There’s something about puppies that always brings out a bright smile on the faces of children. If you are thinking about a birthday gift or a Christmas gift for your child, a cute little puppy may be just the thing. You will be guaranteed to get a full beaming smile and a big hug. And your child will have future full of memories that will last for life.

Puppies will adapt to their new environment relatively quickly, you don’t need to worry about that. But there are a few things you need to seriously consider before taking the plunge and committing to a new puppy.

A puppy will need a certain amount of space and a decent amount of attention as they mature. They are not toys that you can just place anywhere in the house. They are tender hearted and can be easily frightened if there is a lot of racket. A relaxed and non-chaotic and stable environment is necessary for your puppy to mature in a healthy way.

You may need a few days to prepare for the arrival of this new family member to your home. A few rules may need to be ironed out to make this transition go smoothly and every family member is prepared. And when the time comes, slowly and in a relaxed way introduce the puppy to every member of the household. Puppies have the tendency to slowly adapt to the scents that help it to remember family members and other pets. Help the puppy get acclimated to his new environment. After all, the little guy is experiencing a lot of changes all at one time.

If you have other pets in the house, make sure they are secure. At least until the new puppy becomes familiar with their scent. Also, secure areas of your home where you may not want the puppy to go such as the kitchen or children’s bedrooms so that the puppy will not enter and make a mess of things.

Have a place that will be the puppy’s sleeping place as well as a place for the bathroom. Keeping the puppy there for small stretches of time will help it to adapt to his new home enviroment more easily.

Doing these small things will ensure a smooth transition for your puppy and family members and will guarantee a more enjoyable and stress free experience.

Read on to learn out the real facts of common myths such as: By products are bad inedible & discarded animal parts, corn is a filler and is sickly digested, raw food is better than dry food, corn drives allergic reaction, dry food causes bloating, extraordinary protein causes hot spot and etc.

MYTHS of pet food

Myth 1: By-products are bad, uneatable & unwanted animal parts Fact 1: By-products are sometimes taken in pet food as it is a very well source of protein. It is not rotten and spoilt meat but actually comprises of animal body parts like feet, neck, kidney, stomach etc. These are common animal body parts that are commonly eaten by Chinese (Eg. Kway Chap & Pig Stomach soup).

Myth 2: Corn is a filler and poorly digested Fact 2: Corn can be poorly digested if given in its physical form. In fact, if you give your pet a bit of fresh corn, it would most likely be indigestible and reappear in its stools. However, the corn seen in pet food is “Ground Corn” which means that it is finely grounded and handled carefully to help determine digestibility. Ground corn can be more than 98% digestible. Corn is an greatest source of complex carbohydrates, comprises linoleic acid for healthy skin and coat, provides for necessary amino acids and has fiber.

Myth 3: Corn Gluten meal is bad Fact 3: Corn gluten meal is not corn. It is a acceptable source of protein (60%-64%) and also it is a effective urine acidifier to prevent/help urinary tract problems in our pets

Myth 4: Animal origin proteins are better than proteins from plants and grains Fact 4: No one root of protein is ideal and no single source comprises all essential amino acids. Animal and plant origins are good sources of protein. For instance, soyabean meal (high in methionine) complements chicken (low in methionine). The difference is that real meat is a highly palatable protein source. The number one ingredient for all PRO PLAN cat and dog products (except urinary tract health formula for cats-first ingredient is corn gluten meal as it is a good urine acidifier) are true chicken, turkey, lamb or salmon. This is why PRO PLAN is highly palatable and we assure that your dog/cat will enjoy it.

Myth 5: BARF (Raw Food) is better than dry food Fact 5: Raw food diets Normally are not complete and well-balanced Danger of infection and contamination - Salmonella is very hazardous to both pets and humans and can be seen in the stools of pets. Bones can get stuck in your pets mouth

Myth 6: Cooking destroys enzymes and nutrients Fact 6: Cooking is beneficial. Cooking: Changes the digestibleness of nutrients Changes structure of amino acids Breaks down non-nutritional elements to increase digestibility Kills bacteria and parasites Dogs make up their own enzymes required to stomach food and use nutrients like protein. Also producers of superior quality pet foods maintain safety margins developed into formulations. Any nutritional loss in PRO PLAN during making and reposition is reported for and will always be added back to ensure high quality in our pet food.

