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February 28, 2024

Dog Health ›   Dogs ›  


What Do You Need To Take Care Of A Dog?

So you've decided to open your heart and home to a furry friend! Congratulations! Whether you're drawn to the playful enthusiasm of a puppy or the soulful eyes of a rescue adult dog, you're embarking on an incredible journey filled with wagging tails, wet noses, and unconditional love.

what do you need to take care of a dog?

But along with the excitement comes responsibility. You're probably wondering, "Now what do dogs need, and how do I take care of a dog?" Don't worry, future pet parent, you're not alone! 

This guide is your roadmap to navigating the wonderful world of dog ownership. We'll dive into everything from choosing the right food and setting up comfy digs to mastering basic training and understanding your dog's emotional needs. 

Consider this your pup prep manual, packed with valuable information and helpful tips to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new best friend. Get ready for walks in the park, cuddles on the couch, and a lifetime of pawsome adventures – let's make sure you're fully equipped for the journey!

Things To Know Before Getting A Dog

If you’re still in the deciding stages, we’ve got a list of things to know before you get a dog. 

The cute, puppy-dog eyes, the playful spirit, the unconditional love… bringing a dog into your life can be incredibly rewarding. But before you succumb to the puppy-eyed pleas, it's crucial to think carefully about this important decision.

This isn't just about picking out a cute ball of fur; it's about welcoming a committed responsibility into your life. We will help you navigate the decision-making process with honesty and awareness.

Owning a dog is a long-term commitment. The average dog lifespan varies greatly between breeds, but you can expect many small breeds to live anywhere between 12-18 years; larger breeds are somewhat shorter, at 8-12 years, but as you can see, even 8 years is a long commitment. 

what do you need to take care of a dog

You will need time. And plenty of it. Dogs require lots of attention so that they don’t get lonely, and they need regular exercise so you will need to change parts of your current lifestyle to accommodate your new best friend.

The breed. All dogs are different, but many purebred dogs exhibit similar personality traits. It is important that you take the following into consideration:

  • Is your home big enough for your chosen breed?
  • Do you have a yard?
  • Do you live in an area where you can take your dog on long walks?
  • Do you have children? If so, is this a friendly and patient breed?
  • How much exercise per day will your breed require?

Money. Dogs aren't cheap. The cost of your chosen breed alone could be thousands of dollars, and then you have the initial costs of their bedding, leads and accessories. You will need to consider insurance and potential vet bills. 

Remember, bringing a dog home is a journey, not a quick fix. By asking yourself these tough questions and planning ahead, you can confidently decide if dog ownership is truly the right path for you, and ensure a joyful, fulfilling life for your future canine companion.

Ready to explore the world of responsible dog ownership and what you need to take care of a dog? Let's begin!

 

So, You’re Getting A Dog, Now What Do You Need To Take Care Of Them?

You've taken the pawsome plunge and decided to welcome a furry friend into your life. But before the tail wags and slobbery kisses commence, there's a little prep work to ensure your pooch arrives in a happy, prepared home. Here's what you need to do before your pup's grand entrance:

Essentials for Everyday Life

Nutritious Food: Research and choose a high-quality dog food appropriate for your breed and age. At Know Better Pet Food, we provide your dog with essential nutrients and protein for health and longevity. It makes balancing a homemade meat diet at home, easy and convenient. Prescribed most often by Holistic Veterinarians. Easy to use, just add raw or cooked meat and water. You’ll also need dog food bowls, measuring cups, and storage containers!

 

Shop Our Homemade Dog Food Range Here

 

Hydration Station: Fresh clean water is key. Invest in multiple water bowls for different areas of the house and walks so that they always have access to water.

Sleepy Time: Create a comfy sleeping space with a cozy bed, blankets, and maybe even a fun chew toy for snuggles.

Nature Calls: Stock up on potty pads, poop bags and a sturdy leash for those essential bathroom breaks. Don't forget a collar and ID tag!

