Sometimes adoption or fostering a dog or new puppy can bring up questions that need answers. And sometimes pet owners or just pet lovers who don’t own dogs have questions, too. So let’s get to the heart of some of the more popular questions here, and supply some answers.

Dogs sure seem to lead pretty short lives, compared to humans, is that correct? While it appears that nearly all types of creatures have predetermined spans of life, it’s not common knowledge why dogs have such short spans, but they do, not for any special medical or other reasons. To help extend your dog’s life, help by providing a good diet, plenty of exercise and regular trips to the vet for shots and check ups.

Does size matter where life span is concerned; i.e. do small dogs live longer on average than large dogs? Strangely enough it seems to, possibly having to do with their metabolic rate, because large dogs – like the Irish Wolfhound, Great Dane or St. Bernard may live up to around nine years. While very small Chihuahuas and Poodles seem to live nearly two decades.

Should dogs, especially older ones, have special canine vitamins? All dogs should be eating a nutritional diet. See your vet about the brands of food he or she recommends as well as any supplements, vitamins or minerals. Especially check with aging dogs, because they may need a multivitamin, as they do not absorb nutrients like the younger dogs do from their intestinal tracts.

Should dogs have baths regularly, like humans do – or should, for example, even once a week at least? In a nutshell, when dogs are dirty, bathe them. Pick up good dog shampoos, conditioners, and other dog grooming supplies right online, ask your vet for suggestions, or shop at local pet supply stores and pet stores.

Do younger dogs need more food while older dogs eat less? Let’s put it this way, puppies eat a lot at first as they grow, up to twice as much as those who are not growing any longer. An adult dog’s diets will eventually stabilize but note: sick dogs stop eating and older dogs do eat less as they grow less active. Regardless of the amount of food, always make sure to provide nutritious dog food and keep it in safe, sturdy storage containers to keep it fresh.

Have any questions you'd like answered? Ask in your comment and we'll work on those in future Hubs!

Thanks for stopping by :)