Most dog lovers dream of owning large dogs like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers and Dobermen. However, unlike Pomeranians and other small dog breeds, large dogs require special care, which owners should be prepared to provide.

1. Diet: Pet food given to small breeds is not suitable for larger dogs, and vice versa. Most pet food companies have special products only for large breeds, which contains the correct nutritional balance necessary for the large dog’s metabolism. They also have larger sized pieces that promote proper chewing and satisfaction for the large dog with big teeth. While big dogs naturally eat much more than smaller breeds, be careful not to feed your dog too much. Obesity is particularly harmful for big dogs whose joints are already stressed from their weight.

2. Frequent check-ups: Big dogs are more prone to certain medical conditions. These are usually related to weakening bones on account of their weight and muscle density. Some of these conditions include osteoarthritis and bone cancer. Big dogs are also prone to heart disease. Thus, owners must make it a point to frequently visit their vet and attune themselves to the first sign of illness.

3. Exercise: The larger the breed, the more exercise it needs for proper digestion as well as to prevent the above-mentioned medical conditions. Frequent exercise also prevents boredom and restlessness, which can cause destructive behaviour in dogs. While a restless small dog can still be taken care of, a discontent large dog can do quite a bit of damage to a house.

4. Obedience training: Many pet owners skip formal obedience training classes, thinking they can manage with their big dogs as well as they do with the smaller ones. While a big breed will learn the usual ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘heal’ routine, it needs much stricter training to ensure it always obeys. This investment will in the long run prevent injury to themselves and others. Dogs can sometimes forget their amateur training when happy or excited. But remember, when a small dog jumps up on someone to greet them, it can be cute, while a 70-pound Golden Retriever could hurt someone!

5. Special supplies: Bigger dogs require special equipment unnecessary for smaller breeds. For instance, an elevated feeder will make it easier for them to eat as they will not have to bend low to eat from a bowl on the floor. Bigger dogs are stronger and therefore need a sturdy leash and collar that is durable enough to resist breaking when it pulls. Big dogs need recreation, but toys such as balls and chews should be large enough so as not to pose a choking hazard.
 

Like you, your pet too is affected by climatic changes. A dull, rainy day can make your pet gloomy too. And yes, most pets have a natural aversion to water. So it’s quite likely that your pet too hates monsoons. A wet pet is easily susceptible to infection and disease, so make sure you keep your pet as dry as possible. Here is a bouquet of useful tips to help you achieve the same:

1. Avoid stepping out when its pouring
If it’s raining very heavily, it’s best to not take your pet out for a walk. If you must, take your pet to your building terrace or a covered spot in the garden.

2. Clean your pet’s paws after every outing
Given that it's the monsoon, more often than not, your pet will have to walk in rain water or through muddy patches. Ensure that you clean your pet's paws thoroughly after every outing. Muddy paws are a sure shot breeding ground for infection.

3. Dry your pet systematically
If your pet does get wet in the rain, take care to dry it off systematically. Begin by towel drying its body starting from head and then go down to the back. You can then brush and use a blower or dryer to further dry your pet. Take care not to blow hot air in your pet's eyes or ears. Similarly, take care to dry in between its toes. This area is also the most common area of infection.

4. Protect your pet from catching a cold
Your pet can catch a cold too so do remember to dry its muzzle. If essential, you can consider getting a rain jacket for your pet. On the days when it gets breezy because of the rains, do not forget to provide your pet with warm cover.

5. Trim trim!
Remember to trim your pet's hair so that it is easier to maintain and quicker to dry.
 

Tanya Munshi

Pets are a special part of every family. So why should your four-legged friend stay at home and not join in on family trips? To make your outings more special, here are some tips to ensure a smooth trip with your pet dog.

Health Check Up: Before planning a trip, check your pet’s medical records. All his vaccinations and shots should be up to date. He should be healthy enough to take a tiring journey and should ideally not get motion sickness. While travelling, carry your pet’s medical file. Keep it handy, as you may need to show it whenever necessary. Documents you need to carry with you are his health certificate and rabies vaccination (especially for the last 12 months).

Accessories: Your dog should have a firm collar around his neck with a name tag bearing your contact details in case he gets lost. Carry your dog’s food bowl and favourite toy during your trip in case he gets restless -- familiar objects will calm him down as he associates them with home. Don’t forget to carry a litter bag and perhaps even a muzzle if he is to be handled by others.

Checklist: Check with the hotels or your hosts whether dogs are allowed and confirm the extra charges. Check with your host whether any family member is allergic to dog fur. Last but not the least, don’t forget to carry his favourite snack, a first aid kit and a dog shampoo.
 

Cats can be wonderful pets, but every once in a while, some behavioral traits can jar your nerves. One of these habits is killing small animals like rodents or birds and then dragging them into your house or leaving them on your doorstep! This can be a disturbing experience for most cat owners, but not if they understand their pet’s motives.

Cats are by nature predatory animals who have a natural instinct to hunt and kill. Just because your cat kills doesn’t mean it’s turned violent and needs to be turned out of the house. Killing is just one aspect of your cat’s personality. Right after it’s done, your cat will go back to being your sweet little pet!
 

Most dog lovers dream of owning large dogs like German Shepards, Golden Retrievers and Dobermen. However, unlike Pomeranians and other small dog breeds, large dogs require special care, which owners should be prepared to handle.
 

1.	Diet: Pet food given to small breeds is not suitable for larger dogs, and vice versa. Most pet food companies have special products only for large breeds, which contain the correct nutritional balance necessary for the large dog’s metabolism. They also have larger sized pieces that promote proper chewing and satisfaction for the large dog with big teeth. While big dogs naturally eat much more than smaller breeds, be careful not to feed your dog too much. Obesity is particularly harmful for big dogs whose joints are already stressed from their weight.
2.	Frequent check-ups: Big dogs are more prone to certain medical conditions. These are usually related to weakening bones on account of their weight and muscle density. Some of these conditions include osteoarthritis and bone cancer. Big dogs are also prone to heart disease. Thus, owners must make it a point to frequently visit their vet and attune themselves to the first sign of illness.
3.	Exercise: The larger the breed, the more exercise it needs for proper digestion as well as to prevent the above-mentioned medical conditions. Frequent exercise also prevents boredom and restlessness, which can cause destructive behavior in dogs. While a restless small dog can still be taken care of, a discontent large dog can do quite a bit of damage to a house.
4.	Obedience training: Many pet owners skip formal obedience training classes, thinking they can manage with their big dogs as well as they do with the smaller ones. While a big breed will learn the usual ‘sit’, ‘stay’, and ‘heal’ routine, it needs much stricter training to ensure it always obeys. This investment will in the long run prevent injury to themselves and others. Dogs can sometimes forget their amateur training when happy or excited. But remember, when a small dog jumps up on someone to greet them, it can be cute, while a 70-pound Golden Retriever could hurt someone!
5.	Special supplies: Bigger dogs require special equipment unnecessary for smaller breeds. For instance, an elevated feeder will make it easier for them to eat as they will not have to bend low to eat from a bowl on the floor. Bigger dogs are stronger and therefore need a sturdy leash and collar that is durable enough to resist breaking when it pulls. Big dogs need recreation, but toys such as balls and chews should be large enough so as not to pose a choking hazard.