Very Promising

Dreamweaver’s Asian Tiger “Amaya” won the BEST BABY PUPPY IN BREED in Ring 1 judged by Mr. Daniel Kwee (Indonesia) and another BEST BABY PUPPY IN BREED in Ring 2 judged by Mr. Seamus Joseph Oates (Ireland) during the 61st and 62nd FCI All-Breed Dog Show held at Music Hall, SM Mall of Asia Pasay City, Philippines last May 25, 2013.

Parvovirus

Photo Credit: Flickr User

What is Parvovirus?

It is a highly contagious viral disease and life-threatening illness common among puppies. It rapidly attack cell in the dog’s body severely affecting the intestinal tract. This virus can even damage the heart muscle and cause lifelong cardiac troubles.

Symptoms

• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Loss of Appetite
• Bloody and Foul Smelling Diarrhea

How the virus can be transmitted?

The virus can be transmitted by any person, animal or objects that has direct contact with the feces of the infected dog. The virus can even live in the environment for months and may survive in objects used by the infected dog like dog bowls, dog toys, clothes and floors.

Is my dog prone to Parvovirus?

Yes, commonly puppies, adolescent dogs and dogs which do not have vaccination are prone to the virus.

How Parvovirus be prevented?

The answer is very easy, make sure your dog’s vaccine is up-to-date. The “5-in-1” is an anti parvo vaccine commonly used by most of veterinarians and breeders. It protects the puppies from distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus and parainfluenza. Other kind of vaccine is the “6-in-1”.

Generally, we recommend dog owners especially future owners not to forget to complete your dogs vaccine routine. It is very important for your puppies to complete this to avoid unwanted incidents. If you are going to buy a puppy from a local breeder make sure that the puppy has been vaccinated at least two times before bringing it home. Some breeders would say, “That’s not a problem, you can get it now”. I’m telling you, you are taking such a big risk.

Reference: http://www.aspca.org

9 Signs Your Pet is Depressed

9 Signs Your Pet is Depressed
Photo Credit: ph.she.yahoo.com

Yes! even dogs get depressed especially when our fur kids experienced changed in environment. So how can people know if this kiddos is feeling down? Below are the list from yahoo:

1. Your Dog is Wagging Its Tail Less – You know when they are happy when they wag they tails once they saw you but once you saw it down between their legs think of it maybe they are scared or depressed.
2. Hiding – Our pets deserve its time alone but once you noticed that they are spending much more time hiding under your beds or sofa that could also be an indication of depression.
3. Not Wanting to Be Left Alone – This is separation anxiety. Some pets tends to cry and whimper when you leave the house. Chewing some property and even destroying them could also be a sign.
4. Too Little or Too Much Grooming – Animals may stop grooming themselves when they are depressed, other take it to the extreme over grooming.
5. Increased Vocalization – When your dog is crying or whining more that the usual he might want to communicate with you. This could be a possible diagnosis of depression.
6. Loss of Interest in Activities – Lost of excitement when you used to have dog walk could be another sign of depression. Pets feelings turns low like he never want to chase its toys and never had interest when you are starting to play with them.
7. Going to the Bathroom in the House or Outside of the Litterbox 
8. Chewing and Destroying Things – When your pets are depressed they take behaviors like this as if they are bored.
9. Eating and Drinking Less

It really made me sad once a noticed my dog acting unusual.  So when the time come that one or more of these indications is shown by your pets please give them attention. Give them a hug and show how much you love them because according to Josh Billings, “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself”, so please give it a return.

Reference: ph.she.yahoo.com

PitBullies Madness

PitBullies Madness

Have you ever encountered a pit bull while walking into the street? What is your reaction? Are you amazed with those heavy muscles they have or did you make a move to avoid them?

If you want to know more about the pit bull you are invited to come on February 10, 2013 in Pasig City  to watch the PitBullies Madness. This is a dog show hold by the Philippine Pitbull Club Incorporated in cooperation with the Philippine Bully Kennel Club. Categories are Classic, Conformation, Pocket and Extreme Bully.

