Care of Dogs

This care sheets contains basic information for the care of dogs. Please consult more detailed sources for additional information -- books, websites or your veterinarian.

Selecting Your Dog

Choose a dog suited to your lifestyle, environment and family. Consider the following:

LIFESTYLE - Do you enjoy outdoor activities? An active, energetic dog would be a good choice for you. If, however, you are the stay-at-home type, then you are looking for a small dog to provide you with companionship.

DOG SIZE- Remember the Fox Terrier-size dog is better for an apartment than a Great Dane, and while the average city lot provides sufficient room for a small Spaniel to exercise, it is not large enough for a very active Boxer or hunting dog.

YOUR BUDGET - Adding a dog to your family may cost more than you think and larger dogs are more costly. There are other considerations such as veterinary care and the cost of boarding your dog should you go on vacation.

FAMILY - Small children and very young puppies do not mix well. The toddler sees the puppy as an extra cuddly toy to be pushed and poked, and a puppy might nip in defense. In the end the child may grow up afraid of dogs or the puppy may mature into a nervous, irritable dog. An older pup, about 9-12 months of age, is much more suitable for a home with young children. Better still, wait until your child is old enough to properly handle a dog. Never leave an infant or young child alone with a dog.

A Dog's Requirements

Besides shelter, food, fresh water, and medical care, your dog's basic necessities include grooming, companionship, and plenty of exercise -- at least 2 walks a day.

Housing

Dogs will be most happy living and sleeping inside your home with your family. They should have a set place to call their own. If you prefer an outdoor kennel, it should be weather and draft-proof, situated in a dry and sunny spot, be raised off the ground, contain plenty of clean, dry bedding, and have walls and floors insulated against heat and cold. Dogs are social animals and desire contact with others -- be they people or other dogs. If you have an outdoor dog be sure to bring your dog into your house daily for social interaction with his "pack" (you and your family) and include him in as many other social activities as possible or he will soon lose the ability to exhibit controlled, social behaviour around people.

The BC SPCA strongly opposes the indiscriminate chaining or tethering of dogs without due regard to the animal's physical and psychological well-being. If a dog must be tethered because the animal is aggressive it should only be tethered temporarily while positive training methods are used so that the dog becomes socialized. The dog must have free access to fresh food, water and a warm and dry shelter. In addition, the dog should be exercised for at least two hours in every twenty-four.

Feeding Your Puppy

As the new guardian of a puppy, you should make sure the pup is completely weaned before you take him home. Start by feeding the same solid food the puppy is used to. If you wish to change dog food brands, do it later when the puppy is settled and change the food gradually as to not upset their stomach.

If you have puppies at home, start to wean them at five weeks of age by placing a shallow pan containing half condensed milk, half warm water into the puppies' box. See that the mother is kept from the pups for most of each day so they will be sure to try the milk in the pan. Feed five times a day and start adding rice pablum after four or five days. In a week you can soak commercial puppy food into the mixture until it is soft and decrease the amount of milk and frequency of feeding to three times daily.

Older puppies and adult dogs don't require milk: Completely weaned puppies should be fed a high quality puppy food - usually a dry food supplement with some canned food. Feed small portions three times daily, the last meal early in the evening to reduce "accidents" in the house at night. Leave the food down for 15 minutes then remove the uneaten portion. Do not give snacks even if the pup doesn't eat at meal time. At six months of age feed twice daily and at nine months once daily, usually in the evening with possibly a light snack in the morning. Table foods should never be more than 15% of the dog's total diet.

Feeding Your Adult Dog

Feed your full grown dog once daily, preferably in the evening. Larger or very active dogs may need a snack in the morning, but avoid overfeeding. Many North American dogs have something in common - Obesity! Obesity greatly increases the risk of: heart disease, arthritis, back problems, and cancer. As your dog ages and becomes less active switch to a low calorie dog food.

Water

All animals require a constant supply of fresh water. Water should be changed often, at least at all feeding times. For outdoor dogs water dishes should be fixed so they don't spill if knocked over. In cold weather be sure the water is ice free.

Training

All dogs need at least some basic training for the safety of the dog and other people. A well trained dog will be a pleasure to be around. Basic training should begin at six to eight weeks of age. It is best to refer to a dog training book or enroll in "Puppy Kindergarten" classes.

Be patient and consistent in the training of your puppy. There are many schools of thought for how to train dogs, however, striking an animal is never an acceptable method of training. Voice intonation, tugs with the leash and a can with small rocks that makes a loud noise when shaken are key instruments to training.

