How to Choose the Right Dog for You

Are you ready to choose the right dog for you? Bringing a new dog into your life is a major decision. First, make sure you are ready for a dog before you start the process. It is also essential that you understand the cost of dog ownership. If you have decided that the time is right, congratulations! Now it is time to figure out what type of dog is right for you. There are several factors to consider before you choose a dog. Most importantly, examine your current lifestyle and consider what adjustments you are willing to make for a dog. Look at the needs of your family – especially if you have children or other pets. People with allergies, or those who prefer low-shedding dogs, might want to look into hypoallergenic dog breeds. Next, think about the ideal size, energy level and age of your new dog. Just remember that getting a dog requires a firm commitment to responsible dog ownership. Here are some tips to help you choose the best dog for you and your family.

Why Do Beagles Howl?

Beagles howl because they are hunting dogs and do so as a reaction to certain stimuli or to express themselves. To explain it in the simplest way, beagles like to howl.
As hunting hounds, beagles howl in order to inform the hunting party about a successful hunt or kill. Beagles are easily distracted by other animals and sometimes may howl while chasing one, which is why they need to be kept in a fenced yard for exercise. However, as a pet, there could be a number of other reasons why beagles would go on howling, but it is mainly to express themselves or in order to catch other’s attention. It is also sometimes an expression of excitement and when they have discovered something of interest. Beagles may also howl because of stress, anxiety and boredom. Not all beagles may howl though.

Foods That Are Hazardous to Dogs

Most dogs love food, and they’re especially attracted to what they see us eating. While sharing the occasional tidbit with your dog is fine, it’s important to be aware that some foods can be very dangerous to dogs. Take caution to make sure your dog never gets access to the foods below. Even if you don’t give him table scraps, your dog might eat something that’s hazardous to his health if he raids kitchen counters, cupboards and trash cans. For advice on teaching your dog not to steal food, please see our article, Counter Surfing and Garbage Raiding.

Vaccination Recommendations for Puppies (Puppy Shots) Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc. Race Foster, DVM

                                                             ( Puppy Zoe)

The vaccination of puppies (puppy shots) is one of the crucial steps in assuring the puppy will have a healthy and happy puppyhood. The who, what, why, when, where, and how of vaccinations are complicated, and may vary from puppy to puppy. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine which vaccines are appropriate for your puppy. To better understand vaccines, it is important to understand how the puppy is protected from disease the first few weeks of its life.

10 tips that will make your groomer’s job a bit easier.

1. Prepare Your Dog Early

A groomer’s worst nightmare is having to cut a dog’s nails if the dog can’t stand being touched on the paws. That’s why it’s crucial to start getting your pet used to having those paws touched as early as possible.

The best time to start is when your dog is just a puppy and you don’t have to touch the paws for very long. The key is to make sure your pet is comfortable with the touch.