puppy care tips

Think of having an Airedale as having a toddler -- FOR LIFE.

puppies from 3 to 6 months are teething and that is why they bite and nip. take a wash cloth, tying in a knot, soaking it, freezing it, and then giving to the puppy to help with the pain from teething. Also try soaking in broth and freezing, might taste better and therefore last a little long in the mouth

Buy a sterilized bone about eight inches or longer that is hollow in center -- Fillings -- teaspoon of peanut butter, Cheese, Canned dog food and then freeze (great for teething pain)

Nylabone, Gumabone and Kongs will also stand up pretty well to an airedale's strong jaws. You can also stuff peanut butter, cheese and milkbone in the Kongs.

Toss-N-Tug is a another that will last. just throw in washing machine to clean.

Fleece toys and the Fussbee (fleece frisbee) also last and are easily washed.

Knotted ropes are good but they can be chewed and strings swallowed.

Stainless steel food and water bowls cannot be destroyed (just bent) and last forever.

Check collar size weekly-- puppies grow fast.

A choke collar left on a dog can be a hazard. The ring can get caught and the dog can strangle.

If you have an aggressive chewer, watch those vinyl toys-- they can be chewed into pieces. The latex ones can become weakened after time (and sunshine) and dogs can chew the 'squeakers' out and swallow them.

Remote controls (TV,VCR.,etc) can be chewed and contain small batteries = toxic.

Trim nails weekly. The dremel is about $45-55? Keep a container of Kwik-Stop on had to stop any bleeding if you clip and cut too far, try to clip only about 1/8 inch at a time. Also keep hair trimmed between the pads of their feet. This area can mat and make walking uncomfortable.

Remember to stuff cotton balls in ears before bathing to keep out water. Clean with an ear cleanser. A drop of mineral oil in each eye will protect from soap irritation, should any get into eyes.

Check teeth for loss of puppy teeth and growing permanent ones. Two teeth should not occupy the same space. See vet if baby teeth need pulled. It's a good time to get them used to you opening their mouth, brushing their teeth, de scaling, etc. Remember though, their mouth may be a little sensitive due to teething. It's a good idea to get your puppy used to having it's teeth brushed or de scaled by rubbing gently with a piece of gauze and doggie toothpaste.

When going to the vet, take a stool sample. Plastic bag it and put in paper bag with your name and phone #

Sounds gross, but if your dog is really sick and throws up, plastic bag it and take it with you to the vet.

Keep your vet's phone number right by the phone. Saves time in an emergency, plus anyone else can easily find it also. If you do have an emergency and call first, they are expecting you and will be ready for you.

Keep a copy of poisonous plant lists in your medicine cabinet. Along with hydrogen peroxide, pepto bismal tablets, baby aspirin, chloraseptic spray and benedryl. Betadine or Povidine iodine solution. Rectal thermometer. Remember to check with your vet FIRST before giving any medicines.

Bitter Apple applied to furniture will HELP keep a pup from chewing. Liquid spray for cloth; cream for wood and electric cords. Test fabric for colorfast.

remove all plants, books, etc. out of reach of puppy.. crawl around the house on hands and knees...that is the level of the puppy...anything you see at that level so will the puppy...electrical/telephone/computer cords, figurines, secure kitchen cupboards with baby latches

Avoid rawhide chews...have caused many intestinal blockages and make a 'gooey' mess of an ADTs beard.