Puppy Tips, Care, and more - Page 4 of 5

How to find a reputable dog breeder

Finding that perfect dog breeder

When researching the perfect dog breeder, there are several important things to keep in mind.Look for a reputable breederA reputable breeder will have a history of breeding healthy and well-adjusted puppies, and will be able to provide you with information about the puppy's health and temperament.

Visit the breeder's facilityA reputable breeder will be happy to show you their facility and introduce you to the puppies and their parents. This will give you a sense of the environment in which the puppies were raised and will allow you to assess the health and temperament of the parent dogs.

Ask for referencesA reputable breeder will have no problem providing you with references from previous puppy buyers. Contacting these references will give you an idea of what it's like to work with the breeder and the quality of the puppies they produce.

Research the breedBefore you begin your search for a breeder, make …

Adopt a dog from Humane Society

Benefits of adopting a dog from Humane Society

Adopting from a humane society saves lives. These organizations rescue and care for dogs in need, providing medical attention and shelter until they find loving homes. By adopting, you give a dog a chance at a better life and free up resources to help others.

Financially, it's practical with lower fees covering vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping. Many offer follow-up care too.

Beyond the practical, it offers dogs a second chance at love and stability. Your compassion provides them with a new beginning as cherished family members.

Humane society organizations in Canada:

ONTARIO:

Burlington Humane Society Cambridge and District Humane Society Etobicoke Humane Society Guelph Humane Society Lincoln County Humane Society Mississauga Humane Society Niagara Falls Humane Society Ontario SPCA Ottawa Humane Society Quinte Humane Society Sarnia …

Adopting from the humane society vs puppies from breeders

Adopting a dog from a humane society vs breeders

Adopting a dog from a humane society or rescue organization is a great way to give a loving home to a dog in need. These organizations often take in dogs that have been abandoned, surrendered, or rescued from abusive or neglectful situations.

Many of these dogs have been through a lot and may have some behavioural or medical issues, but with patience, love, and proper training, they can make loyal and loving pets.

Photo by Katie Bernotsky

The Benefits

Saving a dogs lifeOne of the main benefits of adopting a dog from a humane society or rescue organization is that you are saving a life. Many of these dogs would not have a chance at finding a forever home without the help of these organizations. Additionally, adopting a dog can be less expensive than buying a puppy from a breeder.

Medical historyAnother benefit of adopting a dog is that many humane societies and re…

Purebred or Mix Breed Puppy?

Purebred or Mix Breed

When it comes to choosing a new dog, one of the biggest decisions you'll need to make is whether to go with a purebred or a mixed breed. Both have their own unique set of pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your lifestyle and preferences.

Purebred dogs are those that are bred from a specific set of parents that share the same breed characteristics. This means that you'll know exactly what to expect in terms of size, temperament, and exercise needs. Purebreds also tend to have a more consistent appearance, so you'll know what your dog will look like as an adult.

On the other hand, mixed breed dogs, also known as designer breeds, are a combination of two or more different breeds. This means that their appearance and temperament can be more varied. Mixed breeds often have a more unique look and can have a mix of characteristics from their parent breeds. They also tend to have a lower risk of genetic health issues that…

Dog Grooming Basics

Steps to groom your dog Brush your dog's coat regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Use a brush that is appropriate for your dog's coat type. Bathe your dog as needed, using a dog-specific shampoo. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap. Trim your dog's nails with a proper dog nail clipper. If you're unsure how to do this, seek the help of a professional groomer or veterinarian. Clean your dog's ears, removing any wax or debris. Be careful not to go too deep into the ear canal. Brush your dog's teeth regularly to prevent dental problems. You can use a finger toothbrush or a dog-specific toothbrush with toothpaste. Check your dog's eyes, cleaning any discharge with a damp cloth. Check your dog's skin for any signs of rashes, hot spots or any other abnormalities. Lastly, show your dog that grooming is a positive experience, reward with treats and praise during and after grooming.

Note: Grooming is also a…

Health and Nutrition recommendations for your new puppy

Congratulations on your new puppy!

As a new pet parent, you may be wondering what steps you can take to ensure your furry friend is healthy and happy. In this article, we'll go over some essential tips for keeping your new puppy in tip-top shape through proper nutrition and exercise.

Photo by Nick Mundackal

The right food

First and foremost, it's important to choose the right food for your puppy. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so be sure to select a food specifically formulated for their age and size. Look for a food that is high in protein, as this is essential for muscle growth and development. Also, make sure the food is age appropriate, and you should also check if it is a grain-free diet.

When it comes to feeding, it's important to stick to a consistent schedule. Puppies should be fed three small meals per day, rather than one or two large meals. This will help prevent …

Preparing for your New Puppy

Congrats on your new best friend! Here are the steps for preparing for your new puppy: Set up a designated space for your puppy. This could be a crate or a designated room that will be just for your puppy. Purchase the necessary supplies, such as a collar and leash, food and water bowls, a bed, and toys. Research and choose a high-quality puppy food, and have it ready for when your puppy arrives. Research and choose a veterinarian and schedule a visit for your puppy's first check-up. Research and choose a training and socialization classes. Puppy classes are a great way to socialize your puppy and learn how to train them properly. Get your house ready by puppy-proofing it, removing any items that could be dangerous or harmful to your puppy. Begin to establish a schedule for your puppy, including feeding, potty breaks, playtime and rest time. Finally, be prepared to devote a lot of time and patience to your new puppy, as they will need consistent training, soc…

Selecting the right food for your puppy

When selecting dog food for your new puppy, there are several things to consider

Age and breedPuppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, and large breed puppies have different needs than small breed puppies. Look for a food specifically formulated for puppies and the appropriate size.

IngredientsChoose a food that lists a high-quality protein source, such as chicken or fish, as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with fillers, such as corn or wheat, as well as any artificial preservatives or colors.

Nutritional valuePuppies need a diet high in protein, fat, and other essential nutrients to support their growth and development. Look for foods that meet the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) guidelines for growth and reproduction.

Brand reputationResearch different brands and read reviews from other pet owners to get an idea of the quality of the food. Look for brands that have a good reputation for qualit…

Choosing the best puppy for you

Choosing your puppy

There are several factors to consider when choosing a puppy. Here are a few tips to help you make the best decision:

Consider your lifestyle and living situationMake sure you choose a breed that is well-suited to your lifestyle and living situation. For example, if you live in an apartment, you might want to choose a smaller breed that doesn’t require as much exercise.

Research the breedLearn as much as you can about the breed you are interested in to understand their characteristics, needs, and potential health issues. This will help you choose a puppy that is right for you.

Meet the puppy and the parentsIf possible, try to meet the puppy and the parents before making a decision. This will give you a good idea of the puppy’s temperament and potential size as an adult.

Visit the breederIf you are getting the puppy from a breeder, make sure to visit their facilities and meet the puppy’s parents. This will help you ensur…

House training a puppy

Basic steps for house training a puppy Establish a regular feeding schedule and take away food between meals. Take your puppy outside frequently, particularly after meals and naps, and after playing. Use a specific command, such as "go potty," to signal to your puppy that it's time to do its business. Praise your puppy when it goes potty outside. If you catch your puppy in the act of going potty inside, interrupt it with a loud noise and immediately take it outside. Clean up any accidents with an enzymatic cleaner to remove the smell, as dogs may be attracted to the scent and repeat the behavior. Be patient and consistent, as house training can take time and accidents will happen.

Note: It's important to remember that puppies have small bladders and will need to go potty frequently, especially when they are young. It's better to take them out more often than less often to avoid accidents.

Photo by Leoh…