Playtime Fun: Keep your pup entertained with engaging toys, chew toys, and puzzle feeders for mental stimulation and to prevent boredom.

puppy in dog bed surrounded by dog toys

Taking Care Of A Dog At Home

Grooming Gear: Depending on your breed, brushes, flea comb, toothbrush, shampoo, ear cleaner, and nail clippers for regular nail trims might be needed. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Clean-Up Crew: Keep accidents and messes at bay with enzymatic cleaners, paper towels, and stain removers specifically designed for pet messes.

Safety First: Puppy-proof your home by securing electrical cords, hiding toxic plants, and blocking off potential escape routes. Consider baby gates for added safety.

Health & Wellness

 

Find a Vet: Choose a local veterinarian you trust and schedule a pre-puppy visit to discuss general care, vaccinations, and potential breed-specific health concerns and issues.

 

Pet Insurance: Consider pet insurance to help manage unexpected vet bills and ensure your pup gets the best care possible.

 

Parasite Prevention: Talk to your vet about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention medication to keep your dog healthy and parasite-free.

 

Dog Supplements: We have a selection of premium dog supplements that you can sprinkle onto your dog's food to ensure they’re getting the right nutrients throughout their life. 

Shop Our Range Of Dog Supplements Here

Training Time

General Dog Training: Whether you have decided to get a puppy or a dog from an animal shelter, you can be certain they will need some form of training to remove any unwanted behaviour issues. There are many different forms of dog training, you can read up on them and see which one suits your taste; reward-based training, positive reinforcement training, obedience training, advanced dog training etc.

Crate Training: If you want to keep your dog in a crate overnight or whilst you're out at work, you're going to need a training crate and some knowledge on how to go about starting this type of training.

Enroll in Puppy Kindergarten: Early socialization and basic obedience training are crucial for a well-rounded dog. Puppy classes can be a fun and rewarding experience, not to mention a whole lot of social interactions for you and your pup.

Stock Up on Treats: Positive reinforcement is key when training. Get yummy, healthy treats your dog loves to motivate them during training sessions.

Be Patient and Consistent: Remember, training takes time and patience. Stick to positive reinforcement methods and be consistent with your commands.

puppy with a graduation hat on

Bonus Tip: Take advantage of the pre-arrival time to research common dog care questions and stock up on resources like books, websites, and online communities. Remember, owning a dog is an incredible journey, but it's a commitment. By being prepared and informed, you can ensure a smooth transition and a lifetime of love and happiness with your new furry best friend!

 

Trust In Know Better Pet Food

You came to this blog looking for answers on what you need to take care of your dog. With Know Better for Dogs, you can provide your dog with essential nutrients and protein for his/her health and longevity. As a result, it is convenient and easy to balance a homemade meat diet at home with these premixes. Recommended every day by many Holistic Veterinarians. Just add water and raw or cooked meat to make a homemade meal for your dog.


Browse both homemade dog food and dog supplements from Know Better Pet Food to ensure a healthy dog, a regular feeding schedule and happy pet parents.

February 28, 2024

Dog Health ›   Dogs ›  


How To Care For Your Dog After Neutering?

Worried about how to care for your dog after neutering?  This guide covers everything you need to know, from rest and recovery tips to monitoring their incision and preventing complications. Ensure your furry friend feels comfy and heals smoothly during the initial hours after surgery and the days following.

So, your furry friend has taken the big step towards a healthier, happier future with neutering! Now comes the crucial part: the recovery period. While it might seem like your energetic pup can bounce back in no time, proper aftercare is essential for a smooth and comfortable post-neutering healing process. Read on with our quick guide on how to care for your neutered dog.

 

What Is Dog Neutering?

Firstly, what exactly is dog neutering? You being on this blog means you’ve already had your dog neutered, or you’re in the planning stages of neuter surgery and want to be prepared about how to care for your newly neutered dog when they come back home. But with all the different words used for this surgery, it can sometimes be confusing. So let’s get on…

Neutering; also known as ‘fixing’, is the scientific name for the removal of your dog's reproductive organs.

For male dogs, the scientific name is ‘castration’. This surgery involves the removal of a male dog's testicles to prevent reproduction.

For female dogs, the scientific name is ‘spaying’. This is a surgical procedure performed on female dogs to sterilize them, meaning they can no longer reproduce. This involves the removal of both the ovaries and the uterus.

