Any home can benefit from having a dog, but whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or a first-time adopter, you should always put your dog’s health and happiness first. Here are a few helpful pointers for all dog owners.
And never forget: Please prioritize adoption above getting a new puppy if you’re thinking about getting one. To begin your search, we invite you to go through our list of available dogs for adoption in your neighborhood or go to our Find a Shelter page.
Feeding
- Eight to twelve-week-old puppies require four meals per day.
- Puppies should be fed three meals a day for a maximum of six months.
- Puppies should be fed twice a day for six months to a year.
- Usually, your dog just needs one meal per day when he turns one.
- For certain dogs—larger dogs, dogs who are prone to bloat—feeding two smaller meals is preferable.
Adult dogs can have a well-balanced diet of premium-quality dry food, which can be combined with water, broth, or canned food. Even if your dog might like cottage cheese, cooked eggs, or fruits and vegetables, these should not account for more than ten percent of his regular meal consumption.
A premium, name-brand puppy food is what puppies should be fed (big breed puppy foods for large breeds). Please restrict “people food,” though, as it can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, issues with bones and teeth, and even obesity and extremely finicky eating habits. There should always be access to fresh, clean water, and food and water dishes should be cleaned regularly.
Exercise
Dogs require exercise to maintain their health, burn calories, and engage their minds. Personal fitness requirements differ according to breed or mix of breeds, age, sex, and state of health. Dogs who exercise also tend to be less bored, which can prevent them from acting out in destructive ways. Several of your pet’s natural inclinations to dig, herd, chew, retrieve, and pursue can be satiated by supervised fun and activities.
Grooming
Regular brushing will help keep your dog clean and cut down on shedding. During warm weather, check your pet often for ticks and fleas. Bathing is usually not necessary for most dogs more than a couple times a year. Remove all mats from the coat with a comb or trimmer before bathing. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the coat to remove any soap residue, as dirt tends to adhere to it.
Handling
When carrying a puppy or tiny dog, support the hind legs and rump with your other hand or your forearm. Place one hand under the dog’s chest. Never try to lift or hold onto your puppy or tiny dog by the back of the neck, the tail, or the forelegs. If you must lift a huge dog, do so from the underside, using one arm to support the dog’s back end and his chest.
Housing
Your pet needs a warm, cozy spot off the floor that is free from drafts. A clean blanket or pillow should be placed inside a training crate or dog bed. Regularly wash the dog’s bedding. If your dog will be spending a lot of time outside, make sure she has access to a warm, dry, covered shelter in the winter and plenty of shade and cool water in the summer.
Licensing and Identification
Comply with the licensing requirements in your community. Make sure the license is fastened to your dog’s collar. Your dog’s return can be ensured with this, an ID tag, and an implanted microchip or tattoo, in the event that she gets lost.
Fleas and Ticks
During the warm seasons, it is vital to check your dog every day for fleas and ticks. You can use a flea comb to identify and remove fleas. There are various new ways to control fleas and ticks. You can discuss these and other choices with your veterinarian. For more information, see our Fleas and Ticks page.
Medicines and Poisons
Never give your dog medication if a veterinarian hasn’t recommended it. Make sure to contact your veterinarian if you think your pet may have consumed something toxic.
Spaying and Neutering
By the time a dog is six months old, male dogs should be neutered and female dogs spayed.
Vaccinations
It could be advantageous for your dog to have several immunizations.
Dog Supply Checklist
- Premium-quality dog food and treats
- Food dish
- Water bowl
- Toys, toys and more toys, including safe chew toys
- Brush & comb for grooming, including flea comb
- Collar with license and ID tag
- Leash
- Carrier (for smaller dogs)
- Training crate
- Dog bed or box with warm blanket or towel
- Dog toothbrush
The Scoop on Poop
Unless you are in a safe, fenced-in location, keep your dog on a leash when you are outside. Please clean up your dog’s droppings if they are on a neighbor’s yard, the sidewalk, or any other public area.