bacterial and yeast infections most commonly occur when a dogs are experiencing stress, illness, or severe allergies. During this time, the immune system in a dog’s skin is low, making them vulnerable to an attack. The interesting thing is that these bacterial or yeast organisms are always found on a dog’s skin. The problem is that their numbers have increased dramatically. These types of infections are fairly easy to identify and should be treated immediately, however the cause of the low immune system must be stopped as well. Bacterial infections can be diagnosed by the appearance of small bumps while smelly, greasy skin is characteristic of yeast infections. Treat the sickness first, and then the skin infection. This way the infection is less likely to return.
Allergies are second to fleas as the common cause of itchy dogs. Many dogs actually have allergic reactions to fleas themselves, creating a miserable scenario. Like humans, dogs also have environmental and seasonal allergies, but they are also more susceptible to dust mites, regular house dust, and molds. The normal human reaction to these kinds of allergies is usually sneezing, runny nose, sinus trouble, or occasionally a skin reaction. For dogs, allergens cause their trouble mostly through itchy skin. Even food allergies can case a skin reaction as well as intestinal problems. Dog allergies are easily treated with anti-inflammatories and shampoos, but these only treat the symptoms. Bring specific allergy problems to a veterinarian, who can determine the root of the problem so that the allergy can be prevented.
The causes of itchy skin can be prevented as well as cured. Dogs do not have to live a life of itching torment, and the habit of scratching their own skin can become a difficult one to break. That is why it is important to address the causes of scratching and treat them quickly and effectively.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of online pet finder services. You can find a variety of puppies dogs for sale that will make great pets. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Just like in the cartoons, the most common reason that dogs feel an itch is due to fleas. Fleas are parasites that make their home on your pet’s skin, but their habitation is easily prevented. There are an enormous host of flea preventative products sold in stores that are safe and efficient, but many pet owners never take the time to take control of the problem or keep it from happening. There are monthly topical applications, weekly treatments, collars, and more, so there is a method for every owner and every dog. Dogs pick up fleas and other tiny parasites in their own backyard, so no pup is too good for proper flea treatment. Sometimes the itch from fleas becomes so overpowering that dogs will scratch bald spots on their skin and create very intense deep epidermal rashes.
Actual infections are somewhat less common, but do occur in dogs as well. Bacterial and yeast infections most commonly occur when a dogs are experiencing stress, illness, or severe allergies. During this time, the immune system in a dog’s skin is low, making them vulnerable to an attack. The interesting thing is that these bacterial or yeast organisms are always found on a dog’s skin. The problem is that their numbers have increased dramatically. These types of infections are fairly easy to identify and should be treated immediately, however the cause of the low immune system must be stopped as well. Bacterial infections can be diagnosed by the appearance of small bumps while smelly, greasy skin is characteristic of yeast infections. Treat the sickness first, and then the skin infection. This way the infection is less likely to return.
Allergies are second to fleas as the common cause of itchy dogs. Many dogs actually have allergic reactions to fleas themselves, creating a miserable scenario. Like humans, dogs also have environmental and seasonal allergies, but they are also more susceptible to dust mites, regular house dust, and molds. The normal human reaction to these kinds of allergies is usually sneezing, runny nose, sinus trouble, or occasionally a skin reaction. For dogs, allergens cause their trouble mostly through itchy skin. Even food allergies can case a skin reaction as well as intestinal problems. Dog allergies are easily treated with anti-inflammatories and shampoos, but these only treat the symptoms. Bring specific allergy problems to a veterinarian, who can determine the root of the problem so that the allergy can be prevented.
The causes of itchy skin can be prevented as well as cured. Dogs do not have to live a life of itching torment, and the habit of scratching their own skin can become a difficult one to break. That is why it is important to address the causes of scratching and treat them quickly and effectively.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of online pet finder services. You can find a variety of puppies dogs for sale that will make great pets. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Labels: dogs for sale, pet finder
Spaying or Neutering Your Dog
Many owners don’t even want to think about the idea of neutering their pet, though for most pet owners, it is a necessary decision. Unless you specifically plan to become a licensed breeder, getting your dog “fixed” will not only prevent the multiplication of unwanted puppies, but it will often have behavioral benefits as well. The operation is commonly more emotionally challenging for the owner than it is for the pet, so it is important for owners to fully understand both the purposes of neutering and the standard procedure.
