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How Should You Choose the Right Pet Food?
Our pets are more than just affectionate friends; they are also an irreplaceable part of our lives. Our furry friends brighten our existence with the joy and happiness they bring. The animals we share our homes with support us on our bad days, share in our joys, and always make us feel their presence. As part of this special bond, we have responsibilities towards them, with ensuring they have a healthy and balanced diet being a primary concern. Many pet owners might overlook the ingredients in the pet food they use. Therefore, carefully examining the ingredients of the pet food we choose and making an informed decision is crucial for the health of our furry friends. However, purchasing any pet food without researching its contents could lead to adverse outcomes for them.
Key Points to Consider When Choosing Pet Food:
The choice of pet food is critical for the health and happiness of your pets. During this process, it's essential to consider your dog's or cat's age, breed, weight, potential allergic reactions, and taste preferences. Each of these factors will help ensure that our furry friends enjoy their meals and receive the nutrients they need. Opting for high-quality pet foods with natural and balanced nutritional values is important for maintaining a healthy life. High-quality protein, appropriate vitamins, and mineral content play a significant role in providing the necessary nutrients for our animal friends. As pet owners, it is our responsibility to carefully select and be sure of the quality of the food we offer them, just as we do for ourselves. This is one of the most crucial ways to ensure they lead a healthy and happy life.
Kito's Natural Ingredients:
Kito stands out in the pet food industry as a local brand known for its pet foods prepared with entirely natural ingredients. It offers a variety beyond just dry and fresh food options, including additive-free cookies, chew products, and vitamins, emphasizing a healthy eating approach. Kito's pet foods present a delicious and healthy alternative for your pets.
Especially, Kito's products labeled as "Pet Food" match the quality of human food, containing all-natural ingredients without additives or preservatives. These products offer incredible options that allow your pets to maintain a healthy diet.
Daily Nutritional Requirements for Your Furry Friend:
The daily nutritional needs of your pet depend on several important factors, including their age, breed, weight, metabolism rate, and daily activity level.
On kito.pet, you can find a nutritional plan tailored to your cat's or dog's specifics, allowing you to create suitable weekly and monthly plans.
Shopping with Kito points can earn you discounts on future purchases.
What Sets Kito Apart:
What distinguishes Kito from other pet food brands is the special recipes prepared by the Istanbul University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, offered to your furry companions. The flexible use of Kito Fresh meals, whether alone or in conjunction with dry food, ideally meets your pet's balanced nutritional needs. This ensures that your pets lead a healthy and happy life, reinforcing the love and responsibility you have for them.
A Guide to Feeding Dogs Based on Their Weight
Proper nutrition for our furry friends is one of the most important concerns for dog owners. Creating an ideal nutrition plan based on your dog's weight is a critical step to maintain its health and improve its quality of life. Here are some basic guidelines on how dogs should be fed according to different weight categories:
Small Breed Dogs (1-10 kg):
Nutritional Needs: Small breed dogs have a fast metabolism, so high-energy density foods should be preferred.
Portion Control: Small breed dogs may be prone to obesity, so be careful not to exceed daily portions.
Feeding Frequency: 2-3 meals per day are ideal. You can provide your dog's nutritional needs with Kito Natural Feed Lamb Flavored Mini Breed Dog Food and Kito Fresh Dog Foods.
Medium Breed Dogs (10-25 kg):
Nutritional Needs: Medium breed dogs can stay healthy with a balanced and high-fiber diet.
Exercise Requirement: These dogs should engage in regular exercise to maintain weight control.
Portion Control: Monitor daily portions and snacks. You can provide your furry friend's nutritional needs with Kito Natural Feed Dog Food, Kito Fresh Fresh Dog Foods, and Chew Products.
Large Breed Dogs (25+ kg):
Nutritional Needs: Large breed dogs, especially those needing to maintain the health of their bones and joints, should prefer foods containing omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA and EPA.
Portion Control: Excess weight can lead to joint and bone problems, so be mindful of portions.
Feeding Frequency: 2 meals per day are usually sufficient. Kito Natural Feed Dog Food, Kito Fresh Fresh Dog Foods, and Kito Vitamin can help provide the nutritional needs, including Omega 3&6.
General Tips:
Water Access: Fresh and clean water should always be accessible to all dogs.
Veterinary Check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are important to maintain your dog's ideal weight.
Special Diets: Adapt to special diets recommended by your veterinarian for specific health conditions or allergies.
Proper nutrition is crucial for your dog's health. To learn how much food your dog needs based on its weight, visit the "How Much Food Does Your Dog Need?" section on the Kito Fresh Food product pages.
Safe and Effective Exercise Methods for Your Dog
Exercise is a crucial part of keeping your dog healthy and happy. However, it's important to remember that not all types of exercise are suitable for your dog. In this article, we will share safe and effective exercise methods for your dog.
Why Exercise is Necessary?
Exercise helps control your dog's body weight and improves muscle balance and conditioning. Furthermore, regular physical activity can prevent behavioral problems by helping energetic dogs expend their energy.
Exercises Based on Your Dog's Age and Breed
Dogs of different ages and breeds have varying exercise needs. Puppies may be energetic, but they should avoid heavy exercises until their bones and joints are fully developed. Elderly dogs are generally less active and may require lighter exercises. Your dog's breed also affects its exercise needs. Energetic breeds like retrievers and collies often need more exercise.
Here are some exercises suitable for dogs of different ages and types:
Walking: Suitable for all dogs, this activity allows your dog to explore its surroundings as a bonus.
Running: Ideal for energetic and large breeds. However, ensure your dog is healthy and suitable for running.
Fetch Game: Keeps your dog active and helps it expend energy.
Agility Training: Enhances your dog's intelligence and coordination.
List of Safe and Effective Exercise Methods
Regular Walks: Every dog benefits from daily regular walks. Walks provide your dog with socialization, exploration, and exercise opportunities.
Games: Games are a fun form of exercise. Fetch, hide-and-seek, and frisbee are excellent games that can engage your dog both mentally and physically.
Swimming: A great exercise, especially for dogs with sensitive joints. Always ensure supervision and avoid swimming in cold weather conditions.
Agility Training: This exercise form enhances your dog's mental and physical abilities and serves as an excellent energy outlet.
