BE ORIGINAL

DOGS ARE ONLY THE SAME IN THAT THEY ARE ALL DIFFERENT

Some dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever and the Spaniel, are widely assumed to be friendly, happy-go-lucky and good-natured. Others, such as Pit Bull Terriers, Rottweilers and Boxers, are plagued by negative stereotypes, leading to the conclusion that they are dangerous and aggressive.

However, as only 50 of a dog's 20,000 genes are involved in determining appearance, looks are (quite simply) not a good indicator of behaviour. Many other factors are at play. Dogs are complex animals, and influences from training and socialisation to diet and health are more likely to impact how a dog behaves and interacts with the world than his breed alone.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CATERING TO YOUR DOG'S UNIQUE NEEDS

1. THEIR OWN FOOD

To ensure your dog is getting the nutrients he needs, you need to pick dog food products that are 'complete' or create a balanced diet for him with the assistance of a nutritionist. Along with addressing his specific needs, food also needs to appeal to your canine, so you'll need to experiment to work out the flavours and textures your dog prefers. Is he a fish fan? Does he prefer meaty chunks, pate or kibble? Finally, you must adapt your dog's diet to his size, weight, age and energy expenditure.

2. THEIR OWN TREATS

Most dogs love food, and will appreciate food rewards for good behaviour or progress in training. However, dogs vary in the type of food reward they enjoy, and some (admittedly rare) pups are not food-driven at all and instead prefer praise and scratches!

3. THEIR OWN BED

Every dog needs a bed of their own. Your pet's size and sleeping style need to be considered when choosing a bed, as does the surrounding area's temperature. Older dogs or those with joint pain might benefit from a memory foam bed, burrowers (like Dachshunds) often prefer cave-style beds, and chew-proof options are available for those who love a good gnaw.

4. APPROPRIATE FRIENDS

Although dogs are generally friendly, they don't like everyone. Your pooch may gravitate towards certain friends more than others, and this can be for a number of reasons. Respect their choices, and where possible, allow them to be picky about who they choose to hang out with.

DID YOU KNOW?

When we look at a dog, we see only approximately 50 of their nearly 20,000 genes.

5. SCRATCHY SPOTS

Each dog has a favourite place to be scratched or loved. Contrary to popular belief, most dogs do not love being hugged and interpret this as an act of dominance on your part. Instead, find time to get to know the places they are comfortable and happy to be touched and focus on these for excellent bonding time with your canine.

6. THEIR OWN TOYS

Toys are important for most of our four-legged friends, but not all dogs like playing the same games. While balls are a must for most high-energy dogs who love to fetch, others might prefer a game of tug-of-war with a rope toy. Similarly, where some dogs will become devoted to a plush toy and carry it around like a baby, others will chew it to pieces, and while some love a squeaky toy, others can get a fright with this unusual noise and never touch the toy again.

7. THEIR OWN BRUSH

Each dog in your family should have their own brush. As dog fur varies dramatically in length and texture, different brushes are needed for different coats. Yet, even if your dogs are all of the same breed, you should still have different brushes to avoid spreading infections or skin conditions from one dog to another.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

While breed can give us some indication about the character of our dogs, each dog is ultimately unique and should be treated as such. Even if you own multiple dogs, considering each one as an individual in their own right and ensuring their unique needs are met will go a long way to ensuring a happy, healthy hound!