Depending on the gender of your dog, there are different reasons to consider spaying or neutering. If you are the owner of a female dog, you must understand that females mature much quicker than males and come of breeding age by the time they are seven months old. When this occurs, she will go in heat for three weeks at a time, twice per year. During this time, males will be doing anything they can to court her. The neighbors’ dog, strays, or dogs in your own home will not be able to resist her. This is like a time bomb waiting to happen because once she does breed, she is capable of producing several dozen puppies in a lifetime. Putting these puppies for sale, or even trying to give them away to good homes is more difficult than you might think, and if you are not ready for this responsibility, seriously consider spaying your dog. Beyond this, a spayed animal is less susceptible to certain diseases such as pyometritis, uterine infections, and breast tumors, and for this reason, a spayed pet will usually enjoy a longer life span.
Most veterinarians recommend spaying a puppy after the age of five months, depending on the maturity of the female, just prior to the puppies first period. Smaller breed females have their first heat around 8 months, while larger breeds experience it at 10 to 14 months. Those owners who want a liter of puppies first, the operation can be performed safely at an older age. When performing the operation, the veterinarian will put your dog under general anesthetic, so you’re puppy won’t feel a thing. After the abdominal surgery and brief hospitalization, your dog is ready to go home and take it easy for a couple days. She should not engage in any strenuous exercise or running in order to make sure the incision heals properly.
The timing of neutering a male dog is less important. In fact, the operation may occur at any time after the age of four months. The attitudes of neutered males are greatly improved. Male behavioral traits such as humping, marking, and jumping, will often decrease or even disappear all together. His loyalty will improve, and his interaction with other dogs can also be positively impacted. The intensity of a male’s territorial and sexual instincts are reduced, therefore directly altering these other behavioral traits.
Like a spaying operation, neutering (or castration) also consist of general anesthesia and a brief hospitalization. Dogs often recover even more quickly from this surgery, spending the day lounging around and ready to go the next day. Of course, you should still take it easy for a couple days to make sure everything heals properly.
This procedure should not be something for pet owners to fear. It has enhanced the lives of so many pets and owners a great deal, decreasing the number of dogs on the streets and increasing the manageability others. So unless you are seriously set on having puppies, make the choice to get your pet spayed or neutered. You will be glad you did.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Depending on the gender of your dog, there are different reasons to consider spaying or neutering. If you are the owner of a female dog, you must understand that females mature much quicker than males and come of breeding age by the time they are seven months old. When this occurs, she will go in heat for three weeks at a time, twice per year. During this time, males will be doing anything they can to court her. The neighbors’ dog, strays, or dogs in your own home will not be able to resist her. This is like a time bomb waiting to happen because once she does breed, she is capable of producing several dozen puppies in a lifetime. Putting these puppies for sale, or even trying to give them away to good homes is more difficult than you might think, and if you are not ready for this responsibility, seriously consider spaying your dog. Beyond this, a spayed animal is less susceptible to certain diseases such as pyometritis, uterine infections, and breast tumors, and for this reason, a spayed pet will usually enjoy a longer life span.
Most veterinarians recommend spaying a puppy after the age of five months, depending on the maturity of the female, just prior to the puppies first period. Smaller breed females have their first heat around 8 months, while larger breeds experience it at 10 to 14 months. Those owners who want a liter of puppies first, the operation can be performed safely at an older age. When performing the operation, the veterinarian will put your dog under general anesthetic, so you’re puppy won’t feel a thing. After the abdominal surgery and brief hospitalization, your dog is ready to go home and take it easy for a couple days. She should not engage in any strenuous exercise or running in order to make sure the incision heals properly.
The timing of neutering a male dog is less important. In fact, the operation may occur at any time after the age of four months. The attitudes of neutered males are greatly improved. Male behavioral traits such as humping, marking, and jumping, will often decrease or even disappear all together. His loyalty will improve, and his interaction with other dogs can also be positively impacted. The intensity of a male’s territorial and sexual instincts are reduced, therefore directly altering these other behavioral traits.
Like a spaying operation, neutering (or castration) also consist of general anesthesia and a brief hospitalization. Dogs often recover even more quickly from this surgery, spending the day lounging around and ready to go the next day. Of course, you should still take it easy for a couple days to make sure everything heals properly.