Begin with house training, leash walking, sit, stay and come. Training your dog to a flat collar and leash is of utmost importance. If your dog is having difficulty learning we recommend using a Halti, gentle leader or harness. Not only is it the law in most areas that a dog be leash controlled, but it could prevent your dog from being hit by a car, poisoned, injured in a dog fight, stolen, impounded or lost. Remember too, that picking up after your dog is part of being a responsible dog guardian.

Identification

Provide your dog with a tag inscribed with your phone number and when your pet reaches six months of age, he should be tattooed or micro-chipped. A tattoos and microchips provide permanent identification and cannot fall off or be misplaced but must be updated if you move. The tattoo can be applied while the animal is under anaesthetic for the spay/neuter operation. Ask your local SPCA shelter or veterinarian for details.

Medical Care

Have your puppy or dog vaccinated regularly. Thousands of dogs die each year from one disease alone - parvo virus. Prevention is the only way to fight this fatal disease.

Start your pup's vaccinations at six to eight weeks of age. For adequate immunity, boosters must be given at twelve and sixteen weeks. Thereafter, a booster once a year is necessary.

Due to the increased incidence of rabies, all dogs should be vaccinated for this as well. (See the rabies information from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.)

If your dog becomes ill phone your veterinarian. Your veterinarian is often the best person to ask about nutrition, parasite control and animal husbandry in addition to medical questions.

Stop Unwanted Pets

Dogs should be spayed/neutered around six months of age. Not only will this procedure ensure that your pet remains more healthy and less likely to wander, it will also prevent the birth of unwanted pets. There are not enough homes for them for all the animals born each year. Make sure that your dog does not add to the population explosion.

Affenpinschers

Affenpinschers are the smallest of the pinschers and schnauzers. They are a well balanced, little, wiry-haired terrier-like toy dog whose intelligence and demeanor make them a good house pet. A comical face earned them their name. In Germany the name means "monkey-like terrier." In France the Affenpinscher is described as the "diablotin moustachu" or the "moustached little devil." Extremely intelligent and affection with people their naturally scruffy-looks makes them appealing

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aristocrat, his whole appearance is one of dignity and aloofness with no coarseness. His striking characteristics are his exotic expression, long silky topknot, peculiar coat pattern and prominent hipbones. His elegance makes him a glamorous popular show dog. There is a side which is an arrogant mischievous companion. He is also has been recently utilized in the sport of Afghan racing.

Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is known as the "king of terriers." He excels in agility, eyesight, hearing and has untiring courage. He has a sweet disposition, but may be aloof with strangers. He has excelled in being a hunter for foxes, badgers, weasels, otters, water rats and ducks. The Airedale Terrier makes a good jogging partner because of his athletic physique. His owner should be strong and confident who can combines firm discipline with patience and precision. Good with older children he makes a loyal family pet. Not an ideal apartment dogs, he should have a fenced yard.

Akbash

The Akbash is the counterpart of the French Great Pyrenees, the Hungarian Kuvasz, the Italian Maremma and other white sheep guarding breeds. The Akbash Dog is lean and muscular with an elegant, racy appearance. He has been bred as a guardian dog who's primary function is to protect sheep from predators. His characteristics are a combination of the Mastiff and Gazehound.

Akita

The Akita is large, powerful, alert, with much substance and heavy bone. He has a deep muzzle, small eyes and erect ears, and a large curled tail. Renown for his fierce love, loyalty and obedience to his owner. He is the largest of the Japanese Spitz-type breeds. Akitas have webbed feet and are very strong swimmers. Akitas need space and should not be confined.

Alapha Blue Blood Bulldog

The Alapha Blue Blood Bulldog is a very sturdy muscular dog who is known for his protectiveness of his family. He makes an excellent companion and watchdog. Square and powerfully built, agile and athletic for size. He should give impression of nobility with his alertness.

Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small version of the Alaskan Husky with a wedge-shaped head featuring a striking masked face, prick ears, and a double coat. The length of body is just slightly longer than the height. The tail is well-furred and curls over the back or to either side when the dog is alert or moving. The appearance of the Alaskan Klee Kai reflects the breed's Northern heritage.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful, substantially built dog with a deep chest and strong, compact body. He is the oldest of the Arctic dogs, a native to Alaska. Malamutes are family oriented and love to be with people. He makes a wonderful companion and does well which children. He is well suited for colder climates, but he does not like hot, humid weather. An Alaskan Malamute is happiest drawing a sled or a wheeled cart.

American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a powerful, athletic short-coated dog, strongly muscled, and well boned. The American Bulldog generates the impression of great strength, endurance and exhibits a well-knit, sturdy compact frame. The American Bulldog should be evaluated as a working dog, and exaggerations or faults should be penalized in proportion to how much they interfere with the dog's ability to work.

