We have a new springer spaniel puppy dog, he just loves to bite everything he can get his mouth around. What are some good ways to get him to stop biting me and other humans?

An important step towards a happy and long-lasting relationship with any puppy is the ability to meet your expectations and requirements to the puppy's personality and needs.

Children In The Household

Whatever type of puppy you decided to pick, keep in mind that taking care of a young pup involves the same amount of commitment and time that a young child needs, and sometimes more.

Having both together under the same roof requires constant supervision to keep them from literally hurting each other. Keeping a close eye at all times prevents roughhousing, pulling, biting, and any potential injuries to occur.

Most trainers and breeders recommend that homes with toddlers should not get a toy breed because of the risk of the puppy getting squeezed, dropped, or stepped on by the young child. However, if you already have your heart set on a toy breed for your child to grow up with, pick one with a gentle disposition and an easy-going personality.

Level Of Protectiveness

For most dog owners, a dog that barks when someone approaches the door is enough to give them a sense of security, just like having a living home alarm system. The bark of a small dog is just as effective in turning away an intruder as the bark of a large dog would be. Dachshunds and most toy breeds are excellent watchdogs. Terriers are also great for the job.

If you are looking for a dog that can protect you and has the physical appearance to prove it, think about getting a herding breed or a working breed. Dogs from these breeds are protective of their owners and have the looks that deter burglars. They are also highly skilled and easily trainable.

Time Spent

One of the reasons why dogs are such popular pets is because they are naturally social in nature, making them a great companion. Keeping this in mind, do not get one if you plan on keeping him out in the backyard all day long. This is especially true for puppies, since they require more supervision, more interaction, and regular training to be a more socialized and civilized member of the family.

The average dog spends at least eight hours a day, five days a week, home alone. Some breeds are more adaptable to this kind of living situation. Most terriers, for example, find ways to entertain themselves given enough space for them to roam around. The same is true for Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes.

Choosing A New Puppy: How To Select The Perfect Dog

Once you decide on bringing home a new canine friend, selecting the right puppy is a crucial decision that should be given a lot of thought and consideration by you and the entire household. The right puppy will make a terrific friend and companion throughout for many years to come, while the wrong puppy may end up being isolated in the backyard or worse, taken to a shelter home.

There is no such thing as the perfect puppy for everybody. There are, however, several hundreds of breeds to choose from. With a little research and self-evaluation, it is possible for any person to find the right puppy for him or herself.

Exercise Requirements

One of the things you need to consider in determining the right breed is his personality as an adult dog. All puppies are energetic and active, but once he reaches adulthood, his level of activity should match with your personality and lifestyle.

If you are the type of person who likes to spend a lot of time indoors, on the couch, and in front of the television or reading a book, you need to pick a puppy that will also enjoy the same lifestyle.

On the other hand, if you have an active lifestyle and are looking for a dog that shares the same level of energy as you, consider getting a sporting breed. These dogs have an unlimited amount of energy and will be more than happy to go out with you hiking, jogging, or spending time playing with your kids.

Size

Do not assume that a dog's size directly reflects his activity levels. Most small and toy breeds are very active and enjoy a lot of running around, while large, giant breeds have moderate-to-low levels of activity and are more content laying on the sofa than running around outside.

However, when it comes to your living situation, size can be a big influence in deciding which type of dog to have. If you live on the ninth floor apartment complex and plan on paper training your dog instead of dragging him nine floors down for his potty break, you are better off with a small breed.

Small-to-medium size dogs are also preferred for households with small children. It is easy for big dogs to accidentally knock down a small child during playtime or with a swipe of his tail.

If you prefer a big breed, you also need to keep in mind that they generally shed more, eat more, and potentially cost more in medical expenses (medications are usually prescribed according to size and weight).

Dog Breeds - A List Of Dogs That Will Fit Your Lifestyle Perfectly

As far as the appearance is concerned, you already know what type of dog you are looking for. But do you know if that dog is right for you? For instance, you may love the white curly hair of a Poodle, but are you ready for the grooming treatment that it requires to maintain those beautiful curly locks? You admire the intelligence of a German Shepherd, but do you know that this breed sheds year-round? So unless you can bear to have constant hair on your furnitures, this brainy dog may not be ideal for you.

Below is a list of the top three dogs that belong to different types of categories. Find out which one is right for you!

Dogs That Are Great With Children

If you have kids in your family, you want to make sure that your dog will get along with them. These dogs will surely love to play with your kids:

1. Labrador Retriever
2. Collie
3. Beagle

Dogs That Require Less Grooming

All dogs need to be groomed. The coat needs to be brushed, nails need to be trimmed, teeth must be brushed, and they all need an occasional bath. But as far as coat caring is concerned, these dogs do not require much maintenance:

1. Chihuahua
2. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
3. Whippet

Lapdogs

If you are looking for a dog that you can nestle on your lap, these three are the best:

1. Shih Tzu
2. Pomeranian
3. English Toy Spaniel

Energetic Dogs

You enjoy a good run and need a companion who can join you for a hike on the trail or a 10 mile jog. Consider these breeds:

1. Parson Russell Terrier
2. Border Collie
3. Siberian Husky

Athletic Dogs

Looking for a sport buddy? These dogs are active, agile, vigorous, and strong - the recipe of a winner:

1. Greyhound
2. Border Collie
3. Sheltie

Most Obedient Dogs

If you are looking for a dog who listens, one who is willing to please you and doesn't get distracted easily, check out these breeds:

1. Border Collie
2. Golden Retriever
3. Shih Tzu

Choosing A New Puppy: Why Picking Your Next Puppy Could Be A Major Mistake!

