Dog care tips needed please

I've been wanting to get a dog for a few years, but wanted to wait till my kids were old enough to help/be responsible (they are 11 now).

I'm going to visit the rescue centre and see what they have in, I know they get new dogs all the time .. don't really know what I'm looking for apart from the fact that I want a dog that chooses me. I've tried hard NOT to think about size, colour, type etc.. as I don't want to be biased when I get there. I just want connection.

I'm at home most of the day, so caring for a dog won't be a problem ... we'll keep each other company :-) Give me someone to talk to as opposed to talking to myself!

Things I would like help with (I've never owned a dog):

Are ordinary dog foods good? I want my dog to eat a good, organic and natural diet. Can anyone recommend recipes. Also, do they need supplements?

I also read that it is healthy to fast a dog one day a week because it is how animals behave in the wild and it would be healthy for digestion etc.. is this a good thing?

Also, how do I settle a dog into a new home, bearing in mind that it's unlikely to be a puppy and may have some emotional issues about loosing it's old home or having been badly treaten in the past?

Do dogs need to urinate/have bowel movements at specific times of the day? What are the best times to walk the dog for this purpose?

When I get this dog, it's going to be my new baby, so please help me give him or her the best.

Thanks for any help!

(Going to ask shelly on her forum too)



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