What are the breeding methods and precautions for raising a Chinese rural dog (Tugou)?

Tugou, also known as the Chinese rural dog (Zhonghua Tianyuan Quan), is the oldest native dog in China. It is loyal, honest, good at guarding the home, and gentle by nature. In rural areas, almost every household keeps a Tugou. Below we introduce how to raise a Tugou?

1. Regular daily routine

Puppies should have a regular daily routine, with feeding at set times and in set amounts, and balanced nutrition. Do not let puppies develop the bad habit of being picky eaters, which can lead to nutritional imbalance. Pay attention to preventing hypervitaminosis (especially vitamin A or D) or calcium deficiency.

2. Observe urination and defecation

Closely observe the puppy's urination and defecation to judge whether it is normal. The number of bowel movements generally changes with the dog's age. A 1-month-old dog may go several times a day, and by 2 months of age, about 3 times a day on average. Normal stool is shaped like a strip, moderately soft and firm, and usually slightly yellow.

3. Temperature and light

Do not let the puppy's belly stay on the ground for a long time, as this makes it easy to catch a chill, causing diarrhea or a cold. It can play and exercise appropriately indoors or in the yard. When the sunlight is not too strong and the outdoor temperature is not too high, letting the puppy bask in the sun and take a sunbath is good for bone growth.

4. Habit formation

A 2-month-old Chinese rural dog puppy should be able to begin education in good habits. Give it a name, and often call its name so that it knows this is calling it, establishing a conditioned reflex. Training for the habit of urinating and defecating at a fixed spot can also begin, so that it gradually develops good habits.

5. Vaccination

Preventive vaccination is very important. The most important is to first vaccinate against canine distemper, canine parvovirus, and infectious hepatitis. After vaccination, it takes about 2 weeks to develop resistance (antibodies).

The Chinese rural dog has many advantages. Compared with foreign dog breeds, it is simple and convenient to raise, extremely easy to keep alive, and also affordable in price.