WHAT IS A LIVESTOCK GUARDING DOG?

Dogs have been used by people in Europe and Asia for millennia to guard domesticated animals against wild predators, stray or feral dogs and human thieves. Over the centuries, a distinct set of dogs has been developed throughout Eurasia from Portugal to Tibet. These are known as livestock guarding dogs or flock guards.The most well-known of these breeds in the United States are the Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherds, Akbash and Maremma.

Livestock guarding dogs (LGDs), rather than helping herdsmen move their stock as do typical herding dogs such as collies, protect the animals from external threats. They are usually large (often 70 cm at the withers and >45 kg), independent, stubborn and intelligent. They are less energetic than herding dogs, with calm dispositions. Most breeds have a large head and pendant, rather than pricked, ears.

Like other dogs, LGDs are social animals: they have a great need to stay in a group, especially with individuals that they have known since their early years. This feature has been inherited from wolves, the immediate ancestors of domestic dogs and has been used to socialise LGDs with livestock at an early age. In adulthood the dogs then follow and protect the flock as if they were part of it. The coat colour of LGD breeds has been adapted to the appearance of the animals that they have to guard: white dogs with white sheep, coloured (brown or grey) dogs with coloured sheep, goats or yaks. This increases the likelihood of livestock accepting the dogs among them and possibly helps shepherds to distinguish dogs from predators and/or gives the LGDs an element of surprise in confronting predators.

The typical LGD temperament (described by the UKC for the Sarplaninac), is: “highly intelligent and independent, devoted to family members and wary of strangers, calm and steady but fearless and quick to react to perceived threats.” A range of temperaments can be found within the breeds. Some are better suited as remote pasture guardians where a daily routine is very constant, while some are good in situations where there is a high degree of variety. They may work well on a small farm, in a rural home, or as a city pet. Some may be found in the middle of New York City, others on the sprawling rangelands of Montana. There are enough variations between the breeds, and within members of a single breed, to provide a suitable dog for most situations.

They need daily exercise and the daily discipline of a job to do. This can be provided on an open range, protecting livestock or in a suburban back yard, protecting a family. They have a long puppy-hood and adolescence, often not reaching maturity until 2-1/2 or 3 years of age. During that time, they need training, supervision and a human who is capable of assuming the "alpha" role in their pack.

WEBSITES TO ALSO CHECK OUT:
Livestock Guarding Dog Association (www.lgd.org)
The American Kennel Club Website (www.akc.org)
Flock & Family Guardian Network Livestock and family guardian dog comprehensive resource gateway (www.flockguard.org)
Dog Owner’s Guide: Livestock guard dogs (www.canismajor.com/dog/livestck.html)
Guardian dogs. The United Kennel Club (UKC)
(http://www.ukcdogs.com/breeds/breedlist.shtml)
Working Dog Web (www.workingdogweb.com/wdbreeds.htm)

BUYING A LIVESTOCK GUARDIAN DOG - by the Great Pyrenees Club of Puget Sound

If you are contemplating adding a dog to your operation we suggest that you take your time in obtaining such a dog. Talk to many breeders about their dogs and about what can be expected from the use of a dog. If you buy from a knowledgeable, reputable breeder, that person will be a wealth of information to you as you integrate the dog with your stock, and will be available to you throughout the life of the dog to provide support and help in problem solving.

It is not necessary that the pup you buy has been raised with livestock. Most working pups go to their new homes between 8 and 10 weeks and what is most important has been their relationship with their mother and their litter mates. It is important the pup come from breeding stock that has produced successful guardian dogs and from a breeder who demonstrates knowledge about the use of guardian dogs.

When you purchase a pup, several things are important.

- You should have the right to take your pup to a veterinarian of your choice for a health evaluation and the right to return the pup and have your money refunded if the pup is not in good health or condition. Exercising this right will save you a great deal of expense and heartbreak.

- You should have a written contract on the pup which spells out the breeders guarantees. These should include a guarantee to replace the pup if it develops any debilitating condition which is the result of a congenital or hereditary defect.

Note: Be aware of the potential genetic health problems of the breed you are interested in and be sure the breeder is willing to provide copies of appropriate health certificates and test results to you.Many genetic illnesses will not show until at least 24 months of age. A one year health guarantee should be deemed inadequate.

