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This is a page full of Information all dog owners should know! Wheather you have a small dog or a big dog, it apply's to all. Dog's require a lot on a daily basis, including the basics: Food, water & shelter, but dog's require so much more than this which some people don't realize.
If you can fulfill all of your dog's needs on a daily basis, your dog is much less likely to develope behavior problems which puts most dogs in the shelters.
Let's start with Physical Exercise: Dog's should have a minumum of 45 mins. of exercise. The more exercise they get, the better! Dog's that aren't exercised often enough end up restless and full of energy that they have no way to burn off. Lack of exercise is the #1 reason for behavior problems. I recommend at least an hour of Exercise. You don't even have to do it all at once.
I recommend picking 3 different activities to do with your dog on a daily basis. It can be walking, jogging, running, fetch, swimming....etc... use your imagination! Dogs should get at least 2 walks a day and 1 good run per day.
If your dog is being a pain in the butt, try going for a good long walk, or a good hike (make sure your dog has a good recall if your letting them off leash). You'd be suprised at how well they behave once you return, and most likely for the rest of the night.
Next up is Mental Exercise: Dog's need a lot of Mental exercise on a daily basis! This includes Training, chewing bones, and interactive toys. Dogs that don't get Mental exercise might decide to exercise their mind in a way you don't want them to, such as chewing or digging. Dogs with out Mental Exercise get bored. Try teaching your dog some simple tricks or work with them on their obedience. There are many toys on the market now days as well that your dog can interact with. There's many different shapes and sizes, most you can fill with their food or treats and let them work at it to get the food out. You can even start hiding the toys after you've filled them, so they have to hunt to find them. This is a lot like what wolves do in the wild. I recommend feeding their breakfast & dinner in these toys. Feeding your dogs in this way is healthier for them, and works their mind. You can even put the toys in their crate while you are away, or hide them around the house or yard while you are out. This will keep them busy for hours depending on how many you put out for him / her.
You should also have a variety of chew toys and bones for your dog to chew. Dog's love to chew, no matter what age you are. It keeps them busy and their minds stimulated. Chewing relaxes them and can wear them out a bit. Try leaving a few of these out, along with the interactive toys. Swith them up every now and then to keep them interested and interesting.
Now let's talk about Training: All dogs should have some training. When people say Training, a lot of peoples minds go back to the old way of training and get worried, they don't want to break their dog's spirit. Now days, most trainers are positive trainers. Training is now Fun and interactive! Most dogs and people now look forward to training sessions! With positive training, you can even start with a very young puppy! Some breeders are now even working a whole litter of puppies before they are even 8 weeks of age. If you have a dog that could use some manners, sign up with a Trainer today!!! You'll be happy you did!
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