Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Housetrain - This is really not as difficult as you might think. Keep in mind that once your puppy or dog eats or has playtime; they will need to relieve themselves. With that in mind always take them outside after they eat or you play with them. Make it a routine, they will catch on quickly about where to relieve themselves. There will be accidents, it is inevitable. Don't get angry, clean it up and move on. Every family member needs to be consistent with this training. Your puppy or dog will want to please you; praise them whenever they do a behavior the way you want them to. Young puppies can hold urinating for two to four hours, keep that in mind with housebreaking. Adult dogs can hold urinating for much longer, six to eight hours.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Introduce other pets - This can be a smooth experience or a bumpy one; be prepared for either scenario. If you already have a pet; you might consider introducing your old pet and your new pet away from your own home and yard. If your old pet is territorial with their yard then you could have some problems introducing your new one. If their first introduction to one another occurs somewhere other than your yard/home; things might go smoother. One of them at some point will probably challenge the other for dominance; this is just a natural behavior. You will need to be very watchful of this, the last thing you need is one of them getting hurt.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Make introductions - Your new puppy or dog should first be acquainted with you and your family. Once that has successfully been achieved slowly introduce more people, like regular visitors to your home, neighbors, and other relatives and friends. Always be watchful when introducing someone new. If your puppy or dog is reluctant to greet someone new; do not force them. You may have to let them meet this individual on their terms not yours; be patient. Socializing your new puppy or dog is very important and should begin early, but never force a situation. You want socialization to be a fun experience not a forced or fearful one.

Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Name your dog - Give this some consideration, your special dog deserves a special name. Many times the breeder wants a certain name for the AKC registration. Usually they want their kennel name included in the registration; sometime they want to actually name the dog. I understand and agree with including a breeder's kennel name on the AKC registration, but my personal view is that the actual name should be up to you and your family.

Oregon Dog Shows - April 2-3, 2011

The Chintimini Kennel Club, Inc. will host two dog shows at the Linn County Fair & Expo Center, 3700 Knox Butte Rd., Albany, OR. April 2, 2011, Event Number 2011098803 and April 3, 2011, Event Number 2011098804.

Brandykegs Saint Bernards wishes all the exhibitors at these events good luck!

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Let your dog adjust - In the beginning, they might miss their mom or littermates. Make sure they have a place that is all their own, somewhere they can go and feel safe. Crates can provide this sort of refuge, a pallet on the floor works too.

Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Welcome your new pet - Introduce them to their new family and home. Try to let them meet each family member individually; that way they are not overwhelmed. Let them explore their yard alone, keep watch to make sure they don't get into mischief. You want this to be a very positive event for your new pet.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Find a veterinarian - You should do this prior to even bringing home your puppy or dog. I recommend that you approach this from a little different angle, you should interview veterinarians. Visit their facility, ask for a tour, check if they do their lab work in house or ship it out, do they offer boarding, find out their operating hours, how do they handle after hour emergencies, try to arrange a meeting with a veterinarian that is taking on new patients, if you are getting a large breed dog make sure they can handle the needs that come with the larger breed and that the veterinarian has experience with large breed dogs. It is important to do this ahead of time because you will want to take your new puppy or dog in for a examination after you bring them home. Bring any health information, shot or worming dates along as well.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Get a collar - Your dog or puppy should wear a collar, have an identification tag on it as well. The collar should be tight enough so that it will not easily slip off their head, make sure you can place two fingers between the collar and the body of your dog. With puppies you will have to check the fit of the collar often, puppies grow very quickly.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Buy some toys - Nylabones, chew ropes, plush toys for pets are much better for your dog to chew on and play with than your shoes, clothing articles, or children's toys.

Puppy With Bunny Ears For Easter

This cute puppy has on pink bunny ears and is ready for Easter. The puppy also has its very own rescue barrel, secured around its head with pink ribbon. There is only one in stock, visit our store to purchase.

Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Make a bed - Every dog needs a place all his own. You might chose to use a crate, or a corner somewhere in your home. Some dogs like a blanket to lay on, others like a regular dog bed.

Washington Dog Shows - March 26-27, 2011

The Peninsula Dog Fanciers Club, Inc., will hold two dog shows at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds, 1200 NW Fairgrounds Rd., Bremerton, WA. On Saturday, March 26, 2011, Event Number 2011047001 will be held, and on Sunday, March 27, 2011, Event Number 2011047003 will be held.

Brandykegs Saint Bernards wishes all exhibitors the best of luck!

First Day Of Spring

A time for renewal.

Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Set a containment policy - Make sure you have a secure way to keep your new puppy or dog on your property. If you have a fenced yard, walk the perimeter of it and check for loose boards, low spots(where with a little digging, escape is possible). If you do not have a fenced yard, you might want to consider putting in a dog run. Invisible electrical fencing is another method to keep your puppy or dog on your property. Your family should be a good neighbor and see to it that your new friend stays on your property.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Dog proof your home - Before you bring home your new puppy or dog, dog proof your home. Breakable or chewable items that you might have on tables, move to higher ground. Electrical cords should be kept away from you new friend. If there are areas that you do not want your new dog or puppy to have access to, then block off that area. You might want to keep the toilet lids closed. Take care of shoes lying on the floor. If your home or yard has plants that are toxic to dogs, block your new friends' access to them.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Happy St. Patrick's Day from Brandykegs!

Old Irish Blessing

May love and laughter light your days,

and warm your heart and home.

May good and faithful friends be yours,

wherever you may roam.

May peace and plenty bless your world,

with joy than long endures.

May all life's passing seasons,

bring the best to you and yours!

