1. One of the major causes of tapeworms is attributed to fleas and lice. Brush your dog regularly with a flea comb and keep a watchful eye for any odd behavior exhibited by your dog. Dogs that ingest fleas, for example, can develop tapeworms. Thus, it is necessary to determine whether or not your home or yard is infested with these parasites, which will require using a variety of methods to rid them from your premises.
2. Feces are another contributing factor in developing worms. Ensure that all feces are picked up either in the back yard or, in the case of puppies, immediately after they eliminate in your home.
3. Do not give your dog raw meat. When preparing his meals, ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.
4. Most worms are transmitted through the digestion of feces. Dogs like to smell other dogs’ feces. When talking your dog for a walk, pull him aside if you find that he is sniffing or attempting to digest the feces. So too, removing your dog’s feces, either in the home or backyard, is essential in preventing worms.
5. If you acquire a new puppy, make an appointment with the vet as soon as possible so that vaccinations to prevent worms can be administered.
6. When taking your dog for walks, try to avoid wooded areas where fleas and ticks reside. When bathing your dog, examine the undercoat thoroughly to ascertain if there are any bumps, lumps or scars that are indicative of parasite infestation.
7. Certain breeds of dogs are likely to eat dead animals. This can cause the worms to infiltrate your dog’s intestines.
8. Tapeworms can be easily spotted in the dog’s stool. They are white in color and look like rice and can sometimes be detected in the area of your dog’s rectum. Take your dog to the vet immediately for treatment.
9. If you detect that something is wrong with your dog, vets advise you to bring a sample of their stool so they can determine if the dog has been exposed to worms.
10. Your vet may also recommend heartworm prevention in the form of monthly treatments.

What type of worms can inflict dogs? There are many: heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. If you notice that your dog is showing signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or has lost his appetite, this could be the result of some form of worm condition.

Worms can cause serious conditions in dogs. While parasites such as fleas, ticks, and other internal parasites can wreak a heavy toll on your pet, ensuring his safety requires constant observation and treatment.

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Let’s take a closer look.

Hookworms are predominately found in dog feces. If your dog eats these feces they can develop this condition. Look for the following signs: loose stool or blood in the stool, the dog seems bloated, gas, has an unusual appetite, and his coat seems to be on the dull side.

Roundworms come from dogs ingesting the egg of the roundworm. In puppies, they may become infected through the mother. Signs that your dog has roundworm may be exhibited as follows: vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, gas, and an unusual appetite.

Heartworms are usually developed from mosquitoes. This condition can result during warm months when dogs are more exposed to these pests. Signs your dog may have heartworm includes: lethargy, coughing, appetite loss, difficult breathing, and may become more tired than usual after exercise. This condition requires immediate treatment from a vet.

Tapeworms are caused by dogs eating fleas. A regular inspection of your dog’s rectum to detect if there are any white rice-like parasites will clearly indicate your dog has tapeworms. Other signs may include: itching in the infected area, inability to digest food,
loss of weight, and stomach pain.

Whipworm is caused by dogs that eat other feces that have been infested with worms or if they happen to step in feces and lick their paw. A dog with this condition will have a bloody stool, unusual appetite, will become bloated, experience cramps, and have a dull coat.

There are other serious conditions which can affect a dog’s health, particularly puppies. While these are not attributed to worms, they should nonetheless be noted. Coccidia are parasites which are caused by digesting feces. Signs of this condition includes: loose stool, vomiting, loss of weight, and bloating. Coccidia infect the intestines of the pup.

Another parasite which can affect pups is called Giardia. Found mostly in areas where water is abundant, the ingestion of these parasites can cause loose stool, loss of weight, and bloating. These parasites feed on the small intestine.

Detection and early prevention can alleviate the symptoms affecting your dog or puppy.
A regular check-up will give a vet the opportunity to check for worms and other conditions by taking stool samples. If you find that your dog’s behavior or habits have changed in any way, make an appointment with your vet to ascertain the problem so that treatment can commence immediately.

