Can I Train My Dog

Selecting a New Dog

When selecting a new dog to take home there are many things to think about and to take into consideration.  For instance, the biggest question to ask yourself is why you want a dog?  Do you have children who have been begging you for one, or have you decided you need a dog outside to warn of intruders?  Maybe you had one as a child and miss the companionship the dog gave you.  For whatever reason, dogs can bring families closer and leave you with a sense of fulfillment—however you should know that not all dogs are good for every situation.

If you are selecting a new dog for your children, think about starting with a puppy.  Puppies are more sociable and adaptable, and you will get to train them according to your needs.  In addition, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as watching your new puppy grow up alongside your kids. 

Next, you will need to decide on male or female when selecting your new dog.  Remember that males tend to be bigger in stature than females, who stay relatively more petite.  Males are also more dominant and aggressive in certain breeds.

Temperament should also be checked when selecting a new dog.  To do this, simply hold the dog in your arms and tip him on his back (if size allows).  If he struggles consistently, this may mean he will take more patience in training.  If he lays there, genuinely calm, you can be rest assured he is mild tempered and will be easy to work with.  In addition, clap your hands, or make other loud or sudden movements.  A mild tempered dog will look curiously at you, while a shy or nervous dog will be startled or shy away. 
It’s important to always research the breeds you are looking at when selecting a new dog.  Make sure you are going to have time to care for whichever one you choose.  Depending on the breed, he may need more exercise, training or special climate.  For example, a cocker spaniel will take a lot of grooming time and expense because of his luxurious coat.

Although selecting a new dog may seem like a no-brainer, you need to carefully consider the place that you will purchase your dog from.  If dealing with a breeder, be sure that he/or she is respectable and dedicated to the standard of breeding itself, and not just in it for the money.  Some breeders truly care about their dogs, while others simply don’t, and that means that the puppy may not be socialized or might have been treated roughly or poorly.  If you are going to buy a dog from the pet store, it’s a good idea to ask around or make phone calls to other families who have bought from the same pet store. 

Whether you are looking for a big dog or small dog for your family, if you include thought and common sense in selecting your new dog, you should be able to find the perfect one for you.  Your new dog will offer you a lasting, loving relationship that is sure to be fulfilling for all of you.

Can I Train a Dog News

Can I Train a Dog

Treating Your Dog for Dehydration

Dehydration in dogs can be a serious matter.  Whether caused by illness, exposure to heat, or a simple lack of fluid intake, dehydration must be addressed immediately and, left untreated, can cause multiple health problems including organ failure and death.  It is very easy for a dog to become dehydrated; easier than many pet owners realize.  Fortunately it is also easy to prevent dehydration in dogs and it is very important to do so.

Dehydration is an excess loss of bodily fluids.  It most often involves the loss of water and minerals such as sodium, chloride, and potassium; collectively called electrolytes.  Dehydration in dogs can be caused by illness (especially if the dog has a fever), exposure to extreme heat, and a number of other factors.  A dog’s natural act of panting causes a loss of fluids and can result in dehydration if they are not replaced.  Remember that dogs lack sweat glands to keep them cool.  They pant in an effort to regulate their body temperature.  A panting dog is a hot dog.

Preventing Dog Dehydration

The best way to prevent dehydration is to make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water available.  The dog should always have at least one full bowl of water available at all times and, if the dog has the run of the house, bowls in various locations may be appropriate.  If you live in a dry climate dogs should be kept indoors as much as possible, especially in the hot summer months.  When they are outdoors it is imperative that dogs have an available supply of fresh water.  Moist foods also help maintain appropriate levels of bodily fluids in dogs.  Dry foods are important for a dog’s dental health, but moist foods are a good idea as well.

Treating a Dehydrated Dog

If you suspect that your dog is dehydrated, get it some water immediately and then get it to the vet.  Signs of dehydration can include a lack of elasticity to the skin, dry and sunken eyes, and a dry mouth and nose.  Dehydrated dogs will also experience a delay in capillary refill time.  To test for this, pull the dog’s lip away from its gum (gently) and press a finger against the gum until the area whitens.  Release your finger and the color should return to the area almost immediately.  A delay could be an indication of dehydration.

Lots of water is the best way to replace fluids, but a severely dehydrated dog should not be allowed to take in large amounts at once.  This will result in vomiting and a further loss of fluids.  Instead let the dog drink small amounts over a period of time.  Electrolytes can be replaced with a hydrating solution.  Pedialyte, a water and electrolyte product sold for infants is suitable for dogs as well.  Of course any dog that seems dehydrated or refuses to drink should be seen by a vet to determine appropriate treatment and whether the dehydration is a symptom of some other ailment. 

Can I Train a Dog News

Can I Train a Dog