what do i need to know before i get a dog?

[UrbanPoet]

what do i need to know before i get a dog?
I have alot of free time so im pretty sure i can devote time in my day towards a dog.

Any advice etc? Im considering a Beagle. Im an outdoors person so i think a beagle would be suited for me, plus i live in a small house.

[aquariaguy]

Because you have a lot of free time now, doesn't mean you'll have a lot later. If you get a dog, understand that you're in it for the long run. 15 years. It's not a novelty. Do you have the money to feed it? Bring it to yearly vet checkups? If it gets sick, can you pay for medication? Surgery?

[najibs]

yeah, here's what you SHOULDN'T do:
http://www.redflagdeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=285834

[15-20_God]

the physical attraction you feel towards it is unnatural and wrong.

[UrbanPoet]

Because you have a lot of free time now, doesn't mean you'll have a lot later. If you get a dog, understand that you're in it for the long run. 15 years. It's not a novelty. Do you have the money to feed it? Bring it to yearly vet checkups? If it gets sick, can you pay for medication? Surgery?

well.. i work and go to school.
Even on days i do work and go to school i notice i have alot of free time @ home (as seen by my RFD posting)

My parents are home all the time... They never go out. They work @ home and only do it part time.

[najibs]

the physical attraction you feel towards it is unnatural and wrong.

is that advice from personal experience?

[UrbanPoet]

so how much would food cost for a dog per month?
couldnt i get doggy insurance incase anything happens?

[Hambone]

Please don't buy a dog from the pet store.

[Bree]

so how much would food cost for a dog per month?
couldnt i get doggy insurance incase anything happens?

Depends on how much your dogs eats.
Insurance is a waste of money.

Are you in HS? You said "parents". Do you think they will be willing to look after it when you don't have time?

[najibs]

The day I move into a house I'll get a nice doberman. until then, ill have to do with a cat.

[Bree]

The day I move into a house I'll get a nice doberman. until then, ill have to do with a cat.

Cats are wonderful pets.

[najibs]

Cats are wonderful pets.

they're low maintenance for people like me that live in a condo and work most of the day, but still want a pet to care for. i dont have one yet, but once i move into my new place next month i promised my fiancee I'd get her a kitten.

[lkn4deals]

Cats are wonderful pets.



cats are evil :evil:

kittens are cute :D

[funkyfr3sh_]

You need to have $$, pets are expensive.

[najibs]

You need to have $$, pets are expensive.

not really, it depends on what pet you get.

[keanefan]

check the SPCA

vet offices sometimes have kittens for adoption

sometimes people put up notices at the vet offices that they have a dog to give away

go buy dog book- read about different breeds

read about how to take care of dog

vets can be expensive

if you don't want to comb and brush dog's hair-
then buy dog with short hair

dogs with long hair need professional groomer-
groomers can be expensive

[Shewolf]

I had a beagle a few years ago. Loved him to death, but he was a lot of trouble.

Beagles are prone to obesity. DON'T overfeed and make sure he gets lots of exercise. Depending on what kind of food you buy, you'll probably spend about $20-$40/month on food.

Beagles are not easy to train and generally follow their noses. When you walk him he'll be 'nose to the ground' most of the time. Beagles tend to wander off if you let him roam free.

Beagles like to chew so make sure he's got lots of toys and bones to keep him occupied otherwise you could end up with destroyed furniture.

Beagles are very active and they're good with kids. They tend to get separation anxiety if you leave them alone.

Insurance is not a waste of money. You never know what could happen. My beagle was diagnosed with epilepsy when he was 2 and by the time he turned 3, he had to have $1,500 knee surgery. You might luck out with a healthy dog, but then again, you might not.

I agree 100% with the person that said don't buy from a pet store.

I don't think I'd ever get another beagle. He didn't really suit my lifestyle. But with that being said, he was also the most adorable little guy and was worth every penny.

[funkyfr3sh_]

not really, it depends on what pet you get.

Sorry, I was refering to his orginial post not pets in general. Talking about a dog, dogs are expensive to maintain.