Note: Some parasites can affect small children. To prevent this from occurring, ensure that your child does not come into contact with the dog’s feces. After your child plays with the dog, make sure he or she washes his hands thoroughly each and every time.

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A dog’s nails should be trimmed at least once a month. Before trimming a dog’s nails, it is necessary to have the proper implement. Check your local pet supply store for more information.

To clip the nails, it is important to just cut the very tip of the nail and not go too far down the nail. This can cause bleeding and possible infection.

How do you get a dog to sit still for this procedure? Good question, but there are no easy answers. First you have to be able to get near the dog’s nails. The last thing you want to do is just take the nail and cut it. You have to start slow. Note, however, that it’s easier with puppies than older dogs since puppies seem to adapt better.

Most experts agree that first you have to get the dog used to your touching his paws. You may want to try the old standard, “Give me your paw.” At first you can shake it like a hand shaking another. Do this for some time until the dog gets used to this command and follow it with a treat.

Once you feel the dog has gained your trust, take out the clippers. Let your dog sniff them and look at them for some time. Practice this until the dog doesn’t show any aversion to the clippers.

Finally, the day has arrived. Begin by asking him to give you his paw, take out the clippers and cut one nail. Give him a treat and lots of praise. Check his reaction. If he reacts badly to it; put the clipper away and try again at another time.

Okay, it’s been a few days since the first nail was clipped. Now try again. This time you may find that the dog is little more receptive. Remember, he remembers the treat you gave him the first time around, so he may not give you a bad time.

Begin clipping each nail. Give him a half a dog treat, just like they do at the Westminster Dog shows. If you think you can go further, do it. Don’t hesitate or show that you are a bit nervous. Before you know it, you will have accomplished the impossible.

Reward yourself with a treat; you deserve it. Keep in mind; you are not hurting the dog in any way. In fact you are helping to prevent any pain and problems which can hamper the dog from walking properly.

For those who simply can’t stand the thought of trimming their dog’s nails, you have two choices: you can have the vet do it or you can have the dog groomed. Either way, they are done by professionals who will not harm the dog in any way.

Think of it this way, have you ever tried to type on a keyboard when your nails were too long? Difficult, isn’t it? Well, imagine a dog’s nail getting so long they curl up. Before that happens, start clipping a dogs nails from the outset and all will be well.

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Before we get into the whys and wherefores, it is important to remember that any new member of the pet family will encounter a rigorous and sometimes jealous stance when a new pet arrives. If you think about it, some children who are presented with a newborn baby tend to become upset because they have to compete for attention for the first time.

Dogs are very territorial. Some even resent other pets being around their masters. When a new pet is brought into the home, whether it’s a parakeet, cat, or turtle; the dog asserts his dominance and after awhile all is well. However, when another dog is brought into the home – you may experience the following behavior:

Your dog not only asserts his dominance as the alpha male, but may fight with the new dog; eat his food; and generally play in a rough manner. This is normal and should not be interfered with. The new dog will have to play a subordinate role until he is fully accepted by the alpha male.

In order to keep things from getting out of hand, you might want to separate the dogs for a period of time. Your pet will know there is another dog in the home by his scent. Create an atmosphere that is conducive to them getting to know each other.

When they finally meet, try not to favor your pet over the new dog. Treat them both equally. It will take time for the new dog to acclimate to his new surroundings, and it will take your pet time to acclimate to the new arrival. If necessary, keep the new pup in a kennel until they both become comfortable with each other. The same holds true for cats as well.

Take your pet out for a walk. Let him know that you are still there for him and you have not changed his routine simply because there is another dog in the house. If he acts out against the new pup, call to him to come to another room. Play and interact with him. Use constant praise when he listens and offer a treat when he obeys your commands.

Put out dishes of food and water for each dog, always giving preference to your older pet. Remember, he is the alpha male and deserves respect. This is more for the young pup that for you.

Establish a routine that involves both pets. Try not to favor one over the other but treat them equally. If you give one dog a treat, ensure you give the other dog a treat. If you buy dog toys, they may fight over them for awhile until the new pup gives up. They’ll work it out. Do not feel you have to intercede in everything they do.