An important factor to keep in mind when picking out a new puppy is your place of residence; hence your puppy's new home. Do you live in an apartment, a condo, or a house? Is your home along the countryside or in the middle of a busy city?

Few dog owners consider this, but your living quarter should play a significant role in choosing the right puppy for you and your family. Three important factors to take into account are:

1. The amount of noise/barking that the particular breed is known for.

2. Exercise requirements and whether or not you activity level will compliment the dog's needs.

3. Size restrictions enforced by the home owner's association or your landlord (if renting).

A Common Misconception

A common misconception about dogs and their ideal living situation is that only small dogs are suited to live in an apartment, whereas large dogs should live in a rural house with a big space to run around in.

In reality, it is not necessary to have a big backyard to own a large dog, and small dogs aren't necessarily fitted for apartment living. Many large dogs do very well in apartments and condos, while some small dogs are better off living in a rural home.

For example, if you are thinking about owning a Greyhound, you don't have to live in a country or own a big backyard to keep him happy. This breed is a sprinter, not a long distance runner. And although he enjoys a good jog with his owner, he will be satisfied with a 15 to 20 minute brisk walk in the morning and at night.

Greyhound dogs are also not known to be loud barkers, which makes them suited for apartment or condo living. The main concern with owning a large dog in a condo or a high-rise apartment is the owner's strength in having to carry him up and down the stairs if he's unable to do it on his own, mainly because of age or injury.

On the other hand, most terriers, like a Jack Russell Terrier for instance, may seem perfectly suitable for apartment living because of his size. But his incessant barking may cause you to lose your apartment or have angry neighbors knocking on your door.

Many small breeds bark so much and have enormous high energy levels that it causes them to make a lot of noise, which in return officially makes them a poor candidate for apartment life.

Therefore, when choosing a dog, it is important to consider the breed's noise level, the amount of time you spend at home, and the amount of time you are willing to devote to exercising your pet.

New Puppy - A List Of Supplies You Must Have Before Bringing Home Your Puppy

Before you rush out and purchase a new puppy, you need to first be prepared with the appropriate supplies needed at home. New puppies need more than just food and water, especially during the first night at the house. Here are a few items to get you started:

1. For starters, your new puppy will need to have his own food and water bowl. The best types of bowls to get should be made out of stainless steel. Stainless steel dog bowls are hypoallergenic, clean easily, and can last a very long time. Be sure to avoid plastic food and water bowls at all costs.

I advise against plastic because dogs have a tendency to chew up the sides of plastic bowls which create sharp dents and can cause minor cuts and scrapes to your dog's gums. And of course there is the danger of your dog biting off a piece of plastic and swallowing it. Make sure that both bowls are full and ready to go as soon as your puppy arrives.

2. Deciding on what to feed your puppy is an important decision and you should have put together a nutrition plan ahead of time before bringing your new friend home. Most new dog owners buy dry dog food because they think that it has all of the nutritional needs their puppies will need. Although dry food may be convenient, it is not the best source of vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, and fats for your growing puppy. It is best to consult with an animal nutritional expert will talk with your local breeder as they are professionals at raising healthy dogs.

3. Be sure to have a place for your puppy to sleep. Bedding is essential but does not have to be fancy or complicated. In fact, it is best at first to pile some of your old clothes that still have your scent on them for your new puppy to sleep in. This way he will fill a little more secure with your scent around. You can of course purchase a more elaborate setup but it is not necessary.

4. Toys are an absolute must for a new puppy to be occupied with. However, many new dog owners go a little overboard and bring home lots of different toys, most of which are unnecessary. And if you have too many dog toys lying around it really complicates trying to train your dog to not nibble on everything in the house. It becomes confusing to your puppy to decipher what is his and what is yours. The best puppy toys are old socks, shoes, or small balls that are big enough to play with but not too small for your puppy to swallow.

Puppy As A Gift: Tips When Giving A New Puppy As A Present

Birthdays, holidays, and other celebrations where gifts are exchanged are a time of fun, good food, and merriment - and giving the gift that keeps on giving - a new puppy - should be accompanied with proper education to the new owner as well.

Watch Those Children!

Most puppies are given as gifts to children. The biggest tip here is to keep in mind that new puppies are not toys! Even though it may seem cruel to take it from the kids - when everyone, including the puppy, is having such a good time - it should have frequent rest periods. This can be the beginning of the learning process of necessary care by the children for their new friend.

A new bike and a new puppy go well together; however, they can lead to an automobile accident involving child and puppy alike if the animal is allowed to chase after the bike on a busy street.