BCUI Championship Dog Show

BCUI All Breed Championship Dog Show
Photo Credit: Bulacan Canine Union, Inc. Facebook Page

The Bulacan Canine Union, Inc. (BCUI) will be having their 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th All Breed Championship Dog Show on March 9 & 10 2013 at Malolos Sports and Convention Center Malolos City, Bulacan. The judges of the said competition will be from the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia.

Chinese Pooch Year

2013 PCCI Fashionista Pooch
Photo Credit: Starmall San Jose Del Monte Official Facebook Page

Are you a fashionista? How about your dogs? Do you think it is a good idea for both of you and your fur kid ramping on stage together? Well this is your chance!

The Philippine Canine Club Inc. (PCCI) in partnership with Star Mall will be holding dog fashion shows for the month of February. This is a long month celebration of Chinese New Year featuring dogs in different costumes. So what are you waiting for? Pick up those longest gowns, outstanding tuxedos and let your dogs shines now!

Taking Care of a New Born Puppy

Newborn Puppy
Photo credit: wikiHow.com

Below are some tips on how to take care of a newborn puppy from wikiHow.

• Prepare a puppy nest a week before the litter is due, and get the mother accustomed to it.
  
• Amount of room needed for the puppy nest varies by breed.
• Weigh the newborns (on a postal scale) every day for the first 3 weeks.
• If you have to bottle feed– do not use cow’s milk.
• Use a newborn human bottle/nipple, unless the puppy is very tiny indeed.
• As the puppy grows older and his stomach gets bigger, you can start spacing the feedings farther apart.
• Start adding solid food by adding a little baby cereal to their bottles and using a nipple with a larger hole.
• By the 4th week, mix the milk, cereal, and baby meat like a thin pudding and pour it into a small dish.
• Baby puppies sleep day and night and are only awake for short periods around their feeding times.
• It is not necessary to wash infant puppies, but it is necessary to wipe their rears with a damp washcloth after every meal.
• Feed puppies as much food as they will eat.
• Feed puppies as much food as they will eat.
• Cleanliness requirements.
• Exercise requirements.
• Human/canine interaction requirements.
• Immunization requirements.

More at : http://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-Newborn-Puppies

The Lion Dog

Mateo the Shih Tzu

Knowingly originated in China, the name Shih Tzu comes from the Chinese word which means ‘lion dog‘. The Shih Tzu is a small dog with a short muzzle and large dark eyes with a soft and long double coat. Its drop ears are covered with long fur, and the heavily furred tail is carried curled over the back.

Dreamweaver Kennel’s first Shih Tzu was named Mateo, a black and white Shih Tzu bought from a friend. We got the puppy when he was still 2 months old. The puppy was so active, lively and he really loves to play especially with Macmac (Chowspitz). He always barks, especially when his ‘best friend’ passes by our gate. It was a cat, he barks as loud as he can and jump as high as he can while the cat seems annoying Mateo boy.

Now, Mateo is 1 year and 5 months old and ready for stud. Still he is looking for her first mate.

Responsible Dog Owners Month

February is Responsible Dog Owners Month. Here are some suggestion for being a responsible dog owner from the American Kennel Club (AKC).

• Think First
• Make the Commitment
• Get Ready
• Bring Your Dog Home
• Keep Your Dog Healthy
• Keep Your Dog Safe
• Be a Friend
• Train Your Dog
• Breed Responsibly
• Get Involved
• Be a Canine Ambassador