This procedure should not be something for pet owners to fear. It has enhanced the lives of so many pets and owners a great deal, decreasing the number of dogs on the streets and increasing the manageability others. So unless you are seriously set on having puppies, make the choice to get your pet spayed or neutered. You will be glad you did.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Labels: dogs for sale
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Puppy Vaccinations
Raising a healthy puppy has more to it than puppy food, rest, and love. Puppies need the proper vaccinations to fight potentially life-threatening diseases. A mother's milk is sufficient for assisting a puppy's risk of disease early on. The presence of colostrum gives puppies a natural immunity to most diseases, but this will quickly fade and the puppy will need to survive on its own accord. For this reason, vaccinations are vital to raising a puppy in a world of modern disease. Below are some of the disease threats to your puppy that various vaccinations which prevent them.
Probably the mostly commonly known k-9 disease is rabies. Though it is most closely associated as the mad drooling domestic dog disease, in the United States, rabies is more prevalent in wild animals. Pet owners are required by law to vaccinate their dogs for rabies, and puppies are ready for this vaccination by three months. Period vaccinations for rabies must continue according to various state laws.
Lyme disease is another well known endemic occurring more intensely in certain areas of the country. Ask your vet if Lime is particularly common in your location. This is a tick-transmitted disease that can also be prevented through vaccine. However, it can also be stopped using proper tick repellant.
Gastrointestinal, nervous system, and respiratory problems often manifest themselves as a symptom of Distemper. It can be spread through air particles, so it is important to get a Distemper vaccination for your puppy at 8 weeks. Some veterinarians require an even early injection. There are two more follow up shots, and it is recommended to continue with a yearly booster shot. Just as people are susceptible to hepatitis, puppies can become victims of the Adenovirus, which affects the liver, kidneys and eyes. Though people might be able to carry certain strains of hepatitis for fairly long periods of time, dogs can die within hours of prognosis. This vaccination should be given along with the distemper vaccinations.
Leptospirosis is a bacterium that penetrates the skin or mucous cells and moves into a dog's bloodstream. The symptoms range from simple diarrhea to chronic renal failure, and the vaccine should also be taken along with the adenovirus and distemper, with some exception. Some dogs are actually allergic to the leptospirosis vaccination. Because leptospirosis is contracted through mammal's urine in contaminated bodies of water, dogs that live near ponds, streams, or marshy areas are most at risk and certainly need vaccination.
Making sure your puppy has what it needs to fight fatal diseases is imperative. Not only is it important in order to be a good owner, some vaccines are also required by law to protect you and other pets your puppy might come into contact with. Spend the money on vaccinations and vet visits and it will save you time and problems in the future. Take a look at that cute little bundle and make the right decisions for its health and future.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading online pet finder service provider. You can find a variety of puppies for sale and adoption that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Probably the mostly commonly known k-9 disease is rabies. Though it is most closely associated as the mad drooling domestic dog disease, in the United States, rabies is more prevalent in wild animals. Pet owners are required by law to vaccinate their dogs for rabies, and puppies are ready for this vaccination by three months. Period vaccinations for rabies must continue according to various state laws.
Lyme disease is another well known endemic occurring more intensely in certain areas of the country. Ask your vet if Lime is particularly common in your location. This is a tick-transmitted disease that can also be prevented through vaccine. However, it can also be stopped using proper tick repellant.
Gastrointestinal, nervous system, and respiratory problems often manifest themselves as a symptom of Distemper. It can be spread through air particles, so it is important to get a Distemper vaccination for your puppy at 8 weeks. Some veterinarians require an even early injection. There are two more follow up shots, and it is recommended to continue with a yearly booster shot. Just as people are susceptible to hepatitis, puppies can become victims of the Adenovirus, which affects the liver, kidneys and eyes. Though people might be able to carry certain strains of hepatitis for fairly long periods of time, dogs can die within hours of prognosis. This vaccination should be given along with the distemper vaccinations.
Leptospirosis is a bacterium that penetrates the skin or mucous cells and moves into a dog's bloodstream. The symptoms range from simple diarrhea to chronic renal failure, and the vaccine should also be taken along with the adenovirus and distemper, with some exception. Some dogs are actually allergic to the leptospirosis vaccination. Because leptospirosis is contracted through mammal's urine in contaminated bodies of water, dogs that live near ponds, streams, or marshy areas are most at risk and certainly need vaccination.
