Although we gain much pleasure, companionship and often comfort from this extension to our family, we much realize the need to care for our pets responsibly.

CHOOSING YOUR PUPPY: Check out our breed guides for information on particular breeds, their temperaments and what special requirements they have. Think about your present and future situation. Remember that your pet will be a companion for up to 15 years in some cases. Whatever your reasons for wanting a puppy, remember puppies grow into dogs so think carefully before deciding on a particular breed or crossbreed. For example, do you have time every day to groom a long haired breed such as an Old English Sheepdog, or to exercise a large gun dog such as an Irish Setter? In other words, make sure that the breed you choose suits your family’s lifestyle. Choose a puppy which is lively, sturdy and healthy. He should be at least eight weeks old and have had his first vaccination for a veterinarian. He should also have been regularly wormed.

IDENTIFICATION: Check with your local council as to their requirements regarding registration. Ask your local vet regarding micro chipping of your dog so that if he or she is ever lost they can be scanned by the RSPCA or similar welfare organization and returned to you. Ensure your dog wears a collar with a name and a contact disc attached.

BEDDING: Your pup will need a bed raised a few inches off the floor to avoid draughts etc, or a box with low sides. Line it with a blanket and put in a quiet corner where pup can sleep undisturbed. For the first few nights if fretting, try a hot (not too hot) water bottle wrapped in a blanket for comfort. Young pups sleep most of the day and should not be disturbed once resting.

FOOD: Young pups should be fed at least three times a day until six months of age and then gradually cut down to once daily. Big bones (not ones that could splinter) are good for pups’ teeth. As a treat, check out our treat section for a range of bones manufactured from nutritious fully digestible beef hide or similar.

WATER: Fresh drinking water in a heavy container should always be available for your puppy.

HOUSE TRAINING: Always encourage pup to the toilet after food, sleep or playing. Go to the same place outside each time and praise pup when he or she does the right thing. He will soon connect toileting outside with being praised and be anxious to please you. If an accident occurs inside never rub their nose in it – remember they are just babies and do not have a great deal of control while young. It may take just a short time or perhaps longer to house train fully it all depends on your consistency.

GROOMING: All dogs require grooming. Regular grooming removed dead hair, dirt, parasites and stimulates the blood supply to the skin which results in a healthier shinny coat. Make grooming part of his daily routine with grooming tools recommended for your dog by your pet shop or grooming parlour.

FLEAS: there are many remedies and treatments available today. Information for specific products is available in our health essentials section.

TOYS: Pups can enjoy solid rubber bones and other chewable toys. It will discourage them from chewing on your personnel items! Praise pup when chewing his own toys!

INOCULATIONS/WORMING AND HEARTWORM PREVENTION: All pups should have had their first vaccination when purchased and depending on the type of vaccination used, will require either one or two more prior to 18-20 weeks of age. Don’t take pup out to public areas etc, until this series of vaccinations is complete and your vet advises it is safe to do so. Pups do not have full protection until this time and can perish if a virus or similar is picked up. An annual vaccination is required after the initial series of vaccinations. Pup should be wormed regularly, while young, so ask your pet retailer or vet. Heartworm prevention should be started immediately. Tablets or chews can be given daily or monthly.

OBEDIENCE TRAINING: Contact your local council to locate your nearest Obedience Club. Remember – a well mannered and well-behaved dog is a joy! You have a responsibility to make sure your pet is a well behaved, disciplined member of the community. A disobedient, uncontrollable dog is a nuisance and can be a menace to you, your family and others.

DESEXING: Don’t wait! Ask your vet about early desexing when visiting the first time for vaccinations.

Remember, this is only basic information. To find out more about your pet check out our bookstore or search our specific breed listings.

For more informative advice articles visit our dog resources area.