Fun Facts

• The nose knows! Your dog can detect odors about a billion times better than you can.
• The average lifespan of a dog varies from 8 to 16 years, depending on breed type, size, genetics and care.

Cost

The annual cost of a small dog—including food, veterinary care, toys and license—is $420. Make that $620 for a medium dog and $780 for a large pooch. This figure doesn’t include capital expenses for spay/neuter surgery, collar and leash, carrier and crate.

Dog Supply Checklist

• Premium-quality dog food and treats
• Food dish
• Water bowl
• Toys, toys and more toys, including safe chew toys
• Brush & comb for grooming, including flea comb
• Collar with license and ID tag
• Leash
• Carrier (for smaller dogs)
• Training crate
• Dog bed or box with warm blanket or towel
• Dog toothbrush

The No-No List

Do not feed your dog the following:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Grapes & raisins
• Moldy or spoiled food
• Onions, garlic & chives
• Poultry bones
• Salt & salty foods
• Tomato leaves, stems & unripe fruit
• Yeast dough