…..long, hot, lazy days.  It all sounds great, right?  Especially when you add the ‘dog’ into the equation.  What could be better than spending those summer days with your best friend?  It doesn’t really matter what your preference is, there is a dog suited to join you.  The Canadian Kennel Club recognizes 175 different breeds, while the FCI (international registry) recognizes 344 breeds. 

So let’s say you are an avid hiker or biker, and want a companion who can keep up with a lot of activity.  You could choose one of the herding breeds like a Belgian Shepherd or German Shepherd,  or maybe a Dalmatian, who was bred to run alongside the fire truck.  The sporting dogs are also bred to go long distances without tiring so a Setter or Retriever would also do the job.  Need protection on your hike?  Why not take a Rottweiler or Doberman with you?  They have the endurance and although most of them have sweet temperaments, don’t mess with their ‘person’ if you don’t want to pay the consequences. 


Maybe being that active on a hot summer day isn’t your idea of a good time, but hanging out on the beach or going boating is.  Well there are lots of dogs who also love the water!  The Portuguese Water Dog  has the bonus of being non-allergenic.   Labs or Goldens love the water too and are great water companions.  If you want to go big or go home, how about going for one of Canada’s indigenous breeds?  The Newfoundland is a water rescue dog, so certainly is at home in the water.  He even has webbed toes for a powerful swimming stroke.

If the sun is too much for you and you prefer to sit in the shade with a cool drink, a bulldog would be happy to join you.  There are many hound dogs that have energy when required, but if given an option, are quite content to flop on their side and have a long nap.  Lots of the toy dogs also just like to nap in the sunshine when not called upon to join in your other activities.

Basically, what I am trying to say, is that no matter what your pleasure, there is a breed of dog out there who is more than happy to accompany you through those dog days of summer.   If you want more information on the many different types of dogs, head to the CKC website to check it out.

https://www.ckc.ca/en/Choosing-a-Dog/Choosing-a-Breed

Once you have your dog, training is pretty important too.  There needs to be good communication between you and your dog, and respect and responsibility from both parties as well.  There are some good training clubs in most of the larger centers in Saskatchewan.  In Regina, you can contact  the Regina Kennel & Obedience Club, Kaos Dog Sports, Wascana Obedience Club, & The Hydeout Dog Training Center among others.

Grooming is another important aspect of owning a dog.  Some dogs do not require much coat care, but they all need their nails done.  You can learn to do the grooming yourself, or hire a professional.  This is something that is needed on a regular basis, so don’t be surprised if your groomer gets mad at you if you don’t show up for 8 months and your dog is in mats.   Not only is this hard for your groomer to do their job, but it can be uncomfortable and even painful for your dog.

Find a good Veterinarian that you and your dog get along with.  Build a rapport with your vet and keep regular visits to ensure the health of your dog.  After all, you want to spend many years together.  If you get the opportunity to get your dog from a reputable breeder, they will also be a wealth of knowledge and support as you and your dog bond and embark on many adventures together.  The breeder will also be willing to take your dog back should anything ever come up that prevents you from keeping your beloved pet.

Bottom line?  Sharing your adventures of the dog days of summer, and the rest of the year can be enhanced if you get to spend it with your best bud.  Just ask me, I have a few .

Lydine Denzin
Sincerely,

Lydine Denzin