As a general rule a dog only needs a bath when its coat gets soiled, with mud or urine for example. The frequency of bathing will also depend upon the breed and its housing. If your dog normally sleeps with you and is allowed on your furniture you may want to bathe the animal once a month. An outside dog will benefit from an occasional bath.
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What should I use to bathe my dog?It is best to use a baby shampoo which will not irritate the eyes. However, the mild detergents in baby shampoos cannot remove heavy grime or grease, and if that is neccessary a reputable non-medicated shampoo should be used. There are many good pet shampoos on the market, also. Hair conditioners (creme rinses) can be useful after shampooing in preventing fly-away hair.
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Is it neccessary to clean my dog's teeth?Yes, cleaning your dog's teeth is useful in preventing or minimizing the accumulation of tartar. The build up of tartar is responsible for most of the dental problems in dogs.
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Should anything special be done for pets to prepare them for winter?The most important consideration for preparing your pet for winter is nutrition. Outdoor pets in particular require more calories in the winter to generate enough energy to cope with cold. Indoor pets may actually require less food in the winter since they tend to be less active. Outdoor pets also require housing during cold weather. The shelter should be elevated, insulated, wind- and watertight. The shelter should not be so large that they cannot preserve their body heat. Bedding should be kept clean and dry. If you have a short-haired dog outside, consider a sweater for any long exposure to the elements. Also, don't leave your dog outdoors after cold-weather exercise. Dry your dog off and bring it indoors and let it rest and get warm.
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At what age should you neuter a dog?Neutering a dog before the age of 6 months can prevent testicular cancer and help his behavior such as fighting, roaming and marking his territory.
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How can I help my dog who has separation anxiety?First you need to confirm this diagnosis with a veterinarian. Treatment of a separation anxiety disorder includes desensitizing your dog to your absence and redirecting it's energy to toward something that is not destructive such as a favorite toy or chew treat. Your vet or a behaviorist can help you design a treatment that is right for your dog.
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Is it true that our dog will not attain his full growth if I have him neutered too early?Skeletal development in the dog results from an interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors not from having them neutered. Neutering a dog before he is six months of age can prevent testicular cancer and behavior problems like roaming, fighting and marking his territory.