Making sure your puppy has what it needs to fight fatal diseases is imperative. Not only is it important in order to be a good owner, some vaccines are also required by law to protect you and other pets your puppy might come into contact with. Spend the money on vaccinations and vet visits and it will save you time and problems in the future. Take a look at that cute little bundle and make the right decisions for its health and future.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading online pet finder service provider. You can find a variety of puppies for sale and adoption that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Labels: dogs for sale, pet finder, puppies for sale
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Neet to Exercise? Get a Dog!
Do you have trouble putting on your running shoes and hitting the trail? Do your exercise partners keep flaking out on you? The right dog can solve your need for running companionship, and you will almost always find your dog to be ecstatic and ready to go. Dogs need exercise for the same reasons that humans do, so why not kill two birds with one stone. You will find that dogs can be great exercise partners, as long as you train them well and use a little safety common sense.
The most important rule for running with a dog is keeping it on a leash. Though many owners take pride in their pet's training, it is never a good idea to run with a dog off-leash in a public place. It is disrespectful of other people and dogs, and it is often a municipal law that is punishable by a fine of $500 or more. But even if it is not a law, you never know how other dogs will react to your dog or if other people are comfortable with your dog being off-leash. You might come across someone that has a chronic fear of dogs.
Once you are ready to begin training your new exercise buddy, start out by enjoying some long walks and getting your dog used to covering some distance. Some dogs have more sensitive paws and might need to build up resistance to pavement or rocks. Do not force your dog to get out and run 5 miles right off the bat. Take it slow and learn your dog's limitations. There is no shame in walking for a while until both you and your dog are in the shape to pick up the pace.
Make sure that your dog is completely hydrated. Try to make a stop along the way or at least bring them straight to water when you are finished. Once you have entered into a regular exercise routine, make sure your dog always has access to plenty of water at home. If it is especially warm, try to be sensitive to the fact that your dog is running in a layer of hair and is prone to overheating. It is very easy for dogs to overheat, but they usually show signs of fatigue before this point. Remember there is no need to push your dog to do more than they can. If they begin to limp, pant excessively, salivate more than usual, or simply try to slow down or sit, it is time to take a break and cool down. Find your pet some shade and cool water to drink. Overheating can cause vomiting, seizures, or even brain damage, so don't take a chance by pushing your pet too far.
By taking these few simple precautions to heart, you can have the best exercise partner ever. They don't really care what route you choose, or when you want to go. Dogs are ready run almost any time and any place, and they will always be excited about getting outside!
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
The most important rule for running with a dog is keeping it on a leash. Though many owners take pride in their pet's training, it is never a good idea to run with a dog off-leash in a public place. It is disrespectful of other people and dogs, and it is often a municipal law that is punishable by a fine of $500 or more. But even if it is not a law, you never know how other dogs will react to your dog or if other people are comfortable with your dog being off-leash. You might come across someone that has a chronic fear of dogs.
Once you are ready to begin training your new exercise buddy, start out by enjoying some long walks and getting your dog used to covering some distance. Some dogs have more sensitive paws and might need to build up resistance to pavement or rocks. Do not force your dog to get out and run 5 miles right off the bat. Take it slow and learn your dog's limitations. There is no shame in walking for a while until both you and your dog are in the shape to pick up the pace.
Make sure that your dog is completely hydrated. Try to make a stop along the way or at least bring them straight to water when you are finished. Once you have entered into a regular exercise routine, make sure your dog always has access to plenty of water at home. If it is especially warm, try to be sensitive to the fact that your dog is running in a layer of hair and is prone to overheating. It is very easy for dogs to overheat, but they usually show signs of fatigue before this point. Remember there is no need to push your dog to do more than they can. If they begin to limp, pant excessively, salivate more than usual, or simply try to slow down or sit, it is time to take a break and cool down. Find your pet some shade and cool water to drink. Overheating can cause vomiting, seizures, or even brain damage, so don't take a chance by pushing your pet too far.
By taking these few simple precautions to heart, you can have the best exercise partner ever. They don't really care what route you choose, or when you want to go. Dogs are ready run almost any time and any place, and they will always be excited about getting outside!
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Labels: puppies for sale
Dogs and Cars
In the busy human world, automobiles have become a necessity for getting around. As a result, dogs have been literally taken along for the ride. People tote their puppies and dogs around to the park, the vet, and even the salon. With all of that moving around, sometimes the safety of Sparky is forgotten. Here are a few things to consider when mixing dogs and cars that will help make Sparky's trips more comfortable and safe.
