10 Tips for New Sporting Dog Owners

Soon to be the proud owner of a sporting dog? Here are 10 tried and true tips to help ensure a smooth start – and a strong and healthy finish for your new hunting partner.

1. Select a sporting dog breed wisely based on your lifestyle, schedule and type of hunting and game you plan to pursue. Also consider your environment, climate and access to training resources before settling on a specific breed. Do your research and take time to visit trainers or sporting dog colleagues who specialize in your breed of choice.
2. Develop a strong relationship with a veterinarian and practice staff before you obtain a new sporting dog. Discuss your plans, ask questions and have confidence and trust in the veterinary team you choose. Ask your veterinarian about developing a complete plan for your sporting dog’s total life care, including regular physical examinations, appropriate vaccinations, parasite control and reproductive options.
3. Picking a puppy is both art and science. Getting to the right litter with the right genetics and health clearances is one key to success. Find a proven pedigree and a reputable breeder with a solid track record.
4. Think of hardworking hunting dogs as canine athletes that require stamina and strength to perform at their best. A high protein, high fat diet – like Purina® Pro Plan® Sport – fuels those metabolic needs and helps maintain lean muscle. Go to www.proplansport.com to see which Pro Plan formula is right for your sporting dog.
5. Commit to keeping your dog in ideal body condition throughout its entire life. Extra pounds are hard on joints and diminish stamina and performance. Dogs in ideal body condition tend to live longer, healthier, happier lives. The Purina Body Condition Score is a great visual resource.
6. Sporting dogs need exercise – at least 15 to 20 minutes every day. Find safe spaces for off-leash runs or hikes. Mix in fun retrieves or other games appropriate for your breed. An active dog is a happy dog – mentally and physically.
7. Plan ahead for times when you’re away from home and your puppy or adult dog for extended periods of time. Will family or friends be available to help? Is there a boarding kennel nearby?
8. Training a dog starts the day you bring the puppy home. Basic house training, discipline and simple commands, like “sit” or “stay” and “kennel,” will serve your sporting dog for his or her entire life. Dogs love a fun job – put them to work!
9. Sporting dogs can be exposed to a myriad of canine diseases and illnesses – from tick-borne diseases including Lyme disease and Ehrlichiosis to Giardia, Canine Influenza and kennel cough. Work with your veterinarian and become familiar with common and uncommon signs of canine illness. When something seems “off” with your puppy or adult dog – see your veterinarian.
10. Join a club, training group or conservation organization with like-minded sporting dog owners. You and your dog will benefit from shared knowledge, resources, and access to training grounds – and you’ll be likely to make new friends afield. Spending time outdoors with the breed of your choice is a game-changer. It’s time to get in the game!