Caring for Mixed Dog Breeds Washington DC

When getting a mixed breed dog, also known as a mutt or mongrel, many times it is not known what breeds are going into the mix. For this reason, it's best to plan for the care of the dog under these more general guidelines, rather than breed specific ones.

1. The basic supplies that are needed for your mixed breed dog are water and food bowls, and a leash and collar. Dogs don't really require much, but also recommended are a dog bed, dog toys, dog bones and chewys, and a dog crate. Above all, though, dogs are happiest if you just give them lots of your time.
   
   
2. Mixed breed puppy training should begin the first day you bring him home. This can either be done on your own, or along with a professional trainer. Behavioral training will help you to stop dog behavior problems such as jumping, barking, begging, biting and chewing. Dog training techniques like paper training or potty bell training can help you housebreak a puppy. Obedience training is useful when it comes time to teach a dog to come to you, stay, sit, and heel. There is a wide array of dog training equipment (like training collars, for example) that can help you in your challenge, as well as a variety of ways to find dog trainers in your area.
   
   
3. The amount of exercise needed for a mixed breed dog will vary, because of the different breeds going into the dog. At the very least, all dogs, no matter the breed, will benefit from a daily walk on a leash, or a daily run around a fenced-in back yard or open field. If you take your dog off his leash, make sure he is in a safe area. Toward that end, a dog-friendly yard can provide your canine friend with a great area to romp -- you'll need a fence, though (depending on the breed, an invisible dog fence could be the right choice). If your yard is largely inhospitable for a dog and difficult to make dog-friendly, consider building a dog run.
   
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Author: Laura Tucker