What to expect when you bring home a puppy

By the 9th month, your pup’s growth rate will be slower. Most pups stop growing by 9 months and the remaining will only grow by just a few kilos until they become an adult. However, large and giant dogs will only become adults until they are between 2 – 3 years of age.

Training Schedule

By now your puppy should know some of the basic commands and also know how to walk on the leash without pulling. Always remember the three Ms – Repeat, Reward and Reinforce to establish proper training and keep repeating the training lessons.

Nutrition

You can continue to feed your pup puppy-formulated food twice a day until the time they are an year old. Discuss with your vet if your puppy needs to be on a diet and to maintain an ideal weight.

Puppy Behaviour

Your puppy may decrease his rebellious/adolescent behaviour in between 9 to 12 months. Establishing proper boundaries in the initial months will help a lot to achieve that.

How much should I feed my Dog?

By 9 to 12 months of age, your dog can be fed twice a day. Whether you are giving your dog a home cooked food or a dog food, ensure that there are loads of nutritional ingredients such as chicken, meat, eggs and protein and calcium rich food.

Vaccination

By now, your puppy will have had her initial puppy vaccination. Deworm your puppy every three months. Consult your vet to know if there is any vaccination needed.

Diet

From 9th month, your puppy can easily be fed twice with a high quality puppy food that is formulated to provide a well-balanced nutrition. Make sure not to over feed your dog and consider your pup’s age, weight and activity levels when you decide how much you should feed your dog. Also note to never overfeed your dog with unnecessary supplements unless instructed by a vet. Always keep fresh water available at all times and take it along whenever you visit a park or are outdoors with your pet for a long time.

Puppy Body Language

• A play bow pose is usually an invitation to play.
• When your puppy is shy, he/she will have tail down or tucked and eyes averted.
• When your puppy is aggressive, he/she will stand head up with tail straight out or up and have a stiff stance.
• A wagging tail, head up, relaxed panting or mild barking are all signs of happiness

Grooming

Keep your pup groomed well and maintain the routine you have kept since the initial weeks to ensure he/she is comfortable with being handled and also to maintain proper hygiene.

What to do if my dog eats poop?

 As gross as it sounds, eating poop or coprophagia is a normal canine behaviour. When at times it is health related, your dog might eat poop to counter balance a missing nutrient in his diet. Visit your vet to rule out any diet related issues. If there is nothing wrong medically, you can handle this issue behaviourally. Dogs eat poop because it seems rewarding to them and at times they might also do this to grab your attention. Here are some ways to tackle this issue:

• Clean up poop as soon as your dog defecates.
• If you catch your dog in the act, don’t scold him. Instead, try to distract him from the act.

Why does my dog chase his Tail?

In general, dogs chase tails when they are happy, e
xcited or bored. Until and unless your dog does this over-anxiously, you need not worry about it. Only in rare cases, tail chasing might be a sign of neurological condition.

How do I manage separation anxiety?

It is best to not keep your dog alone for longer than six hours or so. Always start with leaving your dog for a shorter period of time and keep interactive toys when you leave so that he remains entertained while you’re away. Here are five tips to help ease separation anxiety:

• Take your dog out on a walk before you leave the house – Start your day by taking your dog out on a brisk walk and exercise. The idea is to leave your dog in a quiet and resting mode while you are away.
• No touch, no eye contact and no talk before you leave the house – Do not maintain any contact with your dog before you leave the house. Instead, say goodbye to your dog long before you leave the house. And when it is time to leave the house, just act like business as usual and leave home. When you reach back home, do the same thing for a few minutes.
• Start out by leaving your dog alone for a few minutes – Leave your dog alone for a few minutes and then extend the time for twenty minutes and then an hour. Continue to increase the time you spend with your dog slowly and surely.

Is Grain-Free Food For Your Cat A Better Choice?

There is a lot of talk in the pet community about grain free foods, and you might be wondering what’s causing all the hype. Many scientists believe that a grain free diet is more appropriate for cats because they are carnivores, and foods rich in proteins rather than grain-based carbohydrates more closely resemble their natural diet.

Is grain the problem?

Grains like corn, wheat, and rice are the foundations for many cat foods. This is because they are cheap to produce and allow the food manufacturer to meet the carbohydrate requirements for their foods while saving some money.

These types of grains, however, can cause problems for some cats. Some cats are allergic to grains, and others have a hard time digesting them. A wild cat’s natural diet would contain more protein, and they would likely ingest only small amounts of carbohydrates through the proteins (or animals) they consumed.

Here are 6 Reasons why you should opt for Grain- Free Cat Food by Farmina Pet Foods

Here's the only trusted nutritonal grain-free Cat Food range available in India.

1. More premium ingredients than the usual food:  grain free natural and delicious pet food is designed in such a way that satisfies the carnivorous nature of cats. All products in this range are made of  premium Human grade ingredients & are also gluten free .Grain free diets can contain more of the ingredients that your cat would be eating in the wild. Proteins like fish and meat are found in greater amounts in some grain free foods.

