Which Breed to buy ?

Planning to keep a pet dog? Wondering which breed is ideal for you? Confused ? 

Here is some advise on the issue. Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Beagles, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Pugs etc have traditionally been popular breeds. Selection of the breed of dog one wants to acquire as a pet is a matter of individual liking and need.One can purchase pure bred pups that are registered with the Kennel Club of India (KCI) or go for an unregistered pup / stray.

KCI registered pup or an unregistered pup / stray

A Kennel Club of India registered pup will have a pedigree (a record of its parents, grandparents etc) and will exhibit an appearance and conformation which meets the specifications of that particular breed. Such a pup is usually more expensive than the unregistered pup. While purchasing registered pups one must ensure that the pups are micro-chipped and all the necessary documentation with the Kennel Club is completed.

However, if one is not particularly fixated with a pedigreed pup and just wants a pet dog,  then one can always purchase a pup of a particular breed which is unregistered  or a cross bred or even an indigenous dog / stray and still be the recipient of its love and affection in equal measures. 

Purpose and Role

It is important to take into account the purpose or the role which one has in mind for the dog viz. for companionship, for guarding etc. A Pug will not make a guard dog and is best suited for companionship and a Rottweiler may not be the best choice if one wants to keep a dog for the kids.   

Needs of the Dogs

In general, big sized dogs need regular exercise and an active life where as smaller breeds will be just fine with a little exercise. Dogs with long hair will require more grooming and may often lead to finding strands of dog hair at different places in the house. Analyse whether you have the time and resources to take care of their individual needs. 

The Last Word

Finally, when you have decided which is the breed for you devote some time to read about the breed and its characteristics, its health issues, temperament etc. This will go a long way in making you aware of its requirements.  

How To Trim Your Dog's Nails ?

 Trimming your dog's nails is a relatively simple exercise. It is normally carried out once or twice a month. Dogs that are regularly taken out for walks or runs will not require the trimming to be carried out at short intervals as the walks and the runs naturally wear out the nails. It is a good idea to examine the nails frequently and carry out trimmings, if required. While there are pet clinics that undertake this job, it is a job that can be easily undertaken in the comforts of once home without making the pet stressed due to unfamiliar surroundings of the clinic.

Believe me, it is no rocket science and in principle it is the same like trimming our own nails.
Points to note

1. Dogs do not like their nails trimmed. Starting it during its puppy hood helps as it makes the pet accustomed to the drill.

2. Be comfortable while carrying out the trimming. Preferably make your dog lie down on its side and restrain it.

3. Before clipping examine the nail. In light coloured nails, one can actually see a pinkish area. That is the area that has the blood vessels. This is known as the "quick". Obviously, cutting it will make it bleed.

4. There are two two types of nail cutters - scissors type and guillotine type. Both are effective. A guillotine type trimmer has a stationary ring through which the nail is placed and a cutting blade that moves to slice off the nail when the handles of the nail clippers are pressed. In case of a scissors type of nail clipper, the nail is lodged between the jaws of the clipper and the handles are pressed to cut it through.

5. Preferably trim softly, paring away the nail rather than taking a vigorous and bold swipe. (At least do so till you become more confident). Trim to 2-3 mm of the quick.

6. In case, if the quick is cut, the nail will bleed but don't worry, there is no chance of a permanent damage.

7.Watch the video to see how it is done.