Dog Lovers Manual

Dog licences are required by law in some countries, but not others. Check with your local authority to discover whether or not you need a licence for your pet.
All dog owners should, however, ensure that their pet wears an identity tag (in some countries it is a legal requirement), so that in the event of […]

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There are occasions when despite your best efforts, a partnership does not work. In these circumstances, it’s more beneficial for both parties if you rehome the dog rather than preserve, with both of you frustrated and miserable.
Finding your pet a home with someone who can offer the type of environment, attention and training he needs […]

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The same safety principles that apply to toys suitable for puppies are also relevant to adult dogs. As well as being play items, toys are invaluable bonding and training aids. Choose a selection of toys that will represent the different values shown in the table below.
Toy Values

Low Value
Medium Value
High Value

Rubber rings

Home-made play items such […]

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Trimming your puppy’s nail tips will prevent them getting too sharp. It also accustoms him to the procedure before he gets too big to object. It is best to have your vet (or veterinary nurse) or a local canine beautician do this for you.
Inside each nail is a ‘quick’ – a tiny vein that appears […]

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Dog licences are required by law in some countries, but not others. Check with your local authority to discover whether or not you need a licence for your pet.
All dog owners should, however, ensure that their pet wears an identity tag (in some countries it is a legal requirement), so that in the event of […]

[Read more →]

The breeder of your dog should be the first person you go to for advice. If they are unable to help, then dog rescue centres may be able to provide information. Some will even rehome him for you, provided you give them a donation to cover his keep until they do so. Alternatively, ask your […]

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When calculating the cost of keeping your pet, you need to look at several areas. The first is the initial expense of buying your dog and the basic equipment with which to look after him. Then comes the cost of neutering and identification marking. Finally, there are the routine annual expenses:

Food
Internal and external parasite treatments
Professional […]

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‘Tug of war’ and ‘wrestling’ are unsuitable ‘games’ to play with dogs. While such activities can be great fun initially, they can become unpleasant if the dog gets overexcited and aims to dominate and win the ‘match’.
You must stop encouraging ‘play wrestling’, and ignore the dog if he tries to engage you in it. Wait […]

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Start recognizing your puppy’s normal behavior as soon as you get him. Then you will know when all is not well. Note any unusual behavior, altered appetite or demeanour, distressed whining, increased or decreased thirst, straining on defecation or urination, vomiting or diarrhea. You will be able to inform your vet of the symptoms.
Puppies with […]

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Dog foods come in all manner of flavors and textures, even ‘gourmet’ varieties. However, this is mainly to appeal to owners rather than their pets. Unlike us, dogs do not get bored with eating the same thing on daily basis, so it is not necessary to change your pet’s diet unless he fails to thrive […]

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