Think First

1. Recognize the Commitment Dog ownership is not something to be entered into lightly. Owning a dog is a long-term emotional and financial commitment. Before deciding that a certain dog is right for you, you must make an honest assessment as to whether your home is right for any dog.
2. Evaluate Your Lifestyle If you get a dog, he (or she) will become a part of your life. You need to make sure that he’s suited for your lifestyle. For example, if you are athletic, you will probably not be happy with a dog that has a low energy level. If you are extremely neat, you will probably want a dog that doesn’t shed much. All aspects of your family’s life – hobbies, activities, personalities, schedules – should be evaluated before you get a dog.
3. Make a List Based on your evaluation, determine what qualities you want in a dog. Consider size, energy level, grooming needs, trainability and temperament. Do you want a guard dog or a lap dog? Is it important that your dog get along with children? If you rent your home, are there restrictions on height, weight or breed? Answer these questions now – once you bring a dog home, it can be heartbreaking to realize that you made the wrong choice.
4. Choose a Breed Once you have made your list of ideal characteristics, do some research to find which breeds fit that profile. Go to your local library, attend a dog show. Narrow your choices to the breed that seems right for you.
5. Get a Referral You have a much better chance of being satisfied if you get your dog from a responsible, ethical breeder whose primary concern is to produce dogs of high quality, good health and stable temperament.
6. Make Contact Get in touch with the breed contacts in your area. Let them know that you are interested in their breed. Be able to demonstrate that you have put thought into your choice. Don’t be discouraged if the first breeder you talk to does not have puppies available right away. That person may know another breeder in the region.
7. Ask Questions Ask the breeder any questions you can think of about the breed. When you find a breeder you’re comfortable with, ask to visit the kennel and view the dogs on the breeder’s premises. Inquire about health problems of the breed, and what can be done to prevent or control them. Find out what kinds of activities, including competition, the breeder’s dogs participate in and enjoy. The breeder’s dogs are a preview of what your dog will be.
8. Consider an Older Dog Puppies aren’t for everyone. Most rescue dogs have been spayed or neutered and are screened for health and temperament problems. Rescue is a not only a great source for purebred dogs, it’s also a way to save the life of a dog in need.
9. Expect Questions A responsible breeder or rescue contact will ask you extensive questions about the type of home you can offer a dog. These people are as committed as you are to making the right match between you and a dog. Give honest answers to their questions. Remember that, due to their experience in the breed, they know what issues are important in placing one of their dogs.
10. Prepare to Wait Availability varies. Be aware that a puppy or dog of the breed you’ve decided on may not be easy to find. Responsible breeders do not breed often, and many times the puppies of a planned breeding are already spoken for. Just remember that a good dog is worth waiting for.
11. Skip the Holidays Many people try to buy puppies as Christmas gifts for children or other family members. Most breeders do not recommend this. You should be prepared to give a new puppy your undivided attention, and that is rarely possible during the busy holiday season. A better idea is to give dog-related gifts – toys, leashes, grooming tools – and then bring your puppy home when all the excitement has died down.

Make the Commitment

1. Pick Your Pet When the time has come to select your pet, consider your options carefully. Respect your breeder’s input about which puppy is right for you. If you are rescuing an older dog, ask your contact person for information on its health, temperament, behavior and history.
2. Get It in Writing Information about the sale or adoption should be in writing. The contract should include, for example, details regarding any fees, spay-neuter agreements, health guarantees, terms of co-ownership, restrictions on breeding, and living arrangements. It should also include instructions on what to do if the dog, despite your best efforts, simply doesn’t work out for you or your family. Most responsible breeders will insist that the dog be returned to them.
3. Get Your Papers Make sure the breeder completes the appropriate sections of the form and signs it. The breeder can also help you fill out your section correctly.

