Dog Ownership Archives - Getapuppy.ca

Taking Your Puppy to the Dog Park? What New Puppy Owners Need to Know.

Dog parks in big cities can be exciting places for your new puppy, but for first-time owners, they can also feel a little overwhelming. It’s important to know what to expect and how to ensure a positive experience for both you and your puppy.

Photo by Tommy Nguyen

Here’s a helpful guide to make your trips to the park a success:

1. Choose the Right Park

Not all dog parks are created equal, and some may not be the best fit for your puppy. Look for parks with designated areas for small or young dogs. This way, your puppy can safely socialize without being overwhelmed by larger, more rambunctious dogs.

Tip: Use apps or local social media groups to find dog parks that cater specifically to puppies or have a good reputation for cleanliness and safety.

2. Observe Before You Enter

Before heading straight into th…

Should you get a puppy?

A Guide to Picking the Perfect Pup for Canadian Living

So, you're considering bringing a new four-legged friend into your life, but you're not quite sure where to start? Fear not, because we're here to help you navigate the exciting world of puppy ownership, especially for Canadian living.

Whether you're a single urban dweller, a cozy couple, or a bustling family, we've got tips and advice that cater to your unique needs.

1. Climate Considerations Across Canada

Photo by Nathaniel Bowman

Embracing the Mild Beauty of British Columbia

Canada boasts a vast and diverse landscape, which means climate considerations play a crucial role when deciding to get a puppy. In the picturesque province of British Columbia, where the majority of the population resides, you can enjoy mild winters and warm summers.

Breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Border Collie, or Shiba Inu are perfect companions fo…

What is the most popular dog in Toronto?

The city of Toronto has evolved and grown in population remarkably in the past several years. As dog ownership trends evolve and the city's grows, the popularity of certain dogs breeds also fluctuates.

In this post we'll take a look at the most popular dog breeds in Toronto over the past five years.

1. Labrador Retriever

Photo by Torsten Dederichs

For decades, the Labrador Retriever has reigned as one of the most beloved dog breeds in Toronto. Their friendly demeanour, intelligence, and versatility have made them a top choice for families, singles, and seniors alike. Whether it's a Yellow, Black, or Chocolate Lab, these dogs continue to charm their way into our lives.

View Labrador Retriever for sale 2. French Bulldog

Photo by Karsten Winegeart

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The Essential Guide to Healthy Foods for Your New Puppy

A well-rounded diet not only supports their growth and development but also sets the foundation for a healthy and happy life. Here are the best healthy foods to feed your new puppy to give them the best possible start: High-Quality Puppy Food

Choosing a high-quality commercial puppy food is the first step in providing proper nutrition for your little companion. Look for puppy-specific formulas, as they are specifically designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of growing puppies. Check the label for these ingredients:

Real meat (chicken, lamb, or fish) Whole grains Essential vitamins and minerals Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or fillers. Protein-Packed Meals

Proteins are the building blocks of life and are crucial for a puppy's muscle and tissue development. Look for puppy foods with a minimum of 25% protein content containing:

Chicken Turkey Beef Fish Healthy …

The Cost of Owning a Dog in Canada in 2023: A Guide to Monthly and Yearly Expenses

Owning a dog can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to understand the costs involved before bringing one into your home.

In Canada, the monthly and yearly costs of owning a dog can vary depending on a number of factors, including breed, size, and age. In this blog post, we'll break down the typical expenses associated with owning a dog in Canada.

Photo by Ayla Verschueren

Monthly Expenses

Food One of the biggest monthly expenses associated with owning a dog is food. The cost of dog food can vary widely depending on the brand and type of food you choose. On average, you can expect to spend between $50 and $100 per month on food for a medium-sized dog.

If you choose to feed your dog a premium brand of food or if your dog has specific dietary needs, the cost could be higher.

GroomingDepending on the breed of your dog, you may need to budget for regular grooming appointments. …

Winter Care for Puppies: Essential Tips

Winter Care for Puppies

Winter can be a challenging time for puppies, especially those who are still getting used to their new surroundings. However, with a little preparation and proper care, you can keep your furry friend happy and healthy throughout the winter months. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Keep them warm

Puppies have a harder time regulating their body temperature than adult dogs, so it's important to keep them warm during the winter months. Consider investing in a warm dog coat or sweater to keep your puppy snug when you're outside.

Watch for signs of hypothermia

If your puppy is shivering, lethargic, or has a decreased appetite, they may be suffering from hypothermia. If you suspect your puppy is suffering from hypothermia, take them to the vet immediately.

Be careful on icy surfaces

Puppies can easily slip and fall on ice, so be careful when walking your dog on icy surfaces. You may want to consider …

Benefits of training a puppy at an early age

Training a puppy at an early age is important for both you and your furry friend. Not only does it help build a strong bond between you, but it also lays the foundation for good behaviour in the future. Some of the benefits of early training include:

Establishing good habits

The younger a puppy is, the easier it is for them to learn and adopt new habits. By starting training early, you can help ensure that your puppy grows into a well-behaved adult dog.

Preventing behavioural problems

By teaching your puppy proper behaviour early on, you can prevent many common behavioural problems, such as chewing, jumping, and barking.

Improving communication

Training helps you better understand your puppy and how to communicate with them effectively. This can make training more enjoyable and increase the chances of success.

Building confidence

Training helps puppies develop confidence and self-esteem, which can help prevent shyness and fearful…

Why you should own a dog

Why own a dog

Dogs have been called "man's best friend" for a reason. They are loyal, loving, and make great companions. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider owning a dog:

Dogs are great for your mental and physical healthOwning a dog can decrease stress, anxiety, and depression. It also encourages you to be active by providing a reason to go for walks, runs, or play outside.

Dogs are great for childrenChildren who grow up with dogs tend to have better social skills and are more empathetic. They also learn responsibility by helping to take care of their furry friend.

Dogs provide a sense of securityA dog's bark can deter burglars and they can also alert you to potential dangers.

Dogs are great for people who live aloneThey provide companionship and can help you feel less lonely.

Dogs can be trained to do many useful things Such as assisting those with disabilities, helping people with mental health issues, providi…