Dog Yoga: Known as "Doga," this activity calms your dog and strengthens its muscles.
In conclusion, instilling a habit of regular exercise for your dog is vital for its overall health and happiness. When determining which exercise is most suitable, consider your dog's age, health condition, and breed. Remember, exercise not only helps your dog stay healthy but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog. By making each exercise session a safe and enjoyable experience, you can help your dog live a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Stay-at-Home Syndrome in Dogs
Separation anxiety is the stress and anxiety dogs experience when left alone. This condition is common, especially for dogs with working owners. Separation anxiety can lead to changes in a dog's behavior and sometimes unwanted actions. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of separation anxiety in dogs and measures you can take to prevent it.
Causes of Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety in dogs is often caused by the following reasons:
1. Separation Anxiety
Dogs are social animals and form a constant bond with their owners. They may experience separation anxiety when not with their owners.
Feelings of loneliness and the absence of owners can increase a dog's stress levels, leading to separation anxiety.
2. Changes in Routine
Dogs are accustomed to routines, providing them with a sense of security. Changes in routines or the owner's regular absence can cause stress in dogs.
3. Lack of Stimulation and Exercise
Dogs need both physical and mental stimulation. If they don't get enough exercise or appropriate mental stimulation, they may exhibit unwanted behaviors at home.
Preventive Measures for Separation Anxiety
To prevent or alleviate separation anxiety in dogs, consider the following measures:
1. Long Walks and Exercise
Providing your dog with sufficient physical activity helps them release energy and reduce stress.
Take long walks daily or engage in playtime with your dog to keep them active.
2. Mental Stimulation
Use toys and puzzles that mentally stimulate your dog. This keeps them occupied and engaged mentally.
3. Secure Toys and Fragile Items
Dogs experiencing separation anxiety may exhibit destructive behaviors out of boredom. Store valuable or fragile items out of your dog's reach.
Provide a variety of toys to capture your dog's interest as alternatives.
4. Desensitization Training
Desensitize your dog to being alone by starting with short durations and gradually increasing the time. Reward your dog when you leave to create a positive association with your absence.
5. Use of Supporting Products and Professional Help
Products like pheromone sprays, calming wraps, and soothing music can help your dog relax. If separation anxiety is severe, consider seeking assistance from a veterinarian or professional dog trainer.
Separation anxiety is a significant issue for dogs, but by taking appropriate measures and keeping your dog active, engaged, and stimulated, you can manage this problem. Remember that each dog's needs may vary, so be patient and observe your dog's behaviors to find a suitable solution.
Diarrhea in Dogs and Its Treatment
Diarrhea in dogs can be a sign of a digestive system issue, causing discomfort for your dog. Diarrhea manifests as liquid or loose bowel movements and can stem from various reasons. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods for diarrhea in dogs.
Causes of Diarrhea
There can be several different reasons for diarrhea in dogs:
Dietary Changes: Making sudden changes to your dog's eating habits or introducing new food can disrupt the digestive system.
Incorrect Nutrition: Feeding your dog human food or items unsuitable for their digestive system can lead to diarrhea.
Parasites: Intestinal parasites can affect your dog's digestive system and cause diarrhea.
Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can lead to diarrhea by affecting the dog's intestines.
Stress and Anxiety: Stress, anxiety, or excitement in dogs can disrupt normal digestive function and result in diarrhea.
Toxic Substances: Accidental ingestion of toxic plants or exposure to poisonous substances can cause diarrhea.
Symptoms of Diarrhea
Some common symptoms of diarrhea in dogs include:
Liquid or loose bowel movements
Frequent defecation
Involuntary bowel leakage
Bloody or foul-smelling stool
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Loss of appetite
Weakness or loss of energy
If you notice these symptoms in your dog, it's important to consult a veterinarian. The vet will examine your dog, conduct necessary tests, and propose a suitable treatment plan to ease your dog's discomfort.
Treatment for Diarrhea
The treatment for diarrhea in dogs can vary depending on the underlying cause. Here are some methods that can be applied:
Veterinarian Recommendation
First and foremost, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian to determine the cause of your dog's diarrhea. The veterinarian will examine your dog, perform necessary tests, and recommend a suitable treatment plan to help your dog feel better.
Dietary Changes
Based on your veterinarian's advice, you may need to make temporary changes to your dog's diet. For example, you can offer light foods or prescription diets to facilitate digestion. It's also essential to increase water consumption, ensuring your dog always has access to fresh water.
Medication
Your veterinarian may recommend medication based on your dog's condition. These medications could be used to soothe the intestines, control infections, or treat parasites. However, it's crucial never to administer medication without professional guidance.
Rest and Stress Management
Ensuring your dog gets plenty of rest and minimizing stress can contribute to the recovery process. Provide a calm environment, offer a comfortable sleeping area, and apply relaxation techniques as needed. If stress is identified as a cause of diarrhea, engaging in play or relaxation exercises can help soothe your dog.
Regular Check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups during the diarrhea treatment process are essential. Your veterinarian will monitor your dog's progress, adjust the treatment plan as necessary, and provide you with the required instructions.
While diarrhea in dogs is generally considered a mild issue, in some cases, it can be a sign of a serious health problem. Therefore, if you notice symptoms of diarrhea in your dog, seeking prompt assistance from a veterinarian is crucial.
Note: The information in this article is for general informational purposes and should not be applied without consulting your veterinarian.
Hearing Loss and Rehabilitation of Dogs
Dogs use their sense of hearing to explore the world, communicate, and perceive their surroundings. However, some dogs may experience hearing loss either from birth or as part of the aging process. This condition can affect the dog's quality of life and be a source of concern for owners. In this article, we will discuss how to cope with hearing loss in dogs and rehabilitation methods.
Causes of Hearing Loss
There can be several different reasons for hearing loss in dogs:
Genetic Factors: Hearing loss in some dog breeds may result from genetic factors. For example, breeds like Dalmatians often experience hearing loss.
Aging: Hearing loss can occur in dogs as part of the aging process, more commonly observed in elderly dogs.
Ear Infections: Recurrent ear infections can lead to hearing loss in dogs. Inflammation within the ear can affect the auditory organ.
Ear Injuries: Head traumas or injuries to the ears can result in hearing loss in dogs.