Get Ready

1. Prepare Yourself Get ready for your new friend before you bring him home, to make sure the transition will be as smooth as possible. Buy food, treats, a collar and leash, toys, grooming tools and other necessities in advance so your dog or puppy will have everything he needs.
2. Make a Schedule You and your family members should decide who will be responsible for food, water, walking, exercise, clean-up and grooming. Post a schedule of tasks in a visible area of the house to remind everyone of their responsibilities.
3. Dog-Proof Your Home Prepare your home before your new dog arrives. Move breakables or “chewables” to higher ground. Make electrical cords inaccessible to curious paws and noses. Block off any area of the house that you want off-limits to the dog. Put the lid down on your toilet and your shoes up in your closet. Block access to any house or garden plants that may be toxic to dogs.
4. Set a Containment Policy It is essential that you have a secure method of keeping your dog on your property. Check your fence for spots vulnerable to chewing or digging. If your yard is not fenced, consider a large dog run or invisible fencing. If your property is not fenced in some way, stress to family members that the dog must be leashed at all times when taken outdoors.
5. Get a Collar Your dog should wear a flat leather or nylon collar with a buckle at all times, except when in a crate. (The buckle can catch on the crate and cause injury.) The collar should be tight enough that it will not slide over the dog’s ears, but loose enough that you can fit two fingers between the collar and the dog’s neck. Check the fit of the collar often, especially if you have a fast-growing puppy.
6. Make a Bed Every dog needs a quiet place to call his own. Create a comfortable area, whether a crate, a mat or a pile of blankets, for your dog to go to when he needs rest or privacy.
7. Buy Some Toys Provide your dog with a variety of toys to prevent him from playing with your socks and shoes, your morning paper, or your child’s favorite doll. Get some toys that you and your dog can play with together, such as balls and plush toys, and some things to keep him busy when he’s alone, such as chewies or rope bones. Never leave your dog unattended with any toy that has small, detachable parts.
8. Find a Veterinarian You should choose a veterinarian for your dog as soon as possible. Have your dog examined by the vet within a few days of his arrival. Give your vet copies of the dog’s health records, and set up a vaccination and check-up schedule.

Bring Your Dog Home

1. Welcome Your New Pet At last! You’ve made all the preparations, and it’s finally time to bring your new friend home. Give him the best welcome possible. With love, patience and mutual respect, he will feel like part of the family in no time.
2. Let Your Dog Adjust Give the dog time to adjust to his new home. The dog is bound to feel insecure and frightened by a change in environment, and a pup may be homesick for his mother or littermates. Show him to his crate or bed, and where to find food and water. Then leave him alone to explore the new surroundings.
3. Name Your Dog Your dog will need a good name. Your breeder may have suggestions or even requirements for his PCCI-registered name, but his call or informal name is up to you. Older adopted dogs can adjust quickly to a new name.
4. Make Introductions Introduce your dog to your household slowly. Many pairs of hands petting him at once will only frighten him. Later, introduce him to neighbors, regular visitors and other family members. Give your dog a sense of who your – and your dog’s – friends are.
5. Introduce Other Pets Other companion animals in your home should also be properly introduced to your new dog or puppy. Don’t expect them to get along right away, and don’t try to force them to play together. Give them time to adjust to one another.
6. Housetrain Whichever method of housetraining you have chosen – crate training, paper training or litter box – make sure that all members of the family enforce it consistently. Accidents happen, so have a procedure for clean-up.
7. Set House Rules Teach your dog from the beginning what is and is not appropriate behavior. If something is “OK” today, your puppy will think it’s OK forever. Make sure that every member of the family enforces the house rules. Consistency is the key to having a well-behaved pet.

