Your complete dog care guide

Dog care is about 70% common sense and 30% knowledge/experience.

If you want to take good care of Fido and help him to live a long, happy and healthy life, you`ll need both of the above.

I can`t provide the common sense (I`m just going to trust that you`ve got that nailed down already), but I CAN help you with that extra 30%.

This page takes a look at all aspects of taking care of your dog properly and will make sure that you find the answers to the questions and issues that you might run into.....

• Dog health - including dental care
• Feeding adult dogs
• Dog training (including housebreaking an adult dog)
• Choosing the best dog supplies/products

Plus, you`ll find links to articles/pages which cover just about everything you`ll ever want to know about caring for your dog.

Video: A Complete Guide to Helping Your Older Dog Live a Longer Life : Dog Training & Care

Dog Care - Good Health Is A Priority

The dog care topic which causes us the most worry and stress is Fidos` health.

Whether it`s illness, accidents, parasites, poisoning and more, our dogs health is one of our most important responsibilities.

Good preventative veterinary care, including regular check-ups, vaccinations and de-worming, can prevent a lot of heartache and expense.

Dog Vaccinations

When Fido was a puppy he should have been given several rounds of puppy shots which protect him against the most common, and most serious, dog illnesses & diseases.

These include the `biggies` such as Canine Parvovirus, Distemper, Coronavirus and Kennel Cough.

BUT... puppy shots won`t protect him for life and Fido still needs his booster vaccinations, often annually.

Some of the vaccines your veterinarian uses may be effective for three years, so these shots don`t need to be re-administered annually.

Ask your vet about this when your dog has his yearly exam.

Canine Parasites

Preventing parasitic infection is also hugely important part of dog health care.

Both external parasites ( such as fleas/ticks and skin mites) and internal parasites (such as intestinal worms or single-cell organisms such as Giardia or Coccidia protozoa) can cause severe problems if left untreated.

These can include allergic reactions, stomach upset, anemia, dehydration, even organ damage and, in severe cases, death.

Mosquitoes can cause heartworms in dogs, and this is a serious, often fatal condition. Luckily heartworm prevention is simple, and effective.

Genetic or Chronic Conditions

Every breed of dog is predisposed to certain types of illnesses, injuries or chronic conditions.

Large and giant breeds may have joint/bone issues or heart problems. Small breeds can suffer from hypoglycemia and luxating patellas (knee problems).

Video: A Guide to Dog Care and Training - American Kennel Club

Individual breeds can have issues that affect their eyes, ears, teeth, major organs, spine, brain and so on.

Allergies affect many, many dogs but some breeds are more at risk than others.

A well-balanced nutritious diet and proper veterinary care can help to minimize canine health problems, and getting treatment started at the first sign of trouble is important.

That`s why your dog care responsibilities include regular vet check-ups for Fido and a setting up a vet visit if you`re concerned or worried about anything.

Dental Care for Dogs

Keeping Fidos` teeth clean and white, and his breath fresh, isn`t just about his good looks and sweet smell.. it`s important to his overall health too.

Say `Cheese!`

Good dog dental care includes brushing your dogs` teeth properly, and regularly.

Feeding a good nutritious diet, choosing appropriate toys and supervising play are also part of your dog dental care responsibilities.

There are several common warning signs that might mean your dog is having some problems with his teeth. These can include:

• Excessive drooling
• Bad breath
• Loss of appetite or interest in toys (because it hurts to chew!)

If you notice one or more of these, or you see any swelling/bleeding of his gums, broken/decayed/loose teeth, have your veterinarian check out his mouth asap. 

Accident & Emergencies in Dogs

No matter how careful we are in caring for our dogs, accidents can (and do) happen.

Running on uneven ground can cause a bone break or ligament tear, as can a too-high leap/jump.

Poisoning can happen at home, or outdoors. Many common household products, and even human foods and medications, can be toxic to your dog. Check out this list for more info... Foods Poisonous to Dogs

Although dog pregnancy and whelping isn`t usually considered an accident or emergency (well, the pregnancy might be accidental of course, if you haven`t spayed or neutered your dogs), problems can arise and progress quickly.

Whether it`s getting into a dog fights being in a car accident or being hit by a moving vehicle or, for tiny breeds, even being stepped on or caught in the door, these can all cause injuries which need treatment.

Having the right dog first aid supplies handy can make a scary situation less traumatic.

Sometimes your dog may need short-term pain relief for a minor issue, in that situation aspirin can be useful, but it`s VERY IMPORTANT to give the correct dosage. Check out this page for the info. you need.. Aspirin for Dogs

Many human medications, including pain killers, are NOT suitable for dogs, and I strongly recommend talking to your veterinarian before giving Fido any type of medication (even OTC products).