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Of canine varieties

Are you planning to adopt a dog? Here are some tips



Puppy love Children take to pets naturally photo: S.R. Raghunathan

Choosing a pet and taking care of it aren't easy. More so if the pet is a pedigree which demand special attention. Here are a few tips on some dog breeds:

The German Shepherd (GSD): One of the most popular breeds, they are loyal but obsessive. Shepherds by nature, they needs to be in charge; they're very intelligent and fiercely protective. They are not family pets but great family guardians. Very quick-tempered, they need plenty of exercise, grooming and will shed a lot of hair on a daily basis. GSDs are prone to ear infections and hip dysphasia.

The Doberman Pinscher: Bred to be guard dogs, they are also known to be very friendly and playful. Intelligent, sensitive and high-strung, they are known to suffer from depression. Easy to train and groom, they could have a mind of their own. A very misunderstood breed, they make good adult companions. They are prone to liver disorders.

The Golden Retriever: An extremely loveable pet that loves to play and retrieve things, hence the name. They need grooming twice a day due to their long coat. Prone to skin problems and ear infections.

The Labrador: One of the most popular family pets. Very loving and with a stable temperament. They need plenty of exercise as they are prone to obesity.

The Dalmatian: Another suitable and popular pet. Intuitively intelligent, friendly but sometimes the males can be unpredictable. They don't need too much exercise; they love water and swimming. They are prone to skin, kidney and urinary tract problems, and sometimes deafness.

The Pomeranian: Definitely not a child's pet! They are more suited to adults. Resistant to disease, they can be spoilt easily. They tend to bite when cornered, particularly by children. They need plenty of grooming and good oral hygiene. Poms have a tendency to express emotional problems by developting skin disorders.

The Pug: The breed shot to fame after a mobile phone advertisement on television. It is a safe family pet, friendly and with an easy temperament. However, they're prone to injuries and infections of the eye because of their prominent, protruding eyes. Also prone to skin problems.

Exotic hounds and mountain breeds such as the St. Bernard: Most exotic hounds and mountain breeds are unsuitable as pets as they have traits that you may not be prepared to deal with: aggression, stalking, hunting, and so on. Dogs like the St. Bernard are best for the mountains and a cold climate. Keeping a dog with thick fur like the St. Bernard is cruel and inconsiderate in a tropical climate.

AMALA AKKINENI

With inputs from
Dr. Lakshmi Ramana

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