1. How far down should I cut the dog's toenails?

Typically it is recommended to cut down 1/8-1/4 inches. Make sure not to hit the quick (blood vessel) and always make sure that you have a product (styptic powder) to stop the bleeding immediately upon contact.

2. My dog is continually limping. What does this mean?

This could by the beginning signs of hip dysplasia or a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament). If your dog is a senior, it could be a sign of arthritis. We recommend you consult your veterinarian.

3. If my dog needs to take medicine, what is the best way to administer the pills?

We recommend using a product called Pill Pockets which comes in 2 sizes (pill and capsule).

4. Are there any monthly medications that should be given or applied?

Yes. Heartworm medication should be given on a monthly basis to ensure that your dog does not contract heartworms. These parasites can be potentially fatal to dogs. Also, flea and tick protection should be used monthly to prevent fleas and ticks from making a home on your dog. Ticks are known to carry Lyme's disease which can lead to severe arthritis in dogs.

5. Do I need to brush my dog's teeth?

Yes. Brushing your dog's teeth at least on a weekly basis promotes good oral hygiene which in turn will help keep your dog healthy. If brushing is not convenient, there are other options such as dental chews (bones, rawhide, antlers), dental rinses, and dental treats (Bright Bites) which will also help to keep your dog's teeth free of plaque and tooth decay.

6. Can handicapped dogs be trained?

Yes. The most common handicap we see in dogs is deafness. Using a variety of tools such as lights, food, hand signals, body gestures, and facial expressions can help deaf dogs to learn despite of their disability. Appealing to their functioning senses makes any dog trainable.

7. What do you consider to be the best training collar?

We prefer the pinch collar. This is the collar used and recommended in our obedience classes.

8. At what age can my dog enroll in obedience classes at your store?

Generally 3-1/2 months is the earliest age we allow in our obedience classes. We believe that 3-1/2 - 9 months is the "magic window" for training your puppy. Puppies are more capable of learning and retaining information during this time period.