Q&A for How to Care for Dogs

Outside of the food water, they need play time, exercise, outdoor time to relieve themselves, and emotional engagement.

With big dogs, number one, you have to research the breed. You have to know what you're getting into and have an understanding of what the dog was bred for so that you do not put unrealistic expectations on the dog. I would also recommend thinking about your lifestyle versus what lifestyle the dog demands. Things to consider would include if the dog is high or low energy and if the dog will enjoy being outside or if they would rather be inside with the family.

Be aware of everything that's open or accessible to the dog that they can potentially chew on or destroy. If it's something valuable and you know that you would be frustrated at the dog for chewing on it, then I would make sure it's not in the dog's reach. You should consider leaving your puppy in a crate, as crate training will give a puppy adequate nap time and can prevent them from being destructive.

You can either chose a spot such as a balcony, which can potentially be hosed down to keep it clean, or chose a quiet corner of a room to be designated as their toilet. Either train the dog to eliminate on newspaper or puppy pads, or consider using a dog litter tray. The latter are available for all sizes of dog, and some even come with washable fake grass.

Some believe males are more affectionate and easier to train, while females are more aggressive and protective of owners and puppies. However, each dog is different, and you should just pick the dog that seems best for you.

Maybe try another food? If you leave out his food, he'll eat eventually rather than starve. If you think he is too sick to eat anything at all, rush him to an emergency vet clinic.

Different dogs have different amounts of shedding -- even ones classified as hypo-allergenic. You could ask your doctor or go to a local pet shop for vitamins.

Puppy formula is liquid and looks a lot like milk. It's usually given in a small bottle or bowl.

For how, as long as she isn't hurting you, I wouldn't be all that concerned. If she feels calm, nurtured, and safe, what more could anyone ask you to do? You're being a good guardian, for certain. Perhaps later on, when she is ready, you could have her help you choose a brother or sister to keep her company.

That should be something perfectly fine. Ask the vet if it's okay to take notes while they give you information on your pet's health.

Some dogs are "hypoallergenic," meaning they may be less likely to trigger asthmatic or allergic reactions. However, no dog (or other hairy animal) is completely hypoallergenic.

Talk to them. Remind them that it's their dog and their responsibility.

At this age, it's 100% up to your parents. You can do things to convince them, like helping a lot and cleaning your room, or you could sign up for animal therapy if they don't let you get one.

Your dog would probably not be able to do human yoga. However, if you want to spend some time with him and do yoga yourself, do a search for 'doga' dog yoga, to get some tips on what is possible.

Take your puppy outside frequently—at least every two hours—and immediately after they wake up, during and after playing, and after eating or drinking. Pick a bathroom spot outside, and always take your puppy (on a leash) to that spot. Reward your puppy every time they eliminate outdoors.

There are a few general personality differences between male and female dogs. Males tend to be more affectionate, and females tend to socialise more easily, for example.

Licking your feet may be a particularly efficient way for your dog to learn about you, as the scent receptors in his nose and mouth are extremely receptive to the signals contained in the sweat and oil that your feet produce. Your dog may also feel attracted to the pheromones that he can smell in your feet.

You can consider investing in a slow-feeder bowl which is made especially for dogs who eat fast.

Sometimes dogs just don’t want to play! If you feel like she is not herself then take her to the vets but sometimes they would prefer to go on long walks, etc.

Yes! Of corse you should love your dog. If you don’t, then should you really have it?

Make sure you do your research on that breed and if it’s suited to you. If it is, then find a breeder (or a rescue centre) that has that dog and meet it and see if you get along.

Brush your dog daily to help remove small tangles and prevent his/her fur from getting matted. If s/he already has matted fur, consider getting a de-matting brush and/or detangler for your dog. If you find it too hard to do this yourself, then use a grooming specialist to fix your dog's hair.

Continue trying to train your dog. If he still will not learn, consider sending him to a puppy training camp where he will learn basic commands. Or, hire a professional trainer so you don't have to send him away. You could even start looking for a training class you can take him to so pro trainers will get to look at him and help you. However, you will still be considered his master and he will listen to you.

You'll have to either put the LEGOs somewhere else in the house or not let the dog in your room.