Symptoms of Hearing Loss
Some symptoms of hearing loss in dogs may include:
Not hearing or delayed response to sounds
Not responding to the owner's calls
Being quiet or unresponsive to other dogs barking
Confusion and a bewildered state
Reacting to loud or sudden noises
Communication deficits or difficulties
If you observe these signs in your dog, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian. The veterinarian will conduct necessary tests to determine the cause of hearing loss and devise an appropriate rehabilitation program.
Hearing Loss Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation process for dogs with hearing loss involves some measures and training techniques:
1. Veterinary Check-up
As the initial step, taking your dog to a veterinarian to determine the cause and extent of hearing loss is important. The veterinarian will assess your dog's hearing condition by conducting necessary tests.
2. Communication Methods
If your dog has hearing loss, you can use alternative communication methods. For example, you can give commands to your dog using sign language or visual cues. Additionally, using your body language and gestures can be effective in communicating with your dog.
3. Training and Games
Training and games are crucial to compensate for your dog's hearing loss and provide mental stimulation. For instance, you can teach basic commands using visual cues. Also, using mentally engaging toys and puzzles can stimulate your dog.
4. Environmental Adaptation
Adapting the home environment for a dog with hearing loss is important. For instance, placing a vibrating bed near the couch or bed can help your dog sense your presence and understand when you approach.
5. Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Regular veterinary check-ups for dogs with hearing loss are essential. The veterinarian will monitor your dog's hearing condition and guide you on necessary precautions.
The rehabilitation process for dogs with hearing loss requires time and patience. Remember that each dog is individual, and the process of coping with hearing loss may vary. With proper precautions, training, and love, you can enhance your dog's quality of life and help them lead a happy life.
What to Do in the Case of Poisoning for Dogs
The health of our pets is always a top priority for us animal lovers. Dogs, with their energetic nature and curious spirits, can be exposed to various toxic substances at home or outdoors. In this blog post, we will discuss what to do in case of poisoning in dogs, the symptoms to watch for, and prevention methods.
What Are the Symptoms of Poisoning?
To recognize if your dog has been poisoned, pay attention to the following symptoms:
Vomiting or diarrhea
Tremors or muscle twitching
Lethargy or hyperactivity
Changes in eating and drinking habits
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
Drooling or foaming at the mouth
If any of these symptoms are observed, immediate consultation with a veterinarian is essential.
What to Do When Your Dog Is Poisoned
The health condition of a dog showing signs of poisoning can deteriorate rapidly. Therefore, it is crucial to act quickly and accurately.
Stay Calm: Do not panic, as it can worsen the situation. Apply first aid calmly and contact your veterinarian.
Identify the Poison Source: If possible, identify the substance that poisoned your dog. This is crucial for the veterinarian to administer the correct treatment.
Contact Your Veterinarian: Immediately consult a veterinarian without delay. Symptoms of poisoning can lead to serious health problems.
Preventing Poisoning in Dogs
Preventing dogs from getting poisoned is in the hands of owners. By taking the following precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of poisoning for your pets:
Keep Away from Toxic Substances: Place toxic substances found at home or in the garden (e.g., cleaning materials, insecticides, plants) out of reach of your dog.
Monitor Your Dog: When outdoors or in an unfamiliar place, keep a close eye on your dog. Do not allow them to play with or ingest unknown substances.
Training: Teach your dog the "no" command. This can stop them when approaching hazardous substances.
Remember, your dog's health is in your hands. By following the tips mentioned above, you can minimize the risk of poisoning for your pet. However, always keep in mind that in any case of poisoning, immediate consultation with a veterinarian is vital. The health of our dogs is important, and raising awareness in this regard is the most crucial step we can take to protect them.
What Can You Do to Keep Your Dogs Cool?
Summer is the time for many of us to enjoy the sun and take vacations. However, for dogs, this season can bring some dangers along with the increase in temperature and high humidity. Due to their fur and generally weaker cooling mechanisms compared to humans, dogs are at risk of overheating and even heatstroke. Therefore, helping them stay cool should be every dog owner's responsibility.
So, what can you do to keep your dog cool? Below, you can find some ways to keep your dog comfortable during the summer heat.
1. Provide Adequate Water
1.1 Constant Fresh and Cold Water:
Dogs, like humans, consume more water in hot weather. Providing them with constant fresh and cold water helps regulate their body temperature. In addition to filling a water bowl, you can keep the water cool by using frozen water bottles or ice cubes.
1.2 Water During Travel:
When outdoors, don't forget to bring a portable water bowl for your dog. Even during long walks or park visits, remember that your dog needs fresh water to cool down.
2. Keep Your Dog Indoors During Hot Hours
2.1 Cool Indoor Areas:
During the hours when the sun is strongest, bring your dog inside. Help them find cooler areas inside the house, which are generally cooler than outside.
2.2 Air Conditioning or Fan:
If you use air conditioning or a fan in your home, make sure your dog has access to these areas. However, remember that they should not be exposed directly to the airflow, as this can make them uncomfortable.
3. Use Cooling Products
3.1 Cooling Beds and Vests:
There are various products on the market designed to keep dogs cool, especially during the summer months. These include cooling beds and vests, cooling bandanas, and even water toys designed specifically for dogs.
3.2 Dog-Safe Ice Cream:
Dog-specific ice creams are a tasty way to cool them down. However, always ensure you choose brands you trust to ensure these products do not harm your dog.
4. Schedule Exercise Times
4.1 Morning and Evening Walks:
Avoid walking your dog during the peak hours of the sun. Preferably, choose early morning or evening for exercise when the sun has set.
4.2 Adjust Exercise Intensity:
In extremely hot weather, especially for high-energy dogs, reduce the intensity of exercise. The warm air can make even a simple walk that is normally considered light exercise more challenging.
Following the above tips is a great way to keep your dog cool and comfortable during the hot summer months. However, always be cautious and learn the signs of heatstroke in your dog, such as excessive drooling, rapid breathing, or vomiting. If you notice any signs, consult your veterinarian immediately. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment. Wishing you a safe and healthy enjoyment of summer!
How Should a Puppy Be Fed?
