There are some good tips following for caring for small dogs.
One matter that I do take issue with that the author mentions is, of course, the food. He appears to advocate commercial kibble or canned food in the care and feeding of small dog breeds.
As you know, I’m not in favor of this for any dog.
Raw food for small dogs is just as desirable as it is in the care of larger dogs. You do need to adjust the type of raw food you give your small dog, though due to their comparatively small mouths, jaw and teeth.
So the answer is to cut up any bones you might give (or have your butcher do so), and for very small dogs you might only want to give chicken bones – preferably the wings – since the bones are pretty small, and they’re fairly soft as well.
You can chop up pieces of meat quite small, or even mince it if you prefer. And finely chopped vegetables are great when you’re caring for a small dog.
Otherwise, as I said, Blake, the author, has some good ideas on the care of small dog breeds.
Here it is:
Care For Your Small Dog With These Big-Impact Tips
by: Blake Kritzberg
Basic small dog care is much the same as for larger dogs, but owners need to make a few adjustments to best meet their small dog’s needs. Consider the following daily dog care routines, and how they’re adapted to meet the needs of your pint-sized pup.
Feeding Your Small Dog
Naturally you’re going to feed your dog daily, but the standard-size kibble at the grocery store may be too large for your small dog to eat comfortably. You’ll need to be sure to buy a kibble designed to fit his smaller mouth (these are easy to find among the premium dog food brands). Canned soft foods are also perfectly suitable for your small dog.
Containing Your Small Dog
All dogs need exercise and a safe place to potty outdoors, and a fenced-in yard provides all the security they need, right? Not necessarily when it comes to small dogs. A fence that adequately holds a bigger dog may have gaps large enough for a small dog to fit between or under, allowing him to escape. Fences also can’t provide overhead protection from large hawks, which sadly have been known to carry small dogs and puppies away. A covered kennel run might better meet your small dog’s needs.
Training Your Small Dog
Small dogs aren’t any harder to train than large dogs, yet the consensus of many pet experts is that many of them end up spoiled. No matter if he fits in a purse or a pocket, your small dog still sees the world in terms of pack behavior, and if you’re not leading the pack, he is. It’s a wise idea to make sure your small dog is thoroughly house trained, no matter how small and inconsequential the mess might seem when he misses. Dog experts also suggest you make your small dog work for you, to keep him responsive to your rules. Have him sit or do tricks before you give him a tasty treat or even his meal.
Grooming Your Small Dog
Small dog care includes some special grooming needs you’ll need to keep in mind. Small dogs require more frequent nail trimming than larger dogs, because they typically spend less time on rough surfaces wearing them down. You’ll also need to brush your small dog’s teeth twice a week if you’re feeding a soft canned food diet.
As you can see, small dog care largely follows the same route as care for any other sized dog. The differences may seem like minor details, but paying attention to them can make a big impact when it comes to meeting your small dog’s special needs.
About The Author Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by for small dog couture and home decor, designer dog collars, leather dog leashes and the Small Dog Blog.http://www.poodle-oo.com |
So there you have it – tips on caring for your small dog.
If you have any other tips or ideas on this subject, please leave your comments below.
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