Dogs can get bored and restless easily. This is usually when they cause problems. They need to be stimulated through play. Your dog needs plenty of playtimes with you, but you can’t always play with your dog and this is when toys are important. Toys can satisfy a number of a dogs needs. There are some basic toys available for dogs today and hundreds of different selections. When choosing toys for your dog, consider its size and what it enjoys doing.
First off, toys must be appropriately sized for dogs. Logically, small toys are better for small dogs and large toys are better for larger dogs. You can see how a small toy would probably be destroyed or swallowed by a large dog and a large toy would be too big for a small dog’s mouth. Along this same line of thinking, you should match the toy to your dog’s chew strength. Heavier chewers would need stronger, more durable toys and softer chewers would need lighter, easier to gnaw on toys. Puppies would need softer toys that should be replaced as the dog grows.
You may walk in a dog store and pick out toys that are colorful. Unfortunately, a dog has a difficult time distinguishing color and it would be wiser to pick out toys of different shapes, sizes, flavors and smells. Remember, a dog’s strongest sense is smell, so choose toys with aromas. A selection of five or six toys, that are rotated frequently, should be enough to keep your pet actively engaged.
There are different toy categories to choose from and the deciding factor will be what your dog likes to do. There are chewing toys, fetching toys, playing toys and puzzle and treat toys. If your dog just loves to chew, then supplying him with some chew toys will keep your favorite slippers safe. An aggressive chewer should be suited with a hard rubber and nylon toy that won’t be easily broken down. Chew toys are also ideal for dental health, so they will be a good option for almost any dog. Balls and Frisbees are always fun when playing fetch. The rope toy is great for a game of tug of war, but be cautious of playing this with an overly aggressive dog. Squeaker toys and glow or light up toys will keep your dog’s interest, while the soft and plush toys are cute and fun. Treat toys will help with training and also ease a dog’s separation anxiety. For the high energy and intelligent dogs, puzzle and treat teaser toys will test their minds. They teach the dog through play with them by hiding a treat inside. Just be careful to check all toys for possible pieces that may come loose and be swallowed.
As you can see, there are many types and selections of toys available to entertain and stimulate your pet. Taking into account their size, likes, chewing strength and intelligence, you can find the most suitable toys to keep their playtime interesting and fun.
Selecting your new pet dog can be quite a task, especially since there are so many types to choose from.
Some people want a dog with a disposition that will be a perfect fit for them, their family and their lifestyles. When looking for a dog, the humane society is filled with many possible choices that will yield an ideal companion. But, if you want a more reliable indicator of temperament, health and other factors, then a dog breeder can usually fulfill your needs. Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a dog breeder is to take your time. It shouldn’t be a rushed decision, and you should make sure you are dealing with a reputable and established professional.
In your search for a dog breeder, you can seek the guidance of veterinarians, other pet owners, local kennel clubs and boarding kennels. They know many breeders and can help refer you to some of the better ones. Once you have established a list of possible choices, the interview process can start. It is a good idea to contact and see as many breeders as you can. In doing so, make sure you tour their facility and talk with them in person.
When you go to the breeder’s home, there are many things to look for that will indicate their qualifications. Initially, observe the place where the dog is being raised. Take notice if the dog is kept in the home, around family, or in a caged area. A good breeder will raise the dog in a healthy, clean, roomy environment, where it can interact with people, and not in a confined space. Examine the dog’s appearance and its personality. Is the dog friendly and happy to be around new people? There may be a problem with the way it was raised if it shies away from you. Does the dog look healthy? Ask to see the litter it came from and one, or both, of its parents. A good breeder will want you to spend time with the puppy’s parents. Also, the dog should not be afraid of the breeder. It is wise to avoid a breeder who has a large number of dogs; this might indicate he is operating a puppy mill and not a dog breeding service. A good breeder will only breed one or two types of breeds. They will usually not have any ready and will, instead, have to place you on a list for the next litter.
Next is the questioning period. Ask the breeder questions, and expect him to ask as many in return. A good breeder is concerned with the welfare of the dog and will want to be sure it is getting placed in a good home. He will ask questions about your lifestyle and will want to meet the whole family. The breeder is very knowledgeable about breeds, their temperament and feeding, as well as, possible genetic problems. Take advantage of this knowledge to become more informed about your future pet.
A good breeder will also offer advice and guidance on raising your dog, and provide assistance to you even after you have taken it home. They will also offer a contract and a health guarantee, since testing on the dog will have taken place. They will present medical records from veterinarian visits. They will also supply you with references from other families who have obtained pets from their service.
Looking for a good dog breeder takes time and investigative work. By observing the breeder’s living environment, and asking questions, you will be able to pick a reputable breeder who can pair you up with a pet that will fit your lifestyle perfectly.
Well, you have done your homework, researched breeds and decided what type of dog you want to get for your family. Everything is in place, you are ready to go. Now you just need to find a dog! There are several options that you have when you decide to add a dog or puppy to your family. Of course, there are pros and cons to each, but in the end you will have the dog that you want.