The biggest issue in keeping your dog safe in an automobile is "containment." For children, their containment is a car seat, and for adults it is the actual seats. Dogs need a well ventilated, carrier space. Though your dog might think it enjoys sitting in the front with its head out the window, this can cause some serious health risks. By letting your dog hang its head out the window, you are putting it at risk for lung infections, inner ear damage, and most commonly, eye problems. There are so many things up in the air at any given time, plus the obvious risk of objects like tree limbs, fences, rocks, and more. Even if the window is up, the front seat is not a good spot. Front air bags can be fatal to pets or cause serious injury. The best section of the car for a dog is the back in a crate or dog car seat that is secured with a seatbelt or harness. You can find a variety of helpful gear for transporting your dog that will work well for whatever model car you own at many pet stores.
If you are planning a road trip with your dog, be prepared. Before you go, take several short trips to get your dog accustomed to this new device, if you have not already. Your dog needs to know that there is a final destination, and that this is not some kind of torture kennel they have been left in. Taking these drives will help your dog to recognize the motion, smells, and sights of cars. The motion of the car might also influence your dog's digestive system, so it is probably not a good idea to feed your dog right before jumping in the car. During a trip, feed your dog lighter, more frequent meals, and never feed them in the moving car.
Pit stops are essential. Dogs need at least as many stops as you do for the bathroom, so make sure you take Sparky for a walk every time you stop. You will be glad you did. While traveling, it is important to keep your dog on a leash with the property identification tags on its collar. Many people lose their pets on trips because they are far from home and it is difficult to find an owner that lives far away. You might also consider adding a tag that includes a cell phone or your final destination just in case.
Dog hydration is one more important thing to consider in the car. Cars are often less ventilated, making it difficult for dogs to stay cool. Make sure your dog has plenty of water available all the time, and never leave your dog in the car, especially in the sun. Heat exhaustion and stroke are not fun scenarios to deal with while traveling.
Most dogs love to go for rides, and by following these simple precautions, it can stay that way.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
The biggest issue in keeping your dog safe in an automobile is "containment." For children, their containment is a car seat, and for adults it is the actual seats. Dogs need a well ventilated, carrier space. Though your dog might think it enjoys sitting in the front with its head out the window, this can cause some serious health risks. By letting your dog hang its head out the window, you are putting it at risk for lung infections, inner ear damage, and most commonly, eye problems. There are so many things up in the air at any given time, plus the obvious risk of objects like tree limbs, fences, rocks, and more. Even if the window is up, the front seat is not a good spot. Front air bags can be fatal to pets or cause serious injury. The best section of the car for a dog is the back in a crate or dog car seat that is secured with a seatbelt or harness. You can find a variety of helpful gear for transporting your dog that will work well for whatever model car you own at many pet stores.
If you are planning a road trip with your dog, be prepared. Before you go, take several short trips to get your dog accustomed to this new device, if you have not already. Your dog needs to know that there is a final destination, and that this is not some kind of torture kennel they have been left in. Taking these drives will help your dog to recognize the motion, smells, and sights of cars. The motion of the car might also influence your dog's digestive system, so it is probably not a good idea to feed your dog right before jumping in the car. During a trip, feed your dog lighter, more frequent meals, and never feed them in the moving car.
Pit stops are essential. Dogs need at least as many stops as you do for the bathroom, so make sure you take Sparky for a walk every time you stop. You will be glad you did. While traveling, it is important to keep your dog on a leash with the property identification tags on its collar. Many people lose their pets on trips because they are far from home and it is difficult to find an owner that lives far away. You might also consider adding a tag that includes a cell phone or your final destination just in case.
Dog hydration is one more important thing to consider in the car. Cars are often less ventilated, making it difficult for dogs to stay cool. Make sure your dog has plenty of water available all the time, and never leave your dog in the car, especially in the sun. Heat exhaustion and stroke are not fun scenarios to deal with while traveling.
Most dogs love to go for rides, and by following these simple precautions, it can stay that way.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading provider of puppies for sale. You can find a variety of dogs for sale that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Keep Your New Puppy Healthy
So you are now the proud owner of the cutest little bundle, and you have probably already figured out that the new puppy will also be a new responsibility. Along with attention and training, puppies have nutritional needs like human babies that must be met in order to stay healthy and experience proper growth.
