Dog training and health tips with Sam Wood and Dr Lisa Chimes

Four-legged family members

If you’re a dog owner, you know the special place our pooches hold in our hearts. They’re a wonderful addition to the family, and make fantastic companions for people of all ages and life stages. They’re almost always up for an outing, whether it’s a drive in the car or a walk to the shops and if your dog is well socialised, they’ll love meeting other people and dogs when they’re out and about.

Dogs are also great pets for children as they teach little ones about the responsibility that comes with caring for a pet. Kids as young as two can get involved in caring for a puppy or dog, feeding them kibble in their dish, throwing the ball for them and brushing their coat. Older kids can get involved in walking your dog, washing them and picking up after them around the yard, although this one tends to be a less popular task.

Train for tricks

They’re part of the family and like any family member, dogs need to know the house rules. That’s why training your dog to respond to basic commands is a valuable way to teach them right from wrong. One useful command is “Leave it.” It teaches your dog self-control, so in situations where they might find it difficult not to eat something they’ve found, or pick up an object they shouldn’t. Ideally, when you issue the command to “Leave it” they will wait.

Take a look at our training video to teach your dog to “Leave it”, featuring Dr Lisa Chimes and Sam Wood and try it at home.

Protect their health

Training is a great way to help your dog learn and engage with the family. And because they’re one of the family, you want to know they’re healthy and happy, too. Dogs are susceptible to four major parasite groups – fleas, ticks, heartworm and intestinal worms and, if left untreated, some of these can lead to serious illness or even death.

Fortunately, there’s an easy way to get the ball rolling and help protect them from these nasties. With NexGard Spectra, your dog will receive the most complete parasite protection available in one tasty beef-flavoured chew that your dog will think is a treat! No more worrying about messy liquids on their skin or tablets they can spit out.

Given monthly, NexGard Spectra is suitable from just eight weeks of age, so it’s ideal for puppies right through to seniors. All you need to do is choose the one that matches your dog, with chews available to treat dogs weighing from 2kg to 60kg, and in your choice of 1, 3 or 6 months protection pack. (Single pack only available from veterinarians.)

To find out which NexGard Spectra is right for your dog and to learn more, visit the website at nexgardspectra.com.au

See label for full claim details and directions for use.