1. Always have control of your dog. No matter how well your dog responds to obedience training, it can only take a fraction of a second for an unexpected situation to cause illness or injury. For example, any dog can fall or jump from the back of a pick up truck and suffer sever traumatic injuries when they are not properly restrained.

2. Dogs should be on a preventative health schedule, and have a complete physical examination by your veterinarian at least twice a year. For example, heartworm disease is endemic in the U.S. Yearly heartworm tests and administration of heartworm preventative is  essential in preventing this life threatening disease. Many regions may require year round heartworm prevention.

3. Never administer any medications to your dog without veterinary supervision. Certain drugs and dosages used in humans can be toxic in dogs. For example, ibuprofen has a very narrow dose range in dogs. A single, inappropriate dose can cause kidney failure.

4. Always provide adequate ventilation and protection  from prolonged, direct sunlight during warmer months. During a 70 to 80 degree sunny day, temperatures in a car, (with open windows) can rapidly reach 100 to 120 degrees. Dogs have extremely inefficient cooling systems, and this type of situation can cause overheating of the tissues, seizures, heart dysfunction and death.

5. Have plenty of fresh water available. The best working dog will have a much greater water intake. Providing small amount frequently during the day prevents dehydration, and excessive intake which may result in bloating or vomiting.

6. Feed a high quality commercial diet. Your veterinarian will help you choose the most  appropriate diet. Offering two meals a day (rather then one), 1 hr. before and after the workday, decreases the risk of engorging, bloating, and provides a more constant energy supply. Hunting dogs should have small snacks during strenuous workouts since they are at a risk of developing low blood sugar.