A healthy diet is very important for your furry friend, just like it is for any other living creature. Especially if you have adopted a puppy, you need to be extra careful when creating a feeding program for this new companion who is in the process of growth and development.
Puppies who grow up with a sufficient, balanced, and quality diet have healthier bone, muscle, and teeth development, as well as stronger digestion and immune systems. This also translates to a longer and happier life for your friend.
How Should a Puppy Be Fed?
Puppies' digestion and immune systems are still in the growth stage. Therefore, they have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. The age of adulthood in dogs varies depending on your little friend's breed and size. Dog breeds are divided into 5 categories; toy dog breed, small breed, medium breed, large breed, and giant breed.
Toy dog breed (up to 4 kg): 8 months
Small breed (between 5 kg and 10 kg): 10 months
Medium breed (between 11 kg and 25 kg): 12 months
Large breed (between 26 kg and 44 kg): 15 months
Giant breed (45 kg and above): 18-24 months
Your dog must be fed with meals that support the digestive system until they reach adulthood. Puppies receive all their nutritional needs from their mother's milk during the first stage of their lives. Besides providing the required amount of vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats for the puppy, the mother's milk also provides protection against external factors. This way, a natural immune system begins to form and thanks to the nutrients in the mother's milk, beneficial bacteria begin to form in the puppy's intestines, so the digestive system begins to strengthen.
For this reason, a puppy must be fed with its mother's milk during the first month. In case of an indispensable separation from the mother due to death or illness, you need to be very careful and attentive to ensure that the puppy receives the required nutrients. In such a situation, you should immediately consult a veterinarian and feed the puppy as recommended by the expert.
Puppies are weaned from their mother's milk at around 4-6 weeks of age. This period is the development period of puppies and they need to be fed in the best way possible.
Puppies need more nutrition than adult dogs. Therefore, they need to be fed with specially formulated foods that are rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, and minerals, have a high nutritional value, and are easily digestible.
When transitioning your weaned little friend to dry food, you should moisten the food or mix it with wet food to strengthen their chewing reflex. This practice also increases the smell and taste of the food, which encourages them to eat dry food.
When choosing dry food for your dog, you should pay attention not only to the nutritional value but also to the size of the kibble. Too large kibbles can make it difficult for your puppy to eat and chew, which can negatively affect their nutrition.
How Often and How Much Should Puppies be Fed?
It is very important for your furry friend to be adequately fed to ensure healthy and strong growth. For this reason, a feeding plan should be created by paying close attention to meal frequency.
Puppy stomachs are not improved enough to meet their daily needs in one meal. Therefore, they should be fed three times a day until they reach 6 months old. After 6 months, meals should be reduced to twice a day, and by the 12th month, they should be reduced to one meal.
However, each dog's nutritional needs may vary, so you can consult your veterinarian for help to plan the ideal meal frequency and portion size according to their recommendations.
What to Consider When Feeding a Puppy
Water and food are vital for your little friend. When feeding your dog, paying attention to the following steps will help them become healthier and happier:
Your dog should have a food and a water bowl that exclusively belong to them. When selecting, try to choose the ones that will not tip over easily and have the appropriate size.
Keep the food and water bowls in a clean and safe place where your dog can easily reach.
If your home is large or multi-floor, increasing the number of bowls may make it easier for your dog to reach them.
Clean the bowls after each meal and keep them clean until the next one. Just as you wouldn't enjoy eating from a dirty plate, your dog won't be happy with this either.
Always provide clean and fresh drinking water. Don't forget to make sure the water is not too cold or too hot.
Don't change the location of the food and water bowls. Dogs are creatures of habit. Your adorable friend may become stressed if they cannot find their bowls in their usual place.
Consult your veterinarian about the required nutrients for your puppy and choose their food accordingly.
When choosing food for your little one, choose quality, reliable, and well-known brands.
Store the food in an airtight container according to the storage conditions. Make attention to feeding your friend with fresh food.
Start giving treats after 3 months and make sure that the food you give is suitable for puppies.
Do not make sudden changes to your dog's feeding program; make changes gradually.
If you need to change the food, spread the process over time. Complete the process by mixing the old and new food together and gradually increasing the ratio of the new food each day over an average period of 7 days. This method not only makes it easier for your furry friend to get used to the new food but also is more beneficial for the digestive system.
Sudden changes in food can cause diarrhea in dogs. Therefore, consult your veterinarian when changing food.
One of the most common mistakes in dog feeding is giving them fish bones and chicken bones. These bones have no nutritional value and can pose a risk to your dog's health by causing digestive problems and blockages. Never feed your dog with these bones.
Foods that are very beneficial to humans can be harmful to dogs. For this reason, avoid feeding your little friend with home-cooked meals.
Take care of your puppy's quality and balanced nutrition. Do not hesitate to use vitamin and mineral supplements if recommended by your veterinarian.
The way you feed your little friend is the foundation of a healthy life. With a high-quality diet tailored to their age, weight, breed, allergies, and other sensitivities, your furry friend can continue to be a happy member of your family for many years.
How to train a puppy?
Dogs are the most loyal and the closest pets to humans. However, raising our pawsome friends is a task that requires patience and knowledge. You need to give them basic training to adapt to you and your home.
How Should Puppy Training Be?
Although puppy training differs according to the dog's breed, there are certain basic training that needs to be given to every breed. These can be listed as follows:
Socialization
Many puppies like to be loved by humans. On the other hand, there are also those who are shy in this regard. The dogs that do not like being petted as puppy carries the risk of being more aggressive as they get older. If there is such a problem, it is important to solve it during babyhood.
Taking your pawsome friend to environments where people are often present or allowing people to pet them while walking on the street will help them overcome this shyness. You can also use give them treats to get them used to being touched.
It is important to socialize them with humans from an early age, especially for dogs with biting habits. In this way, all dogs, including powerful breeds, can have a very loving character towards humans and other living beings.
Another important point in socialization training is that puppies love to jump. Jumping, which is usually an appearance of their desire to play or be loved, may seem insignificant or even cute to you as their sizes are small in babyhood. However, you should not forget that your puppy will grow and gain weight. You can prevent this behavior by saying "No" or by giving treats in social situations where they jump.
