Doggy Don’ts
1. They’re not hands-on. Dogs need lots of handling throughout their lives. They’ll be visiting the veterinarian — at least I hope so! — and maybe seeing a groomer. They’ll meet kids, neighbors, and strangers who may want to pet them — with permission, of course. They need to have their teeth brushed and their nails trimmed, and they will likely need to take pills or other types of medication. The best thing you can do to prepare your dog for all of this necessary attention is to get him used to have all parts of his body handled. He should be willing to let you touch him anywhere, including his paws and more private areas.
This is an easy thing to practice every day. While he’s lying next to you or on your lap as you watch television, handle his paws, grasping them firmly but kindly. Look inside his ears or give them a sniff. Lift up his tail and check out his behind. Stroke his belly and give the groin area a going-over. Lift his lips and look at his teeth. You get the idea. This is also a way for you to learn what’s normal so you can monitor his body condition and catch problems early.
Start brushing his teeth on day one. The earlier he’s accustomed to it, the more accepting he’ll be of it as a normal part of his life. Same with trimming his nails. Do one or two nails a day, just barely shaving off the edge. Be careful not to “quick” him.
To get him used to take medication, pinch off bits of Pill Pockets or cheese and give as treats. When he needs to have one with a pill tucked inside, he’ll usually accept it eagerly.
2. They don’t measure food. Of course, it’s important for puppies to grow, but we don’t want them to grow too much or too fast. That can put undue pressure on their still-forming musculoskeletal structure, which can lead to orthopedic problems later in life.
Talk to your veterinarian about the best type of food for your dog. Growing large breeds can benefit from diets that permit slow but steady growth, while small dogs tend to need energy-dense foods. In either case, it’s important to measure your dog’s food and give it at specific times rather than free feeding (leaving food out all the time). This helps to ensure that he doesn’t eat too much and become overweight.
3. They don’t use food puzzles. I tell people to throw out their dog’s food dish. Instead, exercise his brain and body by feeding him using a food puzzle or food-dispensing device. Measure out the appropriate amount of food, place it in the toy and watch him “hunt” for his meals by pushing or otherwise manipulating it to get the food out. This is a great way to keep him busy while you’re at work and to make sure he gets some physical activity and mental stimulation.
This article was originally posted here.