- The parents of your pup should have had their hips certified free of hip dysplasia by the Institute For Genetic Disease Control or the Orthopedic Foundation For Animals. In its most serious form, dysplasia can result in a dog which is crippled by the time it is a year old. Mild forms of dysplasia will result in the early onset of arthritis and a limiting of the dog's working life. Reputable breeders will not only have their breeding stock x-rayed but will offer the buyer a guarantee on the hips of the pup.

- Many breeders will guarantee the working performance of the dog if the breeders instructions on training and management are followed. An unsuccessful dog should be replaced.

- Most knowledgeable breeders will require that working pups be spayed or neutered. It is well documented that altered animals are more reliable guardians. The breeder's concern is to provide the stockman with successful predator protection and altering the animal contributes substantially to this success.

- Potential guardian pups should have had the same quality care as any well reared pup. This includes correct vaccinations and wormings for its age. You should receive a complete written health record on the pup. Do not purchase a pup for guardian work if it is under 8 weeks of age. It is extremely important that the pup have had time with its litter mates in order to develop its strong identity as a dog. If handled correctly, pups as old as10-12 weeks can become excellent guardians. Older pups must be evaluated individually and the input of a knowledgeable breeder is crucial at this point.

- It is important to emphasize buying from a knowledgeable breeder. There are many people who live on farms and breed dogs to supplement their farm income. These people have limited knowledge of the use of livestock guardian dogs in varied situations. A knowledgeable breeder is well read and well informed on both historical and current uses of the breed in protecting livestock. If the breeder does not have the answer to your "problem" she knows where to obtain that information. Feel free to ask the breeder for referrals to people who are using her dogs in situations similar to yours. Reputable breeders belong to organizations dedicated to the advancement and protection of the breed, and are governed by strict Codes of Ethics which benefit the breed and the buyer.

- You are entitled to an adequate guarantee on your pup and it must be in writing.

- Prepare to Wait. Availability varies. Be aware that a puppy or dog of the breed you've decided on may not be easy to find. Responsible breeders do not breed often, and many times the puppies of a planned breeding are already spoken for. Just remember that a good dog is worth waiting for.

DO NOT PURCHASE A PUPPY FROM A PET STORE!!!!

Resist those adorable puppies in the pet shop window. Unfortunately, most puppies sold in stores are the products of largescale commercial breeding operations, where puppies may not have received the time and care necessary to develop into good pets.

I loved the following checklist as compiled by Diane Blackman and wanted to share it with you. I encourage all to take her "Checklist for the Responsible Breeder" to heart.

Although she's listed the "right" answers don't instantly give up if you get the "wrong" answer. The article from Dog Owner's Guide "Just what is a puppy mill?" can help you get a better idea of how the checklist helps you evaluate the breeder. And if your reaction is "Sheesh, I'm just buying a dog! Why do I need to give my life history to the breeder!" the idea here is to do what you can to reduce the number of animals killed in shelters as well as getting a dog that will be healthy and the kind of pet you want. It is your ethics, you can decide one or more of these don't matter to you. They do matter to me.

You want these to be "yes"

Were the puppies born on the premises?

Does the breeder insist that the puppies be at least seven weeks before being placed?

Did the breeder seem happy that you are asking questions?

Did the breeder ask you lots of questions? Questions about your lifestyle, family, experience with dogs and other pets, why you wanted a dog? Did you feel a bit like you were applying for a million dollar mortgage?

Did the breeder ask you whether you planned on breeding?

Will the breeder be available to offer advice and support for as long as you have the dog?

Does the breeder make you feel comfortable calling for advice?

Did the breeder go over some of the problems some people have with the breed?

Is the breeder a member of a breed club? (An organization sharing information on the breed)

Are the sire and dam each at least two years old?

Were both sire and dam tested for any genetic health problems before the breeding?

Does the breeder have information on the health testing of most of the immediate relatives of the sire and dam?

Did the breeder volunteer information on the health testing, and volunteer proof?

Does the breeder offer a guarantee against genetic health problems?

Did the breeder explain that a guarantee is not a promise that a genetic health problem won't occur, but a promise about what will happen if it does?