2. Grain sensitivity: Some cats develop an allergy to grains, and grain free diets aim to eliminate the ingredients causing the sensitivity. However, natural and delicious . Their high-quality food is made up of 70% animal ingredients and 30% vegetables, fruits, vitamins, and minerals.

3. High in Protein: Being the best nutritional choice for cats & kittens, grain free products are GMO (Genetically modified organisms) & by products free. With 42% of protein level  every N&D cat meal comes with correct amounts of protein & because grain free foods can be higher in protein, they can also be higher in fat. But N&D eliminates that with it ingredients infused with limited carbs & fats.

4. Rich in high Quality Vitamins:  Natural ingredients and antioxidants support the healthy digestion and strong immunity. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid blend supports healthy skin and coat

5. Worth the money:  cat Food is Rich in high-quality vitamins that have a long lasting effectiveness because of the advance method Vacuum Coater System. Vacuum coater technology also allows adding vitamin at lower temperatures which prevent thermal stress. Vitamins are now effective for longer periods of time enabling to achieve the concept of Long Life Vitamins. Grain free foods that contain more protein will likely be more expensive. However, you will probably be feeding your cat smaller portions because of the high protein, so this may make up for the price difference.

Top 10 foods that is good for your dogs

You are what you eat. This applies to your dogs too. If you love your canine companions, you’ll enjoy feeding them. Did you know that you can come up with a diet that is both good for you and your dogs? Enjoy eating with your furry pals. Bon appétit!

1. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a healthy breakfast for you and your dogs. Oats are essentially soluble fibre, and therefore, help dogs, especially older ones with bowel movements. If your four-legged buddy is allergic to wheat, oatmeal is a great alternative.

2. Apples

“An apple a day keeps the vet away”. Yes, crunchy and juicy apples are very good for dogs. With Vitamins A, C and fibre, apples make a good evening snack for your canine.

3. Carrots

 A dog holding a carrot in its mouth makes an amazing photograph. Carrots can satisfy your dog’s taste buds. And guess what? Chewing carrots are good for your dog’s teeth.

4. Yogurt 

Known to contain probiotics, Yogurt helps in keeping the bad bacteria away from your dogs. If you are looking for nutrients, protein, calcium and potassium for your dogs, yogurt is your answer.

5. Chicken 

If your canine companions lack proteins, it’s time to add chicken in their diet. Ran out of dog food? Fully cooked and unseasoned chicken is an easy substitution.

6. Salmon 

Do you ove dogs with healthy and shiny coat? With high omega 3 fatty acids, Salmon is good for your dog’s hair. Enjoy playing and cuddling with your doggy.

7. Eggs

Eggs are not just easy to cook but very healthy for your pooch. If you are running out of ideas for a healthy dog snack, scramble an egg and treat your dogs. With high proteins, eggs can give your furry pals the necessary energy boost.

8. Green Beans

Give your dogs a dose of iron and vitamins by feeding green beans. With high nutrition and low calories, green beans make a great weight-management meal for your dogs. If you are trying to help your obese dog lose some extra pounds, Green Beans are the best way to go.

9. Spinach

Did you enjoy watching Popeye eating Spinach as kids? Well, spinach is not only beneficial for us but highly healthy for man’s best friend too. It can help your dog battle inflammatory, cardiovascular and cancer issues.

10. Pumpkin 

If your cute pooch having a bad stomach? Serving them tasty pumpkins can cure their digestive issues. With high fibre and Vitamin A, Pumpkins can be fed to dogs regularly.

A guide to reading your cat's body language

Understanding your cat can make the difference between having a great relationship with your pet or a mediocre one. However it can takes months or even years to work out what and simple by observing and interacting with your cat.
Cat’s are far less expressive facially than dog s are, however anyone who has owned a cat for any length of time will tell you that understanding their body language is the key to understanding what your cat is saying.

When thinking about your cat’s body language it is important to assess the whole body as one, many people look at the tail (which is often a great indicator of your cats mood) in isolation and draw conclusions which don’t take into account other key body language indicators such as the ears and eyes. 
The pointers below will walk you through some of the feelings that your cat will experience along with some body language pointers to watch out for:

Happiness & Contentment

Hopefully your cat will be feeling happy for the majority of it’s waking hours. A happy cat will often have it’s tail pointing straight up, you may have noticed that when you come home your cat may greet you at the door with its tail up, this is often called your cat’s “hello”. 
If your cat’s tail is pointing upwards with a slight bend at the end of it this indicates that your act is feeling both happy and a bit inquisitive, you may notice this if you bring a new item into the house that has an interesting smell that peaks their curiosity a bit. 
You should also watch your cat’s eyes, if your cat stares at you and gives you slow blinks this is their way of communicating that they like and trust you. You can send the same message back by blinking slowly at them too!

Head Rubbing

Cats will also give you some very obvious body language signals such as rubbing their head against you, this shows affection and means they are feeling content and would like you to give them some fuss!

Rolling onto the Back

When your cats rolls over on its back next to you in an obvious attempt to get a good stroke this too indicates that you have one happy contented cat who enjoys getting attention from you!