Basic Obedience Training
Basic obedience is your puppy's acceptance of your authority by obeying the basic commands you give them. This actually means command training, which includes basic commands such as "Sit, Stand, Stop, Wait". Basic obedience training can prevent aggressive behaviors that may be encountered from time to time. Basic obedience training is very important to raise a dog that follows the rules of the house and is coherent with you and other people.
Basic obedience training can be easily given in a process of 5-6 weeks. As well as the puppy's breed and character traits are important at this point, the knowledge of the person that gives the training is also important. You can work with a professional trainer to complete the process quickly and healthily.
Feeding Times
There are various practices regarding the meal schedule of our pawsome friends. Keeping food in the food bowl constantly is one of them. In this routine, your dog can eat the amount of food it wants whenever it is hungry.
On the other hand, if you plan to have a routine where you will put food in the bowl for a certain period of the day or feed meals during the day, your dog will also need training on mealtime. You can create a meal discipline by giving the same amount of food at the same time every day and not allowing it to go beyond limits.
When determining your dog's feeding schedule, it is beneficial to consult with a veterinarian. Additionally, regular veterinary check-ups are extremely important for monitoring their development.
Sleep Area
Since your puppy will be a member of the household, you need to create a living space for it in the house. Having its own play, sleep, and feeding area is important for establishing a sense of security in dogs.
In addition to establishing a sense of security, it is also important for it to learn and adopt these areas in order to follow the rules in the house. Otherwise, it may develop a habit of sleeping in unwanted areas inside the house.
When Should Puppy Training Begin?
Like babies, puppies go through a certain development process. In order for the training you give to be effective, this development process should be taken into consideration. Otherwise, you may not get any results from the training you give.
The 3-6 month period is suitable for teaching puppies the simple rules they need to follow while potty training and socializing in the house. For basic obedience training, the puppy must be at least 6 months old. After receiving the training, advanced obedience training can be given starting from the 9th month. For more advanced training such as guarding, it is advisable to wait at least 18 months.
Things to Consider in Puppy Training
You need to know the breed and character traits of your furry friend who will be a member of the house, in order for the training you give to be effective. Additionally, by paying attention to some important tips during training, you can quickly complete this process and get positive results. We can list these tips below:
Place importance on making eye contact with your puppy. By making eye contact, the commands you give will eventually become an admonisher for your tone of voice. It is important for your dog to learn your tone of voice in order to respond quickly to the commands you give.
The commands you give to your dog should be clear. Giving commands such as "No" or "Stop" while trying to make eye contact is more beneficial than general commands such as "Don't do that."
Patience and determination are very important in training. You should be prepared for the possibility that the process may take a long time.
You should not overwhelm your puppy during training, and focus on making it happy and cheerful. When your dog gets tired, you can take a break from training and play games with it. You can continue when your dog is delighted. Playing games with your adorable friend after training will make it love the training time and complete it enthusiastically.
It is important that your dog accepts you as the leader in your relationship. When it gains your respect, it will also recognize your authority.
Consistency is another important aspect of training. You should clearly set the rules. The words you use and your reactions to their behavior should also be consistent.
By paying attention to all of these issues and giving timely training, your puppy will easily adapt to your home and family, and become an indispensable part of your life like a member of the house.
Which Food Should I Choose for My Dog?
After your cute friend reaches one year of age, their food needs to be changed accordingly. A nutritious food that provides all the required vitamins and minerals to your dog affects many factors, from coat health to digestion. Choosing the most suitable food for your loyal friend during the transition process from puppyhood to adulthood is extremely important for them to complete their development in a healthy way. Feeding them with appropriate and high-quality food is one of the responsibilities you need to fulfil in dog care. When choosing food for your best bud, you should ensure that the product is produced to certain standards and whether your dog will like the food or not. The content of the food and the age and breed of your dog are also criteria that you should consider when making your choice. Wrong food choices often cause various health problems. If you also wonder, "What should I pay attention to when choosing the most appropriate food for my dog?" you can check the details.
How to Choose Dog Food?
Breed and Type of Dog
You should consider your furry friend's breed and characteristics when choosing food. The physiological features of dogs vary according to their breeds, and the types of food suitable for them also differ. For example, the jaw and mouth structure of large breed dogs is stronger. For this reason, you can choose large kibble dry foods. Small breed dogs should be fed with dry food with a smaller kibble, which may be more suitable for them.
Coat Structure
In terms of nutrition, the coat and skin structure of your dog should also be considered. Selecting dog foods that contain protein based on chicken or fish can cause skin irritation and deterioration of coat health in dogs who are allergic to them or have sensitive skin. In some cases, foods such as duck and turkey can also cause hair loss. You can consult your veterinarian to make the right food choice for your best bud and ensure that they are fed healthily and balanced. If your dog is still experiencing hair loss despite the changes you have made in its diet, you can consult your veterinarian.
Weight Control
When feeding your dog, you must read the measurements indicated on the food package. You can adjust the amount of food to your dog in varying amounts according to their age, weight, and breed. You can also adjust the amount of food correctly by acquiring a suitable measuring cup. You can give dry and wet food varieties at certain meal times. Feeding your dog more food than their daily needs can cause them to gain weight. If your little friend is overweight, light dog foods specially produced for your dog can also be a good option. Diarrhea in dogs can occur due to reasons such as sudden changes in diets and extra foods other than dry food. Food intolerance and allergies can also cause diarrhea from time to time.
Taste Preferences
When choosing dog food, you should consider your dog's taste preferences. Dogs can sometimes be selective about the ingredients in their food. For this reason, you can offer the foods separately to your best bud and determine which one they like best after you've identified the healthy options. Apart from supplementary feeding, dry food varieties are the main source of nutrition for dogs. You can change the food periodically for your friend, who can eat many different types of food.
What Should a Healthy Dog Food Contain?
Puppy and adult dog food vary in nutritional value. The nutritional value of dry and canned dog food is higher when prepared for puppies. The main reason for this is that puppies are more active. On the other hand, adult dogs are fed with lower nutritional value foods because they cannot easily burn the energy they receive. Therefore, it is important not to feed adult dogs with puppy food. You can also find different types of food suitable for elderly dogs and small breeds. Before buying food, you should examine its content in particular and make a choice by paying attention to the following points. If you are unsure about choosing food, here are some tips for selecting healthy food...