Is the guarantee at least two years long?

Does the guarantee allow you to keep the dog?

Does the guarantee allow you to choose at least a partial refund instead of another dog?

Is the dam a family pet (meaning does she live in the house as part of the family)? (For that matter does the breeder know what a "dam" is?)

Have the puppies been introduced to children? To other animals?

Is the breeder concerned enough about the welfare of the dog to promise to take it back (no matter how old) if you can't keep it? (Not necessarily pay you, the purpose is to avoid the shelter, ensure good placement)

Does the breeder believe it is important to keep in contact with puppy buyers to verify the level of success in producing a healthy dog of correct temperament?

Does the breeder intend to follow up on the dog as it matures and ages?

Does the breeder consider himself or herself a dedicated hobbyist to the breed?

If the breeder advertises do they focus on the important qualities such as health and temperament.

You want these to be "no"

Did the breeder state or imply that puppies would be arriving from off premises? (e.g. shipped in soon)

Will the breeder agree to sell a puppy less than 7 weeks old?

Was the breeder reluctant to answer questions?

Did the breeder seem to be defensive in answering questions?

Does the breeder charge different prices for dogs with or without papers?

Did the breeder claim that his or her lines were entirely free of genetic health problems?

Do you feel pressured into buying a puppy? Do you feel like the breeder is trying to "sell" the puppy (as in persuading you to buy)?

Does the breeder promote the puppies as gifts or offer some special incentive in price to encourage a sale?

Does the breeder have more than two breeds available?

Does the breeder consider himself or herself to be a professional in the business of breeding? That is "professional" in the sense of making money, profit, or income to be distinguished from "professional" in the sense of serious, dedicated and knowledgeable..

Does the breeder charge different prices depending upon the sex of the puppy?

If the breeder advertises do they seem to focus on superficial qualities like color or size while ignoring health testing?

Does the guarantee require the dog die or be euthanized because of the health problem?

Does the health guarantee require that you return the puppy?

Is the guarantee limited to a replacement puppy from the same breeder?

Wow! Do all those answers really have to be "correct"?

That's up to you and your standards. What she's listed is the bare minimum I would accept. However, these are merely her (and mine) standards. You have to decide your own standards. If you don't think a point is important then don't require it, simple as that. The list is mainly for people who don't know about the issues in the first place. And it is for people who don't know they can demand much more than they get from a pet shop, for much less than it will cost them at a pet shop. That's the basic difference between the person who breeds for income, and the one who breeds because they love the breed. The primary concern of the first type is to avoid losing money, if they lose too much they are out of business. The primary concern of the second type is the dogs. They expect to lose money and lose lots of money. For them breeding is a passion, not a business.

As printed by the AKC, the following is certainly not exhaustive, but it contains some of the essential ways you can be the best dog owner you can be.

THINK FIRST

Recognize the Commitment
Dog ownership is not something to be entered into lightly. Owning a dog is a long-term emotional and financial commitment. Before deciding that a certain dog is right for you, you must make an honest assessment as to whether your home is right for any dog.

Make a List
Based on your evaluation, determine what qualities you want in a dog. Consider size, energy level, grooming needs, trainability and temperament. Do you want a guard dog or a lap dog? Is it important that your dog get along with children? If you rent your home, are there restrictions on height, weight or breed? Answer these questions now - once you bring a dog home, it can be heartbreaking to realize that you made the wrong choice.

Choose a Breed
Once you have made your list of ideal characteristics, do some research to find which breeds fit that profile. Go to your local library, attend a dog show, and visit the AKC OR CKC websites. Narrow your choices to the breed that seems right for you.

Get a Referral
You have a much better chance of being satisfied if you get your dog from a responsible, ethical breeder whose primary concern is to produce dogs of high quality, good health and stable temperament. The AKC has a Breeder Referral contact for each recognized breed. These individuals can put you in contact with breeders or rescue organizations in your area.

Make Contact
Get in touch with the breed contacts in your area. Let them know that you are interested in their breed. Be able to demonstrate that you have put thought into your choice. Don't be discouraged if the first breeder you talk to does not have puppies available right away. That person may know another breeder in the region.