In the puppy stage of a dog's life, bones, joints, organs, muscles, the immune system, and even the brain is still developing, so it is extremely important that your dog receive the nutrients it requires in order for these things to form correctly. A properly cared for puppy will certainly be a healthier older dog.
Puppies need a lot of protein in their diet. A mother's milk, regardless of the mammal, has a ton of protein and for a good reason. Protein is the key to building muscle, skin, organs, coat, and many other important tissues, so it is vital that puppies get all of the protein they need. To make sure your pup has healthy bones and teeth, make sure it is getting the correct ratio of calcium and phosphorus in it's diet. Strong healthy teeth and bones are certainly the building block to a long and health life, with strong bones, your dog will be able to exercise, and with strong teeth it will have no problem with food. The immune system is one more major development that is greatly affected by diet and nutrition. Your puppy needs Omega Fatty Acids, which include Linoleic Acid, in order to have a compete and balanced diet and continue to build a good immune system. These fatty acids will also improve the health of a puppy's coat and skin.
Each of these nutrients must be found in your puppy's diet, so take the time to read dog food labels and even go over a diet plan with your veterinarian. Once you have found the right food to use, make sure you stick to feeding guidelines. Obesity in puppies is extremely unhealthy and will most likely cause difficult health problems in the future. Consider the size of your dog and follow recommended portions to keep your puppy at a normal weight. It is also a bad idea to feed your puppy table scraps. Not only does this promote bad training habits for the future, but "people food" is often much higher in calories and will often cause abnormal weight gain in dogs. If you change the type of food your are giving a puppy, do it gradually, slowly mixing more of the new food in with the old, so that the puppy's digestive system has time to adjust.
Considering the nutritional health of your puppy will defiantly affect the health of your dog in the future. You are laying the groundwork for your dog's development into adulthood, so why not read some labels and do your research? It will provide better days ahead for both you and your dog.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading online petfinder service provider. You can find a variety of puppies for sale and adoption that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
In the puppy stage of a dog's life, bones, joints, organs, muscles, the immune system, and even the brain is still developing, so it is extremely important that your dog receive the nutrients it requires in order for these things to form correctly. A properly cared for puppy will certainly be a healthier older dog.
Puppies need a lot of protein in their diet. A mother's milk, regardless of the mammal, has a ton of protein and for a good reason. Protein is the key to building muscle, skin, organs, coat, and many other important tissues, so it is vital that puppies get all of the protein they need. To make sure your pup has healthy bones and teeth, make sure it is getting the correct ratio of calcium and phosphorus in it's diet. Strong healthy teeth and bones are certainly the building block to a long and health life, with strong bones, your dog will be able to exercise, and with strong teeth it will have no problem with food. The immune system is one more major development that is greatly affected by diet and nutrition. Your puppy needs Omega Fatty Acids, which include Linoleic Acid, in order to have a compete and balanced diet and continue to build a good immune system. These fatty acids will also improve the health of a puppy's coat and skin.
Each of these nutrients must be found in your puppy's diet, so take the time to read dog food labels and even go over a diet plan with your veterinarian. Once you have found the right food to use, make sure you stick to feeding guidelines. Obesity in puppies is extremely unhealthy and will most likely cause difficult health problems in the future. Consider the size of your dog and follow recommended portions to keep your puppy at a normal weight. It is also a bad idea to feed your puppy table scraps. Not only does this promote bad training habits for the future, but "people food" is often much higher in calories and will often cause abnormal weight gain in dogs. If you change the type of food your are giving a puppy, do it gradually, slowly mixing more of the new food in with the old, so that the puppy's digestive system has time to adjust.
Considering the nutritional health of your puppy will defiantly affect the health of your dog in the future. You are laying the groundwork for your dog's development into adulthood, so why not read some labels and do your research? It will provide better days ahead for both you and your dog.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading online petfinder service provider. You can find a variety of puppies for sale and adoption that would be great for families or personal companionship. For more information, please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
Dog Parks
If you are looking for a fun place for your dog to play with other dogs, dog parks are an excellent solution. Perform a search to find dog parks in your area, and if you are lucky enough to have one nearby, check it out. Dog parks are a great place to get some fresh air, give your dog healthy exercise, and experience socialization with other dogs and people. Though these off-leash parks are designed to create a nice, interactive atmosphere, pet owners should be aware of the various risks involved with k9 interaction. Taking a few precautions will minimize these risks and keep the dog park fun and safe.