American Eskimo

The American Eskimo is a descendant from the German Spitz. His face, coat and lush tail are Spitz-type. He has a pointed muzzle and erect ears. Nicknamed the "Eskie" he has been bred to be a house dog, companion and watch dog. He is wonderful with his human family including children, as long as he is near his family he is content. He enjoys cold weather better than warm. Known to clean their faces like cats they are easier to maintain then you may think as their coat easily repels dirt, they have no doggie odor and they are very clean.

American Foxhound

Distinguished from his English cousins by his finer bones, more leg length and more angulated hindquarters. The American Foxhound was not bred to be a family pet, but if he is well socialized as a young pup he will adapt to family life. He has a tendency to want to roam, but will adapt to his environment if properly cared for. Favored as a hunting dog he has a keen nose and a remarkable talent to instinctively bark on the fox's trail. He is exceptionally athletic and is very willing to work.

American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier is classed by the AKC as the American Staffordshire Terrier, but as the American Pit Bull Terrier by the UKC. Known for their intelligence and loyalty the American Pit Bull Terrier makes an excellent, loving and protective companion despite the unfair press he receives. Choose from a responsible breeder and make sure the puppy is properly socialized and handled. A minimum of training will produce a tranquil, good, obedient, companion dog.

American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier is stoic and reliable. Powerful looking, well-protective instinct should make strangers beware, yet with his own family he is devoted, gentle and loving. He should never be confused with the Pit Bull Terrier. He is courageous and a tenacious fighter if provoked. Training can be a challenge because of his pushy yet sensitive character. His natural temperament towards people is gentle and loving, unfortunately some have been improperly handled giving the American Staffordshire Terrier a bad rap.

American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel was developed as an all-around hunting dog, bred to retrieve from skiff or canoes he was sometimes referred to as the "Skiff dog". He is an active muscular dog, medium in size with a curly coat which has oil coating that makes him water resistant. Primarily a hunting dog, the American Water Spaniel also makes a ideal family pet who will interact well with the entire family. He still thinks of himself as a water dog and hunting comes natural to him. He can be a barker.

Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is known for their large, strong frame and their courage. Steady and bold, but never aggressive they should be loyal, independent and hardy. At one time they were once used to hunt wolves but today in the United States they are used as hunting, military and sheepdogs. Similar in looks to the Great Pyrenees, he has a tighter frame and is more agile.

Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog also known as the Heeler, is a tough, hard working dog who can cover immense distances. A one-person dog he is rather aloof with strangers. To his owner he is eternally loyal, gentle, alert and can easily be trained. Puppies are born all-white with coat coloring appearing a few weeks after birth.

Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie is extremely agile and light footed, capable of a lightening start and a quick dead stop. He is an outstanding shepherd dog with strong natural herding and guarding instincts. A loyal companion with an inexhaustible supply of energy and devoted to his duty. He is considered the best performing medium-sized sheepdog which has made him a favorite of sheep farmers worldwide.

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is an attractive long-haired breed with a bobtail and striking, varied, coat coloration. Each dogs coat and eye color are highly variable, it is not uncommon to have a dog with one blue eye or one that is half blue and half brown. This does not affect their vision or their standings in the show ring. He has strong herding and sheep guarding instincts and has been known to performs well in areas such as search and rescue. He is reserved with strangers, but is a dependable, tireless worker who is devoted to his owner. An attentive and animated dog who is strong and agile with great stamina the Australian Shepherd will make a great family pet.

Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier is affectionately known at the "Aussie". He is one of the few non-English terriers. Created by Australian setters he is the smallest of the working terriers. He has boundless, playful energy and is a very loyal and affectionate companion for his immediate family. He adapts well to all living conditions and climates. Because of his quite and affectionate nature he makes a great companion for children, elderly or the handicapped.

'B' DOG BREEDS

Basenji

The Basenji is a handsome, muscular dog, who is also known as the African Barkless Dog. He should not bark, but is not mute. His repertoire of sounds range from a pleasing throaty crow to a keening wail made when he is lonely or unhappy. One of the oldest breeds of dogs he is native to Africa where he is used to assist beaters in flushing game which is then driven into nets strung up against trees. His name means "wild and violent" in Swahili. The Basenji will make a good pet as long as he is handled on a regular basis from an early age.

