Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have the veterinarian check my pet’s mouth?

A rule of thumb is to have your pet’s mouth examined at least once a year however once it reaches 7 years old it needs to be examined twice a year at a minimum. An older dog’s major organs such as the heart, liver, and kidney are highly susceptible to the effects of bacteria which are often found to cause dental disease.

Where can I find the best dog breed that will fit my personality and lifestyle?

There are several avenues which can help you decide which dog breed will fit you. First, you can go to dog shows where dogs of different breeds are congregated together in one place.  Dog shows will give you the chance to observe the dogs, their temperament, and you also get to talk with the dog owners. Dog shows are also an excellent venue to ask about reputable breeders and recommendations. Another way to help you decide is to try the Online Breed Selector. There are many canine sites where they will ask you to take a test and ask you questions about your personality, lifestyle, and preferences. Your answers will then be matched with breeds that may be compatible with you.

Are allergies in dogs and humans alike?

Yes. Allergies in both dogs and humans are hypersensitivity reactions to certain allergens such as pollen, food, and mites. Most of these allergies are hereditary and are passed from parents to offspring.

What are the possible sources of allergens?

Allergens abound in the environment.  Molds are usually present when the climatic conditions are hot and humid. Springs brings pollen paving the way for seasonal allergies. The warm summer months bring in a flock of insects and fleas. The cat or another dog in the house can also be a source of allergen for your dog. Dog shampoos, specific types of fabrics and floor materials may also cause dog allergies.

Are Dog Food Intolerance and Dog Food Allergies one and the same?

No. Dog Food Intolerance refers to the inability of the body to agree with and assimilate certain substances in food thus leading to diarrhea or vomiting in the body’s effort to get rid of the foreign substance. On the other hand, Dog Food Allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction of the body to certain allergens and usually manifested by itching, reddish areas of inflammation, or alopecia.

How will I train my dog to use a litter box?

Although litter boxes have been used for cats, small to medium sized dogs can now stay indoors and do their thing on a commercial litter box specially designed for dogs. The concept of housebreaking your puppy can be applied to litter box training. Most commercial litter boxes have pellet-sized litter which is scented to attract and stimulate your dog to eliminate there.

Can I still teach an old dog some new tricks?

Yes. Dogs are capable of learning and training during their lifetime. It is a dog’s inherent nature to please their owners and what better way than to learn what they are taught.  Although some dog breeds may be a challenge to train, consistency in training and tons of patience will eventually win in the end.

How will I choose the best puppy from a litter?

Choose the first one which will approach you like a long lost friend. A puppy should never be threatened by human presence. Check out the ones that are friendly, the ones that will play with you, and allow you to touch them. Never choose a puppy with its tail hiding in fear or from being nervous of human presence.

How long should a puppy stay with their littermates before I can take it home?

Puppies are weaned when they reach 6 weeks old however it is recommended that they stay with their littermates until they are 10-12 weeks old in order to develop their social behavior, physical coordination, and practice their social skills. Puppies undergo a so-called “fear period” at 8-10 weeks of age. During this time, fears that they experience will stay with them forever. Thus, it is never a good idea to make drastic changes in a puppy’s young life during this period.

What puppy should I choose—male or female?

For first time dog owners, choosing a female puppy is highly recommended because they are easier to handle and they have a gentler disposition compared to their male counterparts however they can be more emotional. On the other hand, male puppies are quite dominant and much more energetic.