Exercise - Don't exercise your dog in hot weather, particularly if he or she has a heart condition - Build up your dog's exercise slowly until you reach a level to suit your dog - Do not over exercise young dogs until they are mature skeletally.
This is around 9 months for small breeds, 12 months for medium breeds and 18 months for giant breeds.
- A healthy middle aged, medium sized dog can be exercised for at least 60 minutes each day, an older dog will need less.
- Before doing any high impact exercise, ensure your dog is warmed up - If your dog has had periods of being inactive, whether it be following illness or being in a kennel while you have been on holiday, you should build up his fitness slowly - Do not exercise your dog for two hours after eating Training - Training is very good for promoting socially acceptable behaviour, good control and also encouraging the bond between an owner and their dog - Occupying the mind through training provides direction for busier breeds, whether it's a competitive or social activity Grooming - Grooming your dog regularly is essential for all owners.
It helps to maintain a healthy coat and skin, increases circulation, strengthens the bond between a dog and his owner and encourages the owner to examine their dog.
- Using the correct grooming tools is important - Cleaning of the ears and eyes, clipping of nails and shampooing your dog are all examples of a good grooming routine Feeding - Most adult dogs benefit from being fed twice a day - On average thinner dogs live longer than fat dogs - Many foods that humans eat are poisonous to dogs, these include: onions, chocolate, avocado, grapes, raisins, mushrooms and nuts.
- Foods which are designed for specific breeds or lifestyles make it easier for you to ensure your dog is eating the most appropriate foods.
Socialisation - Dogs are most receptive to socialisation between the time their eyes open and 12 weeks old.
This is the ideal time to create encouraging experiences that will introduce your dog to other animals, humans, objects and situations, all of which you will want your dog to be comfortable with in the future.
- If your dog seems frightened in a situation, try not to force the issue.
Remove your dog instead.
Veterinary Care - Your dog should receive regular worming and flea control, this reduces the risk of disease to your dog and your family - Initial vaccinations start when your animal is around 8 weeks old - It is essential for your dog to have annual examinations carried out by a Vet.
Make sure you find a good Vet and stick to the routine of annual check ups Play - Dogs love to play, so consider what toys your dog likes.
For example, chewing, interactive, fetching - Don't leave all of your dogs toys out, try to give different toys daily from a selection to maintain interest - A dog should not be left for longer than 4 hours a day or he will become bored - Getting another dog for company is not always a good idea, as you could end up with two bored dogs Microchipping - The main purpose of micro chipping is to aid your dogs repatriation if it gets lost and found - If you wish to take your dog abroad you will need a passport, micro chipping is essential to gain a pet passport - It is advisable to ask your Vet to check your dogs microchip when he or she has their annual examination - Don't forget to notify your microchip database of your new contact details if you move house Neutering - Dogs are sexually mature from approximately 6 months old, so if you are not intending to breed, it is advisable to have your dog neutered - Neutering a bitch before its first season can eliminate the risk of breast cancer - A neutered dog reduces the energy it requires, therefore they will need less food Insurance - Make sure you get an insurance policy that will cover your dog for life, not one that is reviewed on an annual basis - The cheapest insurance company is not always the best insurance; however you probably won't need the most expensive policy, and may just need cover for veterinary fees.