Basset Hound

Known as the "Hush Puppy" dog he has the head of a bloodhound and the body of a dachshund. The Basset Hound is a short-legged dog, heavier in bone, size considered, than any other breed of dog. Movement is humorous looking and slow, but not clumsy. He is mild, never sharp or timid in manner but sometimes can be stubborn. He also can be vocal at times with his charming deep, sonorous bark. A lovely and amusing household pet for people with a good sense of humor. The Basset Hound is essentially a hunting dog with strong natural instincts and will power. Absolutely obedient and devoted to his master, he makes a wonderful family companion.

Beagle

The Beagle has soft brown eyes that betray his warm personality but do not reveal his admirable courage and stamina. A truly trustworthy friend can be found in him and he makes a great family pet as he is eager to romp and play. A good watchdog he can be trained to hunt. Known as the "singing Beagle," he has a sweet hunting voice, but it left alone may howl. Training will alleviate this problem. He will adapt well to a home or kennel environment, but new owners should be aware of natural hunting instincts and he should not be left alone for long periods of time.

Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie is a hardy active dog, with an aura of strength and agility characteristic of a real working dog. He is stable and self-confident, showing no signs of shyness or aggression. He has a high level of intelligence and resourcefulness and owners must keep him busy or he will invent things to keep himself occupied. A good family dog, his natural instincts of guarding the flock will translate to guarding his family.

Beauceron

A French herding breed known for centuries in western Europe, his ancestry may be part of the Doberman. He is used as a herder and guard dog. He is distinguished by his long tail and double dewclaws. Consider the world's most versatile working dog.

Bedlington Terrier

In full show trim the looks more like a shorn lamb than a dog. He is a rather quiet dog suitable for family life, easy to train and usually adores children. He makes a loyal companion who is affectionate and able to adapt to every mood of his owner. A true terrier he is lovable, full of fun, and a terror when its temper is provoked.

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois a very intelligent, lively breed who excels in an active family environment. He is identical to the Belgian Sheepdog and the Belgian Tervueren except his coat is short and mahogany in coloring. The Belgian Malinois is a no-nonsense dog who must be taken seriously by his owner. It is recommended an owner be an experience dog person.

Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog is also known by the name "Groenendael." He is the most popular of the Belgian Shepherd Dogs which consist of the "Belgian Tervueren", "Belgian Malinois," "Belgian Sheepdog" and "Laekenois." A truly well-rounded dog who can captivate your heart by being a gentle, devoted companion willing to give all to the ones he love.

Belgian Tervueren

One of the four breeds of the Belgian Shepherds. The Belgian Tervueren is a well balanced medium size dog, elegant in appearance, standing squarely on all fours. A picture of power and grace. He is intelligent, courageous, alert and devoted to his master. He excels in an active family environment, but also is a wonderful working dog whether in obedience, herding, agility or tracking. He will adapt to both urban or a country environment as long as he has space to exercise.

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a striking, tri-colored, large dog who thrives in cold weather. Because of his heavy coat he does not do well in very hot or humid climates. A sweet character in nature he is an outgoing, affectionate dog who loves children and is very loyal to his family. He is a one-owner dog and may find it difficult to adjust to a new owner if introduced after 18 months of age.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small, sturdy, white powder puff of a dog whose merry temperament is evident by his plumed tail carried jauntily over his back. He loves to be the center of attention and is always eager to please. He makes a delightful and amusing companion. Gentle-mannered, sensitive, very playful and affectionate the Bichon is good with children and other pets.

Black and Tan Coonhound

Vary in coloring, there are many similarities among the six types of Coonhounds; the Black and Tan Coonhound, the Blue Tick Coonhound, the English Coonhound, the Plott Hound, the Redbone Coonhound and the Treeing Walker. Used for trailing and treeing raccoon, he runs his game entirely by scent. He does have a tendency to stray and needs to be closely supervised.

Black Russian Terrier

The Black Russian Terrier is a large to massive dog who's black hair has a distinctive "fall" and a "beard" on head. He needs to be part of the family as he is a breed that will seek intense contact with humans. They want to please their owner, so will try anything you ask them! The Black Russian Terrier is considered a jack of all trades of dog-dom. Able to do almost anything: protection, herding, skijorring, obedience, tracking, sled dog, agility and show dog.

Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a powerful dog that stands over more ground than is usual with hounds of other breeds. He skin is thin to the touch and extremely lose. He is powerful, yet graceful. The Bloodhound is good with children and other animals with his gentle nature. He has a tenancy to drool, but is otherwise a very clean dog. He has an outstanding ability as a scent hound, superior to other hound, which has made him very useful in police investigations.