Breeders
If you have decided to go to a breeder to get your dog, then you have probably decided that you want a purebred, pedigreed animal. That is fine, if you want to go that route, just make sure that you choose a breeder who is ethical in their treatment of animals. Before you shell out any money, take a look at the breeder’s facility. Make sure that the animals are well cared for and are kept in clean, sanitary quarters. Steer clear of anything that resembles the infamous “puppy mills” and notify the authorities if you see any animal being treated poorly.
Pet Shops
Some pet shops treat their puppies very well and some do not. When you choose to buy your puppy from a pet shop, make sure that you spend a little time with the dog and look it over well. His tummy should be round but not mushy or overly hard. It should be like a rubber ball. You also want to make certain he is alert, his gums are pink and that he is fairly active. A lethargic puppy is generally not a healthy one. If you decide to purchase your puppy from a pet shop, ask about guarantees on the health of the animal and any documentation regarding where it was shipped from, it’s lineage and any vet checks or shots it has had.
Animal Shelters
Animal shelters and animal pounds have gained popularity because people are responding to the numerous animals that are unwanted and wind up in “kill shelters.” While choosing a dog from the shelter is a noble effort, make sure that you check out the dog well because you really don’t know what you are getting, especially if you are getting an older dog. Ask how often the dog has been seen by a vet, if the dog has been exposed to children or other animals (whichever is applicable to your situation) and spend some time interacting with the dog to see you the two of you are compatible.
Animal Rescues
Animal rescues are similar to animal shelters, except that rescues are typically smaller and funded by smaller organizations. Also many rescues are breed specific. If you are looking for a golden retriever, you can check out your local golden retriever rescue. Take the same precautions that you would getting a dog from a shelter. In many cases, dogs that are in a shelter or rescue come from abusive backgrounds. While they may be great pets, they may require some time and patience and a slower integration into your family.
Individuals
You see an ad in the paper that says, “Puppy for sale.” You call the number, ask some questions and drive out to get your new dog. Some people prefer the personal touch that getting a dog from an individual offers. Dogs sold by individuals are often less expensive and some will even have the parents on site. Just proceed with caution and ask the right questions before you lay the money on the table.
A dog can be a great companion and a wonderful addition to your family. Choose the method that is right for you and give a dog or puppy a new home.
Well, you have done your homework, researched breeds and decided what type of dog you want to get for your family. Everything is in place, you are ready to go. Now you just need to find a dog! There are several options that you have when you decide to add a dog or puppy to your family. Of course, there are pros and cons to each, but in the end you will have the dog that you want.
Breeders
If you have decided to go to a breeder to get your dog, then you have probably decided that you want a purebred, pedigreed animal. That is fine, if you want to go that route, just make sure that you choose a breeder who is ethical in their treatment of animals. Before you shell out any money, take a look at the breeder’s facility. Make sure that the animals are well cared for and are kept in clean, sanitary quarters. Steer clear of anything that resembles the infamous “puppy mills” and notify the authorities if you see any animal being treated poorly.
Pet Shops
Some pet shops treat their puppies very well and some do not. When you choose to buy your puppy from a pet shop, make sure that you spend a little time with the dog and look it over well. His tummy should be round but not mushy or overly hard. It should be like a rubber ball. You also want to make certain he is alert, his gums are pink and that he is fairly active. A lethargic puppy is generally not a healthy one. If you decide to purchase your puppy from a pet shop, ask about guarantees on the health of the animal and any documentation regarding where it was shipped from, it’s lineage and any vet checks or shots it has had.
Animal Shelters
Animal shelters and animal pounds have gained popularity because people are responding to the numerous animals that are unwanted and wind up in “kill shelters.” While choosing a dog from the shelter is a noble effort, make sure that you check out the dog well because you really don’t know what you are getting, especially if you are getting an older dog. Ask how often the dog has been seen by a vet, if the dog has been exposed to children or other animals (whichever is applicable to your situation) and spend some time interacting with the dog to see you the two of you are compatible.
Animal Rescues
Animal rescues are similar to animal shelters, except that rescues are typically smaller and funded by smaller organizations. Also many rescues are breed specific. If you are looking for a golden retriever, you can check out your local golden retriever rescue. Take the same precautions that you would getting a dog from a shelter. In many cases, dogs that are in a shelter or rescue come from abusive backgrounds. While they may be great pets, they may require some time and patience and a slower integration into your family.
Individuals
You see an ad in the paper that says, “Puppy for sale.” You call the number, ask some questions and drive out to get your new dog. Some people prefer the personal touch that getting a dog from an individual offers. Dogs sold by individuals are often less expensive and some will even have the parents on site. Just proceed with caution and ask the right questions before you lay the money on the table.
A dog can be a great companion and a wonderful addition to your family. Choose the method that is right for you and give a dog or puppy a new home.