When choosing dog food, make sure that the meat content is at least 30%.
It should contain minerals such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, and copper.
The food should not contain GMOs, sweeteners, or colorants.
Don't forget to check the expiration dates before buying dog food. You can make the appropriate choice by considering the amount of food your dog will consume before the expiration date.
The percentage of raw protein should be high.
You should make appropriate choices for your dog's age, breed, type, and activity level.
If your dog has a special condition such as illness, allergic reactions, or pregnancy, you can choose food by consulting a veterinarian.
Soy-based foods can cause many different problems for dogs from digestive system problems to mineral absorption. You should prefer products without soy in food preferences.
Some foods contain various additives. To avoid such situations, you should read the contents of the food carefully and if possible, consult a veterinarian.
Foods containing high amounts of corn and rice cause many problems for dogs from obesity to diabetes due to their high glycemic index. It is better to choose foods with low grains or no grains for proper nutrition.
You can ensure that your furry friend leads a healthy life by making a choice of food that is prepared with quality ingredients for good nutrition. By examining the dry and wet food varieties prepared by Kito, you can feed your dog with first-class protein-containing foods.
The Relationship Between Dogs and Kids
Children naturally love and are interested in all kinds of animals. A child who learns to take care of a furry friend, and treat them kindly and patiently can develop their social skills. In addition to making great memories, having a pet dog at home or growing up around these furry companions, can actually have quite positive effects on a child's emotional development and even physical health.
A puppy who is a member of your family can teach your child many important life lessons. Many parents believe that their children should grow up with a puppy or kitten for this. These cute companions teach children more than you think about real-world experiences, human love, and relationships.
Growing up together as part of the family can have many benefits for children. Most importantly, it can help children learn how to develop friendships based on mutual thought and respect. Communication between children and these companions may require an adjustment period, or it may develop immediately. This depends on the breed of furry friend you adopt. However, once this process is complete, a special bond is formed between your children and their pawsome friend. They support each other in many ways, both as playmates and life companions.
Of course, these cute companions can also help children learn better responsibility and trust. Here are 8 reasons why you should raise your children with a pawsome friend!
1- Strengthens Friendship Bonds
A furry friend can be a steady companion for children as they grow up and throughout their lives. Dogs are especially known for their good friendships and your children can see them as reliable playmates. Likewise, your children will never be alone with a furry friend and can have joyous times with them. This also teaches children about loyalty.
2- Encourages an Active Lifestyle
These pawsome friends make great companions for an active lifestyle and spending time outside. According to a recent study by the American Journal of Public Health, children with furry friends are much more active than those without pets. Having these cute friends also means frequent walks and playing outside.
3- Helps Build a Sense of Responsibility
Many children do not like doing chores, but involving them in pet care can encourage them to take more responsibility at home. Children are more likely to do some tasks for their furry playmates. Especially when it comes to fun tasks such as taking their dogs for a walk or playing together, all children are willing to help. This is an important step in developing children's sense of responsibility.
4- Hugging Can Reduce Stress
Studies have shown that taking care of and patting a furry friend lowers stress hormone levels, balances blood pressure, and increases levels of hormones that promote happiness. The stress-reducing effect, which is proven by physiological changes, has been studied in both children and adults. Spending time with these cute friends, playing, and hugging them is one of the best ways to relieve stress.
5- Develops Social Skills
According to an article by the Pet Health Council, children with pets generally develop social skills along with self-esteem. Self-esteem is an important part of a child's development. If your child needs some help developing and maintaining social bonds, a cute friend can be a head start in this direction. Children who often have difficulty communicating with anyone else can communicate more easily with a pawsome friend and can develop social skills and become more extroverted.
6- Contributes to the Development of Empathy
Children tend to focus on themselves. The ability to think that other people have their own thoughts, feelings, and desires typically develops between the ages of 4 and 5. Empathy and emotional intelligence, including pet care, can be developed and encouraged in many ways in a child. Taking care of a pet, especially taking the responsibility of a puppy and realizing that it also has needs, helps children develop both empathy and compassion.
7- Can Improve Reading Skills
Listening to audiobooks is extremely beneficial for children's education. However, this activity, which is done under adult supervision, can make children feel pressure due to the fear of constantly being corrected or making mistakes. On the other hand, furry friends are great reading companions. Because they always listen to children, do not judge them, and do not correct their mistakes.
8- Can Reduce the Possibility of Allergies
Children who grow up with furry companions in their homes have stronger immunity against many types of allergies, ranging from dust to pollen. Studies have shown that children who grow up with two or more dogs or cats are less than half as likely to develop common allergies compared to children who do not have pets at home. The most important factor here is to live with pets at an early age in order to gain immunity.
Moreover, the love for dogs learned at a young age is the key to acquiring many physical and emotional skills. Furry companions essentially provide information about all the positive and negative things that happen between birth and death. All the emotions required to be a good person, such as patience, responsibility, compassion, empathy, self-control, mindfulness, sharing, and trust, can be learned from these adorable creatures. You too can adopt a cute pet to support your child's development.
How Do I Clean My Dog's Teeth?
Just like humans, dental health is very important for pets. Dental care improves the quality of life while ensuring dental health, making it easier for your furry friend to eat. Maintaining oral hygiene for dogs with different jaw structures may seem complicated and challenging. Nevertheless, a care routine can easily be established with oral care products specially produced for pets. By using toothpaste and brushes designed for your beloved pet, you can brush your dog's teeth. Brushing alone is not enough to treat dental diseases. You should also take your furry friend to a veterinarian at regular periods and have their dental health checked.
Dental Care for Puppies
Puppies have a more delicate bodies than adults. However, when it comes to oral care, puppies can easily adapt to a routine. By getting your little friend accustomed to oral hygiene and tooth brushing from the early months, you can help to keep their teeth healthy.
At first, your little friend may give unexpected reactions because they are not used to having their teeth brushed. You can get them used to oral care by gradually introducing them to it and offering treats that they enjoy. Additionally, it is necessary to take your little furry friend to a veterinarian at regular periods. This way, you can learn if there is any problem with their teeth and have routine check-ups done.