[keanefan]

http://www.dogsincanada.com/

maybe you can still find 2006 "Dogs in Canada" Annual issue in stores:

http://www.dogsincanada.com/images/web-order-link2.jpg

ya- dogs are expensive to buy and maintain

first check out the SPCA or rescue groups

some people prefer to buy puppies from breeders because they can train the puppy to have good manners and habits.

good breeders will let you visit their house

a puppy mill operator or a bad breeder doesn't want you to see the dog's living conditions.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Puppy_mill

[CSK'sMom]

Google one of the many "breed selectors" on the net. It will ask you all kinds of questions regarding your lifestyle and home and will tell you what breeds are compatible with your lifestyle. When you narrow down to a few breeds start researching like crazy to figure out what breed you like and what breed fits your life and you should end up with a dog that you love to death and will have forever. :)

[B40]

I have a beagle, he is slightly over weight, but he looks so damn cute in his thong.

Food is cheap. Big bag of premium food from Petsmart is about $40 and lasts a few months. Beagles are hard to train, for the first year, someone should be home most of the time... or get a crate.

[lkn4deals]

http://www.reachrocks.com/photos/files/misc/reachgear/Charleston%20-%20Feb%202004%20003.jpg

[chococrazy]

I had a beagle a few years ago. Loved him to death, but he was a lot of trouble.

Beagles are prone to obesity. DON'T overfeed and make sure he gets lots of exercise. Depending on what kind of food you buy, you'll probably spend about $20-$40/month on food.

Beagles are not easy to train and generally follow their noses. When you walk him he'll be 'nose to the ground' most of the time. Beagles tend to wander off if you let him roam free.

Beagles like to chew so make sure he's got lots of toys and bones to keep him occupied otherwise you could end up with destroyed furniture.

Beagles are very active and they're good with kids. They tend to get separation anxiety if you leave them alone.

Insurance is not a waste of money. You never know what could happen. My beagle was diagnosed with epilepsy when he was 2 and by the time he turned 3, he had to have $1,500 knee surgery. You might luck out with a healthy dog, but then again, you might not.

I agree 100% with the person that said don't buy from a pet store.

I don't think I'd ever get another beagle. He didn't really suit my lifestyle. But with that being said, he was also the most adorable little guy and was worth every penny.

FANTASTIC post. I love beagles (see avatar!) but don't have one yet. Shewolf has hit it straight on. Esp the "Beagles tend to wander off if you let him roam free.". You really need a very secured, fenced yard.

[Bree]

I have a beagle, he is slightly over weight, but he looks so damn cute in his thong.

Food is cheap. Big bag of premium food from Petsmart is about $40 and lasts a few months. Beagles are hard to train, for the first year, someone should be home most of the time... or get a crate.

Your puppy has its own panties? :lol:

[bionicbadger]

start saving all the plastic bags you get. You can never have enough poo bags.

[MadMonarch]

Out of my current personal experience with my 10 year old Purebred Cocker Spaniel.

getting a dog is great, in the beginning, and it's great for years, until the medical costs come. Keep your dog in tip top shape for as long as you can.

I didn't realize this before I got a dog for my 11th birthday 10 years ago. 10 years old now, he's never had an infection or medical problem of any sorts, and this year alone he's had one seizure, and an extremely bad ear infection (That's still being worked on), anyways, apparently, a cockerspaniel without an ear infection for so long is a bad thing. They should have their first ear infection between the ages of 2 and 4, (according to both my vets.....I always get a second opinion).

Do research into the pet of your choice, find out the average costs of the animal. Mine in the last month has cost me $600 for medical bills just for his ear alone, and they tell me now that he might have a "mass" deep in his ear canal and he might have to get the whole ear canal removed which I can't afford. I've spent what I can on my animal and I'm giving him the medications to make him comfortable.

Just an idea (Not to scare you), but his ear is actually pussing yellow on the inside and it smells so badly I have to hold my breath for 30 seconds while I put the medications in his ear because I continuously gag if I smell the foul smell.

So, in my experience, if you want a great companion for a long time, get a dog that suits you. But keep in mind of the additional costs of maintaining your animal, Vet bills, Food (and in the later years, expensive senior food), treats, toys. It's almost like a less expensive version of a child.

