Raising a healthy, happy dog begins well before it ever sets a paw in the door, says a US dog breeder.
It’s essential to do your homework beforehand, said Gale McDonald, an American Kennel Club representative who has raised West Highland Terriers for more than 25 years.
‘It’s not just a matter of bringing the doggie home in a cardboard box,’ said Ms McDonald, who shared tips at a pet parenting seminar sponsored by the Humane Society Saturday at the Brasserie Conference Centre in Cricket Square.
‘You wouldn’t bring your baby home without being prepared.’
The first step is researching the right breed to suit your lifestyle, she said. It’s important to consider such factors as how much time you’re willing to spend exercising the dog, the pet’s size and the main reason for getting it, whether for companionship, protection or a playmate for the kids.
She recommended getting a dog from an experienced breeder or adopting one from a shelter.
‘Don’t overlook an animal shelter as a good source for a dog. There are many loving and lovable dogs waiting to be adopted.’
Never buy a pet from a puppy mill and it’s best to avoid pet stores as well since the pups have often been taken away from their mother too young.
‘Pups should never be taken away from the mother before seven weeks of age. She teaches them basic manners – what is acceptable and what is unacceptable.’ That includes biting.
‘A dog that bites a child will likely pay the price with its life,’ she noted.
‘There should be a zero tolerance policy for dogs that bite kids and for kids that mistreat dogs.’
Owners should have all the necessary equipment in place before bringing puppy home and be ready to put time and effort into training.
Proper socialization and training is essential. Otherwise, the dog will end up ruling the house or, worse, out of the house.
‘Millions of dogs end up in shelters because the owner does not take the time to train them properly,’ she said.
Contact a vet beforehand and make arrangements for vaccinations and protection against parasites.
‘This is of paramount importance.’
Crate training
Ms McDonald recommends crate training. It assists with house-breaking – they won’t mess in their crate – and provides a safe, secure place that imitates their den. It also prevents pups from doing damage in the home.
‘Dogs sleep 75 per cent of a 24-hour period and puppies sleep even more than that. A crate is a wonderful spot to put your dog.’
Feeding and regular grooming are two other essentials.
She emphasised buying good quality dog food and treats. ‘Cheap dog food is full of salt and sugar.’ Vets can recommend quality kibble.
Rawhides are no-no: they can get twisted in the dog’s gut. Rather, fill a Kong (available at pet stores) with healthy snacks.
Puppy-proof your home and yard and be aware of foods that are potentially harmful. Grapes and raisins, for example, can be toxic to some dogs along with chocolate, garlic and onions.
Spaying and neutering is vital, she said.
‘Two to three million pets every year are killed in the US because they are unwanted.’
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