Ask Questions
Ask the breeder any questions you can think of about the breed. When you find a breeder you're comfortable with, ask to visit the kennel and view the dogs on the breeder's premises. Inquire about health problems of the breed, and what can be done to prevent or control them. Find out what kinds of activities, including competition, the breeder's dogs participate in and enjoy. The breeder's dogs are a preview of what your dog will be.

Consider an Older Dog
Puppies aren't for everyone. If an older dog better fits your lifestyle, check the web for breed rescue groups. These organizations rescue purebred dogs that have been lost, abandoned or surrendered due to the death or illness of their owners. Most rescue dogs have been spayed or neutered and are screened for health and temperament problems. Rescue is a not only a great source for purebred dogs, it's also a way to save the life of a dog in need.

Expect Questions
A responsible breeder or rescue contact will ask you extensive questions about the type of home you can offer a dog. These people are as committed as you are to making the right match between you and a dog. Give honest answers to their questions. Remember that, due to their experience in the breed, they know what issues are important in placing one of their dogs.

Skip the Holidays
Many people try to buy puppies as Christmas gifts for children or other family members. Most breeders do not recommend this. You should be prepared to give a new puppy your undivided attention, and that is rarely possible during the busy holiday season. A better idea is to give dog-related gifts - toys, leashes, grooming tools - and then bring your puppy home when all the excitement has died down.
Make the Commitment

Pick Your Pet
When the time has come to select your pet, consider your options carefully. Respect your breeder's input about which puppy is right for you. If you are rescuing an older dog, ask your contact person for information on its health, temperament, behavior and history.

Get It in Writing
Information about the sale or adoption should be in writing. The contract should include, for example, details regarding any fees, spay-neuter agreements, health guarantees, terms of co-ownership, restrictions on breeding, and living arrangements. It should also include instructions on what to do if the dog, despite your best efforts, simply doesn't work out for you or your family. Most responsible breeders will insist that the dog be returned to them.

Get Your Papers
If the breed is recognized by the National Associations, get your AKC or CKC registration application from the breeder when you purchase the puppy. Make sure the breeder completes the appropriate sections of the form and signs it. The breeder can also help you fill out your section correctly.

If Applicable, Register Your Dog
Send the completed, signed registration application to the AKC or CKC.

Prepare Yourself
Get ready for your new friend before you bring him home, to make sure the transition will be as smooth as possible. Buy food, treats, a collar and leash, toys, grooming tools and other necessities in advance so your dog or puppy will have everything he needs.

Make a Schedule
You and your family members should decide who will be responsible for food, water, walking, exercise, clean-up and grooming. Post a schedule of tasks in a visible area of the house to remind everyone of their responsibilities.

Dog-Proof Your Home
Prepare your home before your new dog arrives. Move breakables or "chewables" to higher ground. Make electrical cords inaccessible to curious paws and noses. Block off any area of the house or outbuildings that you want off-limits to the dog. Put the lid down on your toilet and your shoes up in your closet. Block access to any house or garden plants that may be toxic to dogs.

Set a Containment Policy
It is essential that you have a secure method of keeping your dog on your property. Check your fence for spots vulnerable to chewing or digging. If your yard is not fenced, consider a large dog run or invisible fencing. If your property is not fenced in some way, stress to family members that the dog must be leashed at all times when taken outdoors.

Get a Collar
Your dog should wear a flat leather or nylon collar with a buckle at all times, except when in a crate. (The buckle can catch on the crate and cause injury.) The collar should be tight enough that it will not slide over the dog's ears, but loose enough that you can fit two fingers between the collar and the dog's neck. Check the fit of the collar often, especially if you have a fast-growing puppy. Do not fit with a choke chain type collar as the dog could possibly strangle accidently when left unattended.

Make a Bed (or if an LGD...try and make a bed)
Every dog needs a quiet place to call his own. Create a comfortable area, whether a crate, a mat or a pile of blankets, for your dog to go to when he needs rest or privacy.

Buy Some Toys
Provide your dog with a variety of toys to prevent him from playing with your socks and shoes, your morning paper, or your child's favorite doll. Get some toys that you and your dog can play with together, such as balls and plush toys, and some things to keep him busy when he's alone, such as chewies or rope bones. Never leave your dog unattended with any toy that has small, detachable parts.