[west]

your dog will be there for you whenever you need him/her... just make sure when your dog needs you you do the same for them do you know what im sayin.. don't bail on them!

think about it and talk to your family about it as well. I don't want you to turn out to be someone that ends up giving it away or something.

[aquariaguy]

well.. i work and go to school.
Even on days i do work and go to school i notice i have alot of free time @ home (as seen by my RFD posting)

My parents are home all the time... They never go out. They work @ home and only do it part time.

Now you notice your free time maybe because its summer, what about when you go to university? Or after university?

Do you parents like animals? Will you bring it for a walk every night? Will you leave it in a crate 20hrs a day? DO you have space for a dog? Is it ok if your dog pisses/shits on your carpet and ruins them? Will you always pay for its medical bills? Will you train it? Will you really love it for the next 15 years?

[najibs]

http://www.reachrocks.com/photos/files/misc/reachgear/Charleston%20-%20Feb%202004%20003.jpg

is that B40's dog?

[Bordello]

It's a general concensus that mixed breeds are healthier than pure breeds (lower percentage of inbreeding). Unless you're planning on breeding or entering the dog in dog shows, go for a mutt.

And always leave an emergency fund for medical treatment. Scavenging for cash to pay the vet's bill should be the last thing you should worry about if/when your dog gets sick. Vets are expensive.

[NLI10D]

the most important thing is you get a dog that will suit your lifestyle, of course this is provided you have the time and ability to care for the dog not just when its nice and cute, but for the long haul

[iris1026]

beagles are a nice friendly breed (most of them), but puppies tend to howl alot.
all hounds, which include beagles, have a tendency to follow their noise. so make sure you have a fenced yard where they cannot escape.

u need to decide if you're looking for a puppy or a mature dog.

puppies: 200% agree -- don't get it from a pet store, not worth the money. You can get purebreed puppies from breeder (reputable ones) with papers for less than what they charge at petstores. Rescues may sometimes have puppies, but their waiting list may be long.

mature dogs: there are so many mature dogs that are friendly and loving and are up for adoption due to unfortunate circumstances. There are many adoption agencies and humane societies you can search.

other things to consider:
long vs. short hair
high vs low energy (long vs. short walks)
sheds vs. doesn't shed (i.e. poodles) vs. shed alot

good luck

[iris1026]

one more thing: put aside money for vet bills or buy insurance

[krocket]

what do i need to know before i get a dog?
I have alot of free time so im pretty sure i can devote time in my day towards a dog.

Any advice etc? Im considering a Beagle. Im an outdoors person so i think a beagle would be suited for me, plus i live in a small house.

Don't touch the willy.

[yuwing8]

i have a malti-poo. it sleeps all day and goes crazy when we play with him. such a good dog. he knows where to pee and **** in the basement under newspapers so the clean up part isn't so hard. when he was a puppy however, he does urinate in the carpets at night. but now that he can hold it for longer periods of time, he doesn't need to go in the middle of the night. he sleeps in my bed but he doesnt like it when i hug it. i htink its cuz he has too much fur and hugging = more warmth.

he knows how to sit and shake. but that's it.

It doesn't shed but we do often get hairballs. he needs a professional groomer at $50.

no health problems yet.

we haven't castrated him but my dad thinks we should because it might get prostrate cancer. Who thinks dog-males should be castrated to prevent cancer? is it likely to happen or not?

[HughG]

here is a fact that the owner of my vet hospital told me that if people knew beforehand would not get a dog.

on AVERAGE, during the lifespan of the dog, the owner spends 48,000.
that is alot of money.

but that is average he said.

[teknoluv]

we haven't castrated him but my dad thinks we should because it might get prostrate cancer. Who thinks dog-males should be castrated to prevent cancer? is it likely to happen or not?
Sorry to sound rude, but I always think that kind of mentality (of "castrating" dogs, good choice of word by the way) sucks. Just think: will you do that to your kids?

