Dog Care
Dog is man’s best friend, we’ve been told. “My dog is a member of the family,” we tell each other. Yet the book “The Truth about Dogs” points out another side of our canine friends: dogs steal the food off our plates, take the best spot on the couch, and routinely destroy our property. Just who is this dog creature, anyway? Perhaps only you, in partnership with your dog, can determine that. But this guide can surely help you find the Web’s best resources for care of this mysteriously lovable pet.
Expand All Guide SectionsDog Ownership
Adding a dog to your family is a big step—and a bigger commitment than most people realize. ... read more »
Choosing a Dog
Once you’ve determined you’re ready for a dog, the fun part comes: what kind of pooch is best for you? Whatever form your dream dog takes, this section can help you find the best fit for your lifestyle, pointing you to sites with advice on where to adopt, information on different breeds and mixes, the lowdown on puppies vs. adult dogs, and how to spot “the one” that’s right for you.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Whether you want a purebred dog or a mixed breed, a puppy or a senior dog, consider adopting from a shelter. Not only will you be helping a homeless dog in need, you’ll also have your pick of a variety of great dogs. Read on in this section for information on adopting dogs from shelters, humane societies, and rescue groups.
- Be aware that some dogs may be stressed or depressed in the shelter environment, and thus might not appear so eager or friendly. Most shelters have a playroom or “get-acquainted” area where you can spend some one-on-one time with your prospective companion and get a feel for the dog’s true personality.
Dulcinea's Picks
For help starting your search …
The American Pet Association
can help you decide between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. The advantages and disadvantages of each are presented clearly and succinctly.
St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center
is a great place to begin once you’ve decided you’re ready for a dog (although the site also devotes a lot of attention to helping you decide if you are ready, too). Scroll down to “Starting Your Search” for advice on factors such as age and breed. Don’t miss the “Picking A Winner!” section for valuable advice on how to choose a dog or puppy that is social, affectionate, and well adjusted.
For help selecting a dog breed …
Iams
’s “Dog Breed Selector” is an excellent, interactive tool to help you identify the perfect pooch. Selection criteria include the size, coat, and look of the dog; the amount of training, exercise, and grooming you plan to lavish on your dog; and doggie personality traits. Answer the questions to find your best fit or simply browse the alphabetical list of dogs in the “Dog Breed Guide” for the history, description, personality, behavior, and grooming needs of each breed.
The Dog Owner’s Guide
addresses dogs living in apartments and asks if the domestic dog can be content in such a setting. Although the article focuses on a program in San Francisco, a majority of the information will be relevant to apartment dwellers anywhere. Of particular interest are the “Dogs that do well in the city” and “Dogs that do poorly in the city” sections—look to these for information on breeds that are typically low energy, high energy, noisy, or prone to guarding.
To decide between a puppy and an older dog …
Growing Up With Pets
’s article “Choosing Between an Adult Dog and a Puppy” offers a list of questions to keep in mind as you think about adopting. Use the links on the left for more specific information on adults and puppies. Growing Up With Pets is an educational site of Novartis Animal Health, manufacturers of a parasite product for dogs.
The Senior Dogs Project
was created to promote the adoption and special care of older dogs, and it uses its Web site to document the strong bonds that exist between owners and their mature canine companions. Use the “Top Ten Reasons” link for a quick overview of the benefits of adopting adult dogs and visit “Before you adopt” for answers to some of the questions or concerns you may have.
To find a dog, shelter, or breeder …
Petfinder.com
is the most extensive searchable database of adoptable pets online. Use the search box on the left of the homepage to find a dog or search under “Classified Ads” for adoptable dogs that aren’t in shelters. Don’t miss the site’s insightful article on how to evaluate not only shelter dogs but the animal shelters themselves.
The Humane Society of the United States
offers tips on how to identify a good dog breeder. Be sure to download the PDF checklist for a list of specifics that you can take with you when you meet the breeder.
The American Kennel Club
goes into great detail on what to look out for when buying a puppy. The article offers tips for finding a reputable breeder and recommends only buying dogs that are AKC registered. Although the AKC does not certify or recommend specific breeders, it does offer resources to locate breeders through local AKC Parent Clubs and it can connect you with purebred rescue groups. AKC, in conjunction with the Better Business Bureau, also warns buyers to be wary of puppy scams.
Caring for a Dog
There’s a lot that goes into the day-to-day care of a dog, like establishing a daily routine ... read more »
Dog Health Information
Armed with the right resources, there’s a lot you can do to help keep your dog healthy. ... read more »
Buying Dog Supplies Online
Whether you want to save money on flea medication or dog food, find a snazzy dog sweater, or buy a ... read more »
For the Traveling Dog Owner
If you’re of the “have dog, will travel” mindset, you’re in luck: the ... read more »
Dog News, Blogs, and Forums
The Web is overflowing with magazines, blogs, and communities devoted to all things canine. ... read more »
Connect With Dog Owners
If your canine companion isn’t really a dog park kind of guy and you’re just not ... read more »
© 2012 Dulcinea Media, Inc.
