Dogs – Basic Care

The domestication of dogs occurred between 12,000 and 25,000 years ago. Experts say that all dogs have evolved from the wolf. There are about 400 different breeds of dogs. But the most popular dogs are the mix breeds or non-pedigreed dogs.

Before you buy any pet, you must consider the cost of taking care of it. Once you get a dog you are responsible for its health and basic care and taking care of a dog is not cheap. It also depends on what size dog; the smaller the dog, the less expensive it will be. A small dog will cost, on average, about $420 dollars a year and that is including food, veterinary bills and license. A medium size dog will cost you an average of $620 dollars a year and a large dog about $780 dollars a year. These averages do not include being spayed or neutered.

One of the best places to get a dog is at a local humane society. Their adoption fee will often cover the cost of the dog being spayed or neutered. They often will already have most of their shots and be dewormed. Sometimes they send you home with ID tags and a leash. Contact your local humane society and see what they have to offer, in some cases you can save a couple hundred dollars in just medical expenses alone over picking up a dog at a pet store.

Dry dog food can provide a well balanced diet for adult dogs and helps with tartar control on the teeth and healthy gums. It can be mixed with water or broth. Some human food is okay for dogs to eat and may be beneficial for your dog’s health, as long as it doesn’t take up more than 10 percent of your dog’s diet. Foods like cooked eggs, fruits, cooked vegetables and cottage cheese. After your dog is at least a year old they may be fed only one meal a day. However larger dogs may benefit from two smaller meals because they are prone to bloating. Puppies that are six months to one year should be fed twice a day and younger puppies several meals a day. Avoid giving human food to puppies because it could interfere with vitamins and minerals that the puppy needs to grow. Avoid using generic dog food because brand name dog food has to follow strict federal guidelines that some companies who make generic dog food do not, because they may be made locally. Wean your puppies off puppy food after six months, in this case it can be too much of a good thing and puppies may grow too fast and put stress on joints and bones. Pick age appropriate dog food. Don’t forget to offer fresh water and wash their water dish daily.

Your dog must have exercise. It will help prevent obesity and boredom that can lead to destructive behavior. It will also sharpen their minds. Your dog needs to run, chew and chase. Consult your veterinarian because different dogs have different exercise requirements based on sex, age, breed and level of health.

Before you bring your dog home make sure you have the basic things dogs will need. Your dog will need food, food and water bowls, brushes and toys. You will also need ID tags, leash, crate and a dog bed.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Dogs

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