Myth 7: Corn drives allergies Fact 7: 10 different studies, representing 253 dogs Roundebush, Guilford , Shanely(2000) Adverse Reactions to Food, Small Animal Clinic Nutrition (4 th edition) Beef, dairy products and wheat account for 65% of all reported events of food allergic reactions Chicken, egg, lamb and soy account for 25% of all reported cases of food allergies Only 6 confirmed (2.4%) cases of allergic reactions to corn

You can find more articles on “Caring For Your Dog” at http://www.purina.com.my

Everyone wants the best for their pet. In addition to giving them adequate execise and medical care, it is important to be sure they are fed good foods to insure a long life. We take for granted that commercial pet foods are the best for our dogs. Unfortunately, this is not necessarily true.

Dog Food companies are in business to make money. They do not have to follow the same regulations that are given to companies that manufacture food for human consumption. They have, instead, their own regulations that are not as stringent. Some of these regulations allow for using some rather unsavory ingredients. This would include things that you would never in your wildest dreams feed to your dog. If you are aware of this situation and you would like to do something about it, then here are some suggestions on how to make sure that your dog is getting the nutrition it needs.

Though it is more time consuming, a lot of pet owners have started making Homemade Dog Food. It does take longer than purchasing ready made food at the store, but the advantages certainly make it worth while. Paying attention to prices will allow you to spend a similar amount to what you spent previously on commercial Dog Food. Here are some things to take into account when preparing homemade pet food.

Most people think dogs require meat to stay healthy. This is not correct, dogs are able to live quite well on a vegetable based diet. It is important to choose the right vegetables and prepare them properly in order to insure your pet’s health. Dogs often live longer on a diet of homemade food. Like humans who would be unhealthy from eating fast food every day, dogs are also better off eating freshly prepared meals.

Certain foods are bad for your dog to consume. You’ll need to take care that you do not provide them alcoholic beverages, milk or milk-based products, chocolate, macadamia nuts, grapes, or raisins. With only a small list of restricted foods, it is easy to see the wide range of items you can use to prepare homemade foods for your pet. Alway be sure to remember which foods are off limits.

Proper care of your pet is ongoing project as you want to insure omptimum health and life expectancy. Homemade pet food can help your dog live a longer healthier life and they will definitely appreciate the nutritious and better tasting meals.

The price of making Dog Food from scatch might put you in a financial crunch with the high cost of food at your local supermarket today. Though if you think about it, who doesn’t food scraps to their beloved pet.

Some people think dogs have different dietary demands, though it is definitely ok to give them homemade food instead of store bought varieties. This is because dogs digest their foods in the same manner as humans and this has not been disputed scientifically.

An imprecise term which has been used for a number of diseases in dogs which are characterized by bronchitis and caused by a variety of infectious agents. Kennel Cough in dogs will stimulate a coarse, dry, hacking cough about 3 to 7 days after the dog is initially infected. It sounds as if the dog needs to “clear it’s throat” and the cough will be triggered by any extra activity or exercise. Many dogs that acquire Kennel Cough will cough every few minutes, all day long. Their general state of health and alertness will be unaffected; they usually have no rise in temperature, and do not lose their appetite.

One of the first warning signs of kennel cough in dogs is a rough and dry, hacking cough that will show up with in a week of the dog having the initial infection. The damage is done through the bacteria and/ or viruses damaging the lining of the windpipe and bronchi, which exposes the nerve endings. The cough is caused when the dog breathes in and out and air is exposed to the endings of the nerves which irritates them.