Find a Veterinarian
You should choose a veterinarian for your dog as soon as possible. Have your dog examined by the vet within a few days of his arrival. Give your vet copies of the dog's health records, and set up a vaccination and check-up schedule. The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan can help with the cost of providing quality healthcare throughout your dog's life.
Bring Your Dog Home

Welcome Your New Pet
At last! You've made all the preparations, and it's finally time to bring your new friend home. Give him the best welcome possible. With love, patience and mutual respect, he will feel like part of the family in no time.

Let Your Dog Adjust
Give the dog time to adjust to his new home. The dog is bound to feel insecure and frightened by a change in environment, and a pup may be homesick for his mother or littermates. Show him to his crate or bed, and where to find food and water. Then leave him alone to explore the new surroundings.

Name Your Dog
Your dog will need a good name. Your breeder may have suggestions or even requirements for his AKC or CKC registered name, but his call or informal name is up to you. Older adopted dogs can adjust quickly to a new name.

Make Introductions
Introduce your dog to your household slowly. Many pairs of hands petting him at once will only frighten him. Later, introduce him to neighbors, regular visitors and other family members. Give your dog a sense of who your - and your dog's - friends are.

Introduce Other Pets
Other companion animals in your home should also be properly introduced to your new dog or puppy. Don't expect them to get along right away, and don't try to force them to play together. Give them time to adjust to one another.

Housetrain
Whichever method of housetraining you have chosen - crate training, paper training or litter box - make sure that all members of the family enforce it consistently. Accidents happen, so have a procedure for clean-up.

Set House Rules
Teach your dog from the beginning what is and is not appropriate behavior. If something is "OK" today, your puppy will think it's OK forever. Make sure that every member of the family enforces the house rules. Consistency is the key to having a well-behaved pet. Keep Your Dog Healthy

Go to the Veterinarian
Set up a schedule for regular check-ups with your veterinarian. Ask the vet questions about your dog's diet, behavior, activity level or other concerns. Contact the veterinarian at once if your dog seems ill or in pain. The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan can help with the cost of providing quality healthcare throughout your dog's life.

Feed a Good Diet
Work with your veterinarian or breeder to find the food that is best for your dog's age, size and activity level. Keep the diet consistent. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water.

Exercise
Dogs need regular exercise to ensure continuing good health. Take your dog for walks, run around in the yard, throw a ball around - anything to get him up and moving. This will benefit his health and could prevent behavior problems. LGD's may tend to lie around when all is quiet on the home front so it's important to ensure its getting some exercise to maintain his condition.

Vaccinate
Dogs should follow a strict schedule of vaccinations to prevent diseases. Keep your dog current on his vaccinations, following the schedule recommended by your veterinarian. Keep a copy of your dog's vaccination records handy.

Prevent Disease
You can take steps to prevent other diseases not covered by the regular series of vaccinations. Depending on the area of the country you live in, your dog could be at risk for diseases such as heartworm and Lyme disease. Ask your veterinarian for advice on prevention. The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan can help with the cost of providing quality healthcare throughout your dog's life.

Repel Fleas and Ticks
Aside from discomfort, parasites such as fleas and ticks can cause serious diseases. Keep your dog, his bedding, and your home free from parasites by using the method recommended by your veterinarian.

Know Your Dog's Patterns
You should become familiar with your dog's patterns in terms of eating, drinking, sleeping and relieving himself. Any major variations in these patterns could indicate illness and should be reported to your veterinarian.

Provide Chew Toys
Dogs never outgrow the need to chew. Protect your possessions by providing a variety of chew toys to satisfy your dog's urges.

Bathe Your Dog
A clean dog is a healthy dog. Bathe your dog on a regular basis appropriate to his breed and environment. Overbathing can be harmful to a dog's skin. Use a good shampoo and be sure to rinse well. If bathing your dog is more than you can handle, take him to a groomer or veterinarian for help.

Groom Your Dog
All dogs should be groomed regularly for health and best appearance. Some short-coated breeds need just a quick brushing every week, while some longer-coated breeds need daily brushing to prevent matting and to reduce shedding. If your dog requires clipping or sculpting, you may want to consult a professional groomer.