Kansas City Dog Shows

There will be four days of dog shows in Kansas City, Missouri, the first show begins today, March 17, 2011, hosted by Leavenworth Kennel Club. The four shows are being held at the American Royal Complex, 1701 American Royal Court, Kansas City Missouri. The Leavenworth Kennel Club will host the shows on March 18, 2011 as well. The Heart of America Kennel Club, Inc., will host the Saturday, March 19, 2011 show and the Sunday, March 20, 2011 show.

Brandykegs wishes all the exhibitors the best of luck!

Close of Entries Today for Saint Specialty Shows

Entries will close today at 6:00 P.M. (PST) Wednesday, March 16, 2011; for the Saint Bernard Specialty Shows being hosted by Saint Bernard Club of Southern California and the Orange Coast Saint Bernard Fanciers. Their shows dates are April 1, 2, and 3, 2011; at the Orange Empire Dog Club Clubhouse, 18225 Santa Ana Ave., Bloomington, Ca.

Things To Consider (cont.)

1. Make a schedule - It is a good idea if you and your family are aware of the tasks that come along with dog ownership and who will be responsible for the tasks. You might want to include these things on your list; food, water, exercise, grooming, and yard pickup. If everyone helps with the tasks, then one member of the family is not overwhelmed.

Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Prepare yourself - Get your home ready before you ever bring home your new puppy or dog. Here are some items to have waiting for you new friend; food, treats, collar, leash, toys, grooming tools, water bowl, and food bowl. By having these basic items ahead of time, the transition for your new puppy or dog to your home will be easier.

Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Register your dog - Send your completed and signed registration application to AKC. AKC registered dogs can compete in a variety of events. If you have rescued a dog, consider applying for a Purebred Alternative Listing/Indefinite Listing Privilege number. This number will allow a rescued dog to participate in some performance events.

Daylight Savings Time Begins

Don't forget to set your clocks ahead one hour.

Many of us will be running late today, sorry.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Get your papers - When you purchase a puppy, be sure to get your AKC registration application from the breeder. Check to see that the breeder has filled in their information and has signed the application. Most breeders will be happy to help you fill out this application.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Get it in writing - This is really important; get any sale or adoption of dog or puppy in writing. Here are some things that should be included in the paperwork; details regarding fees, spay-neuter agreements, health guarantees, terms of co-ownership, restrictions on breeding, show dogs may have many additional details that should be included. Make sure there is a clause to clarify what happens if the dog or puppy does not work out for your family. Be careful of co-ownership agreements, the details on this should be very specific.

Things to Consider (cont.)

1. Pick your pet - Consider your choices carefully; don't rush and most definitely do not succumb to pressure. Responsible breeders can advise on you choosing, but trust your own instincts as well. If you a rescuing an older dog, be sure to get as much information about the dog as possible. For example; health information, temperament, behavior issues, try to learn as much as possible about their past.

Things To Consider (continues)

1. Skip the holidays - It might seem like a great idea to get a puppy or dog as a gift for the holidays; however it can be a mistake. Most of us know how hectic the holidays can be, bringing home a new puppy or dog during that time may be more than you need during that time of year. A new dog or new puppy (especially) will need your undivided attention.

Things To Consider (cont.)

1. Prepare to wait - Once you have decided upon the breed you want, it may be difficult to locate the breed in your area; your search may be more difficult especially if you are looking for a puppy. You might even have to put your name on a waiting list; many litters are already spoken for. Be patient, getting the right puppy for yourself is very important.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Expect questions - The responsible breeder or rescue organization will interview you; they want to know what you have to offer their dog. They want their dogs placed in the correct environment. Be open and honest with your answers.

Things to Consider (continued)

1. Consider an older dog - Puppies really are not for everyone. You may find that an older dog is a better fit for your lifestyle and schedule. Contact the rescue organizations for the breed or breeds you are looking at. In economic times like these, they have lots of dogs that need permanent homes.

Washington Dog Shows - March 12-13, 2011

The Seattle Kennel Club, Inc., will hold two shows at the Qwest Field Event Center, S. Royal Brougham Way and Occidental Ave S., Seattle, WA. Event Number 2011119101 will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2011 and Event Number 2011119104 will be held on Sunday, March 13, 2011.

Brandykegs Saint Bernards wishes all the exhibitors at these events good luck!

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Ask questions - Don't be afraid to ask questions, no matter how simple or complicated they may sound. Once you find a breeder you are comfortable with, ask to visit their kennel. This allows you to see the environment that these dogs are living in and to also see in person the types of dogs they have. Determine health concern about a breed. By visiting a breeder's kennel, you can get a glimpse of what your dog or puppy will be like.

Things to Consider (continued)

1. Make contact - Contact individuals in your local area. Tell them you are interested in their breed. Let them know that you have done your homework on their breed.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Get a referral -This is more important than you might think; you will have a better chance of being satisfied that the individual you get your dog from is reputable and a responsible breeder. The primary concern of a reputable and responsible breeder is to produce dogs of high quality, good health, and stable temperaments.

Things to Consider (continued)

1. Choose a Breed -Do the research to find the breeds that will fit the profile you have created. Look on the internet, go to a dog show, talk to your family, neighbors, friends. All of this will help narrow down the list of dogs.

Things to Consider (continues)

1. Make a list - Put on it what qualities you want in a dog. For instance you should consider size, energy level, grooming requirements, and temperament of a dog. Do you have children? Do you live in a home or apartment? Do you have a yard or park nearby? Do you want a lap dog or a guard dog? Do you have the extra money for a dog? These are just a few things you should look into before getting your dog.