Both major surgeries are performed under general anesthesia by a veterinarian, the time of neuter surgery is usually done in the morning and overall it is classed as being one of the safe surgeries performed on animals.

 

When Should Dogs Be Neutered?

Determining the ideal time to neuter your dog depends on several factors, including their breed, age, health and lifestyle.

Small breeds (under 45 lbs): Generally, 6-12 months of age is considered safe and beneficial.

Large breeds (over 45 lbs): Recent research suggests waiting until 9-18 months, allowing for proper bone development and potentially reducing certain health risks.

As a general guideline on when dogs should be neutered:

Small breeds: 6-12 months, or before the first heat cycle (5-6 months).

Large breeds: 9-18 months, after bone growth slows down.

It's crucial to discuss the ideal timing with your veterinarian based on your individual dog. They can consider breed, size, maturity, health, lifestyle, and potential risks and benefits to determine the best course of action.

Despite a neutering surgery sounding very serious, and you’ll no doubt be worried about your puppy or dog, neutering operations are a very common procedure and are performed safely all around the world. That said, your dog will likely be in a little bit of pain and will be feeling sorry for themselves, so read on for the different ways you can care for your dog after neutering.

 

How To Care For Your Dog After Their Spay Or Castration

Caring for your puppy or dog after their spay is crucial for a smooth and comfortable recovery. Lots of rest and relaxation is key to a quick healing journey, as well as checking their surgical wound for any troublesome issues, making sure your little one gets plenty of nutritional nourishment and that their pain meds are managed correctly are all great ways to care for your dog after her spay or his castration.  Here are some tips from us to ensure your furry one heals happily:

 

Rest and Relaxation

Create a quiet, cozy space: Limit their access to stairs, furniture, and other potential jumping points.

Avoid strenuous activity: Provide short leash walks for bathroom breaks only, preventing running, jumping, or playing for 10-14 days.

Minimise excitement: Although it's in a dog's good nature to be naturally loving and excitable, especially when they see their chosen person, try to keep activity levels low; avoid roughhousing, playing fetch, or other activities that could strain the incision.

Use a Cone: Your vet will likely provide and fit this onto your dog post-neutering anyway, but dogs have a habit of trying to claw it off. Try to keep the cone on them as this prevents licking or chewing at the incision which is crucial for proper healing.

 

Monitoring and Wound Care

Check the surgical incision daily: Look for redness, swelling, discharge, or bleeding which could all be signs of infection. Contact your vet if you notice anything unusual.

Don't bathe or swim: Keep the incision dry and clean. Use a damp cloth with warm water only if needed.

Leave stitches alone: Don't pull or pick at the skin sutures, as they dissolve or fall out naturally.

 

Pain Management and Medication

Follow your vet's instructions: Administer all pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed.

Monitor their behaviour: Excessive panting, restlessness, or changes in appetite could indicate pain or discomfort. Inform your vet.

Nutritional Needs

Maintain their regular diet: They may have a lack of appetite post-surgery for a few days whilst the anaesthetic wears off. Unless your vet advises otherwise, stick to their usual food to avoid digestive upset.

Monitor water intake: Encourage them to drink plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.

 

Additional Tips For How To Care For Your Dog After Neutering

Prepare your home: Before the surgery, set up their recovery space with bedding, toys, and food/water bowls within easy reach.

Stay calm and reassuring: Your dog might feel anxious after surgery. Offer gentle affection and comfort.

Be patient: Recovery takes time. Follow your vet's post-op care instructions and avoid rushing the process.

Remember, every dog heals differently and their recovery time may vary. Consult your veterinarian for specific advice and personalised medical care based on your dog's breed, age, and individual recovery progress. By providing good care and following your vet's recommendations, you can help your furry friend have a quick and comfortable recovery after their spay.

 

Warning Signs After Dog Neutering

While neutering is a generally safe procedure with minimal complications, it's important to be aware of potential warning signs that might indicate your dog needs veterinary attention after dog neutering surgery. Here are some key things to watch out for:

Surgical Incision Site

  • Signs of redness, swelling, or excessive bruising: A small amount of redness and swelling is normal initially, but significant worsening or pus-like discharge warrants a vet visit.
  • Bleeding: Any sustained or heavy bleeding is cause for concern.
  • Licking or chewing at the incision: This can delay healing and increase infection risk. Make sure your dog wears the cone consistently.
  • Open or gaping wound: If the incision appears to have reopened, seek immediate veterinary attention.