Clip Those Nails
Keeping your dog's nails short will keep him comfortable, prevent injury to his feet, and may save the surface of your floors. If you can hear your dog's nails click on a hard surface, they need to be trimmed. Ask your veterinarian for advice on clipping your dog's nails yourself.

Clean Those Teeth
To prevent tooth decay and gum disease, clean your dog's teeth regularly. Most dogs will accept a "toothbrush" if introduced to it slowly and gently. You can also give your dog products such as hard biscuits, rope bones and nylon chews to keep his teeth clean.

Prevent Obesity
Keep your dog healthy by maintaining him at an appropriate weight. Feed him a well-balanced diet and give him plenty of exercise. Don't give in to begging - "people food" is generally bad for dogs.

Know Your Breed's Health Risks
You should be aware of common health problems in your breed, how to prevent them, and how to recognize their onset. For example, some giant breeds are prone to bloat, while some short-faced breeds are prone to respiratory problems. Ask your breeder or veterinarian for information about any signs or symptoms you should watch for in your pet.

Protect From Poisons
Make sure that your home and yard are free from poisonous substances, such as antifreeze, which tastes good but can cause serious illness or even death. Keep your veterinarian's number handy in case of accidental ingestion.

Be Alert to Changing Needs
As your dog ages, his needs will change. He may require a different diet, need more sleep, and be less active. Do what you can to keep him comfortable. Your dog may not be as "fun" as he once was, but he is the same dog you loved as a puppy. You should do everything you can to pamper him in his final years.

End Suffering
If, due to illness or old age, your dog reaches a point where his quality of life is severely compromised, arrange to end his life humanely. Letting go is sometimes the kindest thing you can do. Don't prolong the suffering because you fear the pain of losing your dog.
Keep Your Dog Safe

I.D. Your Dog
Your dog should wear an identification tag with your name, address and phone number at all times. This will increase the chances of your dog being returned to you if he is lost or runs away.

Consider Microchips or Tattoos
Microchips and tattoos are methods of permanently identifying your dog, and can be invaluable in recovering your dog should he become lost. You may wish to enroll your dog in AKC's affiliate, the Companion Animal Recovery service, which is the nation's largest database of microchipped pets.

Provide Shelter
Your dog needs a sheltered area for the time he spends outside. The shelter should provide shade in summer and warmth in winter. Most LGD's like to choose their own place to hunker down.

Watch the Heat
Dogs can succumb to heat stress in a matter of minutes. Do not leave your dog in the vehicle when the temperature is high. When your dog is outside, he should have a shady place to lay down and plenty of fresh, cool water.

Travel Safely
Keep your dog safe in the car by using a crate, or by attaching the dog to a seat belt with a harness. Never let your dog ride free in the back of a pickup truck, or allow him to hang his head out of the car window.

Find a Pet-Sitter or Boarding Kennel
Make arrangements for your dog's care when you go away. Have a friend or reliable pet-sitter come over to tend to the dog, or if absolutely without a choice, find a good kennel for boarding. If you opt for boarding, try to inspect the facilities before you drop your dog off.

Prepare for Disaster
Be prepared to care for your dog in the event of a disaster such as fire, flood, hurricane or earthquake. Make an emergency kit with clean water, food, and first aid equipment. Find out in advance if the evacuation shelters in your area allow animals. If not, develop alternatives.

Establish an Emergency Contact
Enlist a family member or friend to take care of your dog in the event of a sudden illness, hospitalization or other emergency. This person should ideally be someone your dog has spent some time with and is comfortable with. Leave a list of general care instructions in a safe place.

Make a Will
You should make arrangements for the safety and care of your pet in the event of your death. Don't assume that a family member will step in to take care of the dog.

Take Pictures
Of course, you will want a picture of your dog to grace your desk or to send as a Christmas card. More importantly, a current photo will be invaluable in the event that your dog is lost.
Be a Friend

Play!
Dogs, of course, love to play. Set aside time each day for play sessions. Apart from the obvious benefit of having fun together, play also provides an outlet for your dog's energy.

Talk to Your Dog
Your dog won't understand your words, but he will enjoy the sound of your voice. Talking to your dog will make him feel involved. You can also use different voice levels to praise or correct your dog's behavior.