The only time you should become involved is if they constantly fight. Eventually, a bond will form and they will become the best of friends. However, try not to leave them along for long periods of time, especially in the beginning.

No matter what other pets you may introduce to your dog, remember that it will take time, patience, love, attention, and a lot of aspirin – (for you, not the dogs!)

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While more and more dog owners are choosing to prepare homemade meals for their pets, others opt for high premium foods. Still, others simply feed their dogs whatever is on sale. The only problem with commercial dog food is that there is no set standard for what goes into the mix, except that it must contain the following: vitamins, minerals, protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

The only way to determine if the commercial food is high in quality is by reading the label and even then you need a degree to understand the ingredients.

Choosing the right diet for dogs is similar to choosing the right diet for humans. Depending on size, weight, allergies, etc., everyone is different. Well, all breeds are different and choosing the right diet is based on assuring that it is well-balanced and offers the right amount of nutrients.

The recent recall of pet food reasserts the fact that homemade food for dogs may be the only answer. However, it takes time and preparation to ensure that the food is fresh, prepared properly, and is balanced.

There are foods which should never be given to dogs as part of their dietary regimen. They include: dairy products, chocolate, and foods that contain sugar.

There are many experts who advise that dog owners should offer dietary meals which consist of protein such as: meat, chicken, and turkey. The only meat not suitable for dogs is pork and pork products. In addition, vegetables, fruits, fat, fiber, and Vitamin E in premium dog foods are a healthy alternative to commercial dog foods.

While there are those who consider premium dog foods to be more expensive, one has to put it in perspective. The healthier the food, the less you will have to give to a dog in order for him to obtain the full benefits. If you take a sub-standard product, you will have to give the dog more to obtain the same goal.

It’s all relative but more importantly, with premium foods and/or homemade foods, you know exactly what your dog is eating. In addition, food that is commercially made can cause disease, infection, and other disorders.

The health of your dog is first and foremost. So it seems that choosing the right diet for dogs becomes a valid issue to ensure that your dog stays healthy and happy. Of course, as the dog ages so will his dietary needs. That’s all part and parcel of a nutrition-based dietary program combined with exercise.

While homemade food preparation is on the rise, so too is holistic diets for dogs. You can check on line to ascertain what recipes are available if you choose to go this route.

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Choosing a breed that compliments you and your personality is one factor. If you are choosing a dog as a family pet, ensuring the dog gets along with children is another. Selecting a breed based on the type of group it falls into is another consideration.

For example, are you looking for a small dog, such as a Pekingese, Poodle, or Terrier? Or perhaps you’re looking for a Bulldog, Chow Chow, or Bichon Friz? No? Maybe a Beagle or Basset Hound is more to your liking.

The point is that a dog’s temperament does play a role in deciding what type of dog you choose. In addition, you may wish to ask yourself these questions before deciding.

* Do you want a dog that is large in size?
* Will the dog fit in with my lifestyle?
* Would you prefer a short haired or long-haired canine?
* What type of facial features are you looking for?
* Do you want a dog that is feisty, dependent, or one with a playful personality?
* Would you prefer a show dog?
* Will your dog remain indoors or would you prefer a dog that resides outside?
* Do you wish to have a guard dog?
* How much time and attention can you devote to the dog?
* Do you like a dog that listens and follows your commands?
* Would you prefer a dog that is independent and can be left alone?
* Is a mixed breed more to your liking?

Once you have answered these questions, another decision has to be made. Do you wish to adopt a dog from a shelter, or acquire a specific type of dog from a breeder?
If you choose the latter, there are certain steps you can take.

For example, let’s assume you choose a Bichon Friz. They are great with children, have a playful personality, are very loving, and can readily be found through a breeder online. The first step is to contact the person and determine if the dog is available. Some Bichon Friz are highly prized as show dogs. You can easily check online to trace their pedigree. This will give you a clear indication that there has been no cross-breeding and their lineage is intact.

Another way to acquire a dog is from a pet store. Be careful here, however, because most pet stores carry dogs that come from puppy mills and may not be purebreds. Some of these pet store owners are an unscrupulous lot who may not give you details as to the health of the dog either.

