When choosing a pet, a dog is a great option if you have the space and time for one. Dogs can be extremely loyal and if you care for them properly they will reward you with many years of play, love and company.
Every dog is different and each breed requires different amounts of exercise, food and grooming. Dogs with longer fur, like long-haired German Shepherds, St Bernards and Pomeranians, need careful brushing each day to prevent them getting matted coats and irritated skin. Shorter-haired breeds such as Boxers, Labradors and Great Danes need less brushing but still need grooming once or twice a week to remove any loose hairs. If your dog gets really dirty on a walk they may need to be washed. If you own a small breed then you can wash them in tepid water in your bath (have plenty of towels on stand-by as you know dogs love to shake themselves dry!). Large breeds may need to be gently hosed down outdoors or with buckets of tepid water. If your dog shows discomfort at being washed, offer plenty of vocal reassurance and a few titbits to put them at ease. When it comes to feeding your dog, look at what is on offer at your local supermarket or pet store. All dog foods usually have a size guide on the back of the packet which will tell you how much to give different dog varieties (obviously a Chihuahua is going to require less food than a Border Collie). One thing that all dogs will require, no matter what size or breed they are, are vaccinations and flea and worm prevention treatment. For the correct vaccinations, visit your vet when your dog is a puppy at around 6 weeks old. If you get your dog older and it doesn`t have a vaccination certificate, play it safe and ask your vet for advice. Flea and worming treatments can be administered by the vet but there are plenty of options available for you to do it yourself at home.
Just about all dogs love to play and you should always have plenty of toys around to entertain your dog. Playing indoors or outdoors with your four-legged-friend is very bonding and can be fantastic exercise for you both. A rubber ball is always a favourite for games of fetch and dogs love it if their toy squeaks (although that can get irritating late at night). If you fancy wrestling with your dog, a rope toy can be great fun. To entertain your dog and keep you both amused for hours, go to online dog toys for a wide range of toys for your four-legged friend.