Give Treats
Your dog will always appreciate a treat, and treats can be used as a supplement to his regular diet, as well as an excellent training aid.

Love Your Dog
Your dog will love you no matter what. Return the favor.

Give Your Time
You are the center of your dog's world. You may be tired after a long day at work, but your dog has spent the day anxiously awaiting your return. Reward that loyalty with your time. Pet him, talk to him, play with him, laugh with him. Let your dog know you value his company.

Find the "Spot"
Scratch your dog's belly often. If you find the "spot," so much the better.

Give a Massage
Dogs love to be petted, and recent studies have shown that structured massages may be beneficial to your dog's health and behavior. They may also be very relaxing for you!

Make That Tail Wag
Your dog's tail is a barometer of his emotions. Do what you can to keep it happily wagging.

Ease Separation Anxiety
Your dog will want to be with you at all times, but for most people that simply isn't possible. Help your dog get used to being alone. Leave him each day with a minimum of fuss. When you come home, greet him calmly. This will teach him that your leaving is not something to be concerned about.

Don't Let Your Dog Down
You aren't a dog owner just at Christmas, or on the weekends, or in the afternoon, or when you have spare time. You aren't a dog owner just when the dog is behaving, or when he's a cute fuzzy puppy, or when he's winning awards. When you bring a dog into your family, that dog is yours for life. If you can't keep that commitment, don't make it. And once you've made it, don't break it. Your dog's life depends on you.
Train Your Dog

Be The Alpha
Dogs need to know who's boss - and that boss should be you. You and your dog will be much happier together if you establish yourself as the leader of the pack.

Teach Basic Commands
Teach your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, come and down. Training your dog will not only make your life easier, but will also fulfill your dog's desire to learn and please you.

Prevent Unecessary Nuisance Barking
Don't let your dog's incessant barking annoy your neighbors. Teach your dog not to bark without real provocation.

Praise Your Dog
Because your dog loves you, he wants to please you. Praise him lavishly for obeying commands and behaving well. Using positive, rather than negative, reinforcement will help your dog enjoy learning.

Supervise Play With Children
Children and dogs can be great companions, but they also require supervision when playing together. Your dog may be "good with kids," but what if he encounters a kid that is not good with dogs? Very small children should never be left alone with a dog, no matter how stable his temperament.

Breed To Improve
Breeding should only be done for the advancement of the breed. If you are thinking about breeding your dog, consult your breeder for advice. Consider all the consequences-and expenses-of breeding a litter before you do so.

Spay or Neuter
If you do not plan to breed or show your dog in AKC or CKC Conformation events, you should have it spayed or neutered. Spaying or neutering will prevent accidental breedings and may even prolong your dog's life.

Contain Bitches in Heat
If your female dog goes into heat, or season, make sure to keep her properly secured. Males can sense a female in heat up to five miles away. An accessible bitch in heat can lead to unplanned breedings, not to mention fights among dogs frantic to get to her.

Perform Genetic Screening
If you plan to breed your dog, it is very important to test for health and disease. Perform all available tests to rule out the possibility of passing on a genetic defect.
Get Involved

Set a Good Example
As a dog owner, you are responsible not only for your own dog's well being, but for the status of dogs everywhere. One irresponsible dog owner in town can make life difficult for dog owners all over. Owning a friendly, clean, well-mannered dog reflects positively on the species and may help protect our rights to own companion animals.

Respect Your Neighbors
Not everyone will love your dog as much as you do. Keep your dog on your property. Don't force your dog's company on a neighbor who isn't comfortable with dogs.

Don't Leave Leavings
Always carry a plastic "baggy" or two with you when you walk your dog to pick up any waste it leaves behind, then dispose of the waste properly. Failure to clean up after your dog is disrespectful to your neighbors.

Respect Local Laws
Heed the laws regarding dog ownership in your city or county. These may include registration, leash laws and nuisance barking laws. Failure to obey the laws in your area may not only result in the loss of your dogs, but may also infringe upon the rights of others in your area.

Fight Anti-Dog Legislation
Be aware of any legislation developing in your city or state that may compromise the rights of responsible dog owners. Become an active voice against legislation directed against specific breeds. For more information, contact the Canine Legislation and Public Education departments at the AKC.