EAR CROPPING AND TAIL DOCKING

You may have purchased a puppy of a breed that requires ear cropping and tail docking as show standards. Boxers, Doberman Pinschers, and Great Danes are among the breeds requiring cropping or docking or both. Docking and cropping are relatively minor operations performed under anesthesia, usually when the pup is 6 to 8 weeks old.

Most kennel operators specializing in the breeds requiring cropping or docking usually have the work done before selling the pups. There are some, however, who consider cropping and docking the new owner's responsibility. If you get a pup that needs cropping and docking, and you decide to have the work done, don't delay; the earlier the better. Ear cropping and tail docking are against the law in some states, so be sure to check the legality of these operations in your state.

The chances are your puppy will have some off-days, times when he will not feel good. When he does, you should be able to recognize these off-days and be prepared to help him.

A normal, healthy puppy is amiable and happy. He's responsive and eager to please you. He'll run, play and romp at the drop of the proverbial hat. His eyes are clear, bright, and free from inflammation, and his nose clean and moist. (A dry hot nose, however, does not mean he is ill.) The pup will "talk" to you with barks or yelps or transmit his exuberance in sign language with expressive tail-wags. He'll eat his food with pleasure, often bolting it down with gusto, and drink moderate amounts of water. His bowel movements will be regular and well formed (most of the prepared dog meals will contribute to large, bulky bowel movements); he'll have a bowel movement at least three times a day and perhaps more, depending on the number of feedings and type of food. In short, the healthy puppy is a bundle of energy and mischief.

But when he has an off-day, there is a drastic change. He gets a woeful expression. He'll lack pep, become listless, sluggish, and lose his usual eagerness for fun and adventure. He may refuse to eat, or just pick at his food. His need for water may be increased, and he'll have an unusual thirst, drinking more than his customary amount. He may have frequent bowel movements, possibly watery or bloody with a foul odor. Or he may be constipated. He may also vomit or gag.

Your puppy's eyes are a very good indicator of his general health. When ill, his eyes may be inflamed, weeping or discharging a thick matter. His nose may be plugged with a thick discharge or just "run." Finally, a check of his temperature may show that it is above or below the normal range of 101° to l020 Fahrenheit.

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