There is a difference of opinion among canine experts as to whether bones should be given to a dog raw, cooked, hard, or soft, and even whether they should be given at all. On one point, however, there is total agreement, never give a dog splintering bones from chicken, pork, fowl, and rabbit, (although chicken bones that have been cooked in a pressure cooker until they are very soft can be quite nourishing and safe). A marrow bone is the traditional symbol of a treat for a dog, and he obviously... more
Canine nutrition hasn’t become as laden with diet fads as have human meal planning. But it has accumulated a number of myths which survive the ridicule of the veterinary profession. As you acquire a dog, your more experienced friends will shower you with advice, which may include some of the following affirmations: - “A clove of garlic keeps worms away” Garlic has enjoyed a reputation for centuries in the folk medicine of many cultures as an antiseptic, a treatment for high... more
Small adaptable, curious dogs make great traveling companions. Small terriers and toys such as Miniature Schnauzers, Poodles, and Pugs make excellent globe-trotters. Larger dogs however, prefer to guard the house and give you a big welcome when you return. But there are always exceptions in both cases due to their personalities. All dogs should be car-trained as puppies, since this is the most common form of travel for them. If you are dealing with an adult dog who is unaccustomed or afraid... more
Riding in a car is a treat for most dogs, especially if they are driven to an enjoyable destination. Even if you only take your dog to the local shopping center, they outing will add a little variety to his daily life and widen his horizons. All pet dogs should be car-trained as puppies. Many of them ride in a car the first time when they are taken to their new home, which leaves and uncertain impression that is partly pleasant and partly scary, since it involves an upheaval in their lives.... more
Play is one of the best forms of exercise for a puppy. Fifteen minutes of vigorous play can be equivalent to an hour’s walk. Many owners do not realize that games are also good vocabulary builders. When it’s all part of a game that he enjoys, your puppy will very quickly learn the meaning of many words long before he is ready for formal training. Playing with your puppy provides an excellent opportunity to observe his actions and reactions and to become acquainted with his innate... more
Canine nutrition has been the subject of much research in recent years. Since prepared dog food accounts for a greater volume of supermarket sales than any other single grocery item, the commercial incentive is tremendous. As a result, American dogs are the best fed in the world, probably the most expensively fed, and certainly the most often overfed. Biologists describe the dog as a carnivorous mammal. But modern authorities say that his cohabitation with man has caused him to become like... more
A good formula for a homemade diet is one half cereal, rice, or kibbles, and one half meat, including its natural fat, with green or yellow vegetables added from time to time. Since they can be made to measure for each individual dog, these combinations would be ideal if they weren’t to much bother. Aside from taking more time and trouble than the other methods, a homemade diet requires a sound knowledge of canine nutrition. Table scraps are definitely insufficient for modern pets who... more
Physically, he is in his prime, and will continue to develop heavier bone, a deeper chest, a fuller coat, as well as greater strength and endurance. Large breeds attain their full physical maturity and definitive proportions between the ages of 18 months and 2 years, while smaller breeds reach their maturity a little sooner. An adult dog no longer needs a body-building diet, but more of a maintenance one that is adjusted to his daily energy requirements. Too much or too rich a diet will lead... more
Barking is the dog’s instinctive means of giving a warning and it would be against your interest to discourage it. However, once you have been alerted, your dog should realize that his job is done. So select a word of praise, such as “Good Dog” or “Okay”, or command such as “quiet”, and give your dog a pat to indicate that he must now be still. Hysterical barking such as during a thunderstorm, can be treated by reassurance, companionship, distraction,... more
City walks are the principle form of exercise for urban pets. Try to find a nearby park or enclosed area where you can let your dog stretch his legs for a few minutes, off the lead. If this is impossible, buy an extra-long leash and seek a safe spot where he can roam within its limits. This is unfortunately easier said than done, since more and more cities are banning dogs from wider areas. Dog owners can strengthen their position by respecting a few rules when walking their pets on the street. -... more