Most cases of dog kennel cough are mild and do not change the dog’s overall health or physical condition. The cough though can be irritating to the dog as it is persistent and the dog will cough every few minutes throughout the day. The use of antibiotics can be used to quicken the healing process but in the majority of cases most dogs will recover without it. Kennel cough can last up to three weeks

Like colds in human’s dog kennel cough can be transmitted. Because the germ is carried through the air and can be inhaled by other dogs it can cause infections in other dogs, especially if the other dog is susceptible to the microbes. If the dog is sharing a kennel then the disease can be spread very quickly amongst the other dogs (hence the name kennel cough). But it can be acquired anytime and anywhere from an infected dog.

The veterinarian will typically prescribe cough-suppressing drugs to reduce the annoying cough. They will occasionally prescribe antibiotics to help manage the recovery from the infection, though most dogs will recover from the cough without medication.

Twenty-five to thirty percent of dogs develop joint disease. That is why it’s so important to take notice of any of the signs that could indicate that your dog is beginning to suffer from any inflammatory illness. Joint disease is more likely in larger dogs and some forms are congenital in pure breed pets. If you see any warning signs take your dog to the vet and work out a health regimen for him.

You can also give your dog a glucosamine and chondroitin table. It will help lubricate his cartilage. The normal dosage is a 500 mg tablet per ten pounds of body weight one time daily. MSM is an organic sulphur that studies have shown relieves arthritic pain, slows joint deterioration, and reduces inflammation. It hasn’t any negative side effects. Since dogs don’t usually get enough Omega 3’s in their diets, give your dog a supplement like fish oil tablets to get these fatty acids. It helps reduce swelling in joints.

There are some recommended commercial brands to help relieve arthritis in dogs. Hill’s (Rx/d) and Purina (JM Joint Mobility) are formulas made for this purpose. The most important joint supplements have been added to the Dog Food. If you decide to give your dog supplements instead, then go for the weight control formula because that will help his joints too.

It is hard to watch your old friend limp and whimper when he or she walks. Pay attention to his movements and his behavior. Your dog will let you know when the joints are hurting, but only you can help them out and give them the relief they need. With the right medications your dog will not be as good as new, but they will feel less pain.

The main thing to remember is that you do not want your best friend suffering with pain if he doesn’t have to. He will not be happy and can become worse without the medication. The pain from arthritis will have him lying around and then his joints can become stiffer. He needs to exercise and that is very hard to do, if he is in severe pain.

Both dogs and people may be unfortunate enough to know the pain of arthritis.

A dog with arthritis will most likely feel a great deal of discomfort, even if he is lying down.

All is not lost though, owners can help take control of this terrible condition.

Glucosamine is a buzzword in the treatment of arthritis, as it has multiple benefits including pain relief, reduction of inflammation and rebuilding of cartilage.

There are degrees of severity with arthritis; mild cases can be treated with glucosamine and Vitamin C; whereas glucosamine, MSM and chondroitin may be a better choice for chronic cases.

Swelling is reduced through the benefits of MSM while Chondroitin is crucial in the structure of cartilage.

If your dog is really suffering reach for PNP Healthy Joints Dog Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM. Inflammation will be reduced thanks to the MSM element and chondroitin will target the tissue.

Ester C is a patented form of Vitamin C which also helps in regenerating cells and tissue and easing arthritis.

A liquid glucosamine supplement, PNP Healthy Joints Liquid Glucosamine MSM for Dogs is an innovative solution for mealtimes.

This is a high quality product which tastes great and gives fantastic health benefits for your dog.

Dogs with chronic cases of arthritis will see the major benefits of this supplement.

PNP Healthy Joints Glucosamine Vitamin C for Dogs is a fantastic choice for dogs without or with mild arthritis.

What we mean by ‘without arthritis’ is that taking this supplement could protect your dog from this crippling condition.

Your dog will snap them up too as they are made in a chewable format in a lipsmacking liver flavor.

You can also help your dog on a daily basis by giving him the right kind of food.

The Missing Link Plus Canine Formula is a magic powder that you can sprinkle over his dinner.

This wonderful melange of glucosamine, health foods and omega 3,6 and 9 are top quality and come in such a convenient powder format.

