Dogs

Dogs are social animals that need to be part of a pack - that's you! With lots of care, training, socialization and love, your new dog will be a faithful and loving family companion.

Life span

Medium to large dogs: 8-14 years
Small dogs: 10-16 years

Food

Dogs need good-quality food to stay healthy.  Check the package to make sure the dog food  has the CVMA (Canadian Veterinarian Medical Association) Certified symbol. It is usually recommended that dogs get fed twice a day, once in the morning and once at suppertime. There are many different types of dog food: raw, home-cooked and kibble. Ask your veterinarian which food is right for your dog. 

Treats

Dog treats can be a great way to help train your dog. Make sure your dog is just getting a few, once in a while. Treats cannot replace dog food, because dog food has all the nutrients a dog needs. Treats are not a complete, balanced food. Dogs that get too many treats can put on too much weight, which can cause health problems.

Water

Dogs need access to fresh drinking water at all times. Dogs know when they are thirsty, and since they can't ask, water should always be available. Water is especially important to a dog's health during hot temperatures, so make sure your dog's water dish is always full.  If your dog is outside at all in the winter, make sure her water does not freeze. (Dogs should not be kept outside for long periods of time any time of the year -- see Shelter, below.)  Change the water every day to keep it fresh, and wash the dish once a week.

Shelter

Dogs should be kept inside with their family (you!) because dogs are very social animals. That means they like to be around people. If your dog does go outside, it should only be for short periods of time, and he should have a warm, covered place, away from wind, sun and rain. He must also have a dry place to lie down.

Exercise

All dogs need exercise, no matter how big or small. Different breeds of dogs need different amounts of exercise but they all need to run and play every day. Leaving a dog in a back yard is not enough.  Playing fetch, or taking her to an off-leash park where she can run around safely is best. Before allowing her off her leash, it is very important that you teach your dog to come when called so that she will be safe, and will not run away. 

Training

A dog needs to learn to be well behaved so that he can live happily with his family. An untrained dog can upset people, run into traffic and be unsafe. Learning how to teach your dog to behave is one of the best things you can do for him. He will know exactly what you want him to do and will be happier and safer. 

Take him to a good doggie school and always practice at home. Dogs learn best when they are taught using treats, love and attention. Never hit, yell at or make your dog scared of you. The only thing this will teach him is to be afraid of you. Do you learn better when you are scared, or when you are told you are doing a good job? Your dog responds well to praise just like you do. Practicing every day will help him remember what he learned in class.

Health care

When you get a dog, make sure you think about the cost of vet bills. All dogs need a check-up at least once a year. Dogs need vaccinations to help them stay healthy. If your dog is sick or gets hurt you must take her to see the vet just like you would go to the doctor. Dogs may also need flea, heartworm or tick medicine if these parasites are a problem where you live.

Dogs should be spayed or neutered when they are six (6) months old. This will help them be healthier, calmer and less aggressive. There are already more dogs than there are good homes for them, so please don't let your dog create a new litter!

Grooming

Hair: Brushing your hair not only makes you look good but it keeps your hair from getting tangled. It's the same with dogs!  Dogs with longer fur need to be brushed every day. They can't do it themselves, so it is up to you to help them. Even dogs with short hair should be brushed. When you brush your dog, you can look for any bumps or scrapes that you may not see otherwise.

Bathing your dog every month or two will keep him clean. Use a special dog shampoo. You can also take your dog to a dog groomer.

Teeth: Brushing your dog's teeth daily will help their teeth stay healthy. Dogs get plaque on their teeth just like you do. Brushing their teeth will also get rid of doggie breath! Use special dog toothpaste.

Friendship

Dogs like to be around people and other dogs. They are social animals. It is always exciting when you first get a dog, but sometimes this excitement wears off and the dog suddenly seems to be a lot of work. Remember, your dog depends on you for attention and love. He may get bored and sad if he gets left behind or has no one to play with. You should adopt a dog only if you are absolutely sure you will take good care of him for his whole life. He has feelings just like you, and needs you to take care of him and play with him.