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For more information on dogs
check out these websites:

• Animaland - dog care

• ASPCA - dog care

• Canadian Vet Association - dog care

• RSPCA - dog care

• RSPCA - puppy care

Dog Care

Life Span -- Larger dogs usually don't live as long as smaller dogs.  Medium-large dogs live 8-14 years and small dogs can live 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 not getting too many. Treats should not replace dog food, because dog food has all the nutrients a dog needs. Treats are not a complete, balanced food. Also dogs that get too many treats can put on too much weight, which can cause health problems.

Water

Dogs need access to water all the time.  Dogs know when they are thirsty and since they can’t ask it should always be available.  Water is important to the health of your dog.  It is even more important during hot temperatures to make sure your dog’s water dish is always full.  If your dog is outside at all in the winter make sure the water does not freeze.  Dogs should not be kept outside for long periods of time any time of the year.  Change the water every day to keep it fresh, and wash the dish regularly.

Shelter

Dogs should be kept inside with their family 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.  They should have a warm, covered place, away from wind, sun and rain.  They must have a dry place to lie down.

Exercise

All dogs need exercise.  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 them to an off leash park where they can run around safely is best.  Remember it is very important that you teach your dog to come when called so that he will not run away. 

Training

A dog need to learn to behave 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 what you want him to do and will be happier and safer. 

Dogs learn best when they are taught using treats, love and attention.  Never hit, yell or make your dog scared of you.  This will not help him learn. Think about how you like to learn best.  Do you learn better when you are scared or when you are told you are doing a good job? Take him to a good doggie school and always practice at home.  Teaching him every day will help him remember what he learned in class.

Health Care

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 him to see the vet just like you would go to the doctor.  When you get a dog make sure you think about the cost of vet bills.  Dogs may also need flea, heartworm or tick medicine if these are a problem where you live.

Dogs should be spayed or neutered when they are 6 months old.  This will help them stay healthier, calmer and less aggressive. There are already more dogs than there are good homes so letting a dog have a litter only adds to the problem

Grooming

Brushing your hair not only makes you look good but it keeps it from getting tangled.  Dogs with longer hair 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 can be brushed.  When you brush your dog you can look for any bumps, or scrapes that you may not see otherwise.

Brushing a dog’s teeth at least once a week will help their teeth stay healthy.  Dogs get plaque on their teeth just like you, brushing their teeth will also get rid of doggie breath.

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 wears off and the dog 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 get a dog only if 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.