All breeds and sizes of dogs, from Silky Terriers to Great Danes have been caught attacking livestock. Dogs as young as 3 months of age and as old as 12 years, unsterilised and sterilised dogs of both sexes, dogs with three legs, no teeth and with the best pedigree, have been involved.
When a small dog is aggressive toward people, don't pick him up. This only reinforces the behavior since he will see it as a reward.
Family dogs who growl when family members are roughhousing aren't upset, they're just asking to become part of the game.
A dog needs to work off excess energy every day.
Chasing and attacking livestock is a normal dog behaviour. All dogs can chase, track and retrieve. They can also conclude these hunting behaviours by grabbing, biting and killing.
The average dog lives 8 to 15 years.
People have been keeping dogs as pets for the past 12,000 years.
Never assume that a barking dog won't bite, unless you're absolutely certain the dog believes it too.
A dog who destroys your home when you're away is frustrated. His frustration has been displaced onto household objects.
Put your kitchen garbage can in a cupboard. It's the only way to be certain your dog will stay out of it.
To keep your dog off the couch, nail empty tuna cans to a board and put it there before leaving. Your dog will find it uncomfortable, and it's easy to store under the couch.
Many foot disorders in dogs are related to long toenails. Check your dog's nails once a month and trim when necessary, avoiding the vein.
Sadly, statistics indicate that eight million pets lose their lives in animal shelters each year due to overpopulation.
The normal body temperature for a dog is 101.2 degrees Fahrenheit.
Though neutering has no effect on the overall personality, male dogs tend to display less aggression, and territorial behavior when they are neutered. They are also less likely to contract urogenital diseases.
If your dog has bad breath, he may need his teeth cleaned.
NEVER punish a puppy for chewing..... just be sure to provide the appropriate objects. Puppies need to chew to stimulate the loss of their baby teeth and to help place their permanent teeth.
Dogs are pack animals by nature. They need closeness, touching, and petting to be content and happy.