[DISH]

here is a fact that the owner of my vet hospital told me that if people knew beforehand would not get a dog.

on AVERAGE, during the lifespan of the dog, the owner spends 48,000.
that is alot of money.

but that is average he said.


What kind of dog is this.

$500 / yr for food X 15 years = $7500
Toys $ 1000-$2000
Vet, checkups etc.. $3000

[rocafellarec]

what do you guys think of golden retrievers?

[LuckyChef]

Before you get a dog consider this:

http://www.dumpalink.com/media/1139309984/Dog_Vs._Goat

Goats rule :lol: j/k I have a 4yr old mutt, Shih/Chih mix, who looks like a yellow lab puppy and I can honestly say it has enriched my life in many ways. Also had a 14 yr old Pom. which passed away last Sept. :( wife cried for weeks, cause that's our children.

[sandie]

As a person who got a dog while in University at the age of 22, I would advise you not to get a dog because you happen to have time during schooling. I had to give up my dog this past year because I'm about to work full time and have no more time for him. At 22 I always thought I would have all the time in the world. If you're 100% positive that your parents will help you take care of him when you start working 9 hour days, then fine. But if you're not, don't get one until your life is more settled down.

In terms of costs, I went through a bag of food a month. I bought the "good stuff" and it costed about $50 a month.

You'll need to take your dog to the vet at least one a year for shots - $70 on average although it's more intially at first. That's for the vaccines.
I think in the first year it will cost you about $300 because you need to get shots three times.

Then you'll need to do heart worm tests and get the medication - $100 a year.

You should get your dog spayed or neutered - $500 one time only.

You should have toys for your dog - $60 a year.

Grooming? $50 a time.

You might want a dog cage - $50 once.

You probably want to train it at least once - $100 per level, at least.

Leashes, collar, tags etc - $50 (recurring because they wear down)

Then unexpected problems occur - have $500 handy, easily.

its not cheap.

[Bordello]

here is a fact that the owner of my vet hospital told me that if people knew beforehand would not get a dog.

on AVERAGE, during the lifespan of the dog, the owner spends 48,000.
that is alot of money.

but that is average he said.
I find that pretty hard to believe. For my miniature breed dog, I spend:

$15 every two months on food (1 bag lasts a long time)
$200 a year on annual vet checkup/shots/flea medications
$100 a year on toys/treats/etc.

In total that's only $390 a year, so if my dog reaches 20 years old, that's only $7800. This is nowhere close to the $48k average amount your vet claims. Medical treatment can be expensive, but on average not every dog gets sick and racks up 10s of thousands in vet bills.

Are you sure you heard right?

[west]

How Could You?

by jim willis
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When I was a puppy, I entertained you with my antics and made you laugh. You called me your child, and despite a number of chewed shoes and a couple of ruined throw pillows, I became your best friend. ... Whenever I was "bad," you'd shake your finger at me and ask "How could you?" -- but then you'd relent and roll me over for a belly rub. My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those nights of nuzzling you in bed and listening to your confidences and secret dreams, and I believed that life could not be any more perfect. We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides, stops for ice cream (I only got the cone because "ice cream is bad for dogs" you said), and I took long naps in the sun waiting for you to come home at the end of the day. Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career, and more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently, comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided you about bad decisions, and romped with glee at your homecomings, and when you fell in love. She, now your wife, is not a "dog person" -- still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection, and obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy. Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled, and I wanted to mother them, too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them, and I spent most of my time banished to another room, or to a dog crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a prisoner of love." As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my eyes, investigated my ears, and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved everything about them and their touch -- because your touch was now so infrequent -- and I would've defended them with my life if need be. I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and secret dreams, and together we waited for the sound of your car in the driveway. There had been a time, when others asked you if you had a dog, that you produced a photo of me from your wallet and told them stories about me. These past few years, you just answered "yes" and changed the subject. I had gone from being "your dog" to "just a dog," and you resented every expenditure on my behalf. Now, you have a new career opportunity in another city, and you and they will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. You've made the right decision for your "family," but there was a time when I was your only family. I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You filled out the paperwork and said "I know you will find a good home for her." They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand the realities facing a middle-aged dog, even one with "papers." You had to pry your son's fingers loose from my collar as he screamed, "No, Daddy! Please don't let them take my dog!" And I worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about respect for all life. You gave me a good-bye pat on the head, avoided my eyes, and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you. You had a line to meet and now I have one, too. After you left, the two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They shook their heads and asked "How could you?" They are as attentive to us here in the shelter as their busy schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days ago. At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front, hoping it was you that you had changed your mind -- that this was all a bad dream... or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared, anyone who might save me. When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention of happy puppies, oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far corner and waited. I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the end of the day, and I padded along the aisle after her to a separate room. A blissfully quiet room. She placed me on the table and rubbed my ears, and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. The prisoner of love had run out of days. As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she bears weighs heavily on her, and I know that, the same way I knew your every mood. She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used to comfort you so many years ago. She expertly slid the hypodermic needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and murmured "How could you?" Perhaps because she understood my dogspeak, she said "I'm so sorry." She hugged me, and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I went to a better place, where I wouldn't be ignored or abused or abandoned, or have to fend for myself --a place of love and light so very different from this earthly place. And with my last bit of energy, I tried to convey to her with a thump of my tail that my "How could you?" was not directed at her. It was directed at you, My Beloved Master, I was thinking of you. I will think of you and wait for you forever. May everyone in your life continue to show you so much loyalty.