Keep Your Dog Healthy

1. Go to the Veterinarian Set up a schedule for regular check-ups with your veterinarian. Ask the vet questions about your dog’s diet, behavior, activity level or other concerns. Contact the veterinarian at once if your dog seems ill or in pain.
2. Feed a Good Diet Work with your veterinarian or breeder to find the food that is best for your dog’s age, size and activity level. Keep the diet consistent. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water.
3. Exercise Dogs need regular exercise to ensure continuing good health. Take your dog for walks, run around in the yard, throw a ball around – anything to get him up and moving. This will benefit his health and could prevent behavior problems.
4. Vaccinate Dogs should follow a strict schedule of vaccinations to prevent diseases. Keep your dog current on his vaccinations, following the schedule recommended by your veterinarian. Keep a copy of your dog’s vaccination records handy.
5. Prevent Disease You can take steps to prevent other diseases not covered by the regular series of vaccinations. Depending on the area of the country you live in, your dog could be at risk for diseases such as heartworm and Lyme disease. Ask your veterinarian for advice on prevention.
6. Repel Fleas and Ticks Aside from discomfort, parasites such as fleas and ticks can cause serious diseases. Keep your dog, his bedding, and your home free from parasites by using the method recommended by your veterinarian.
7. Know Your Dog’s Patterns You should become familiar with your dog’s patterns in terms of eating, drinking, sleeping and relieving himself. Any major variations in these patterns could indicate illness and should be reported to your veterinarian.
8. Provide Chew Toys Dogs never outgrow the need to chew. Protect your possessions by providing a variety of chew toys to satisfy your dog’s urges.
9. Bathe Your Dog A clean dog is a healthy dog. Bathe your dog on a regular basis appropriate to his breed and environment. Overbathing can be harmful to a dog’s skin. Use a good shampoo and be sure to rinse well. If bathing your dog is more than you can handle, take him to a groomer or veterinarian for help.
10. Groom Your Dog All dogs should be groomed regularly for health and best appearance. Some short-coated breeds need just a quick brushing every week, while some longer-coated breeds need daily brushing to prevent matting and to reduce shedding. If your dog requires clipping or sculpting, you may want to consult a professional groomer.
11. Clip Those Nails Keeping your dog’s nails short will keep him comfortable, prevent injury to his feet, and may save the surface of your floors. If you can hear your dog’s nails click on a hard surface, they need to be trimmed. Ask your veterinarian for advice on clipping your dog’s nails yourself.
12. Clean Those Teeth To prevent tooth decay and gum disease, clean your dog’s teeth regularly. Most dogs will accept a “toothbrush” if introduced to it slowly and gently. You can also give your dog products such as hard biscuits, rope bones and nylon chews to keep his teeth clean.
13. Prevent Obesity Keep your dog healthy by maintaining him at an appropriate weight. Feed him a well-balanced diet and give him plenty of exercise. Don’t give in to begging – “people food” is generally bad for dogs.
14. Know Your Breed’s Health Risks You should be aware of common health problems in your breed, how to prevent them, and how to recognize their onset. For example, some giant breeds are prone to bloat, while some short-faced breeds are prone to respiratory problems. Ask your breeder or veterinarian for information about any signs or symptoms you should watch for in your pet.
15. Protect From Poisons Make sure that your home and yard are free from poisonous substances, such as antifreeze, which tastes good but can cause serious illness or even death. Keep your veterinarian’s number handy in case of accidental ingestion.
16. Be Alert to Changing Needs As your dog ages, his needs will change. He may require a different diet, need more sleep, and be less active. Do what you can to keep him comfortable. Your dog may not be as “fun” as he once was, but he is the same dog you loved as a puppy. You should do everything you can to pamper him in his final years.
17. End Suffering If, due to illness or old age, your dog reaches a point where his quality of life is severely compromised, arrange to end his life humanely. Letting go is sometimes the kindest thing you can do. Don’t prolong the suffering because you fear the pain of losing your dog.

Keep Your Dog Safe

1. I.D. Your Dog Your dog should wear an identification tag with your name, address and phone number at all times. This will increase the chances of your dog being returned to you if he is lost or runs away.
2. Consider Microchips or Tattoos Microchips and tattoos are methods of permanently identifying your dog, and can be invaluable in recovering your dog should he become lost.
3. Provide Shelter Your dog needs a sheltered area for the time he spends outside. The shelter should provide shade in summer and warmth in winter.
4. Watch the Heat Dogs can succumb to heat stress in a matter of minutes. Do not leave your dog in the car when the temperature is high. When your dog is outside, he should have a shady place to lay down and plenty of fresh, cool water.
5. Travel Safely Keep your dog safe in the car by using a crate, or by attaching the dog to a seat belt with a harness. Never let your dog ride free in the back of a pickup truck, or allow him to hang his head out of the car window.
6. Find a Pet-Sitter or Boarding Kennel Make arrangements for your dog’s care when you go away. Have a friend or reliable pet-sitter come over to tend to the dog, or find a good kennel for boarding. If you opt for boarding, try to inspect the facilities before you drop your dog off.
7. Prepare for Disaster Be prepared to care for your dog in the event of a disaster such as fire, flood, hurricane or earthquake. Make an emergency kit with clean water, food, and first aid equipment. Find out in advance if the evacuation shelters in your area allow animals. If not, develop alternatives.
8. Establish an Emergency Contact Enlist a family member or friend to take care of your dog in the event of a sudden illness, hospitalization or other emergency. This person should ideally be someone your dog has spent some time with and is comfortable with. Leave a list of general care instructions in a safe place.
9. Make a Will You should make arrangements for the safety and care of your pet in the event of your death. Don’t assume that a family member will step in to take care of the dog.
10. Take Pictures Of course, you will want a picture of your dog to grace your desk or to send as a Christmas card. More importantly, a current photo will be invaluable in the event that your dog is lost.