Border Collie

The Border Collie is a highly intelligent, hard-working dog that responds quickly and eagerly to training. He is the world's premiere sheepdog unsurpassed as a sheepdog in terms of patience, agility and stamina. He thrives on games and is willing to please. The Border Collie is even tempered, but he needs constant physical and mental activity for a well balanced dog. Excels in obedience competitions. He is very agile, and has a well proportioned body of lean muscle. He can spend hours stalking sheep, cattle, goats, ducks, chickens, large ants or anything that congregates into a herd or flock. If he has insufficient activity he will find work to do which could be herding your children.

Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is small spunky terrier with a coarse, wiry double coat. He has dark lively eyes, a short muzzle, black nose and small ears, which fold forward into a "V" shape. The jaw should meet in a scissors bite. The tail is relatively short and tapers from a thicker base to the tip. It is carried level with the back unless the dog is very excited. Its limbs are not heavily boned. The Border Terrier comes in red, blue & tan, tan, and grizzle & tan. White on the feet is not allowed, but small patches of white are permissible on the chest.

Borzois

The Borzois are gentle, well-mannered dogs who have grace and beauty, yet they enjoy having fun and racing games. Known as the Russian Wolfhound he is a tall, elegant dog who's body is designed for speed. Borzois are affectionate with their owners and tolerant of other dogs. Puppies grow rapidly and should not be overworked until fully mature which is one year of age.

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier was developed to be a companion and watchdog. He is easy to care for, small in size and has a delightful disposition, he is a odor free dog who rarely sheds. Loves to go for walks or rides in the car, he is one of the most popular breeds in the United States because of his affection nature. The Boston Terrier is a compact, well-muscled dog, his head should be in proportion to his size. A joy to have around, he can sometimes be determined and self willed.

Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a powerfully built, compact, rough-coated dog of rugged appearance. He is agile, spirited and bold with a calm and steady manner. The Bouvier is easy going but aloof, he can sometimes be serious or moody. His herding instincts will keep him close to home. Used in police work and helping the blind, he loves the company of people.

Boxer

The Boxer is a medium-sized, square built dog of good substance with short back, strong limbs, and short, tight-fitting coat. He should have a broad, blunt muzzle and an expression of alertness. He should have a fenced yard to roam in, but will do in a city environment if walked daily. The Boxer is considered a "people dog" adapting well to other dogs and children. He should never be aggressive, but rather even-tempered, but does make a good guard dog.

Briard

The Briard a big-hearted, gentle loving dog, the Briard is totally devoted and loyal to his owners and will guard him with his life. Intelligent and easy to train, the Briard makes and a wonderful family pet and excellent watchdog. His herding instincts are strong and it would be wise to give him plenty of space.

Briquet Griffon Vendeen

The Briquet Griffon Vendeen has a short head and low-set ears, a dense, bushy double coat, in solid or mixed colors. He is a hardy, well constructed hunting dog who is also known to be very independent and unruly and very hot to pursue and kill prey. Capable of rousing all kinds of game over a variety of terrain such as sandy, hilly or even flooded.

Brittany Spaniel

The Brittany (or Brittany Spaniel) is a compact, closely knit dog of medium size, leggy in appearance. He is strong, vigorous, energetic and has quick movement. He can be tail-less or have his tail docked to approximately four inches. The Brittany's first love is birds then people. He makes an excellent pointing bird dog because of his keen sense of smell. He is the only spaniel that points to game. Agreeable with children and other pets. Should not be rough-housed with.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon who is also known as the Griffon Bruxellois, is a toy dog who is intelligent, alert, and has a terrier like disposition. He attracts attention by his almost humanlike, quizzical expressions. There are two types of coat rough or smooth both making a fine companion.

Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier when properly trained tends to be friendly and have a good temperament. Known for his sense of humor he is an outgoing dog with a dominant nature who needs firm handling by his owner. A tenacious fighter, he is most often dog-aggressive and has a high prey drive towards small animals such as cats.

Bulldog

Known as the national symbol of Great Britain. The characteristics of a perfect Bulldog are medium size, smooth coat, heavy, thick-set, low-swung body, massive short-faced head, wide shoulders and sturdy limbs. An ideal pet as he loves to be in the company of his family. He adores children and make an excellent companion to them because of his gentle, sometimes stubborn nature. He is a laid-back, loyal good natured and undemanding companion who would make a great companion for the elderly who do not want to feel guilty for not walking him or the "couch potato" family. Contrary to popular belief he does not drool, but he may snore.

Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff shows great strength, endurance and alertness. He is a natural guardian of the home and will not back down from a fight. To strangers he is rather standoffish, but he is loving toward his owner and is normally very gentle, cheerful and calm. He makes a devoted, gentle companion. He is also known as the "gamekeeper's dog" because he was breed to accompany gamekeepers for the ability to track and overpower a poacher.

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