Getting a Puppy

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Puppy Starter List

Take this list with you to check off the essentials you'll need for your puppy's first big day home.

Things To Consider

Do you really want a dog? Do you want to wake up early on a cozy Sunday morning, and take him out in the rain? After all, he needs his exercise. Are you ready to spend as much time as you can with him? READ MORE

New Arrival: Behavior for Beginners

What a feeling it is to bring your puppy home. There's joy. Excitement. And … the unexpected. That's why we've developed this Behavior Basics chart - to help you recognize and respond to your new puppy.

Thinking of adopting? Adopt from a shelter

Before you head out to the shelter, it's a good idea to have your home already prepared for his arrival—just in case. In addition, it's best if you've already purchased the items he'll need to make the smoothest possible transition. READ MORE

Joys of owning an older dog

Everyone loves a puppy—but you have to admit that they can be pretty demanding. The housetraining, the teething, and the constant need for attention can take up a lot of time and energy.

The Benefits of Growing Up with Pets

The relationship between children and their pets is special and comforting, and brings with it many benefits for the child's development. Studies have shown that children with pets have higher self-esteem, improved social skills, and are more popular with their peers. They learn nurturing skills, as well as show improved empathy and a more caring attitude. There is also evidence that pet ownership may help to develop non-verbal communication.

How Dogs Digest Food

Your role in the canine digestion process usually involves the “before” and “after.” Here's a look at what happens in the “during” stage.

Owning a dog is healthy–it’s a fact!

There are many benefits to owning a pet, and one of the most important is that they are good for your health. And that goes well beyond the benefits of walking five miles a day and getting fitter; there are many more benefits than just muscle toning.

The Secret of "Hypoallergenic" Dogs

What happens if you're one of the 10% of Americans who are allergic to dogs? Does that mean you'll have to live a dogless life? Perhaps not. Help may come in the form of a tail-wagging "hypoallergenic" dog.

Male & Female Dogs: Personality Differences

When describing the differences between the sexes in humans, they say that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. But does that apply to male and female dogs? READ MORE

Socializing your dog

Socialization describes the process by which your dog learns to relate to people, other dogs, and his environment. Your newly adopted dog will already be socialized to a large extent, but he can still learn new behaviors and routines. READ MORE

Apps for dogs (and dog owners)

Dog-related apps fall into two categories: First, there are apps that help dog owners manage the care and well-being of their canine companions. And there are apps that may just be of interest to our dogs! Let’s take a brief look at both types of apps.

Toy or Miniature? Sizing Up The Difference

Bred from the larger Standard Poodle, the Toy and Miniature Poodles are often considered one and the same. However, these dogs differ in temperament, as well as size and weight. Here's a closer look at each of these pint-sized Poodles.

Cleaning Your Dog’s Face and Eyes

Dog faces can be cute, adorable, joyful, soulful, noble, and commanding. They are capable of communicating a wide range of emotions. And they have the power to look deeply into our souls and touch us on an elementary level. They are also prone to attracting schmutz and getting dirty.

Bath Time Made Easy (Really!)

For some dog owners, bath time is pure canine chaos. One minute your pooch is calm, then, when he sees the shampoo and grooming tools, he becomes a running, squirming, shaking mess.