In the first weeks your dog is in its new home, it will likely experience separation anxiety each time you leave. Gradually acclimate your dog to your prolonged absences. When you’re leaving, don’t make a big production. Calmly say, “Good dog” and give it a small treat — then leave. Don’t say, “Good-bye.” Make sure [...]
Keep your dog on a leash at first and let it check things out. If other dogs approach, let them get to know each other while your dog is leashed. Since the other dog was in the park first, it considers the area its territory. If dogs that approach and smell your dog prove friendly, [...]
If your dog pulls a lot on the leash, consider a harness. This will distribute the pulling weight across the dog’s chest and shoulders. I like harnesses for small dogs that have skinny necks and can get hurt on a regular leash. Harnesses are also good for large dogs prone to chase after other dogs [...]
A great variety of dog toys are on the market. I recommend giving your dog a small selection — such as a ball, a piece of rope, and a larger toy made of fabric — and letting the dog choose. It’s darn near impossible to figure out why a dog chooses one toy over another. [...]
Your goals are finding a veterinarian within easy access of your home, and with whom you and the dog are comfortable. Ask for recommendations from other dog owners, or the owner of the pet-supply store you patronize. If two or three people give the same veterinarian’s name, that’s a good sign. You also can seek [...]
Dogs typically reach puberty between ages 6 and 8 months. There is much debate over when a dog should get spayed or neutered so as not to interfere with its personality and physical development. Some owners want dogs fixed before they reach puberty, since it will prevent impregnations, and because a puppy’s sexual organs are [...]
Before you bring a new dog home, make sure the other pets are current on their vaccinations and not harboring parasites. • Introducing to a dog. If you have more than one resident dog, introduce them to the new dog one at a time. Don’t introduce the new dog inside the house — which is [...]
It can take two weeks for a puppy to accept the idea your home is its home. It can take an older dog up to a month or more — especially if it has lived many other places. A few key points: • Be the leader from the start. Calmly but firmly teach your new [...]
You’ll want a dog that’s healthy, and that’s the right fit for your lifestyle. If you’re willing to spend a lot of time training the dog and dealing with teething and other difficult behavior, you can get a puppy. Make sure it’s at least 12 weeks old, so it’s been weaned and adequately socialized. If [...]