Dental Care for Adult Dogs
Many pet owners wonder how to take care of the dental health of their adult dogs. Our adult furry friends may initially react negatively to procedures such as mouth care and tooth brushing. Therefore, you should not rush the process and gradually get your pet accustomed to an oral care routine with small but steady steps.
You can start by choosing the right products for your dog. Most kinds of toothpaste manufactured for furry friends have appealing flavors such as meat juice. This way, brushing your dog's teeth can become a fun and tasty activity.
You can also use double-headed toothbrushes manufactured for dogs. Special toothbrush products designed for furry friends provide deep cleaning while fitting their jaws, without annoying your dog. After completing the brushing process, you can give your adorable friend Bon A-pet-treat! to help them get used to this process.
You should also pay attention to the food choices for the dental care of adult dogs. Choosing high-quality and appropriate food directly affects the dental health of your furry friend. Wet food may be tempting for dogs, but its moist texture creates a suitable environment for bacterial growth. At the same time, its dense consistency can stick to their teeth and get stuck between them. Dry food is suitable for dog teeth with its hard structure and relatively helps prevent the formation of multiple dental diseases.
Toothpaste Selection for Your Dog's Dental Care
The most important point to consider for the dental care of our furry friends is the selection of an appropriate toothpaste. Dogs have different biology than humans and cannot use products designed for humans. For example, fluoride found in toothpaste suitable for humans can be toxic to dogs. Similarly, toothpaste designed for humans foams, which is not suitable for dogs. Puppies may swallow toothpaste foam because they don't have the ability to spit.
You should make sure that dog oral care products have natural ingredients. Chemical-based products are not suitable for your pawsome friend's mouth structure and can lead to serious illnesses. Toothpaste should also not stick to your dog's teeth.
Nowadays, toothpaste is produced for dogs to have healthy mouth and teeth. You can obtain these kinds of toothpaste from pet stores or your veterinarian.
How often should you visit a veterinarian for your dog's dental care?
Making short visits to the veterinarian for your dog's dental care at regular periods can help prevent many illnesses from progressing by providing an early diagnosis. However, dog owners may wonder how often they should visit the veterinarian. This time period may vary depending on the characteristics of your dog. Therefore, you can create a veterinarian routine for your furry friend based on their age and breed.
The dental structure of some dog breeds is more susceptible to diseases. Often, it is appropriate to visit a veterinarian every six months or once a year. You can learn which periods are suitable for your furry friend by getting information at your first veterinarian appointment. At the same time, you can visit a veterinarian by following the symptoms in your dog.
Dental disorders in dogs can manifest themselves with various symptoms. You should visit a veterinarian immediately when you detect these symptoms in your furry friend.
Common dental disorder symptoms in dogs are:
Bad breath
Changes in eating habits
Loose or missing teeth
Discolored, swollen, or bleeding gums
Depression and lethargy
Excessive drooling
Chewing on paws
Dental disorders in dogs can lead to different problems over time. For example, the jaw structure is directly affected by dental disorders, and eating habits are often disrupted. Additionally, jawbones can weaken, and your dog may not be able to eat as before. Disorders such as dental tartar can also occur when dental care is not performed correctly and can progress quickly. To prevent serious illnesses, you should take your furry friend to the veterinarian at regular periods and not neglect oral care.
Introducing Dogs to Other Pets
Bringing a new member into the household can be very exciting for most pet owners. There are few things that can compare to the special bond that develops between a dog and its owner. However, your current furry friend may not share the same excitement as you do. The problem is that this event can be stressful for both your new furry friend and the current pets already living in your home. Therefore, you need to know how to introduce your new member to the other members of your household. If you don't pay attention to the early introductions, a beautiful moment can turn into a stressful nightmare and create conflicts between your adorable companions, and the introduction process can be prolonged for a long time.
The same rules apply to your furry friend to meet your current pets, such as cats, rabbits, birds, and reptiles, living in your house. It may not always be easy to introduce your new or old friends that Going Mutts to each other! Therefore, by paying attention to some key points, you can make this process easier for both yourself and your pets. Here are some tips for introducing dogs to other pets and creating a friendly environment between them!
Make Your Home Safe
Your home can be a safe area for your dog, but that doesn't mean it's safe for your new friend, even if they are the same breed. You should provide a "safe room" for each member to use when they feel unsafe. Having everything your dog and current pets need, including litter boxes and food bowls, in each room is a good start for creating an ideal environment. Also, make sure there are no dangerous items in your little friend's room, such as poisonous houseplants.
Prepare Separate Areas
First, you need to start communicating with all your furry friends completely separately. Put both of them in their own rooms and continue to watch them there for a while. You can allow them to explore the main living area at different times, but you should not allow them to see each other at this stage. Firstly, your goal should be to make the new member comfortable and introduce each one to the scent of the new one. You may need to continue keeping them apart for at least 3-4 days.
Be Patient
Regardless of the type of pet, each animal has its own personality, and its attitude towards different species can vary widely. Regardless of whether it is pawed or furry, harmony and acceptance between different species are entirely dependent on this. Your dog may instinctively behave aggressively towards your new friend, but this is something that can change over time. Therefore, you need to be patient and remember that this process can last for days or even weeks.
Allow Them to Eat Together
One of the happiest moments for each of them is when they eat. Therefore, you can use this positive time to your advantage and use it to introduce your dog to the new environment and your other friends. After your new pet has settled in, you can feed both of them in enclosed spaces where they can see each other. They can hear and smell each other, but there will be no physical contact between them. This arrangement will prevent your dog from feeling threatened and provide an opportunity for your new furry friend to get used to them.
Pay Attention to Signs of Tension
When introducing any type of pet, you should pay attention to signs of tension or discomfort. If dogs start growling or snarling, these can be clear signs that they are not happy. There are other signs that can show the same mood, and in this case, remember that your beloved pets need to be separated quickly. It is also important to pay attention to your dog's training. Understanding commands and responding positively to what you say can affect the attitude of the new member of the household.
Organize Introduction Sessions
The next step is to allow highly controlled forms of contact. You should allow your dog, cat, or other small pets to approach each other from a small, completely unobstructed section when they want to. The best time to do this is usually just before mealtime when they can both stay in their own space but still make contact with each other. Because in case of a negative situation, mealtime can help you end this experience positively. You should make these sessions a routine and maintain a balance of time for both.