When you see your dog’s ease, his healthy coat and skin, you will be glad you bought Lipiderm Hip and Joint Support for Dogs.

This supplement will promote healthy skin, bones and coat thanks to the blends of Omega acids, glucosamine, MSm and manganese.

Treating a variety of afflictions from arthritis through to flea dermatitis, it is also tasty - the part your dog is interested in.

As you can see, there is so much on offer to help with upsetting health problem.

Consult with your vet first for expert advice and consider investing in some of these great products.

There are many supplements to help animals with sore joints, one of which is Cosequin, which some of you may have heard of, or may have bought. Most likely it was a purchase to try to help your dog with hip troubles.

To clear up any confusion, let’s discuss Cosequin in detail. It is important that consumers understand fully about the product they are buying so they can make an informed choice.

But let’s be clear - Cosequin is not a drug; it is a supplement which has the brand name Cosequin. To put it another way, a similar supplement is called Healthy Joints Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM?, it’s just a name rather than a unique substance. It’s like calling a vacuum cleaner a hoover, and the same thing here, both are joint supplements.

The two products mentioned before have a lot in common - both contain Glucosamine and Chondroitin. In fact that is the total sum of the active ingredients in Cosequin. What is missing from it is MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane.

What’s the big deal about MSM - well it’s quite important for pets with arthritis as it can help control the swelling and pain. So you wouldn’t want to give a supplement without it.

So that leaves Cosequin rather less attractive if you are looking for a supplement for dogs with arthritis. It may be a perfectly valid choice for those who want a mainstream joint supplement with Glucosamine and Chondroitin.

If you dog has only certain requirements, Consequin is pretty good, with several strengths and both chewables and capsules to choose from. Cosequin should not be your choice though if you require MSM.

It might be that your vet has told you to give your dog Consequin on his last examination; but this might not be a literal suggestion, he might be recommending ANY premium joint product. Cosequin may be one of many options.

Truth be told, you can use many brands for the same result; so ask your animal doctor to explain which elements your dog needs. Cosequin might be the right one for you, but you could choose a different brand, or you might find Cosequin doesn’t fulfill all your needs.

The holy trinity of MSM, Glucosamine and Chondroitin can be found in a variety of products. Pet Nutrition products are created from the best ingredients and you can be sure what you get in the bottle is what is described.

This is not always the case with inferior brands so save your money and go for a brand like Pet Nutrition which give you a fair deal.

We have all seen a dog owner with their dog and they are constanly trying, and failing, to control the dog. The owner is embarassed and the dog is a nuisance to everybody else around.

You could employ a dog trainer to train your dog but you might prefer to build a great bond with your dog by teaching and Training your dog yourself. Even if you have never trained a dog before with the right advice you can soon learn how to train your dog.

There are dog Training classes available in most areas and this might be an option you want to consider. You will need to start Training at the start of the course and that may not be for a while and you will need to go regularly each week with your dog for the weekly sessions.

When you are Training your dog it is important to praise your dog when your dog is responding well to your instruction. If he, or she, does really well gives lots of praise and a little treat.

Dogs want to be loved so the more you show how much you love your dog the more he will want to make you happy. When he is doing well and you give him lots of encouraging praise he will remember that by doing things properly he got a lot of love and attention and next time will try extra hard.

Having a pocket full of dog treats can help with your dog Training. When your dog has done what you commanded particularly well give him a dog treat as an extra bonus for doing so well. He will remember and learn that by trying really hard to do as required he might earn an extra treat.

Shouting at your dog or hitting him will be counter productive. You are aiming at having a dog that behaves well because he wants to not one that behaves only because it is scared. Love and praise work much better than being unkind to your dog. Be firm and command his obedience but let him obey because he loves you and wants to please you, not because he is scared.

Try to develop a regular routine for your dog training. A short contructive period every day is far better than a long session once a week which may leave your dog tired and confused. Keep the training to short periods and just practice one thing at a time.

Food is important for human beings as well as animals. Human beings require essential nutrients like vitamins, proteins and minerals for their all round growth. In the same way dogs also require nutritious food. This article will help you choose ‘Quality Dog Food‘ for your dog.

