Select your new dog with your lifestyle and living situation in mind. In addition to your new family member's personality, consider its temperament, size, and coat as well. Some breeds have traits that may be objectionable in certain circumstances, such as hyper excitability or a tendency to bark. Your veterinarian is a valuable resource and should be consulted before you acquire a pet of any kind.
Breed Selection
There are two types of dogs--purebred and mixed breed. The 124 recognized breeds are grouped into seven categories: hound, working, terrier, toy, sporting, non-sporting, and herding. There are thousands of mixed-breed combinations. Each purebred or mixed-breed dog has a unique personality. Dogs originally bred for a specific purpose tend to retain these characteristics. These dogs may require additional training and patience. Selecting a specific breed does not guarantee a particular behavior, but choosing offspring from animals with desirable temperaments does increase one's chances of getting the best pet. Mixed breeds can be as beautiful, intelligent, loving, and companionable as purebreds.Veterinarians, breed-specific books (usually available at libraries and pet stores), and dog shows are excellent sources of information about individual breed characteristics and needs.
Friend or Protector?
Most dogs, even tiny ones, bark when strangers approach their home or yard. This bark is usually enough to deter intruders. A pet should not be trained as an attack dog. Attack-trained dogs require special handling and knowledge to prevent accidental injury to people, including members of your own family.
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Keep Your Pets Safe From Toxic Household Items
Category: Newsletter Library, Pet Dangers
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Preventing Obesity in Cats
Category: Newsletter Library, Cats
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Pet Dental Care - Tips to Manage Your Pet’s Oral Health
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Learn How to Master Walking Your Dog for Walk Your Pet Month
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Bringing a New Pet in the Home in the New Year
Category: Newsletter Library, Seasonal Topics
Are you planning on adding a pet to your family this year? These tips will help you prepare for the arrival of your furry, feathered, or finned friend.
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Cold Symptoms in Dogs
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Cold Weather Pet Safety
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Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays
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November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month
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How to Treat Common Injuries in Your Dog
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Safety Guidelines for Pet Costumes
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Anemia in Dogs
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How to Treat Common Paw Problems in Dogs
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Teaching Your Child to Care For Their First Pet
Category: Newsletter Library, Tips for Pet Owners
Is a new pet in your family's future? These tips will help your child learn pet care essentials.
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July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month
Category: Newsletter Library, Seasonal Topics
A lost pet is every pet owner's worst nightmare. These tips can help you keep your furry friend safe.
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Summer Paw Care For Hot Pavement and Exercise Outside
Category: Newsletter Library, Seasonal Topics