Reward Your Dog
All pets like treats, so using treats or toys to reward your dog for positive reactions to your new furry friend can have a positive impact. You can let your dog roam freely with a leash to keep them under control and release the new cute member of the house. Doing this in a common area, not in either of their own areas, can prevent one from dominating the other and can make things easier as they are in the same situation. If it is a cat, let it roam freely and reward your dog when they stop paying attention to the cat or display positive behavior. Because rewarding is always perfect for creating positive feelings regardless of the type of pet.
Continue to Pay Attention
Even if you have gone through all these steps, you should not leave your dog and other pets unsupervised together for a long time. Especially when introducing puppies and kittens to each other, it can be more challenging than you expected when one is bigger than the other. Due to instincts, some unexpected negative behaviors may emerge. Dogs that have been friends with cats for years can suddenly chase a cat and seriously harm it.
How to Introduce a Cat and Dog to Each Other?
All these steps are also ideal for introducing cats and dogs to each other, but the species, behaviors, and movements of cats and dogs can give an idea of your new furry friend's point of view. If you have a calm dog, a very active and naughty cat can trigger your dog's instincts and cause negative behaviors. Therefore, you should be careful to bring compatible breeds together. After your dog becomes friends with other pets, it's time to take lots of photos of these cute little purr-fect buddies together!
How to Care for Dogs?
Sharing your life with a cute companion is one of the most enjoyable things in the world, but you need to show extra care for your dog's happiness and health. In this article, you can find some tips and tricks about dog grooming, such as bathing and nail trimming, to make dog training and care easier and more enjoyable for you.
Nail Trimming in Dogs
One of the important criteria for your dog's grooming is trimming their nails every 4 to 6 weeks. There are various nail clippers available in the market for different types of pets. When trimming the nails, you should not neglect the nail-like claws on the side of some dogs' feet. One important thing to know is that there are also blood vessels and nerves in your furry friends' nails. Therefore, you should be very careful while trimming your pet's nails. For such adjustments, you can use scissors specifically designed for pets, recommended by a veterinarian.
Order a Grooming Kit for Your Dog
The face and ear areas should be hygienic. Keeping the hair short and clean in these areas can reduce possible odors and prevent infections.
Using a grooming kit can make these tasks easier for you. To learn how short to cut your pet's fur, you should read the user manual that comes with the grooming kit.
Before Washing Your Dog, Brush Their Fur Thoroughly
To make bath time enjoyable for your furry friend, whom you love so much, it is important to pay attention to some things. First of all, before washing, you must definitely brush your little friend's fur. If you wash their fur without brushing it first, cleaning the fur can be twice as difficult. For this purpose, you can choose one of the various brushes or combs designed for your little friend's fur. Wide-toothed combs specially produced for very tangled fur are also recommended. Also, using a pet cream recommended by your veterinarian can make it easier to untangle tangled fur clusters.
Flea Treatment is Important
Flea infestation can often be an inevitable problem if you have a furry friend who loves to walk outdoors. However, your little furry friend getting fleas does not mean that the care you provide for them is insufficient. Nevertheless, it can be useful to know how to get rid of fleas. You should be very careful about getting your friend's external parasite vaccinations regularly. If there is a flea infestation despite their vaccinations, you can turn to reliable brands that your veterinarian recommends as flea medication for dogs. You should be skeptical about natural methods frequently encountered on the internet for getting rid of fleas.
After applying flea treatment to your pet, you may need to use a suitable care product to prevent them from getting fleas again. For this purpose, you can use special flea collars, drops, powders, or shampoos approved by your veterinarian. Using drops for flea medication selection is a good way to kill fleas and prevent the development of eggs.
Köpeğinize Tuvalet Eğitimi Verin
Giving toilet training to your furry friend who lives with you makes your life easier. Especially when a puppy feels the need to pee, it scratches and/or whines to let you know. As soon as you receive this signal, take your furry friend outside of the living area and take it to an appropriate place. This way, it will understand that it is not appropriate to pee in its own living area or in your living area. Using special pads or papers produced for dogs during toilet training is not highly recommended. This is because dogs are animals that can learn to hold their feces and leave them in certain places. However, in situations where you cannot take them outside a few times a day, or during very cold winter months, you can allow your furry friend to meet its needs by placing these special pads in a suitable corner at home.
Take Care of Your Dog's Dental Health
Your furry friend also needs periodic dental care just like you do. In this context, some points to pay attention to when applying dental care to your dog are as follows:
When brushing your dog's teeth, make sure to choose a toothpaste manufactured for dogs.
You can give them suitable teeth cleaner for chewing.
You can also use a dental spray to clean their teeth.
You can take your pet to a veterinarian regularly and have their teeth checked.
Your Dog Needs Exercise
Although puppies have a lot of energy, they have less strength. Therefore, it is a suitable solution to make them do short exercises at frequent intervals. You can discuss with your veterinarian how much exercise your furry friend needs daily and get health information about their movement needs according to their breeds.
External Parasites in Dogs
Brushing your dog's fur as often as possible and checking their skin frequently can help you detect and treat parasites before any infection occurs. The main symptoms you may encounter in your pet when there are external parasites are:
Excessive itching
Skin flaking
Abnormal hair loss
Black residue/scraps in the ears
To avoid such situations, you should regularly take your pet to the veterinarian and show the necessary care to have the external parasite treatment regularly applied.
Spaying in Dogs
If you have decided to have your pet spayed, you should know that there are various options available. In the surgical sterilization procedure, which is a frequently used method, two separate methods can be used depending on the gender of your furry friend:
Ovariohysterectomy (the removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus)
Orchiectomy (the removal of the testicles to prevent reproduction)
Other procedures that you can request from your veterinarian to have your pet spayed include:
Hysterectomy involves the removal of a portion of your female pet's uterus and fallopian tubes. This way, your pet's hormone production balance remains undisturbed.
Vasectomy, which is the removal of only the part of the testicles that carries sperm in male dogs.
Ovariohysterectomy, which is the removal of the ovaries in your female dog, leaving only the uterus behind.
If you want your little friend, who holds an important place in your life, to be with you for a longer time, you need to provide them with careful care. You can collaborate with your veterinarian at every point where you need support and improve your furry friend's quality of life.