New Dog Owners

By John Seaver

Welcome to to the world of canine ownership! here, I have taken a few pieces of information that I have found very helpful on my journey to creating a happy home with my new pup. I chose an American Pit Bull Terrier for my companion. I was lucky enough to be around the breed before I chose to bring one home. I have no regrets and only look forward to many years happy companionship! Take a minute to read through what I have put together and rest assured...you are on your way to a good start!

Hypoallergenic Foods

When I first brought Kasper home from the rescue, he was covered in a rash. At first I had no idea what it was or why he had it. After doing some research and talking with other APBT owners, I Learned that the breed is very sensitive to certain foods. I immediately switched food brands and the rash disappeared.

-Allergies are caused by the bodies inability to process certain proteins. As a result, they may become physically and emotionally irritated, as they become plagued by intense itching sensations.

To eliminate the food allergy you should start your dog on hypoallergenic dog food. Have you used hypoallergenic dog food? Hypoallergenic dog food is created with ingredients that cause less stress on the system. Duck and potato may be the only contents of some hypoallergenic dog foods. Typically the less processed and more natural ingredients the better. Hypoallergenic dog food can ensure that your dog doesn't have to suffer through years of itching and discomfort. I personally use Wellness brand and find that both he and I like the quality.

Using Hand Commands

I found out that because my dog is all white, he may have a stronger chance of going deaf. So I decided to start using hand commands along with my verbal commands during training sessions. If you choose to go this route, which I feel is the way to go, whether your dog is deaf or not. then here is a brief lesson...

Start with basic commands, I used come,sit,lay down and stay. For sit, I put a treat in the palm of my hand and repeated the instruction "sit". Hold your fist up to the pups nose and allow him/her to smell the treat. Then coax them into the sitting position, once they have sat reward them, not only with the treat but with A LOT of verbal praise. This will make it easier to ween them off of the treats and obey even when they know a treat is not involved. Repeat this with all commands and when you see your friend is ready...start using only hand commands and see how they respond. Kasper learned very quickly and I am impressed with the results. Every Dog is different and some will take longer than others...HAVE PATIENCE!!!

Puppy Proofing

I failed miserably at first with preparing my home for the new housemate! I had this Idea that crate training was harsh and evil! I now know why it is necessary, Kasper likes his crate now and I am happy! Buy a crate larger than you think is big enough and find a nice place in your home for it. I cover his in a blanket and it is like his little fort! Next, Call your dog to come with you wherever you go...it may seem excessive at first but it will prevent them from getting in trouble or hurt. Soon enough they will be following you without you needing to call them! Keep all your counters clean and free of breakables or harmful chemicals. I switched to all natural cleaning products to assure that my dog would not be poisoned.

Take these few tips to heart, they really helped me and are not very hard to do. Remember, consistency and patience are the most valued tools! have fun and give your buddy a hug for me!