Dogs make really good pets in the right situations and are so loyal that they’re known as man’s best friend.

Dogs are part of the canine family, which includes wolves and foxes.

The first domesticated dogs were bred from wolves around 12,000 years ago. Domesticated describes a wild animal that has been tamed.

The first pet dogs helped farmers look after their cows and sheep.

There are many different breeds of dog. There are small and large dogs, short and long-haired dogs, active and not so active dogs.

It is important to find out lots of information about the breed of dog you are thinking of keeping as a pet.

Dogs normally live for around 12 to 14 years, so a dog really is for life and you will have to be responsible for your dog all this time. You must also consider the cost of owning a dog for all this time.

Female dogs are called bitches and they can give birth to up to 16 puppies. Puppies keep their eyes shut until they are 2 weeks old. They drink milk from their mum and stay with her until they are 8 weeks old.

A new puppy needs a check-up to make sure it is healthy. The vet will also give the puppy injections, which are called vaccinations. These will prevent the puppy from catching diseases from other dogs.

Remember that puppies are cute, but they will soon grow up into big dogs.

‘Paws’ for a moment and remember that any dog can bite. Read these rules to help you avoid being bitten by a dog:

Don't bother dogs that are eating.

Don't bother dogs that are sleeping.

Don't bother dogs that are protecting their
territory.

Don't tease dogs or pull their hair, ears, or tail. Would YOU like it?

If the dog does not belong to you then leave him alone.

It sounds like fun to stop and play with a stray dog, but you could get bitten. If you are approached by a stray dog, put your arms by your side and stay still and calm. When the dog goes, back away slowly so you can still keep an eye on him.

A dog has a very strong sense of smell and can find his way using his nose. He can recognise people with his nose and can even tell if animals or people are relaxed or afraid.

Search and rescue dogs help find people in disasters by using their keen sense of smell.

Dogs can also work as sniffer dogs. These dogs use their fantastic sense of smell to search for bombs or drugs.

It is best not to feed a dog from the dinner table. Dogs can choke on leftover bones and human food isn’t especially good for dogs.

Dogs need to eat dog food and you can buy special dog treats if you want to reward your four-legged friend!

Never give your dog chocolate as it can make your dog very sick.

All dogs need fresh water. Leave a bowl of water outside and a bowl inside. In winter, remember the water outside can freeze and dogs can’t drink ice! In summer, change the water lots because your dog will need to drink more water.

If you’re not sure about anything then it is best to speak to your vet.

The most common problems that dogs suffer from include upset stomachs, coughs and lameness, so it is important to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups.

All dogs need worming. This means giving them tablets to get rid of nasty worms, which live in their stomachs. Urgh!

Your dog will need plenty of exercise, so make sure you are committed to taking a dog for walks.

Exercise will help keep your dog’s heart, lungs, and muscles strong and healthy and he will live for longer. It will also prevent your dog from becoming bored and it will make YOU feel good too!

If you have problems walking your dog, then dog obedience classes can be useful. The classes will teach you how to control your dog.

Right, I’m off for walkies...