Originally Posted by wawaweewa
Do NOT give your dog all the shots they recommend, it's ******ed. They're in it to make money. How the hell did dogs live before they all had vaccinations? They are dogs after all. They're immune systems are pretty amazing.
I know of a few dogs who have had bad reactions to being administered many vaccinations, especially small dogs. Of course its rare but I don;'t see the need for all the vaccinations that they give dogs nowadays.
In reality all you need is the vaccinations against rabies and bordatella (kennel cough). Those two are realistically possible.
What type of dog are you getting?
Also, be sure to socialize it to both people and dogs very early on. Do NOT let children pick up or tease your dog. If it is hurt by children early on some dogs develop fear of children and can become aggressive towards them. Also, make sure you get it used to all kinds of sounds and different surroundings.
If there is any aggressive or negative action by the dog this is the time to discipline your dog. It's very difficult to discipline a dog once its developed bad habits and is an adult. Set boundaries. There's no need to ever hit your dog. Most dogs will understand that something is not wanted even by a slight touch or even how you look at them.
Also if you can start to train it off lead.
As for diet it really depends what type of dog you're getting. Don't get the cheapest dry dog food because it really is crap. Spend the extra $10 and get some quality dry food. Dry food is really all you need mixed with some chopped meat and water. I usually give my dog some extra meat (protein) because he does get a lot of exercise.
MOST important of all. Please, give it enough physical excercise. You don't know how many dogs I've come across who are simply aggressive or have very bad habits because they do not get any excercise whatsoever. They just become frustrarted. A good dog is a tired dog. Believe me I know. I have a German Shorthaired Pointer and these dogs are about as high energy as you get. I don't even want to imagine what type of isshh he would try if he didn't get enough exercise.He typically gets an hour and half both early morning and late afternoon.
It can get frustrating at times (my dog was a stray and had some pretty bad habits and was frightened by many things early on) but just stick with it. It will be a pain in the%%%* but you chose to bring a dog in so its your responsibility to give it what it needs. Namely exercise.It won't be a puppy for long. Most dogs mature at 6-8 months.
