The Ultimate Guide to Dog Care. Tammy Gagne

first year or two, while the owner of a smaller dog may be able to get by with a single collar that adjusts to accommodate the animal’s moderate size increases. To measure your dog for a collar, place a tape measure around his neck and adjust it to the point where you can slip two fingers underneath.

      A smart safety feature to look for when shopping for conventional collars is breakaway technology. Because collars can become caught on household objects, many owners choose to remove the collars from their dogs when they are inside their homes. The downside to this is that it leaves the animal without identification tags in the event he slips out the door. A breakaway collar, however, keeps a pet safe indoors by breaking apart if it becomes caught on anything, effectively preventing the collar from strangling the animal. When walking a dog on this type of collar, you must make sure to hook the leash onto both of the loops. With just one loop attached to the leash, even a slight amount of pulling will cause the collar to release.

      If your dog has a special talent for slipping out of his collar—or if he is one of those breeds with a delicate neck—a harness may be a better option. Instead of circling your dog’s neck, a harness wraps around your pet’s chest and midsection. To measure your dog for a harness, place the tape measure around his chest, just behind his front legs. Use the same two-finger rule as when measuring for a collar. Many owners find that harnesses also work better for dogs who pull on their leashes.

      No Choke Collars!

      Choke chains are marketed toward people who own larger dog breeds, with a pervading message that using these items is the only way to control bigger pets. However, a choke chain won’t teach your dog how to walk properly on a lead—that can result only from proper training—and can injure your dog. A choke chain works by applying pressure to the animal’s windpipe when he pulls. For smaller dogs, those with delicate necks, or animals who pull despite the use of a choke chain, this item can be dangerous. No matter how large or unruly your dog may be, you should never under any circumstance use a prong collar, which isn’t safe for any dog.

      If you must use a restrictive collar on your pet until he learns to walk nicely on a leash, I recommend using a martingale collar. This type of collar is flat and made of cloth instead of chain. It is more humane than a choke collar because it limits the amount of pressure applied. Fans of martingales often say that these collars apply just enough pressure to get the dog’s attention. If you buy a martingale for leash training, you can use it as a conventional collar once your dog has mastered proper leash etiquette. Simply hook both loops to the lead when you no longer need the collar to counteract pulling.

      You should not use any type of restrictive collar, even a martingale, on brachycephalic dogs. These flat-faced breeds, such as the Boxer and Pug, have shorter breathing passages and can suffer from respiratory distress if their breathing is compromised in any way.

      Food

      While it may seem elementary, food is one of the most important items to have on hand before your new dog’s arrival. In all the excitement and commotion of preparing for a new pet’s homecoming, many owners do not even realize that they’ve overlooked this essential provision until dinnertime. If you’ve had to travel a long distance to pick up your dog and bring him home, he will surely be hungry soon after his arrival—and a young puppy must eat more frequently than an adult dog.

      Check with your breeder or foster family to see what kind of food your dog is currently eating. If it is a healthy food and your dog is thriving on it, consider keeping him on it. Even if you plan to switch your pet to a different brand or formula, you will need some of the food he is presently eating. Sudden dietary changes can cause stomach upset in dogs, so veterinarians recommend gradual transitions. For the first day, give your dog only the food he is used to. The stress of moving to a new home can be enough to cause tummy troubles, so wait at least twenty-four hours before starting the changeover.

      Begin by replacing a quarter of your dog’s current food with the new type. Keep in mind that dogs typically adjust more quickly to a new food when the protein source is the same. For example, a dog will have an easier time swapping from a chicken-based formula to another brand made with chicken. Continue feeding one-quarter of the new food with three-quarters of the original diet for about a week. The following week, increase the ratio to a 50/50 mix. You can then swap to feeding three-quarters of the new food with just a quarter of the old brand. After four weeks, your dog should be eating full portions of his new formula.

      Bowls

      Your dog will need at least two bowls: one for his food and one for his water. I recommend investing in two sets of dishes if you can, because doing so will ensure that you always have a clean set when one is being washed. If you plan to use the dishwasher, make sure that the bowls you choose are dishwasher-safe. The easiest way to make sure that your pet’s dishes are dishwasher-safe is to buy stainless steel bowls. Stainless steel is the safest, most durable material for dog dishes. Ceramic bowls can contain lead. Plastic dishes are vulnerable to chewing and can also cause a condition called plastic dish nasal dermatitis, which can remove the pigment from his nose and lips.

      Choose bowls that will be big enough for your pet when he reaches adulthood, providing that he can eat and drink from them comfortably now. If your dog is going to grow considerably, it may be wise to purchase one smaller set of dishes for the time being. Shallow bowls with raised centers, made specifically for puppies, are perfect for this situation, as these dishes prevent the food from moving away from the edges. Once your dog gains some size, you will then be able to invest in a set or two of larger bowls.

      Stainless steel bowls are safe for your dog and easy to clean.

      Grooming Equipment and Supplies

      Your list of grooming equipment and supplies will vary depending on the kind of dog you choose. Longhaired breeds typically require far more coiffing than those with shorter coats, but even shorthaired dogs need to be brushed and bathed at least occasionally. Many smooth-coated breeds are among the heaviest shedders. Longer, fuller coats require slicker brushes whereas shorter, finer hair needs a soft-bristled brush. A metal flea comb is a smart investment no matter the coat type. If you do opt for a dog with a profuse coat that grows rather than sheds, you will also need a set of clippers for trimming his hair unless you plan to use a professional groomer for this task.

      Consumable items that your dog will need include shampoo, a toothbrush, canine toothpaste, and ear cleaner. Do not use your own shampoo or toothpaste on your pet! Shampoos formulated for people are too acidic for canines and will strip the natural oils from your dog’s coat and skin. Likewise, your toothpaste isn’t meant for dogs; using it on your pet’s teeth will likely upset his stomach. You may discover other tools and products that help with grooming once you get into a routine with your pet, but the aforementioned items are the essentials for every dog owner’s grooming kit.

      A fine-toothed comb can help detangle delicate facial furnishings.

      Did You Know?

      Even if you do utilize a groomer’s services, you will need a set of nail clippers. Your groomer can certainly trim your dog’s toenails during a groom, but this important task must be performed more often than shampoos or haircuts.

      Toys

      Dogs are incredibly intelligent animals. As such, they need ways to stimulate their minds and occupy their time. Dogs also need to exercise regularly in order to stay healthy physically. Many breeds also have instinctive urges to hunt, chase, or herd. Toys help fulfill all of these important needs. Playing with your dog is a great way to bond with him, train him, and have a whole lot of fun in the process yourself.

      There is no magic number when it comes to buying toys for your dog, but it is wise to provide your pet with enough variety to keep him from becoming bored. Many dogs single out a few favorite playthings that they turn to over and over, but having something new to play with can brighten a pet’s day as much as it would a child’s. I recommend investing in several different toys to