Be a Friend

1. Play! Dogs, of course, love to play. Set aside time each day for play sessions. Apart from the obvious benefit of having fun together, play also provides an outlet for your dog’s energy.
2. Go On Walks Take your dog on frequent walks. He will enjoy exploring the neighborhood and will benefit from the exercise. Make sure that you have a good strong leash and that you maintain control of the dog at all times.
3. Talk to Your Dog Your dog won’t understand your words, but he will enjoy the sound of your voice. Talking to your dog will make him feel involved. You can also use different voice levels to praise or correct your dog’s behavior.
4. Give Treats Your dog will always appreciate a treat, and treats can be used as a supplement to his regular diet, as well as an excellent training aid.
5. Love Your Dog Your dog will love you no matter what. Return the favor.
6. Switch Out Toys Keep your dog entertained by rotating his toys. Put “old” toys out of sight for a month or two and then bring them out again – your dog will enjoy them just as much as when they were new.
7. Give Your Time You are the center of your dog’s world. You may be tired after a long day at work, but your dog has spent the day anxiously awaiting your return. Reward that loyalty with your time. Pet him, talk to him, play with him, laugh with him. Let your dog know you value his company.
8. Find the “Spot”Scratch your dog’s belly often. If you find the “spot,” so much the better.
9. Leave the Radio On Try leaving the radio or television on when you leave your dog alone. The noise will keep him company.
10. Plan Activities With Your Dog Include your dog in family activities. Take him to the park or on outings to the beach, or to special activities such as the “Dog Olympics” or dog parades. Your dog will love being out and about with you.
11. Give a Massage Dogs love to be petted, and recent studies have shown that structured massages may be beneficial to your dog’s health and behavior. They may also be very relaxing for you!
12. Make That Tail Wag Your dog’s tail is a barometer of his emotions. Do what you can to keep it happily wagging.
13. Go On Trips Dogs can add another element of fun to a family vacation. Check ahead for lodging that accepts dogs. If flying, ask about travel accommodations for your dog when you make your reservations.
14. Ease Separation Anxiety Your dog will want to be with you at all times, but for most people that simply isn’t possible. Help your dog get used to being alone. Leave him each day with a minimum of fuss. When you come home, greet him calmly. This will teach him that your leaving is not something to be concerned about.
15. Give Kisses Give your dog a kiss, and see how many you get in return.
16. Get Another One! Dogs are pack animals by nature and generally enjoy the company of other dogs. Your dog may benefit greatly from having a companion to play with. Be as conscientious about getting a second dog as you were about getting the first; multiple dog ownership isn’t for everyone, and some dogs do better as an “only.”
17. Don’t Let Your Dog Down You aren’t a dog owner just at Christmas, or on the weekends, or in the afternoon, or when you have spare time. You aren’t a dog owner just when the dog is behaving, or when he’s a cute fuzzy puppy, or when he’s winning awards. When you bring a dog into your family, that dog is yours for life. If you can’t keep that commitment, don’t make it. And once you’ve made it, don’t break it. Your dog’s life depends on you.