The same is true, of course, for roller blades, skateboards, sleds, and ball playing. The street is not a good playground for a puppy - or an older dog for that matter and unless you live in the country, it's not too good for the children either.

Before you bring a new puppy home you should acquire those items which will be necessary for its well-being and comfort. Proper food is the most essential item. Perhaps a good hard rubber ball - not too big but also not small enough to be swallowed chew sticks and puppy treats would also be a good idea.

Of course it will need a bed and its own food and water dishes, but these can come from the household supply before the arrival of the new pet. A collar (or harness) and leash will help the puppy get off to a good start.

Gifting Outside Of Your Home

A puppy is not a good gift for anyone outside your own home unless you are absolutely sure the recipient wants one, and you know their choice of breed and sex. In any case, a surprise gift can often become a burden rather than a joy if the friend really did not want it. A puppy can't be put in the attic and forgotten. Hopefully, though it's going to be around for a long time.

A good book on care and training plus a short lecture on the responsibilities of pet ownership can be given to the new owner with the puppy, or shortly after the glow of first sight has worn off.

New Puppy - Regardless Of Who You Are, A Puppy Can Enhance Your Life

If you are considering buying a puppy for the first time and are not sure whether or not bringing a pet into the house will be a positive experience, just ask around and I can guarantee that you will never find a dog owner who was not happy. Puppies are a great addition to any household, regardless if you have children, whether you are retired, and even if you are a busy young adult going to school or just getting started in life.

Are you retired?

If you are hitting the retirement years of your life then this is a perfect time to make an addition to the house by buying a new puppy. Your schedule is going to be a lot more leisurely than ever before and this gives you plenty of time to love and tend to your puppy.

Be sure to do a little bit of research first on dog breeds that will suit your retirement years. I say this because if you are in need of a relaxed and quiet atmosphere, then certain dogs will not fit well in your home and others may be a bit on the noisy side. But don't worry, there is a perfect dog for every person out there.

Are you a busy young adult going to school or just getting started on your own?

Yes, getting a puppy can also suit you well even if you are a young person who is busy with school or starting a new career. There is nothing like coming home from a long day of work or a busy class schedule, and right into the arms of your lovable dog that has a seemingly endless amount of affection and love to give you. But first, consider the responsibilities of a new puppy, especially for your busy lifestyle.

1. Remember that dogs, especially young puppies, need one-on-one interaction almost constantly.

2. Most adults are on a tight budget and if your one of them then you need to consider the cost of maintaining a dog. Between pet food and veterinarian checkups, these costs can add up.

3. Think long term. Where are you going to be in five to ten years? are you willing to keep your pet around for the long haul? Remember that dogs are not a temporary relationship, these lovable guys and gals will be with you for the next 10 to 20 years.

Are you married and have children?

There should be no doubt in your mind that a new puppy would be great for the kids. I have yet to meet a young child that does not adore and fall in love with every puppy they see. Getting a new puppy will also teach your children a little bit about responsibilities and how to take care of an animal. Just use caution, however, when selecting a breed to introduce to your kids. Some dogs are not capable of handling the rough play that most children get into.

Total Puppy Care 2: Your Puppy's New Veterinarian, Vaccinations, & Over-The-Counter Medications

Having a happy puppy means keeping him healthy, and one of the primary concerns in raising a young pup is making sure he is in the best of health. This can be accomplished by starting out with good quality veterinarian care. In fact, bringing your new pup straight from the breeder, pet shop, or shelter, directly to the veterinarian is a wise beginning, especially when many pups come equipped with a short-term health guarantee.

Although your puppy's doctor may not be able to foresee what the dog may be incubating, he can certainly point out congenital defects, lack of adequate care, and diseases that are already established and showing signs. He can also advise you about vaccinations, worming, and nutrition.

These three factors will be essential to keeping your puppy healthy during his early formal months. In fact, all puppy care advice should be absorbed with the complete and total understanding that definitive information on the individual puppy's care should come exclusively from the veterinarian.

General Vaccinations

While vaccination procedures vary with the individual doctor and may depend on the puppy's health and age, the general procedure is essentially the same. Your new pet will get a series of vaccinations at periodic intervals (typically 3 to 4 weeks) which will protect him until he reaches 15 to 16 weeks of age.

At this point, he will no longer be protected by the colostrum (the mother's first milk) which supplies natural antibodies to protect newborn puppies temporarily against distemper. When he has outgrown this initial protection, the modified live distemper vaccine will have its full effect and will protect him for a year against the disease.

There is, at this time, no vaccine that is truly permanent. Every dog should have yearly booster vaccinations against distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis. If your new dog is over 14 weeks of age, then he will probably only need the final injection in the series to provide year-long immunity.

The rabies vaccine is not generally administered until a dog has reached approximately 6 months of age. However, in order to guarantee that your puppy is fully protected, it is extremely important to follow your veterinarian's advice about the number and proper timing for vaccinations.

Protect Your Puppy From Over-The-Counter Medications

Several over-the-counter worming preparations are available for the pet owner to try. While many of these may be harmless when given to the healthy adult animal, they are potentially dangerous especially to the unthrifty puppy who is severely debilitated by parasitization and its side effects, or other unrelated diseases.