Welcome to Your Complete Guide on Dog Ownership
Hi everyone,
Dog Secrets Discovered is a free resource offering advice on dog training, dog grooming and a host of common
problems dog owner's face, We have articles about dogs where we have thoroughly researched the dog training, dog grooming industries to
provide a one stop location for information about your dog.
I've set up this website as a help to anyone who owns a dog or is thinking of getting a dog. I hope the
information you find here will help you to have a great experience as a dog owner. If you don't already have a dog, this site will help
you in choosing the right dog. First read this page about the basics of dog ownership and meeting dog needs.
Thank you,
Marie Smith
DogSecretsDiscovered.com
Choosing the Right Dog Breed
Not all families should have a dog. If you are away from home for long periods at a time, you need to decide
whether your comforts outweigh your dog's needs. A dog is a social animal requiring interaction with others. Dogs, like other social animals,
are subject to depression. Depression in your dog can cause behavioral and health problems. Is your family life style conducive to the needs
of a furry family member? The worst punishment an owner can inflict upon his dog is to ignore him. Choosing the right dog is more than
just determining that he is cute.
Choosing the Right Dog - Matching the Dogs Needs to Your Family
Besides the natural needs of food and shelter your dog will need social interaction, exercise and mental stimulation. The amount
of exercise your dog needs will vary by size, breed and age. Dogs need to be socialized to other dogs as well as people. A dog not socialized
with other dogs will become unruly when a chance encounter occurs. A similar reaction can happen if your dog is not socialized to strange unknown
people.
All dogs require exercise. The amount of exercise varies depending on the breed or size of your dog. Also,
exercise needs will vary based on maturity or age. Your dog's need for mental and physical stimulation is accomplished by having a job to do.
This is why dogs enjoy being trained. A healthy happy dog is a dog with its needs fulfilled.
Choosing the Right Dog Breed - Choosing the Right Dog
Choosing the Right Dog Breed
It is important that you take time to consider the correct dog breed for your families situation. Deciding on a Saint Bernard,
when you reside in a small apartment, may make life unbearable. A Saint Bernard needs a good sized yard for exercise. Generally, toy dog breeds
are not suitable for families with young children. Many toy breeds are nervous and need a calm atmosphere that a household with young children
cannot maintain.
It is also important to keep in mind that the size of a dog does not necessarily determine the amount of
space he requires. Generally large dogs need larger yards than smaller breeds, but there are some small dogs that are happier with a large
area in which to run, while some breeds of large dogs may not require the same space requirements. Also, some smaller breeds are outdoor dogs
while others would prefer an indoor environment.
Choosing the Right Dog Breed - The Costs of Owning a Dog
Can you afford to have a dog? Buying a dog is just the start. The cost of pedigree puppies can be considerable ranging
upwards to a thousand dollars or more. Very few puppies can be found free of charge but acquisition costs are just the beginning.
Veterinarian expenses can be a substantial cost of owning a dog. Some breeds are more susceptible to physical ailments requiring veterinarian
services. Food costs can vary by breed or size of the dog.
Buying - Choosing the Right Dog or Puppy
You have now decided on buying a puppy, where do you go? When acquiring a puppy you should avoid puppy mills. You want a puppy
that is healthy and socialized with other puppies. The puppy's age should be around eight weeks. The period between week six and week eight is
the age the puppy is learning socialization from his mother. The puppy you choose should be healthy and have been wormed adequately prior to
taking possession.
Carefully examine the puppy you choose to ensure he has been properly cared for. He should be alert with
bright eyes. His ears should be clean and free of ear wax. Your puppy's coat should be clean and pleasant to smell and there should be no
sores or skin problems. Check your puppy to make sure he is free of fleas or lice.
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