Fun Facts

31 Fun Facts & Helpful Tips About Your New Best Friend

  • I Like a bit of a mongrel myself, whether it's a man or a dog; they're the best for everyday. (George Bernard Shaw)
  • If you are planning to bring home a new dog soon, call a family conference to set up schedules, choose commands, and discuss who will perform which tasks.
  • A visit to the veterinarian should be scheduled shortly after acquiring a new puppy or dog. Be certain to take any medical records with you as well as a fresh stool sample.
  • When naming you new best friend, avoid confusion by steering clear of names the sound like corrections or other commands such as Snow (no), Sid (sit) or Dow Jones (down).
  • Abrupt changes in diet can result in digestive distress. Find out what the shelter was using and introduce new foods gradually over several days' time.
  • Kennel cough is caused by several viruses and bacteria. A hacking cough may persist for up to 6 weeks. Treatment may or may not be needed depending on severity.
  • Two dogs may be twice the fun, but it is important that each dog have an individual relationship with you and the ability to stay by himself from time to time.
  • The greatest dog in the world...is a companion who does all but speak. He will be gay or serious; he will console you in your lowest moods. (Ludwing Bemelmans)
  • In 1492, Christopher Columbus brought dogs of war to the New Word. His men used them to seize the wealth of native Indian populations who lived in mortal fear of the dogs-for good reason!
  • Housebreaking is accomplished by employing the three C's: Consistency of feeding and walking schedule; Confinement, at times, in a crate to build bladder and bowel control; and Cleaning with an odor neutralizer when accidents happen.
  • Feed a diet that is age-appropriate. Puppies need the extra protein and calories found in growth formulas whereas senior dogs need much less of both in order to maintain their youthful figures.
  • Spaying your dog will not only prevent unwanted pregnancies; it will also protect your dog from mammary tumors and uterine infections. Castration protects against testicular cancer and prostate problems. These procedures can be done safely in animals as young as two months of age.
  • Most actions pet-owners define as mis-behaviors are merely normal dog behaviors done at the wrong time or in the wrong place.
  • By enrolling your canine youngster in puppy kindergarten classes at 11 to 19 weeks of age, he or she will get a jump-start on socialization and appropriate behavior.
  • No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as a dog does. (Christopher Morley)
  • A dog just can't have enough identification! A tattoo or microchip is great for permanent identification. Make sure to keep the registry current when you move, change jobs or get a new phone number.
  • Although most people think of dogs as carnivores or flesh-eaters, they are really omnivores- meaning they eat plants and animal tissue. Unlike cats, dogs can thrive on a well-balanced vegetarian diet.
  • Hydrogen peroxide is a handy item to keep in your medicine cabinet. In addition to being an antiseptic, it can be used to induce vomiting if your veterinarian or poison control center advises you to do so in the event your dog has ingested a toxic substance.
  • Playing "hide the kibble" is a good way to exercise your dog on a rainy day. Put him in a sit-stay in the bathroom, hide a handful of dog food in a dozen spots around the house and then command him to find it.
  • The adolescent dog tests boundaries and seems to possess limitless energy-not unlike his human counterparts. Aerobic-level exercise, lots of mind-challenging play and careful management will get you both through this tough developmental stage.
  • Take a hike in one of America's 171 national forests. Your dog is welcome but must be on leash in developed recreation areas. Remember to pack out or bury any waste.
  • You may make a fool of yourself with a dog, and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself too. (Samuel Butler)
  • Every dog needs plenty of toys to stave off boredom by chewing, tugging, shaking and killing, tossing, carrying, hiding, burying and napping with them. Rotate toys to keep them interesting.
  • Dogs make terrific therapists. If your dog consistently responds to basic commands, enjoys new situations, and lights up around strangers, animal-assisted therapy can be a great way to do volunteer work while spending time with your dog.
  • In recent years canine health care has gone holistic. Veterinary chiropractors and acupuncturists are consulted to alleviate pain alongside traditional practitioners.
  • Keep your dog's mind sharp and body toned by involving him in canine sports such as agility, freestyle, fly ball, lure coursing, herding or water trials. Dog camps are the best places to sample an array of these activities.
  • As tempting as it may be, avoid giving your dog chocolate. Even small amounts can be toxic, causing a rapid heartbeat, collapse and, in some cases, death.
  • If you live in the county or go there on weekends, get you dog a reflective orange vest to wear outdoors during hunting season. Don't let your dog become another hunting casualty.
  • The dog was created specially for children. He is the god of frolic. (Henry Ward Beecher)
  • To costume or not to costume, that is the question. If you enjoy dressing up your dog (and he enjoys it as well), make sure the costume does not hamper sight or movement. Take a few days to acclimate the dog to the finery before showing him off to adoring friends and relatives.
  • Halloween can be a scary time for pets. If they are not well socialized, put them in a quiet place during trick-or-treat hours or a party. And keep them indoors so they won't fall victim to neighborhood pranksters.