CARING FOR A DOG

Dog owners are responsible for feeding, housebreaking, and cleaning their
pets. They should also oversee the health of their dogs. It's best to consult a
veterinarian at the first sign of a dog ailment.

A dog can be fed either the dry meal, biscuit, semimoist and
cellophane-wrapped, or canned type of dog food. Whichever type is selected must
contain the carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, and vitamins essential for
the animal's well-being. As a rule, the cost of feeding a large dog can be kept
low by giving it the inexpensive dry meal type.

A puppy should be housebroken as soon as possible. When the puppy takes its
first water or food, note how long it takes for the puppy to urinate or
defecate. When you discover the schedule, take the pup outside when the
prescribed time has elapsed after feeding or drinking. Soon, the puppy will
associate the outdoors with toilet function and will no longer soil the house or
the newspapers that have been spread around its living area.

Young puppies should not be excessively groomed. A daily brushing with a soft
brush is sufficient to remove surface dust and dirt. Some authorities believe
that to conserve its natural skin oils a pup should not be completely bathed
until its first birthday. Mud and deep dirt in its coat, however, can be removed
with a damp, warm washrag. Afterward, the puppy should be completely dried with
a rough towel. A dog can then have a complete bath when it is old enough, but it
must be kept in the house until thoroughly dry, especially during winter. Dog
nails should be trimmed periodically. Cut only the transparent part of the nail
past the foot pads. Close clipping can cut into the "quick"--the portion of nail
that has nerves and blood vessels--and hurt the animal. Special clippers can be
purchased for trimming dog nails.

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