Behavioural training
Good training plays a big role in ensuring a happy and successful
relationship with your dog. Your new best friend wants to please you, so it
is more effective to lavish praise and reward good behaviour than to punish
bad behaviour. Undesirable behaviour that does occur must be corrected at
the instant it happens with a loud, gruff, 'NO'. The key is gentle
guidance,
consistency, and
consideration for a dog's fragile spirit.
Grooming
Regular grooming is a must to keep your dog looking and feeling
its best. The
breed of your dog will determine the amount of time
you will need to spend grooming. Long-haired breeds will probably need
brushing every day, and short-haired breeds only once a week. Your dog
should become accustomed to being combed and brushed as this will
allow you to regularly check your four-legged friend for
fleas,
ticks or any other potential problem. Regular
grooming, with particular attention to problem
areas such as
ears and
body folds, will help
maintain a
healthy coat.
Bathing is another very important part of looking after your
dog – bathing your dog with a
medicated shampoo will remove
excess dirt and promote
healthy skin.
Microchip identification
Lost dogs are an unfortunate part of life, but there are things you can do
to ensure your canine is returned to you as quickly as possible.
Microchips implanted under a dog's skin are now quite common and
used like barcodes as a means of permanent identification.
In some areas, microchips are compulsory so talk to your vet about your
obligations as a dog owner.
It is also important for your dog to wear a lightweight collar with an
identification tag attached. This will be invaluable should your dog
become lost. You will also need to attach a registration tag available
from your local council.
Travelling with your dog
Many families like to take their pets with them on outings or
holidays.
It is important that your dog enjoys travel and learns there are certain
restrictions required for the safety of people and pets.
Remember – all animals must be restrained when travelling in cars and
NEVER leave your dog unattended in the car. Even on cool days, cars can
become extremely hot which can be fatal to your dog.