By: John Askeland
If you never had a dog before, then there are several things to think about before you get one. The first thing to be concerned about is that the moment you get the puppy, you replace his mother, and should act like her in all situations. She is the puppy's first leader, and you will be the next. When you bring your puppy home, give him a bed and some warm milk. If he cries at night, take him near you and comfort him so he feels safe. Don't let the children overplay him; he needs as much rest as any baby.
Feeding. Meals should be given at a regular time. Under six months, the puppy should be fed three or four times a day. Meat is very important in any dog's diet and should be fed at least once a day. Cereal, dog meal, milk, clear soup, cooked vegetables, eggs, and a small amount of fat will keep the dog healthy. A large beef bone will not hurt the animal if the bone does not splinter. A six-month-old puppy should be fed two meals a day. A year old dog should be fed once a day at night. If desired he can also have a small morning meal. Do not feed thick soups and stews which may cause vomiting; a dog throw up easily.
Housebreaking. It's entirely up to you to accept what you will allow the puppy to do in the house, but all puppies should have some rules to follow; it's necessary for the puppy; and it's necessary for you. A popular method to teach the dog manners is to spread newspapers around his bed. Put the dog on the paper at regular intervals and whenever you see him sniffing around. When the puppy uses the paper, praise and pat him. He will soon learn what is expected of him. Personally, I skip this and go to the next step right away, as I believe that it's easier to teach him the right manner as early as possible. The next job is to train the dog to do these duties outside. Get the puppy out of the house the first thing in the morning and again right after his meals. Take him to the same place each time and let his nose be the guide. Don't forget to praise him when he does the right thing. If the puppy insists on having bad manners in the house, grab him over the neck immediately and say "NO" with a deep voice and let him subject himself, this usually will bring him around.
Training and Tricks. The dog will never learn our language, but he can be taught to perceive words as signals. The most important words are "Yes" and "No", and some use "Good" to encourage the dog. Never use other words than these to start with. At eight months, the important commands "come", "sit", and "heel" can be taught. The puppy tries to learn and is anxious to please, but tires easily. By firm and gentle methods, with lot of praise and rewards, the dog will learn to obey a number of commands. Never punish the dog when he disobeys a command while training. And remember, the dog does not understand the words, it's only signals, so it's important how you use them, and be precise in the way you use them.
Exercise. The dog must have lots of exercise. A city dog may get his exercise in the home, but see that he also gets fresh air and sunshine.
Grooming. A comb and brush will keep the dog's coat smooth and shiny. Short-haired dogs should not be bathed more than twice a month; long-haired dogs only once a month. After the bath, rinse and dry the dog well. Nails should be trimmed if the dog does not get much exercise. Matted hair should be removed, and in hot weather heavy-coated dogs may be clipped.
Ailments. Watch the dog's eyes as an indicator of his general health. Loss of pep and appetite usually means a sick dog that should be taken to the veterinarian. Irritated eyes can be washed with boric acid solution. Ears can be washed with swabs, but go no deeper than you can see. Ear cankers should be treated by the veterinarian.
Distemper is a virus disease that is often fatal to young dogs. It can be prevented with a lifetime vaccination. Rabies is a serious disease that also can affect man. A dog should be vaccinated each year. Several kinds of worms afflict dogs. Worming is best done by the veterinarian who know the proper drugs. Emergency first aid can be given by the owner until an injured dog can be taken to the veterinarian.