Train Your Dog

1. Be The Alpha Dogs need to know who’s boss – and that boss should be you. You and your dog will be much happier together if you establish yourself as the leader of the pack.
2. Teach Basic Commands Teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come and down. Training your dog will not only make your life easier, but will also fulfill your dog’s desire to learn and please you.
3. Socialize Your Dog Expose your dog to different people and settings regularly. Take him to the park, to the pet store, on a walk through town. Praise him for accepting petting from friendly strangers, and for behaving calmly around other dogs. The more your dog learns of the world, the more comfortable he will be in it.
4. Go to Class Obedience classes can be a great experience for you and your dog. You may even discover that your dog has a great talent for learning, and be able to compete in obedience, agility or tracking events.
5. Prevent Nuisance Barking Don’t let your dog’s incessant barking annoy your neighbors. Teach your dog not to bark without real provocation. If your dog’s barking is causing problems while you’re away from home, try a silencing collar.
6. Praise Your Dog Because your dog loves you, he wants to please you. Praise him lavishly for obeying commands and behaving well. Using positive, rather than negative, reinforcement will help your dog enjoy learning.
7. Supervise Play With Children Children and dogs can be great companions, but they also require supervision when playing together. Your dog may be “good with kids,” but what if he encounters a kid that is not good with dogs? Very small children should never be left alone with a dog, no matter how stable his temperament.
8. Give Your Dog a Job Keep your dog active and alert by giving him tasks to do. Teach him to fetch the paper, carry groceries in a pack or empty the dryer. Make him sit before getting a treat or lay down before going outside. Giving your dog a sense of purpose and accomplishment will increase his sense of well-being.

Breed Responsibly

1. Breed To Improve Breeding should only be done for the advancement of the breed. If you are thinking about breeding your dog, consult your breeder for advice. Consider all the consequences-and expenses-of breeding a litter before you do so.
2. Spay or Neuter Spay or neuter their dogs means to prevent accidental breeding resulting in unwanted puppies.
3. Contain Bitches in Heat If your female dog goes into heat, or season, make sure to keep her properly secured. Males can sense a female in heat up to five miles away. An accessible bitch in heat can lead to unplanned breedings, not to mention fights among dogs frantic to get to her.
4. Perform Genetic Screening If you plan to breed your dog, it is very important to test for health and disease. Perform all available tests to rule out the possibility of passing on a genetic defect.

Get Involved

1. Join an Dog Club Your local dog club is a great resource. Many clubs offer educational seminars and health clinics. It’s also a good place to start if you plan to compete in competitive events with your dog.
2. Encourage Breed Behavior All purebred dogs were developed with a purpose in mind. Find activities that will encourage your dog to fulfill her breed’s purpose.
3. Involve the Kids Your children can have fun and learn more about dogs and dog care.
4. Find a Mentor If you plan to breed or show your dog, you will want to find a knowledgeable person in the breed to show you the ropes. A mentor can be an invaluable source of experience and information, and can help make your “novice” days much easier.

Be a Canine Ambassador

1. Set a Good Example As a dog owner, you are responsible not only for your own dog’s well being, but for the status of dogs everywhere. One irresponsible dog owner in town can make life difficult for dog owners all over. Owning a friendly, clean, well-mannered dog reflects positively on the species and may help protect our rights to own companion animals.
2. Respect Your Neighbors Not everyone will love your dog as much as you do. Keep your dog on your property. Don’t force your dog’s company on a neighbor who isn’t comfortable with dogs.
3. Don’t Leave Leavings Always carry a plastic “baggy” or two with you when you walk your dog to pick up any waste it leaves behind, then dispose of the waste properly. Failure to clean up after your dog is disrespectful to your neighbors.
4. Respect Local Laws Heed the laws regarding dog ownership in your city or county. These may include registration, leash laws and nuisance barking laws. Failure to obey the laws in your area may not only result in the loss of your dogs, but may also infringe upon the rights of others in your area.
5. Fight Anti-Dog Legislation Be aware of any legislation developing in your city or state that may compromise the rights of responsible dog owners. Become an active voice against legislation directed against specific breeds.
6. Let Your Dog Help Others Dogs are invaluable in providing service to humans – visiting the sick, helping the disabled, locating missing persons, and much more. If your dog is of the correct temperament, you and he can reap the rewards of helping others.
7. Show Your Pride Of course you should let your dog know when you’re proud of him, but let others know it too. Bringing a well-behaved dog into public places or showing off his talents at competitive events is an excellent way to “advertise” the rewards of canine companionship.Reference: http://www.akc.org/