[charger]

Think of getting a dog as having a child, it requires about the same amount of attention too.

I wouldn't get a dog until I am all settled down. At the moment I am moving every 8 months so it would be insane for me to get a pet other than an ultra low maintenance fish (which I have).

[UrbanPoet]

i think was thinking of getting a rabbit.
Then i could put it on a leesh and pretend that its a dog. then i would try to teach it tricks

[iris1026]

Basically, the bigger dog you get, the more money you need to spend. Not just on food, but on vet bills too. Medication or anesthetic (thus surgery fee) is dependent on the pet's weight.

One post mentioned on average $48 000 is spend on a pet during it's lifetime. I'm thinking that's in the states, cuz they are known to take better care of their pets and more are available to them i.e. spa, hydrotherapy, wheelchairs etc.

Annual fees for dogs can run up to hundreds of dollars:
$70-80 for vaccines & check up
$50 for heartworm test
$100 for heartworm prevention medication

The fees are even greater for the puppies first year.

[aquariaguy]

i think was thinking of getting a rabbit.
Then i could put it on a leesh and pretend that its a dog. then i would try to teach it tricks

Is that supposed to be funny? I hope you're not serious.

[Codegen]

Sorry to sound rude, but I always think that kind of mentality (of "castrating" dogs, good choice of word by the way) sucks. Just think: will you do that to your kids?
Well, some people get half of their kids' penises hacked off.

[sandie]

what do you guys think of golden retrievers?

I know somebody who bought two golden retrievers from a breeder for $1000 and I think that's the best investment he made at the outset. They are AMAZING in temperament and adorably cute. Good temperament is a must. This guy has 4 young kids and the dogs - who were like 6 months at the time when i saw him - had already understood that they were at the bottom of the pack. The kids could do ANYTHING to the puppies and he was fine with it.

As an aside, my parents also bought two puppies from breeders and they too have excellent temperament.

Bottom line: buy from nice breeders. Pay the extra $ because it's worth it.

I say this because I bought my dog from a family who happened to have two dogs that mated and there were some behavioural issues.

If I were to ever buy a big dog again - which is very unlikely - I'll definitely seek out a golden retreiver breeder and pay the extra money for it. It's still usually cheaper than a pet store! PET STORES SUCK!

[SergesPlace]

It's a general concensus that mixed breeds are healthier than pure breeds (lower percentage of inbreeding). Unless you're planning on breeding or entering the dog in dog shows, go for a mutt.
And always leave an emergency fund for medical treatment. Scavenging for cash to pay the vet's bill should be the last thing you should worry about if/when your dog gets sick. Vets are expensive.
That's good advice.

