Dogs

Descended from the wolf, the dog has been a faithful companion to humans for thousands of years.
Over the course of time, people have bred numerous dog breeds with a clear breeding objective.
In addition to external appearance, great importance was attached to the dog’s potential uses.
Even today, these original uses of the individual breeds still determine their character and must be taken into account when keeping and training the dog.
Nowadays, however, dogs are increasingly seen as family members and not primarily as working partners.

The purchase of a dog should be carefully considered and discussed with all people living in the household.
By keeping a dog, you take on the responsibility for the dog’s entire life and all the obligations that come with it.

Prerequisites

Certain requirements are essential for keeping dogs in a species-appropriate manner.
The following points must be considered before purchasing a dog:

• Regulations regarding the keeping of pets by the landlord
• Can enough time be spent on care and activities
• Planning the financial means to pay for the upkeep of a dog
• Regulation of vacations and emergency care
• Determine primary responsibility
• Willingness to provide adequate training for the dog

If all the requirements can be met, you should take a close look at the numerous dog breeds.
Around 400 dog breeds differ in appearance, character and typical breed characteristics.
The basic character of a dog is strongly influenced by its breed, which is why you need to take a close look in advance at which requirements you can meet and which characteristics suit you and your living situation.

You have a wide range of options when it comes to getting a dog:

• Animal shelter: Adopting a dog from an animal shelter means actively protecting animals.
  The dogs end up in the shelter for a variety of reasons and wait there for a new forever home.
• Breeding: Breeders are particularly interesting for people who are looking for a pedigree dog.
• Private individuals: Many private individuals or farmers offer dogs for sale in classified ads.
  When buying a dog, it is important to ensure that it has good medical and social conditions.
• From abroad: Foreign animal welfare organizations are a good place to start and can help you to introduce a dog from abroad in a species-appropriate manner.

In order to recognize a reputable dog breeder, attention should be paid to the following points:

• Environment: The dog’s environment should make a good impression and be tidy and clean.
• Dam: When purchasing a puppy, the dam should always be available for inspection and make a good health impression, except in exceptional cases (e.g. in an animal shelter).
• Delivery age: The puppies must be at least 8 weeks old at the time of delivery.
  This is particularly important for the socialization of the dogs.
• Proof of health: Dogs should only be handed over fully vaccinated, dewormed and with their pet passport.

Competent information: The breeder or private individual should be able to provide you with competent and detailed information about the breed in question and be interested in the further development of the dog.

Keeping a dog always involves a great deal of time and effort.
If a dog is not properly exercised, it can lead to behavioral problems or aggression.

The basic equipment includes in all cases:

• Food and water bowls
• Sleeping area (dog crate, blanket, pillow)
• Employment opportunities (toys and educational aids)
• Collar and lead

It is advisable to attend a good dog school with a dog – regardless of its age.
In everyday life, a good balance should be found between physical and mental exercise; here too, the intensity is heavily dependent on the respective dog breed and individual resilience.
Please note that dog training is compulsory in certain cantons.

Health and care

Nutrition plays an important role in a dog’s health.
Dogs are carnivores and should therefore be fed a diet containing meat.
However, vegetable components in the food are extremely beneficial for the digestion of the food and are therefore often a component of dry or wet food.
When choosing food, pay attention to your dog’s individual needs and make sure that the food contains all the necessary nutrients.

For the health of your dog, it is important to ensure that all the prescribed vaccinations against infectious diseases are carried out in addition to the rabies vaccination.
In addition to the vaccinations, regular treatment should be carried out to prevent parasite infestation.
Your vet will be able to advise you on the right time to vaccinate and the appropriate parasite treatment and can provide you with detailed information.

To keep your four-legged friend’s coat healthy, you should comb your dog at regular intervals, depending on the breed and coat length.
Grooming should be carried out at least once a week, especially during the shedding season.
Only bathe your dog in exceptional cases.
Too frequent shampooing damages the protective layer of the skin and can lead to dry and itchy skin.

Neutering your dog is generally recommended from the time they reach sexual maturity at the age of 5 – 12 months.
As unwanted mating in dogs can be easily prevented by keeping them on a lead, castration is not absolutely necessary.
Ask a specialist for advice on the individual advantages and disadvantages for your dog in the event of castration.