General Behavior

Dogs are biologically good at hiding any signs of illness, so it's extra important for you to keep an eye on them over the initial couple of days post-op.

  • Lethargy or excessive sleepiness: While some rest is expected, prolonged low energy levels could indicate pain or infection.
  • Loss of appetite: Refusing food for more than 24 hours is concerning.
  • Vomiting or diarrhea: These can be signs of pain, infection, or reaction to medication.
  • Fever: A temperature above 103°F (39.4°C) indicates potential infection.
  • Difficulty urinating or defecating: This could be caused by pain or swelling around the incision.
  • Excessive pain or discomfort: Observe your dog's behaviour and vocalizations for signs of pain beyond normal post-surgical soreness.

Other Warning Signs To Look Out For After Neutering

  • Unusual discharge from the nose or eyes: This could indicate an underlying issue.
  • Difficulty breathing: Rapid, shallow breathing or laboured breathing needs immediate veterinary attention.
  • Swelling of the scrotum (slight swelling is normal initially): Excessive swelling, pain, or bruising in the scrotum area requires a vet visit.

As with anything this list is not exhaustive, and any deviation from your dog's normal behaviour, especially combined with other warning signs, should be discussed with your veterinarian. 

Additional Tips Of How To Care For Your Dog After Neutering 

  • Familiarize yourself with normal post-surgical recovery expectations beforehand.
  • Keep a close eye on your dog during the first few days after surgery.
  • Contact your veterinarian promptly if you notice any concerning signs.
  • Follow your veterinarian's post-operative instructions diligently.
  • By being vigilant and proactive, you can help ensure your dog has a comfortable and safe recovery after neutering.

Looking After Your Dog After Neutering With Know Better Pet Food

Remember, your dog's journey to complete recovery doesn't end with the removal of the cone! Just like humans, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in their healing process. At Know Better Pet Food, we believe in supporting your furry friend with the best possible fuel for optimal health and vitality.

Here's how you can continue nurturing your dog's well-being after neutering:

Tailor their diet: Opt for high-quality food rich in protein and essential nutrients to aid tissue repair and immune function. Explore our range of premium, homemade dog food here.

Boost immunity: Consider adding nutritional pet supplements rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These can further support your dog's immune system during healing.

Manage weight: While rest is crucial, don't let reduced activity lead to weight gain. Choose portion-controlled options to maintain a healthy weight and avoid strain on their recovering body.

Consult the experts: We're here to help! Let us guide you in selecting the perfect diet and supplements based on your dog's breed, age, and individual needs.

Remember, a strong foundation of optimal nutrition paves the way for a speedy recovery and a lifetime of vibrant health. Explore our selection of homemade Know Better Pet Food and nutritional supplements, specially formulated to support your dog's well-being at every stage of life.

Together, let's empower your furry friend to live a happier, healthier life!

January 25, 2024


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Happy Teeth, Happy Pup: 5 Tips To Maintain For Your Dog's Dental Health

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Tips for New Cat Owners

Bringing a new furry friend into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. As a new cat owner, you may have various questions regarding your feline companion's development, lifespan, and health. 

In this blog, we will provide you with essential tips to help you navigate the world of cat ownership. We will discuss when a cat becomes an adult, how long they can live, common cat diseases and symptoms, as well as what to do when your cat falls ill. We have compiled a list of tips for new cat owners to help you with your new venture!

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March 21, 2023

Dog Health ›   Dogs ›  


Things to Know Before Getting a Dog: A Dog Care Guide for Prospective Pet Parents

Are you thinking about getting a dog? You may have many questions like "What to feed your dog?" or “What do you need to take care of a dog?" We can help! Dogs are wonderful companions that can bring joy, love, and fun to your life. But they also require a lot of care, commitment, and responsibility. Before you bring home a furry friend, there are some important things to consider and prepare for. Here are some of the things to know before getting a dog.  View full article →
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