Sorry to sound rude, but I always think that kind of mentality (of "castrating" dogs, good choice of word by the way) sucks. Just think: will you do that to your kids?
That's definitley a http://www.notebookforums.com/images/smilies/headscratch.gif

[poedua]

Think of getting a dog as having a child, it requires about the same amount of attention too.

I wouldn't get a dog until I am all settled down. At the moment I am moving every 8 months so it would be insane for me to get a pet other than an ultra low maintenance fish (which I have).

Good point.

My siblings 3 kids are pushing for a dog, but with work schedules being what they are, there is a good chance the dog would be left alone at home from 8 in the morning till 3:30 in the afternoon.

The 3 kids don't think it's an issue ...but I disagree...I don't think it's fair for any dog to be left alone like that.....they haven't decided whether to get one or not as yet...we'll see who wins out.

[CSK'sMom]

we haven't castrated him but my dad thinks we should because it might get prostrate cancer. Who thinks dog-males should be castrated to prevent cancer? is it likely to happen or not?

Un-neutered male dogs do have an increased risk of both testicular cancer and prostate disease. Neutering also reduces male sexual behaviors including leg-lifting, marking, roaming and fighting.

[LuckyChef]

Sorry to sound rude, but I always think that kind of mentality (of "castrating" dogs, good choice of word by the way) sucks. Just think: will you do that to your kids?

The reason the vets recommend you to spay/neuter your pets is:

1) Prevent prostrate cancer
2) Control animal population, look at how many are in shelters now
3) Cut down on aggressive behaviour

It has nothing to do with "your kids". Dogs are animals and as such will from time to time act on instinct.

[Bree]

The reason the vets recommend you to spay/neuter your pets is:

1) Prevent prostrate cancer
2) Control animal population, look at how many are in shelters now
3) Cut down on aggressive behaviour

It has nothing to do with "your kids". Dogs are animals and as such will from time to time act on instinct.

Agreed. It also controls scenting, and other territorial behaviors. It will make your dog friendlier and more agreeable. It also helps reduce the risk of other cancers and diseases. It's really rather a simple procedure actually, and the dog experiences little or no pain afterwards.

[B40]

Sorry to sound rude, but I always think that kind of mentality (of "castrating" dogs, good choice of word by the way) sucks. Just think: will you do that to your kids?

Sorry to sound rude, but you have no idea what you're talking about. Spaying/neutering is the norm and even recommended by vets.

A dog can get very horny and if not neutered/spayed, when they go into heat, you better watch out. If there is another dog in the area, they will do anything to get to him/her... but until then your leg will do :|

[Gordon]

A dog can get very horny and if not neutered/spayed, when they go into heat, you better watch out. If there is another dog in the area, they will do anything to get to him/her... but until then your leg will do :|

B40 speaks from personal experience! Trust him. He makes love to his dog with his leg all the time. ;)

[B40]

B40 speaks from personal experience! Trust him. He makes love to his dog with his leg all the time. ;)

My dog loves peanut butter :)

[lkn4deals]

My dog loves peanut butter :)

please tell me you don't wear peanut butter thongs

[Bree]

please tell me you don't wear peanut butter thongs

eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeew.

B40, don't give your dog too much PB. All the hydrogenated oil in it could give him "the runs" and may clog his arteries later in life.

[B40]

eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeew.

B40, don't give your dog too much PB. All the hydrogenated oil in it could give him "the runs" and may clog his arteries later in life.

My dog is on a strict diet, he only gets his food and a few treats every week.

The PB thing was a joke :|

[Bree]

My dog is on a strict diet, he only gets his food and a few treats every week.

The PB thing was a joke :|

Sorry, thought I'd tell you JIC. It's great that you take such good care of your pet.

[Sprite_TM]

how do u potty train a dog?

[UrbanPoet]

how do u potty train a dog?

