8 Qa's on Caring for Dogs ...

A: Your dog could have fleas. If you don’t notice any signs of fleas, then he might be having an allergic reaction to something. Some foods cause allergic reactions in dogs as well as certain types of material. Try changing his bedding to see if this helps. If not, then you might want to purchase dog food that doesn’t contain wheat or corn. These two food products tend to be the main culprits in causing itchy skin in dogs with food allergies.

A: Unless your dog is known for rolling in the mud or in cow pies on a regular basis, then there’s no reason to have to bathe him each week. Too much bathing can actually dry out his skin and cause it to become irritated. Each breed of dog is different as well. Some breeds don’t require bathing at all and benefit from regular brushing instead.

A: The most common vaccination schedule that is followed involves shots given at 6, 9, 12, and 15 weeks of age. A combination vaccine is given at 6 and 9 weeks of age with a rabies shot given at 12 weeks of age. Once your puppy has reached 12 weeks, another combination vaccine is given. This same combo vaccine is recommended at 15 weeks of age as well. After 15 weeks old, your puppy should continue to get vaccinated the same time each year.

A: The type of kibble you choose to feed your dog will depend on a few different factors. There are blends made especially for puppies, senior dogs, canines with known allergies, and dogs with special needs. Choose a blend that is rich in vitamins and minerals and that your dog seems to like as well. If you notice any physical side effects, try changing the type of dog food you offer your pet. Sometimes dogs prefer certain brands over others and some canine companions are merely picky eaters and will eat specific chunks of kibble while leaving the rest to set in the bowl.

A: Usually a yearly check-up is all that is required for dogs. If you notice any unusual behavior, then you might want to schedule an appointment with your local vet, even if it isn’t time for your dog’s check-up. A yearly examination is generally performed when you take your dog to the vet for his annual vaccination.

A: You might be able to get away with allowing your dog to eat whenever he wants, but most dogs will empty their bowl completely, whether they are hungry or not. It is recommended that you measure out the allotted amount of food for your dog and place only this amount in his bowl. The amount of kibble recommended for your dog’s weight is shown on the side of the dog food bag. Check to see if the measurement listed is to be fed twice a day or if it is for an entire day. It is very easy to overfeed or underfeed your dog by not reading the fine print.

A: Senility, liver disease, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and joint or bone disease are just some of the problems elderly dogs are faced with. Some breeds of dog are more prone to certain physical issues than other breeds are. For instance, large working breeds tend to have more problems with their hips than smaller dogs do. Most of these health issues are able to be managed with care and sometimes medication from your veterinarian.

A: As long as your dog doesn’t appear to be overweight, he is probably getting enough exercise. Certain breeds of dog tend to be a lot more physically active than others, such as Labrador Retrievers. These dogs will benefit from lots of play time, but not so much for their physical fitness as for their mental stability. Bored dogs tend to become avid chewers of things they shouldn’t be consuming, such as shoes, furniture, and wooden items around the house.

The 8 Q&A’s on caring for dogs that are mentioned above are only a handful of the more common ones. Taking proper care of your dog will enable him to live a long and happy life with you. If you notice your dog not acting in a normal manner or if he won’t eat his food, then it is best to notify your veterinarian right away. What are some of the frequently asked questions that you’ve come across and had answers for?