This week, we will be introducing how to take care of large pets like dogs and cats. There are basic needs that need to be met, depending on the size and breed of each pet. This can also serve as a checklist on whether or not you are ready to welcome a new family member.

DOGS

As majority of our population live in HDB flats in Singapore, the size of the dog is an important factor to consider before getting a pet. There are currently 62 breeds for dogs which are HDB-approved:

1. Affenpinscher 2. Australian Silky Terrier 3. Australian Terrier 4. Bichon Avanese 5. Bichon Frise 6. Bohemian Terrier 7. Bolognese 8. Border Terrier 9. Boston Terrier 10. Brussels Griffon 11. Cairn Terrier 12. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 13. Chihuahua 14. Chinese Crested Dog 15. Chinese Imperial Chin 16. Chinese Temple Dog 17. Coton de tulear 18. Czech Terrier 19. Dachshund 20. Dandie Dinmont Terrier 21. English Toy Spaniel 22. German Hunting Terrier 23. Griffon Belge 24. Griffon Brabancon 25. Hairless Dog 26. Italian Greyhound 27. Jack Russel Terrier 28. Japanese Spaniel (Chin) 29. Japanese Spitz 30. Lakeland Terrier 31. Lhasa Apso

32. Little Lion Dog 33. Maltese 34. Manchester Terrier 35. Miniature Pinscher 36. Miniature Schnauzer 37. Norfolk Terrier 38. Norwegian Lundehund 39. Norwich Terrier 40. Papillon 41. Pekingnese 42. Pomeranian 43. Poodle (Toy / Miniature) 44. Pug 45. Schipperkee 46. Scottish Terrier 47. Sealyham Terrier 48. Shetland Sheepdog 49. Shih Tzu 50. Silky Terrier 51. Small Continental Spaniel 52. Small English Terrier 53. Small Spitz 54. Smooth Fox Terrier 55. Tibetan Spaniel 56. Toy Fox Terrier 57. Toy Terrier 58. Volpino Italiano 59. Welsh Terrier 60. West Highland Terrier 61. Wire-Haired Fox Terrier 62. Yorkshire Terrier

If you are looking at adopting, there are many HDB approved dogs in shelters that may not be pure bred but can love you equally Most sites do provide information on whether or not a dog is HDB approved.

Dogs need 3 things: food, shelter and love.

1. Food
   • Your dog’s food is dependent on its tastes and preferences. On a whole, it is recommended that you feed your dog twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
   • The amount would vary on the size of the dog.
   • It would be good to give occasional treats in the middle of the day, but not without a few tricks first!
   • Also, your dog’s water bowl needs to constantly be filled as dogs drink water at various parts of the day.
2. Shelter
   • Dogs need a nice place to sleep, for instance, a dog bed which can be easily found in pet stores.
   • Alternatively, you can also buy one on Carousell or Qoo10 for a wider range.
     Do remember to keep your dog’s bed clean just as you would like a clean bed.
3. Love
   • Showering your dog with love includes giving your companion a suitable leash and collar. More energetic dogs might require a harness as it is more secure. Bringing your dog out for walks is essential, as your dog will get exercise and you would also be able to spend quality time with your companion.
   • In addition, get your dog some chew toys to keep them occupied while you are out.

It is also recommended that younger dogs (1-10 years old) should visit the vet once a year and older dogs (10 years and above) should visit the vet twice a year for a full physical checkup. These costs may add up but in the long run it will keep your dog healthy and happy.

Now that we have covered the basics on dog care, do remember to take some time to think through any decision on getting any kind of pet. A pet is a big responsibility but a priceless companion.

Stay tuned for our next post on cat care on Thursday! Like our Facebook page to receive updates on when our blog posts come out and do comment on what kinds of post you would like to see in the future or how we could improve them! Have a great Week 4 of school!