An obvious risk when any group of animals congregates is the spread of infectious diseases. Though you may think you are sure that your dog does not carry a disease, you cannot account for all of the other dogs in the park. Make certain that you are up to date with all vaccinations. If dogs are very sick, most owners will not take them to the park to play, so the possibility of major disease contraction is somewhat small. When dogs seem to be feeling ill it is best to keep them at home and let them rest, especially when showing symptoms like vomiting, coughing, or diarrhea.
Dogfights are another risk in social situations. The instinctual desires for dominance in a pack or any sort of territorial nature may cause a conflict between two or more dogs. It is important not to step into the middle of any dogfight. Even if you trust your dog completely, they may be unaware that you are interceding. It is best to stop dogfights before they happen by training your pet to come when it is called and handle social interaction well. If a fight begins to emerge, then call you dog back to your side, leaving one less dog to tangle with. This type of loyal behavior can save a dogs life inside and outside of the park. If you have a smaller dog that likes to be chased by larger breeds, many dog parks have separated sections for smaller dogs to keep them from getting stepped on or bitten. If you feel uncomfortable with any dogs in the park, it is best to leave and come again another day.
If you plan to be a dog park frequenter, neutering your dog will improve his or her social interaction immensely. Intact pets are notoriously more territorial in nature and much more likely to be involved in a conflict. Also, an intact female dog in heat may cause intense conflict between other males at the park. Some of the most well behaved champion dogs are almost uncontrollable in the presence of a dog in heat.
Exhaustion and heat stroke are other simple risks of taking your dog to do anything physical, but it is amplified in a dog park situation. Dog parks provide unleashed roaming and open playing which is often more exhausting than any run they might do with their owner. There should be plenty of water and breaks in the shade for every dog.
Dog parks are intended to create an avenue for healthy dog interaction, so take the necessary precautions to keep them that way. If you think these risks are too high or the precautions too worrisome, it is best to exercise your pet in another way. Remember, dog parks are not for everyone, and they are not for every dog. If your dog seems aggressive and uncooperative in a dog park situation, consider further training or some other alternative.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading online pet adoption agency. You can adopt a pet and save a life. Please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
An obvious risk when any group of animals congregates is the spread of infectious diseases. Though you may think you are sure that your dog does not carry a disease, you cannot account for all of the other dogs in the park. Make certain that you are up to date with all vaccinations. If dogs are very sick, most owners will not take them to the park to play, so the possibility of major disease contraction is somewhat small. When dogs seem to be feeling ill it is best to keep them at home and let them rest, especially when showing symptoms like vomiting, coughing, or diarrhea.
Dogfights are another risk in social situations. The instinctual desires for dominance in a pack or any sort of territorial nature may cause a conflict between two or more dogs. It is important not to step into the middle of any dogfight. Even if you trust your dog completely, they may be unaware that you are interceding. It is best to stop dogfights before they happen by training your pet to come when it is called and handle social interaction well. If a fight begins to emerge, then call you dog back to your side, leaving one less dog to tangle with. This type of loyal behavior can save a dogs life inside and outside of the park. If you have a smaller dog that likes to be chased by larger breeds, many dog parks have separated sections for smaller dogs to keep them from getting stepped on or bitten. If you feel uncomfortable with any dogs in the park, it is best to leave and come again another day.
If you plan to be a dog park frequenter, neutering your dog will improve his or her social interaction immensely. Intact pets are notoriously more territorial in nature and much more likely to be involved in a conflict. Also, an intact female dog in heat may cause intense conflict between other males at the park. Some of the most well behaved champion dogs are almost uncontrollable in the presence of a dog in heat.
Exhaustion and heat stroke are other simple risks of taking your dog to do anything physical, but it is amplified in a dog park situation. Dog parks provide unleashed roaming and open playing which is often more exhausting than any run they might do with their owner. There should be plenty of water and breaks in the shade for every dog.
Dog parks are intended to create an avenue for healthy dog interaction, so take the necessary precautions to keep them that way. If you think these risks are too high or the precautions too worrisome, it is best to exercise your pet in another way. Remember, dog parks are not for everyone, and they are not for every dog. If your dog seems aggressive and uncooperative in a dog park situation, consider further training or some other alternative.
About the Author: Dean Burton is the owner of MyDreamPuppy.com, a leading online pet adoption agency. You can adopt a pet and save a life. Please visit MyDreamPuppy.com.
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