By Gerry Ronson
 Where are you going to find your dog? Well that will all depend on what you are looking for from a pet. There are many reasons to do a lot of research before purchasing your dog. You need to know about the care, training, and breed of the dog. The question is where will you find all of that information and then find the right dog for you. The Internet, newspaper, breeders, shelters, pound, and veterinarian offices are the typical places for finding your dog. The trouble is you have to know about the dog before you can actually purchase one.
So here are a few tips for where to find your dog and what questions you should be asking. Most offices are not going to be a fountain of information, while the dog breeders are going to have the most helpful information. A dog breeder is going to know how to breed them, take care of them, and the typical characteristics that dog will show. They will most often interview you to make sure you are
the right candidate. Dog breeders tend to be very cautious in letting just anyone who wants a dog have a dog. They want to know about your home, your life, and where the dog will fit in. They also require the highest fees next to pet shops for a specific breed.
You also want to make sure you are speaking with a valid person. The Internet can give rise to many scams and some of those are dog scams. They will have a picture of a pure breed online and give you plenty of information, but then the dog you actually get is a mixed breed. So be wary when trying the Internet. You will want to visit any place you are looking to purchase a dog to make sure they have had the best care and that you and the dog get along. Care should include a place that is large enough for the breeders setup, making sure it is clean, and that they are producing healthy dogs. If you are not looking for a puppy you will also want the dog to have training prior to your purchasing it. Training should be started when the dog is a puppy in order to have the best results. An older dog that has not been trained may not be the best fit for you and your family.
You need to know if the dog you want is going to do well if you have small children. Some breeds of dog are not good with small children and they can be a bit aggressive. For a family with smaller children you need a gentle, caring dog that is aware of its size. You should stay away from the Akita, Lhasa Apso, and Doberman Pinscher breeds. You will find most hounds, Saint Bernard, and German Shepherds are better for families. Keep in mind the more you know about your choice in dog the better you and your family will be.
You also need to know the medical history and medical care the dog may require. The medical history will tell you if they have suffered from injuries, accidents, or abuse prior to your ownership. You also need to know if they are prone to certain diseases, hip problems, or allergies to make caring for them a little easier. If you are aware of the issue you can have the proper vet treatments and nutrition supplied to avoid most problems. You will also find that medical care is needed at least once a year with different types of vaccinations.
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Gerry Rohan - Dog Beds, Dog Training Aids and Plush Dog Toys. Dalmatian Dogs
By Gerry Ronson
 Whats white with several black spots and considered to be a firemans best friend? You got it- the Dalmatian dog is one of the most popular dogs with firehouses in the United States. They are also very popular with children after the release of 101 Dalmatians from Disney, but do they make a great pet?
The Dalmatian weighs from 40 to 60 pounds depending on sex and will be 19 to 23 inches tall. They are thin dogs with inquisitive noses. They are usually only white with black or liver spots on their coat. Most puppies are born without their spots and only gain them with age. The best Dalmatian breed should have distinct spots rather than large patches. The Dalmatian dog breed is a very short- haired dog with hard, coarse hair. They do have a thick coat or skin, but they are not the cuddliest dogs around.
It is not really surprising to learn the Dalmatian dog originated in Yugoslavia and later became a transplant to America with the role of protecting U.S. soldiers during the world wars. You will also find that they are full of energy, stamina, and intelligence. Most often the Dalmatian is considered a guard dog rather than a playmate. They are medium sized dog when you consider the entire dog species. Among other roles are hunting small rodents, circus performers, hounds, and companions.
They are extremely social dogs that need human companionship, as well attention. It is best that you dont leave them alone for long and take them for long walks and have lots of playtime. Destruction is the name of the game, if they are left alone for too long as they become bored and need to have some sort of entertainment as well as human companionship. The Dalmatian is also a very quite dog they only bark when they are warning you of something and are aloof with strangers. Training must be extensive and early in order to gain the proper obedience and socialization that they need. You will find they are either timid or a hand full making harsh or firm training something that should not be done. You can be consistent, firm, patient, and reward them to get them trained properly.
As with most dogs you will find the Dalmatian does suffer from some medical problems, which need to be addresses as puppies. They can have deafness, bladder and kidney stones, skin and food allergies, and hip dysplasia. As long as you take care of them and have the proper vet visits you shouldnt have too many issues. Remember a proper diet is going to make the difference in dietary issues. Grooming is also important you need to brush them daily to remove excess hair. With their skin problems you dont want to bath them a lot or use just any type of shampoo. You need to make sure you have a sensitive skin shampoo. You will find that extreme weather, moist grass, and soil are best kept away from. They can have fungi grow due to the moist grass and soil. They also have a propensity for picking up ticks and fleas.
With the sensitive properties of the Dalmatian dog breed you need to fully understand the dog before you purchase one. You will want to speak with a breeder about the different characteristics and what you might expect from the breed. You will also want to learn about their care as in depth as possible. It is best to purchase a puppy rather than an adult to make sure they are trained properly and their health remains in good standing.
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