OH! it said something about re-inforcing the behaviour of pooping/peeing outside.
So then they will associate going to the bathroom with going outside..
That way they wont pee/poop in your house.
The book is only $2.50 @ indiglo ^___^

[Sprite_TM]

but how? i cant predict when the dog will poop/pee

[Bree]

OH! it said something about re-inforcing the behaviour of pooping/peeing outside.
So then they will associate going to the bathroom with going outside..
That way they wont pee/poop in your house.
The book is only $2.50 @ indiglo ^___^

True. You always treat/play with them when they do what you want. Also, if you're paper training them, set them on it when it looks like they have to go. Also, if they pee somewhere else, rub some of it on the pad so that there is a scent on the pad, which will encourage the dog to use it. If you catch the dog relieving itself where it's not supposed to, say no, and then set it on the pad or outside.

[bang]

get a bunny :D

or a pug.
PUGS ARE SO CUTE I REALLY WANT ONE.

[keanefan]

i think was thinking of getting a rabbit.
Then i could put it on a leesh and pretend that its a dog. then i would try to teach it tricks

Ferrets are lively and energetic.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/petcarecentral_1893_20724760



Ferrets love the excitement of the environment. Since they can't be let out of doors on their own, the ferret walking jacket is the perfect solution for exercising them, stimulating their senses and allowing them to get some fresh air.

Take your ferret outside for walks and feel secure. This harness and lead set is designed specifically for the anatomy of the ferret.

Harness for Ferrets, Guinea Pigs, and Pet Rats:
http://www.petcarecentral.com/suppetmedcom.html

[LuckyChef]

Here's another reason to neuter your dog:

http://www.collegehumor.com/movies/1675517/

[nderland]

but how? i cant predict when the dog will poop/pee


Dogs usually sniff the ground and just kind of walk around when they have to go out, you can go out with them and praise when they do it outside then...and also crate training is great

[najibs]

Here's another reason to neuter your dog:

http://www.collegehumor.com/movies/1675517/

That's funny, yet disturbing.

[bionicbadger]

how do u potty train a dog?

Some dogs are much easier to train than others. My dog has never had an "accident" in the house, and we brought him home at 9 weeks old. The breeder already house trained him.

[LuckyChef]

how do u potty train a dog?

It took my wife 2 days to potty train our dog. We got him at 8 weeks old and we but some newspaper in a corner above some ceramic tiles. Then when he'd peed somewhere it was cleaned up with some paper towels and then left on the newspaper. You then bring the puppy to the newspaper and let him smell the scent, after that reward him with a treat. In time, which isn't very long btw, they will associate going to the newspaper instead of somewhere else in the house. Always reward a treat when they go on the paper. Rule of thumb is take puppys age in months add 1 and thats how long they can hold it. So if your puppy is 2 mos. old plus 1, he can hold it for approx. 3 hrs. If you stick to a daily routine of taking him out everyday at the same time they will go outside all the time.

[CSK'sMom]

We are doing it with an 8 week old jack russell pup currently. I have never "paper trained" a puppy as I prefer to skip that step and go straight to house breaking. Our is crate trained which makes things much easier IMHO. He sleeps in his crate and is taken outside immediately when he wakes up. He is placed on the grass and told to go pee or go poop. When he goes he gets told good pee or good poop and is pet and played with. When he's awake in the house he gets taken outside every hr or two. Once you have a puppy a day or two you start to pick up on their cues. Ours is already going to the back door when he has to "go".

[B40]

Dogs usually sniff the ground and just kind of walk around when they have to go out, you can go out with them and praise when they do it outside then...and also crate training is great

You can also hang a bell by the door and train your dog to ring it whenever it has to go..

[LuckyChef]

We are doing it with an 8 week old jack russell pup currently. I have never "paper trained" a puppy as I prefer to skip that step and go straight to house breaking. Our is crate trained which makes things much easier IMHO. He sleeps in his crate and is taken outside immediately when he wakes up. He is placed on the grass and told to go pee or go poop. When he goes he gets told good pee or good poop and is pet and played with. When he's awake in the house he gets taken outside every hr or two. Once you have a puppy a day or two you start to pick up on their cues. Ours is already going to the back door when he has to "go".

I lived in a high rise condo when we got our pup so it wasn't as easy to let the dog out the "backdoor". We paper trained our pup because it was only the two of us and going to work he would have to hold it for at least 9 hrs. It took him 2 days to get used to the paper training and about 4 months before he could hold it until we came home.