Kneading

Another ‘happy cat’ indicator to watch out for is when your cat kneads things. Kneading is the act of what appears to be giving a specific spot (maybe your leg or a blanket they like) a good massage, usually with their front paws. 
It is not known for certain why cats knead things but it is believed to relate to the way in which kittens would knead their mother when nursing to help the milk flow, this is something which all cats will associate with the feeling of contentment and happiness

Signs of Stress

Even our feline friends encounter some stess in thier lives, however hopefully your cat experiences less stress than his or her wild counterparts would have. Back then stress was a vital part of survival. 
When a cat recognises danger or something that could be a threat this triggers the release of hormones which may result in erratic behaviour which often manifests itself in the form of the fight or flight response. 
Most domestic cats will not experience quite the same level of stress as their wild ancestors however you will be able to tell if you cat is experiencing stress by watching out for a few tell tale pointers.

Understanding Your Cats Body Language is the Key to Having a Great Relationship With Your Cat

Knowing how your cat is feeling allows you to respond effectively to their behaviour and ensure their needs are met effectively. 
This is turn will allow you to develop an understanding with your cat and will lead to them trusting you much more!

How introduce yourself to a new dog?

Hello, dog! How to introduce yourself to a new dog?

How to introduce yourself to a new dog

Let’s say you’re walking down a street, when you notice a stranger walking in your direction. How often do you rush up to the stranger with your arms outstretched, ready for a hug and a cuddle, whilst cooing in a baby voice the whole time? And, if you were ever to do this, how often do you think the stranger would react likewise, rather than hit out at you or report you to the nearest police station?

It’s safe to assume that humans who are socialised to even a basic degree do not greet each other in this manner. Why then do we insist on doing this with dogs and expect them to love us?

The above analogy is an extreme one, of course, but here’s the first thing to remember, whilst greeting a dog you haven’t met before: Just because you ‘love dogs’, it doesn’t mean they love you back. And, even if they do, it doesn’t mean they want to be fawned over, kissed, hugged, and cooed to in a loud voice. Dogs are drawn to some people and not to others in the same way as humans take to some people and don’t want to be around others. Here are a few basic tips to introduce yourself to a dog without alarming him or her. 

A dog can smell you long before you even know he’s around, and he’s gathered enough information about you before you’ve set eyes on him. Once you’re close enough to Rafiki, ignore him and let him approach you first. 

Do not:

• Look him in the eye directly (this tells him you’re dominant and he needs to be wary of you)
• Loom over him to pat his head (another sign of dominance in dog-speak)
• Speak to him loudly and in high-pitched tones (this tell him that you are weak and hence possibly, prey)
• Here i will like take an example of a dog named Rafiki.

So what’s the right thing to do?

Allow Rafiki to come to you. Rafiki is a curious dog and will let you know soon enough if he’s interested in making your acquaintance further. If he shows interest, allow him to sniff your hand. This is an invitation to him to investigate you further, and in a non-threatening way. Once he’s sniffed out your personality, check his face quickly for soft, relaxed eyes and his tail for a calm, gentle wag positioned approximately parallel to the ground. Now, he’s letting you know you’re okay. You can touch him on the shoulder or chest. Don’t reach out for his head; any spot your hand reaches out for that the dog can’t see clearly, is not the best spot.

Want to become a owner of what? Cat or dog??

Want to become a owner of what? Cat or dog??The choice between owning a dog or a cat can be an easy decision to make for some first time owners.As you will be the first owner of the decision obviously you will take. But owning a pet is not as easy as it seems to be. Cat and dog both needs health care and good food. But by giving only food is not enough, they need ylur love and affection too.Owning a right choice of a pet will lead to that one smile on your face looking at him/her playing or sleeping peacefully and the inner feeling of love towards it will never allow your reggression to enter in your loving soul. The bond between each other becomes so wonderful that you never want to live it alone.Owning a cat is a very good decision for the ones who are first time going to be the owner. Because the meowing of that small kitten which youll will bring home will make your day go well. The cute soft paws will come walking towards you for some cuddles. Tiny nose and close mouthed snoring will feel you more lovely.Cats health is also very sensitive. They should be given the proper cat food according to their breed. We can find the cat food in any pet shop. Taking care of their fur is also a very difficult task. Because you should be confirmed which shampoo or soap should be used. They should get thier vaccinations on time. The owner should take the pet for the regular check up.Why not dog as a first pet? Because owning a pet for the first time is a very big responsibility. It is same as adopting a kid from an orphanase.Dogs need for vaccinations than cats. For example rabbis and many more. Dogs food is also much expensive then cats food. Dogs need the dog food as well as homemade healthy food. Such as milk,boiled chicken,boiled eggs etc. As we all know dogs are always chained, as they are bit dangerous for the strangers.As we all know that dogs are very faithful to their owner. They protect our home and premises. But as you are going to be the first time owner, owning a dog should be your second opinion. Because afterwards you should not regret. As it may it can create confusion to you and your pet as well, like How to handle them when strangers arrive? As dogs are double in size as compared to cats.  How much quantity of the  food should be served?If you have anything to ask then you can comment.