Do's and Don'ts
| DO's.... *...keep an eye on your new IG for the first few weeks in order to establish good housetraining habits. There are products on the market that can help you with this such as bellybands (for boys), pottypads for cold weather, etc. *...crate train your IG. Trust us when we say that if done properly, crate training is neither cruel nor punishment. Dogs are "den animals" who enjoy having a spot of their very own in which to hide their toys, lounge, and generally call "special". Keep in mind that NO dog should be crated for long periods of time without potty breaks!! If you are someone who works long hours, it is advised that you contact a petsitter for midday breaks! Also, crate training insures the safety of your IG during such occasions as moving, parties, etc when doors may be opened and your IG may slip out which brings us to our next point.... *...ensure that your IG cannot slip past you when a door is opened. They can be very quick and will no doubt head for the largest street in your area. It is a must that you are exceptionally careful that your IG does not slip outside. *...ALWAYS have your IG (or other sighthound) on a leash when not in a fenced area. Because sighthounds hunt by sight, they are notorious for spotting something several blocks away and running after it, without regard for traffic and other dangers. NEVER allow your IG to b off-leash outside of a fenced area! *...consider that your IGs legs are fine (and beautiful!). Remember that a fall from a high area (such as a tall bed) may cause a broken leg. It is imperative that you keep this in mind when allowing your IG to do certain things around the home. It is also a good idea to keep in mind that broken legs can be expensive...lay aside a few bucks for a rainy day! DON'Ts... *...allow your IG to run off leash when outside of a fenced area. *...punish your IG for housetraining errors. Instead, move the IG to the correct location and praise him upon "completion of the job". If you find that your IG is not able to hold it for nine hours, simply roll up a newspaper and hit yourself over the head with it! Can you hold it for nine hours? *...put off that dental work!! IGs should have their teeth brushed at least every-other day, and dentals at least once per year. This will help your IG retain his choppers into old age! *...wait until an emergency arises to find a good vet. Be on good terms with your vet as well as a 24 hour emergency vet and feel comfortable with them!! It can make a huge difference if an emergency arises!! *...think that your IG is just around for good looks! They can be wonderful therapy dogs, and compete in such things as agility, obedience, and lure coursing!! |
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