Care of small hunting dogs: Tips and recommendations

Anyone who owns a small hunting dog knows how much these animals can bring both joy and challenges into our lives. Small hunting dogs are not only agile and energetic, but also exceptionally loyal and faithful. But like all dogs, they need special care to stay healthy and happy. In this article, we look at the various aspects of caring for these remarkable animals, from coat care to nutrition and health monitoring.

Coat care: How to keep your hunting dog's coat shiny

Small hunting dogs often have dense, weatherproof skins that require regular care. This can be a challenge, but don't worry, we have a few tips for you.

• Regular brushing: You should brush your hunting dog's coat thoroughly at least once a week. This helps to prevent tangles and knots and ensures that the natural oils are distributed throughout the coat, resulting in a shiny appearance.
• Bathing if required: Excessive bathing can dry out your dog's skin. Therefore, only bathe him when necessary, for example after a particularly muddy hunting trip. Use a mild dog shampoo for this.
• Check ears: Hunting dogs tend to get dirt and foreign objects in their ears. Check the ears regularly and clean them with a special ear cleaner if necessary.

Nutrition: What goes in the bowl?

A small hunting dog's diet should be balanced and nutritious to ensure its energy supply and promote its health. Here is some advice on this:

1. High quality dog food: Choose a food that has been specially developed for active dogs. Look out for ingredients such as antioxidants, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and high-quality proteins.
2. Calorie requirement: Hunting dogs have a higher calorie requirement than normal domestic dogs. Make sure that their diet fulfils these requirements without overfeeding them. An overweight dog is more susceptible to disease.
3. Fresh water: An active dog must always have access to fresh water, especially after a strenuous day outdoors.

Health management: How small hunting dogs stay fit

As with all dogs, it's important to regularly check the health of small hunting dogs and be proactive. Here are some tips on how best to do this:

• Regular visits to the vet: Your dog should have a health check at the vet at least once a year. This helps to recognise potential problems at an early stage.
• Vaccinations and deworming: Make sure your dog receives all necessary vaccinations and regular worming. Ask your vet for a vaccination and worming schedule that best suits your dog.
• Dental care: Don't ignore dental care. Dental disease can lead to serious health problems. Offer your dog chew toys or special dental care food and clean his teeth regularly.

Sufficient exercise: The key to a happy dog

Small hunting dogs are extremely active and need a lot of exercise. Without sufficient physical and mental stimulation, they can quickly develop behavioural problems. Here are a few ideas on how you can keep your dog fit:

• Walks and runs: At least one hour of active training per day is a must for hunting dogs. Think about varied routes and interesting sniffing opportunities.
• Retrieval games: These dogs love to chase things and bring them back. Retrieving games are a great way to provide both exercise and mental stimulation.
• Mental stimulation: Also remember to challenge your dog's brain, for example with intelligence toys or training exercises. This will keep your dog not only physically but also mentally fit.

Social interaction: a must for small hunting dogs

Social interaction is also essential for the well-being of your small hunting dog. Isolation can lead to boredom and even behavioural problems. Here are a few tips:

• Playgroups: Organise meetings with other dog owners or visit dog playgrounds so that your dog can interact with other dogs of the same species.
• Commitment to you: Spend quality time with your dog every day. Activities together strengthen the bond and reduce stress and boredom.
• Training sessions: Regular training sessions not only encourage behaviour, but also provide a great opportunity for interaction and mental stimulation.

Conclusion: love and dedication pay off

Caring for a small hunting dog takes time and dedication, but the reward in the form of a happy, healthy and loyal companion is priceless. With the right coat care, nutrition, health management and enough exercise and social interaction, your little hound will stay fit and happy. And the best part? You'll enjoy every minute of it! That's a promise.

Remember: every responsible action ultimately benefits you and your beloved four-legged friend. So every day becomes a little adventure - for you and your little hound.

FAQs

Can you let hunting dogs run off the lead?

Why is the hunter allowed to let his dog run around freely, but not me? Hunters are exempt from any obligation to keep their dogs on a lead in the forest. Hunting dogs have passed a usability test in which they have to prove that they are fit for hunting, which also includes obedience.

What do hunting dogs need?

Your dog needs calcium and phosphorus for its bones, skeletal stability and other important metabolic functions. Many trace elements and vitamins also have a more or less direct effect on your dog's performance, such as selenium, iodine or iron as well as vitamin E and B vitamins.

How much exercise does a hunting dog need?

Hunting dogs and greyhounds are generally considered to be particularly active, which is why they need at least one to two hours of intensive activity every day. The situation is different for breeds that were bred without a specific working task, such as pugs.

What care does a dog need?

Dog care: Summarised for you. A healthy diet and dental care are the be-all and end-all of dog care, so always check your dog for ticks and give him worming treatments. Regular combing is essential. Check the paws for injuries and apply cream as required in winter.

How often should I feed my hunting dog?

The frequency of feeding depends on your dog's age and activity level. In general, puppies should be fed three to four times a day, while an adult hunting dog can manage with two meals a day. It is important to adjust the portion size and calorie content to the individual energy requirements.

Can small hunting dogs be kept in flats?

Yes, small hunting dogs can be kept indoors as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks and playful activities are essential to ensure your dog stays healthy and balanced, even in an urban environment.

How can I mentally stimulate my hunting dog?

In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation is also important. You can use intelligence toys, play sniffing games or even teach new tricks and commands. Regular training sessions and challenges will keep your dog's mind sharp and promote their well-being.