[aj55]

Hello,

I am trying to figure out what I can give my 8 month old lab as a treat once in a while. I have read that beef bones do harm to there teeth. Are bull sticks OK? Also, we just finished beginner obedience classes where he has learned the basics (sit/stay/come/lie down/off/look/walking on leash), should we be continuing advanced obedience classes and are they worth it. We would also like to try agility training once he is a year old. TIA

[labman]

I am not real familiar with the bull sticks. Strikes me as a way for the slaughter houses to get good money out of something otherwise of low value. I am afraid they would be much like rawhide, pigs ears, and other natural treats, dangerous. Even if the dog doesn't tear off a piece, it will quickly gnaw it down to where it is big enough to start down the throat or digestive system, but stick, swell, and choke or obstruct the bowel.

The dog guide school I raise puppies for has experience with thousands of young Labs. They flatly forbid much except Kongs and Nylabones. Many Labs are aggressive chewers and occasionally get into trouble with any of the consumable treats. Some can't even be trusted with the softer Gummabones or Flexibones. You can get Nylabones in many different types. Many dogs seem to like the dinosaurs. A Nylabone jammed into a Kong is greater than the sum of the parts. I think it makes the bone easier for the dog to hold.

You are right to suspect natural bones. Some day I am going to get picture of my 12 year old Lab Aster's teeth and post it on the web. She has never had much to chew except Kongs and Nylabones, and her teeth are in excellent shape. The front ones still show the 3 lobed pattern.

A good basic obedience class should have taught you how to play the top dog role your dog needs. If not, continuing advanced in the same program won't help. Advanced is more about sharing fun with your dog and competing. Not essential, but maintaining regular time with the dog. Agility is another way to do it. You are right to defer it until his joints have had more time to develop. In the mean time, keep him lean, and switch to an adult chow if still on a puppy chow. That is the most important thing you can be doing now to assure a long, active life.

[aj55]

Thanks for the info... we have had him on adult chow since he was 4 months old... the obedience class we went to was great and really helped us understand being top dog... I think we stay with the classes as it is a great chance to bond with our dog.

[Dr D]

I am no expert on dogs, but I know what my Charlie loves: Chicken Jerky. Costco carries it 2 1/2 lbs for $11; Sam's Club 2lbs for < $10. It has 70% crude protein and is 97% fat free. I have passed out baggies of the jerky to other dog owners and have gotten rave reviews. I've even cought a couple of my friends munching on them (after perhaps too many beers)