Facts About Dogs
Mutt Vs Purebred
When you purchase a purebred puppy you do have a higher probability of knowing what to expect when the puppy is full grown. With a mixed breed, what that mixture will look like when the puppy is an adult is not as well known. Mixed breeds have a tendency to have less health and behavior issues than purebreds that is the result of bad breeding practices. Mixed breeds are frequently rescue pups and are in great need for a home and one is often saving their lives by providing a safe home.
Learning capacities of young puppies
Puppies have a short attention span and the lesson your presenting need to be short 5-10 minuet and be a positive experience. At 5 to 6 months of age your puppy is ready to have a longer and more intense training session.
Stop Jumping
It’s best to start this training early on when you first get your puppy or dog. First teach your dog to sit using both a visual and verbal command. When your dog jumps up immediately give the sit command and praise him when he does. You can also try this method. As soon as your dog starts to jumps up, turn your back, ignore him and walk away.
Best Rewards
Mixing up the rewards you give to reinforce particular behaviors will command more of your dog’s attention. Heavy praise interspersed with treats will keep your pup guessing.
Exercise requirements of dogs
Every breed has its own energy levels. It is very important to understand the time commitment and the proper environment (condo vs. fenced back yard) that is best suited for the breed of dog. Many undesirable behavior issues, barking, chewing, aggressive behavior etc. are a direct reflecting of pent up excess energy.
Quality dog food, does price represent quality
A high priced dog food does not always represent the best quality ingredients. You can easily determine the quality by reading the list of ingredients and the order in which they appear. On the other hand you can be sure that the ingredients in a low priced dog food are of inferior quality.
Appropriate age to spay and neuter
It’s frequently recommended to spay or neuter your puppy no younger than five to six months of age. There is controversy about the benefits and safety of what’s called early age spay & neutering. There are some who advocate the procedure as early as 8 weeks. Each dog is different and the best age to spay & neuter should be discussed with your Veterinarian.
Summer Hazards
Heat stroke is a major hazard or dogs in warm weather. Heat stroke can come on quickly. Some of the signs of heat stroke are: dark or bright red tongue and gums, body temperature of over 104., excessive panting, diarrhea, vomiting and seizures.
Winter Hazards
If your pet is outdoor in cold weather make sure that they have the adequate shelter to keep then dry and out of the wind. Adequate bedding such as straw will help keep them warm. Be sure to provide fresh unfrozen water. If you walk your dog outside be sure they have not stepped into deicing chemical which can burn your pet’s feet.
Health Issues for the Overweight Dog
Dogs that are overweight suffer the same health issues as their human counterparts. Arthritis and cardiopulmonary disease are two main symptoms. Again just like people, reduce their calorie intake, switch to a dog food formulated for overweight dogs and increase their exercise.
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