Its very important that you choose the right kind of food for your dog. Lots of dog owners ignore the health of their pet. Understand that if you truly want to increase your dogs life span it is essential that you choose a high quality Dog Food.

The majority of people believe that if a Dog Food is a commercial brand, that is better that an organic dog food. Unfortunately commercial food may very well not have the nutrients that are vital for you dog. Also, commercial brands of dog foods contain very harmful preservatives that are detrimental to your pets health.

Did you know that it is very easy to make your dogs food at home? However if you want to make a food that is healthy for your dog you need to be aware of the nutritional needs of your dog.

Never choose a dog food just because it comes packed in a stylish bag. Flashy advertisements of commercial dog foods can sometimes mislead you. Dogs are carnivorous animals; therefore they require non-vegetarian food regularly. Different dogs have different nutritional requirements.

Bones that have been cooked are harmful for your dog, also any kind of tea, chocolates, grapes, spicy and salty foods are unsafe. Itis very important for you to also remember that a dogs digestion cannot process cooked vegetables.

Dogs do not need just meat and protein; they also need carbohydrates, fat, minerals and vitamins for their proper growth. Improper food can result in muscle spasms in your dog’s body. Veterinary doctors can help you in selecting high ‘Quality Dog Food’.

There are many web sites from where you can download free dog food recipes. In order to differentiate high ‘Quality Dog Food’ from low quality dog food, you would need a little bit of experience. Dogs are the most faithful animals on earth. If kept properly, they can keep you happy 24×7.

Clipping your puppy’s nails at home can save you a lot of time and money, but it can also be rather stressful if you dont prepare your puppy for it. Making sure that a dog is ready to have his nails clipped is easiest to do when they are young, so start getting your puppy used to the idea early on and you’ll have a more compliant adult dog when it comes to nail clipping, whether you do it at home or take your dog to a vet.

First Steps

When your new puppy first arrives home, you will want to make sure that you play with his paws frequently. Lift them up one by one, rub the pad gently, tap the toe nails and just generally get him used to having his feet handled. This should not be playtime. Make sure that your puppy understands that he needs to sit still while this is going on.

Since puppies are much like small children, don’t expect yours to sit for very long. Keep these sessions quite short to begin with, just one minute to begin with. Then increase by 30 seconds as your puppy shows the ability to sit calmly for longer periods of time. This will greatly benefit you in the future when you need to clip the nails of an adult dog.

These early sessions are very important. You can use a small dog treat to reward your puppy afterwards for letting you handle his paws. Get him used to you touching all parts of his foot and moving the nails gently, touching between the toes, etc. Most dogs wont like this much, but by teaching him young, you’ll find that hell let you do it later on.

You might also want to practice filing the nails to get your puppy used to having things done to his actual nails. Again, short sessions are a good idea here until your puppy is a bit older and able to sit still for a while longer.

Making Nail Clipping a Pleasant Experience

By getting your puppy used to having his paws handled, you are preparing him for a more intense experience, actually getting his nails clipped! This can be a big deal for dogs, even if they are used to having their feet touched and played with. The fact is that its not exactly the same and your puppy may be quite anxious as you actually begin to clip.

Make sure your puppy is comfortable. Unless the puppy is quite large, it will likely be easier to put him up on a table or counter with a non-slip surface. Make it a gentle experience and start off by handling the puppy’s paws like normal, then begin to clip. Take care not to cut too far down or you’ll get the quick and your puppy will be in a lot of pain. This will obviously not endear him to the process, so be very careful. You may even want to have a professional do the first nail clipping and teach you how if you find that you are nervous about the process.

Its also important to use the right dog grooming products, equipment and sharp cutters, to speed up the process. Your puppy probably wont be happy to sit still for a long time, so you’ll need to work quickly and carefully. Once the whole process is over, go ahead and give him a treat to let him know that this is a good thing.

Nail clipping can be traumatic if you haven’t prepared your puppy, so make sure that you do put in the time to train him.