Before choosing a specific breed, locate the type of dog you would like and then spend some time with the dog. Bring the children along so that you can watch the interaction between the children and the dog. Find out as much information about the breed as you can. In this way, you can make an informed decision.

If you find a dog that totally fits your lifestyle either in a single household or family unit, then you will feel comfortable to either adopt or purchase the dog without having any future concerns.

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While the aforementioned statistic is hard to imagine, it is nonetheless true. This is why animal advocates constantly remind the general population to have their dogs spayed or neutered. There are other reasons why this method is recommended.

Dogs have an innate desire to breed. It’s just a fact. More importantly, however, spaying and neutering can prevent cancer. In addition, neutered male dogs will less likely want to run away or engage in rough-housing with other male dogs. Male dogs are inherently territorial. If he isn’t neutered, then he will use his dominance over other dogs particularly when a female is involved.

Spaying and neutering your dog does not mean they will become lazy, gain weight, or have a personality change. All the procedure does is to prevent your dog from seeking out other dogs to mate with. According to the Humane Society, “…. in six short years, one female dog and her offspring can give birth to hundreds of puppies.”

Imagine if you will that there are millions of pet owners. Now imagine if each pet were not spayed or neutered and the offspring were thrown in garbage bags, left by unscrupulous owners to fend for themselves, or bred in puppy mills to make a quick buck. There have been countless incidents which bear out these facts.

Unless you are a breeder, there is no reason not to have your dog spayed or neutered. The result would reduce the number of homeless dogs lying in wait for someone to adopt them, reduce the number of dogs roaming the streets for scraps, and reduce the likelihood that dogs will attack pets.

Owning a dog comes with a responsibility to ensure the pet is happy, safe, and lives in a welcoming and caring environment. Conversely, a dog that is put to sleep due to over-population could have been someone’s life-long companion. This is why adoption is preferred.

Although puppies are the first to be adopted in shelters, it is often the case that adult dogs can only be kept for a certain amount of time due to the over-population of dogs in this country. Thus, they face a grim future.

In an effort to reduce the number of dogs, a spaying and neutering program has begun in some cities and has resulted in a 30%-60% decline in euthanasia.

While this is good news, it is up to all individuals across the nation to not only spay and neuter their pets, but adopt them as well. What other choice do we have?

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If you are thinking of acquiring a puppy, either from a breeder or shelter, the first thing you need to do is prepare.

* Select a designated area in your home or apartment where you will keep the pup.
* Purchase a kennel or crate as a home base for your pup, as well as a long leash.
* Establish a daily routine from the get-go. Most young pups may need to go out every two hours. If this is not an ideal situation you can paper-train the pup first, and work up to taking the pup outdoors later. This is especially true if you are not home during the day.
* Keep the pup confined to a kennel during the night.
* Use the leash during the day so that the puppy is relegated to one area of the home.
* Put paper down in close proximity to the kennel in order to teach the pup that this is his bathroom area.
* When the puppy is let out of the kennel in the morning, he will need a bathroom break. Ensure that the pup uses the paper. Pups will recognize the scent and choose the same area each and every time.
* If you are home during the day, and you allow your pup the freedom to roam around your home, keep a watchful eye. Pups like to leave their scent in several places in the home.
* If you find that your pup has gone to the bathroom other than in the designated area, clean the spot to dissipate the odor.
* If you notice that your pup is about to eliminate somewhere other than in the designated area, this is a good time to pick him up and take him to the paper area. Repeat this process over and over. Eventually, the pup will get the message.
* Once the pup has become comfortable with the routine, taking him outdoors is the next step.
* Keep the puppy on a regular feeding schedule appropriate to the age and breed.
* Routinely take the puppy out for walks; usually morning; after feeding, and before bedtime.
* After a while, as the puppy will understand the routine. As he grows, you will find that he will signal to you when he has to go to the bathroom either by barking or wagging his tail. This usually occurs at the front or back door of your home.

