| That Special Committment Do research to find the breed that is right for you and your family Be familiar with the breed "hands on" before you make any decision Develop a relationship with a trustworthy and respectable breeder Include your new addition in family activities and outings Puppy proof your home Provide an indoor family home providing care, love and safety for the lifetime of your pet Educate your children regarding respect and compassion for your animals and general behavioral issues Fimiliarize yourself with ALL of your state and local dog laws Preventative Health Issues Annual physical exams at a responsible vet that is familiar with your breed Vaccines required by your state and or/suggested by your vet Proper testing and treatments when necessary Heartworm Preventatives Flea and Tick Preventatives Proper Diet for your particular breed of dog and consistent feeding schedule Maintain a healthy weight Balanced routine of exercise, play time, training and couch time General routine grooming ( including nails, ears etc) Have pet emergency numbers and poison control center numbers readily available Leash Laws Obey your city/township lease laws. Not everyone is a dog lover, nor are they amused when a strange dog approaches Leashing your dog could save its life (in no way is a leash a substitute for proper training) Do not allow your dog to roam the neighborhood Dispose of your dogs waste and keep your neighborhood dog friendly Pet Overpopulation Have your animals spayed or neutered. Training Have your dog well socialized Basic commands obedience especially “come” on command. Establish who is the Alfa of the house (and no its NOT your dog !!) Housetraining should be your immediate goal-be patient! Do not use corporal punishment on any canine Licenses Purchase all mandatory state/county yearly dog licenses immediately Proper Identification tags immediately Consider microchips or tattoos. . |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|