How often should I feed my Telomian, and at what times?
Feed your Telomian at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Sticking to set times helps their digestion, and you can ask your vet for a schedule that fits your dog's age and activity.2
What should a Telomian eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A balanced dog food is best for your Telomian. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and raw meat or bones. Always check with your vet about safe treats and portions.3
How often should I bathe a Telomian?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets dirty. The short coat is easy to care for, so a gentle dog shampoo is all you need.4
How often does a Telomian need brushing?
Brush your Telomian once a week to keep the short coat healthy and remove loose hair. Pet Wiki's plan recommends weekly brushing, which is quick and easy for this breed.4
How do I trim a Telomian's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part), and use a dog nail trimmer. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demo.4
How much exercise does a Telomian need?
Your Telomian is an energetic, athletic dog that loves to climb and explore, so daily walks and play are a must. Pet Wiki's plan suggests daily exercise to keep this active breed happy and healthy.1
How do I look after a Telomian's teeth and ears?
Brush your Telomian's teeth daily with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Never push anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki's plan includes weekly ear checks and daily brushing for best care.4
How long does a Telomian live?
Telomians are a healthy breed, and with good care they often live 12 to 15 years. Senior years usually start around age 8, so regular vet checkups are important as they age.
Is a Telomian good with children and other pets?
Telomians are people-loving and spirited, so they can be great with children if socialized early. Their terrier-like character means they may need careful introductions to other pets. Ask a good breeder for tips on your specific dog.1
Can a Telomian be left alone?
This active, people-loving breed may struggle with long periods alone. They thrive on company and can become bored or anxious if left too often. For specific advice, talk to your vet or a good breeder.1
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
per year, in your countryWhat a Telomian costs
Running costs for a Telomian, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
by countryIs the Telomian legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Telomian in the 61 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
It is famous for climbing, because the homes it lived in stood on stilts and were reached by simple ladders.1
2
Females usually come into season only once a year rather than twice.1
I am a Telomian. My day starts with a stretch and a climb onto the roof to watch the sunrise. Then I dash through the garden, chasing butterflies and exploring every nook. I love greeting my humans with a wagging tail and a playful bow. After a game of fetch, I nap in a shady spot. In the afternoon, I dig a small hole and sniff the earth. When the family gathers, I hop onto a lap for cuddles. Life is a joyful climb.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
where it all beganTelomian history
The Telomian lived with the Orang Asli in the Malay rainforest, where it was kept as a pet and hunting dog and helped keep rats and snakes away. Anthropologist Dr Orville Elliot sent a pair to the United States in 1963 and another pair in 1973, and all American Telomians descend from those four dogs.1
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