Dogs

Dogs are mammals. They are also carnivores, which means they eat meat. Male dogs are called dogs, females are called bitches, and their young are pups.

Life Cycle
When a male and a female dog mate, the male's sperm joins with eggs inside the female's body. Puppies begin to grow. About two months later, the puppies are born. There can be about six puppies in a litter. For about 10 days the puppies are blind and deaf. While they are little, the puppies are cleaned and fed by their mother. They drink milk from their mother's teats until they are about six weeks old. After they are eight weeks old the pups can look after themselves.

Feeding your dog
Dogs eat meat, cereals such as rice, and vegetables. Specially prepared dog foods are avialable from pet shops and from vets. A bone to chew will help to clean the dog's teeth. Dogs need plenty of fresh water to drink.

Exercise and grooming
Your dog needs some exercise every day. This means that it will have to be taken for a walk or run. Brushing the dog and bathing it regularly will keep its coat clean and healthy and free from fleas.

Go here to read about caring for your dog and about tips on choosing a dog
http://www.purinaone.com/dogcare.asp?ICDB_Session=1

For more about caring for your pet dog
http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/dog_care/

http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pets_dogcare

A history of dogs is here
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/animals/pets/dogs.shtml

Responsible pet ownership
Dogs, like most pets, enjoy the company of people and depend on their owners for food, protection and shelter. Before becoming a pet owner think carefully about all the things you will have to do to care for your pet responsibly.

Acknowledge this source in your bibliography like this:
Dogs (2007). [Online], Available: www.kidcyber.com.au

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updated March 2007