DOG CARE

SUGGESTED SUPPLIES
crate/cage (minimum adult size is 36"l x 22"w x 25"h)
dishes (stainless steel)
cleaner w/odor neutralizer
no-chew spray
steel comb
nail clippers
slicker brush (Used to brush out foot hair for trimming.)
short barber scissors (Used for trimming bottom of feet.)
thinning shears (Used for trimming top of feet.)
dog shampoo (I use blue for white coats.)
toys (I use Kongs.)
chews (I use Nylabones.)
treats (I only use Iams puppy biscuts or PLAIN Milk Bones as they do not have any artificial additives.)
dog food (See feeding section below.)
microchip
identification tag
leash (See section below.)
2 collars (See section below.)
sand box (For dog to dig in outdooors.  It will help save your yard.)
yard containment
(A fenced area is ideal.  An underground fence system should be fine for Aussies.  However, it may not be effective for Sibes.  A tie-out or trolley are options.)

COLLARS and LEASHES
A buckle collar should be kept on the dog with an identification tag attached.  I use and recommend standard glo dog collars that come with an engraved attached i.d. tag.  They are available online at GunDogSupply.com at a very reasonable price.  I do not like clip-lock collars as some can tighten or come undone.  A second collar should be used with a leash and/or tie-out.  If the dog slips out of it, it will still have its collar with its i.d. tag on.  Slip or choke collars are for leash use ONLY.  I like to use a nylon limited slip collar with a Flexi-Lead for everyday leash use.

For obedience training, a dog over six months of age, I use a regular chain slip collar and six foot leather leash.  For obedience training, a dog under six months, I use a regular buckle collar and leash.  I do NOT recommend pinch training collars.  I use and recommend Halti-Head collars for strong pullers.

ESSENTIAL CARE
Dogs need to have shelter, shade, food, water, grooming, training, socialization, protection from abuse and teasing, veterinary and health care, loving attention and exercise to be happy and healthy.  I recommend that puppy obedience classes be attended by owner and dog.  I also recommend Bike Springers while bicycling with the dog.

CRATE TRAINING
Dogs must be crate trained.  This is for their own safety and security.  Also, it is the first step in house training.

GROOMING
Regular combing and nail clipping is needed.  Please see nail clipping instruction sheet.  I also trim the hair on the feet.  Periodic bathing with warm water may be needed.  Avoid getting water in eyes and ears.  Periodic ear cleaning may be needed.  I use an ear cleaning solution, cotton balls and an ear powder.

HEALTHCARE
The dog and a stool sample needs to be examined, by a veterinarian, within two days of arriving.  This is to confirm the dog's health, treat for any intestinal parasites that may be present, and set up a vaccination/healthcare scedule.

Puppies need a series of vaccinations given every three weeks until twelve to sixteen weeks of age.  Adults need a booster, once a year, after the initial vaccination series.  They will also need a rabies vaccination at four months of age (according to Michigan state law).  

Routine (annual) stool checks, by a veterinarian, are recommended to check for intestinal parasites.  If positive, the dog should be appropriately treated.

Dogs need to be on heartworm preventative.  Dogs over six months of age will need a blood test before starting the preventative.  This is usually done every spring.  DO NOT GIVE YOUR AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD IVERMECTIN, however, this is fine for Siberian Huskies.  Interceptor is an option.

I also use and recommend a monthly topical flea preventative.  Please read directions carefully.  I avoid applying this at the same time of giving heartworm preventative to help prevent a toxic reaction.

Spaying or neutering is recommended at five months of age.

FEEDING
Puppies have been fed DIAMOND puppy food (pink and purple bag).  Adults may be on various DIAMOND formulas, please inquire.  It is available at TSC and other pet stores.  If you would like to change foods, a gradual change over a period of days is recommended to avoid digestive upset.  Please, only feed premium quality food with meat or meat meal as the first ingredients with NO artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.  I recommend feeding it dry.  If your dog will not eat, try soaking it in some hot water first.

Puppies, under six months of age, need to be offered food at least every twelve hours and preferably every eight hours.

Fresh water should be available during the day.  It may be taken away at night unitl the dog is crate and/or house trained.  It is normal for this breed to dring a lot of water (and also play in it!).

Dogs should not be fed milk, meat bones, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, nuts, chocolate, or sugar-free gum (or anything containg xylitol).  They are potentially harmful and/or lethal to dogs.