Finally, it is important to understand your new puppy may need time to acclimate to his new surroundings. So too, a puppy may eliminate when strangers enter his domain. This is a natural reaction.

Although every puppy reacts differently, housetraining a puppy from day one requires lots of praise and attention. Once you get over the initial hurdle, you will be able to give your puppy the freedom to go from room to room without worry.

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* Depending upon the breed of the dog, that is, long-haired or short-haired, regular brushing should be part of the grooming routine. This prevents the hairs from matting and ensures a continuous healthy coat.

* Bathing a dog is usually performed on a monthly basis. However, if you have a dog that lives outdoors, you may wish to bathe him more frequently.

* Be sure to use either soap or shampoo specifically made for dogs.

* While blow drying may be recommended for specific breeds, natural drying outdoors in spring and summer months is preferable.

* Be sure to wash from front to back and not to apply any soap on the dog’s face. Use water instead. A dog can easily lose his scent if soap is applied to the nose.

* While bathing the dog, you can also check to determine if there are any lumps or bumps under the dog’s coat.

* Try not to get any water into his ears. Clean the ears with a cotton ball.

* Nail trimming is also a component of good grooming. However, one has to use the proper implement and be careful not to cut the nails so much so that it begins to bleed. The rule of thumb is to just cut the tip of the nail.

* Check the dog’s eyes to ensure they are clear. If you notice anything out of the ordinary such as mucus or swelling, take the dog to a vet. He may have developed conjunctivitis.

* Brushing a dog’s teeth is also important. This can be done once a week to ensure the dog doesn’t develop any dental problems. Use toothpaste designed for dogs.

* Another grooming tip which is essential in preventing fleas or ticks is to purchase a flea brush and use it on a daily basis, especially for dogs that spend most of their time outdoors.

* Check the pads under the dog’s feet to ensure there are no stones or thorns that may have become embedded there. If you notice your dog seems to be holding up one leg, there maybe something that is irritating the paw.

Finally, a regular check-up at the veterinarian is essential in maintaining your dog’s health. While grooming will help keep him free of germs, mites, ticks, and fleas, these check-ups will ensure he is in good condition and if a case arises wherein he does develop any of the aforementioned problems, a vet can easily help you to attend to your beloved dog’s every need.

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There are several ways in which you can find the right vet. First, ask neighbors or friends who are dog owners to give you a recommendation; Second, talk to pet groomers in your area to find out who they use; Third, check online by going to: http://www.pets911.com/services/veterinarians/ where you can find a qualified vet in your area.

If you do check online, make a list of the vets in your area and call to make an appointment in order to determine the following:

* Are you greeted in a kind and professional manner by the staff?
* Are the waiting rooms and general surroundings clean?
* Do you find the staff to be qualified and knowledgeable?
* When you called to make the appointment to visit, were they genuinely courteous?
* Do they have parking on location?
* How many technicians and support staff do they have?
* How many vets are assigned to the clinic?
* Does the area where dogs are kept clean and relatively conducive to keeping sick dogs comfortable?
* How much does it cost for their services, i.e., vaccinations, treatment, etc.
* Do they perform emergency services?
* Obtain the names of the vets so that you can check their credentials online or through the American Veterinary Medical Association.
* Do you feel comfortable at this facility?
* Has the vet answered all of your immediate questions?
* Do they have an emergency telephone number; are they on call and what are their hours?
* Ask the vet if you can observe him with a patient so that you can ascertain how he handles and interacts with the dog.

There is another factor that you should know about when dealing with a vet. Oftentimes, and depending upon the vet, they may advise you to buy certain dog food at their premises; whether it’s due to a condition your pet is experiencing, or for some other reason.

It should be noted that the cost is quite high. If the vet indeed tells you to use a particular brand, do not buy it from him but go to your local pet store or a club outlet where you can purchase the food in bulk. Dog food is quite expensive and sometimes vets prescribe a certain food because they are getting a percentage of the sale.

While we, as humans, can change doctors if we do not care for the way they practice medicine, dogs can’t tell us if they are not being treated well. Finding the right veterinarian is not only important for you, but for your dog as well.

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