Here are some common canine quandaries!

1. I've got a new puppy - what dog supplies do I need to have before I bring him home?

• a travel crate to actually transport him home. This will come in handy for future trips, including trips to the vet.
• good food and water bowls. Stainless steel are a good idea, as they can't be chewed. And plastic bowls may over time leach chemicals into the water.
• Good quality food. If you're getting your dog from a breeder, try and find out in advance what food they raised the puppies on. It's best to start with this brand as your new pet will be used to it. You can always switch to another brand later on.
• an adjustable collar
• a leash
• puppy toys
• bedding

2. Crate training sounds really weird - what is it?

Crate training is good for dogs that might create havoc in the house if left alone for longer periods of time. It's a good idea to get your dog used to being in the crate when he's a puppy. But it's important that it is seen as a place of refuge, and not a punishment. So, never use it when he is in trouble.

Start by putting him in there for short amounts of time, and leave the door open at first. They you can start closing the door, but only for brief intervals initially. Gradually, leave the door closed for longer, and give him treats whenever he enters the crate. You can even give him his meals in there once he gets more comfortable with the experience.

When you get home though, its important to take your dog out of the crate, so he can socialize with his family of humans.

3. Can you tell me about microchips?

Microchips are small devices that are injected under a dog's skin. Many dogs will already come microchipped. They're a great way for a dog's owner to be found should their pet escape from the yard. The details of ownership are stored in a database, and accessed through scanning the chip. It's a very safe procedure.

4. What if my dog has worms? How can I tell?

Pets pick up worms very easily, especially puppies. Your dog should be wormed regularly. Most worms can cause gastrointestinal irritation, and potentially lead to nutrient deficiencies, and heartworm can even be fatal. Types of worms that canines can get include tapeworms, hookworms, whipworms, and heartworms.

You may notice worms in their stool. Or they may simply not be gaining weight though they eat well. Vets can take a stool sample and check it under a microscope. Worms are often treated as a preventative, and if your dog gets regular checkups, and more serious problems should be easily identified.

The worm medicine available from vets is stronger and more effective than the worm treatments you get in the supermarket or pet shop.

5. Why should I get my dog fixed?

There's a real tendency for people to project their own feelings onto their pets with regards neutering. For a discussion on male dog neutering myths, click here.

Over 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized every year because they cannot be found homes. There is a massive overpopulation, and unless you are going to breed your dog professionally, get him fixed from the start. His temperament will be better, he will be less likely to spray to mark his territory, and he won't try and escape with such intent if there is a female in the neighborhood on heat.

Spraying and neutering your puppy before he reaches 6 months can also lower the risk of him getting some cancers and infections by half! That's a big difference.

6. Does my dog need obedience school?

The short answer is - yes. For larger dogs, and some breeds, obedience training is more necessary than with others, however, all dogs (and owners) can benefit. Dogs are taught to do what they are commanded to, and people also learn how to communicate with their dogs in a way their canine friends understand. This can prevent a lot of frustration later on.

Another benefit to dogs is in socialization, as they are taught how to be calm when there are a lot of strangers (dogs and people), around. It's a much easier environment to do this in than the local park at peak dog-traffic time!