How to Care for Your Havanese
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The Havanese is a great choice as a family pet for many families, because he is a friendly, playful dog that enjoys adults, kids and other animals alike. However, just like any new pet, there are some things you need to know about caring for your Havanese properly before you bring him home from that breeder. These little dogs can be fairly flexible and resilient, but there are care requirements that are general dog care guidelines as well as concerns that are unique to this breed. It is important to educate yourself in the area of Havanese care to ensure that your new pet gets the best environment possible to grow and thrive.
Like any breeed, these dogs come with specific Havanese health concerns that can be genetic problems for the breed. By becoming familiar with these potential problems, you can find a breeder that offers dogs without the genetic predisposition to some of them. You can also remain vigilant with your own Havanese, so that you can head to the vet at the first sign of a problem. Other Havanese care to educate yourself about include grooming issues and diet and exercise.
There are a number of health concerns with the Havanese that this breed is genetically predispositioned for. These concerns might include eye problems like catartacts (even at a young age), and progressive retinol atrophy (which can result in blindness).
By having a knowledge of these Havanese health problems before you select your puppy, you can screen breeders to find out if they have had experienced any of these health problems in their lines of dogs. A reputable breeder should be able to provide you with documentation to show whether these health concerns might be a problem with your puppy.
Grooming is a very important routine with these dogs, with daily brushings and monthly baths. You might prefer to clip the coat of your Havanese to keep it shorter and easier to maintain, and this can be done through a professional groomer or at home if you learn how to give doggy haircuts.
A nutritious diet is an important component in good Havanese health. Your breeder or veterinarian will probably have some suggestions and recommendations in this area, but it is generally thought that a high-quality commercial food from the pet store will be sufficient. It is best to keep your puppy on the same food that he ate at the breeders, at least during his first few weeks with you.
If you decide to switch foods for any reason, gradually transitioning your pup to his new food by adding a little at a time to his dish will help to prevent tummy troubles from the change. Some dog owners are finding too many unhealthy ingredients in manufactured dog food, and are changing their pets to a raw food diet instead.
With regular grooming, daily exercise and a healthy diet, you are doing everything possible toward the best Havanese health practices for your pet.
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