Whether you’re planning to get a new dog or you’re a seasoned dog mama or papa, there are some terms you just have to know. To keep your dog and others healthy and happy, get to know these terms.
1. Dog Food
Dog food doesn’t just exist to cost you money. Dogs need different nutrients than humans, so you don’t want to give them human food every day. Some human foods are even poisonous to pups, like chocolate or onions.
2. Over-vaccination
Have you ever gotten one of those postcards from your vet stating that your dog needs another distemper vaccination and thought you just did that? Unlike shots to vaccinate against rabies, not every vaccination needs to be given on an annual or semi-annual basis. Chances are you’re just getting an automated reminder. Check with your vet if you think your dog doesn’t need a particular shot.
3. Titer
This is a medical term that means the measure of white blood cells in a sample of your dog’s blood; if it’s high, your dog has an infection that must be treated right away.
4. Aggression
Dogs are naturally aggressive. Some breeds are more aggressive than others, but with training, you can ensure your dog’s first response to a new situation isn’t an aggressive one. Show your dog leadership and exercise your pup to create boundaries for that natural aggression.
5. Leash Law
In a lot of towns and states, the leash law says your dog must be leashed and under control of a responsible, capable person. Check your state and city/local laws.
6. Relationship
Your dog loves and trusts you. In return, you need to provide both love and trust, as well as guidance, in order to build a solid relationship with your pup.
7. Downtime
Ever heard the phrase, “Let sleeping dogs lie”? Dogs, especially older dogs, need downtime during the day, just like people. If your dog is resting, let her rest.
8. Bloat
You’ve probably felt bloated before. It’s not comfortable. But for dogs, bloat can be a huge problem, not something to power through. The technical term is gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV). Bloat in dogs affects breathing; it can permanently damage your dog’s stomach if left untreated. Take your dog to your veterinarian’s ER to treat bloat.
9. “Down/Stay” Command
This “trick” keeps your dog and others safe. The dog needs to respond immediately.
10. Bath
You should bathe your pup a minimum of once each month, or sooner if they smell or get dirty. We don’t mean hose ‘em off—we mean a proper bath with proper dog shampoo. Don’t bathe your pup too often or she can get skin problems.
11. Veterinarian Specialist
Did you know there are over a dozen specialties including behaviorist, for dogs? Your vet should tell you if a specialist can help your dog live healthier and happier.
12. Pooper Scooper law
Check your local area—fines can range from about $20-$100 for not picking up after your pet.
13. Prosternum
This is the fancy anatomical way to say the front of your dog’s rib cage or chest; it’s used to determine a dog’s length.
14. Withers
This is the anatomically correct way to reference the highest point of a dog’s shoulder blade. It’s the first point of measurement in determining height.
15. Gait
Dogs have three gates—front, back, and side. If a dog’s front gate is “toeing-out”, the dog’s paws are pointed out slightly when walking. “Bow-hocked” is bow-leggedness when looking at the rear gait.
16. Purebred
A purebred dog’s breeding can be traced, which can help you determine if your dog has any genetic conditions.
17. Hyper
Behaviorally, this refers to a very active/excited dog. Medically, hypertension means a dog has high blood pressure (caused by a pituitary gland issue known as hyperthyroidism) and can require vet care and/or regular medication.
18. Dog spotting
This game involves people taking pictures of dogs (not their own dog or a neighbor’s dog) and posting those pictures on social media.
19. Herding dogs
Three of the most popular breeds are the Collie, German Shepherd, and Shetland Sheepdog or Sheltie, all herding breeds. These pups are smart and good with children. There are sub-groups that have different needs so do your homework before bringing Lassie home.
20. Temperament
This is a behavioral term that refers to a dog’s ability to adjust to new surroundings or events without being too aggressive or too shy.We hope these terms enhance your life with your pup. Remember that a healthy dog with defined boundaries is a happy dog.
Source: PuppyToob Image Source: Pixabay
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