Do you long for a dog of your own? Do you already have a pet dog? If you have answered yes to either of these questions, the tips below are perfect for you. You can find a lot of information about dog care that can make it easier for you to own a dog that gives you many wonderful years.
If you have over-the-counter medication or prescription medication in your home, keep it in a place the dog can’t access it. Dogs can have very negative side effects from even small amounts of medications intended for humans. If your dog eats your medication, see a vet right away.
Be wary about certain flea treatments to use for your dog. Lots of treatments contain things that can be harmful to kids. Ask your vet for recommendations. Be sure to keep children away while you’re applying any flea treatment.
Fight the urge to feed table scraps to your dog. This will make him beg more often, and he may gain a preference for human food. Table scraps are also not nutritionally sound for a dog, and this might mean digestive problems, obesity, and other ailments. Insist that your dog wait away from the table during family meals to avoid temptation on his part – and yours.
Keep your dog on leash any time he leaves your fenced yard, regardless of his gentle nature and good behavior. A wild animal could draw his attention and make him run off into danger, or an unexpected provocation could result in some unpleasant situation with other people and their dogs. It is your job to keep your dog safe, and to keep him from harming anyone else or causing anyone problems.
Don’t force anything into a dog. If you’re trying to get your dog to eat a new treat and it’s not showing any interest, don’t force them to eat it. Learn about your dog’s various likes and dislikes when you first bring it home.
Take the time to train your dog on a leash. Make him walk at your side, and do not let him pull far in front of you or stay far behind. Use the command “heel” to prompt him. Walking in this manner keeps your dog safe, and you are bound to enjoy walks more as well. Regardless of how you intend to take your walks, this is a good command for your dog to know.
You should carefully trim the hair near the paws to avoid matted hair. Use a comb first, then start cutting. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, take your dog to a groomer.
If your vet gives you special instructions for your dog’s care, follow them to the letter. There’s a reason dogs have to endure uncomfortable situations like a cone-collar! Your vet recommendations should be taken seriously for the betterment of your dog’s health.
Certain dog breeds are prone to specific health issues, so be aware of what is typical for your dog’s breed. You might be able to prevent some conditions from developing by taking a little extra care of him from the beginning. Your vet will be able to tell you how you can help your pet prevent illness that it is prone to getting.
Your dog needs plenty of affection. A lot of owners focus on correcting bad behaviors rather than displaying affection for their dog. If that persists, your dog may begin to act inappropriately to get your attention. Try to give your dog praise five times more than the amount of time you scold him. Your dog will more likely showcase proper behavior when you do that.
If your dog has an accident indoors, be certain you get rid of any sign of it. Use some professional strength cleaners and a good odor remover that works. Your dog may do his business in the exact same area if his scent from the excrement lingers.
When you eat snacks, you might be tempted to offer some to the dog. There are certain human foods that should not be fed to a dog. Chocolate, caffeine, and grapes are some examples of food that should not be given to dogs. Foods like these can cause huge medical problems.
You need to think carefully about getting a dog before you adopt one. There are a lot of ways you can do this and it is simple to be in love with a puppy dog face. In order to make sure you are ready for dog ownership, think it through carefully.
You can tell about your dog’s health by feeling is nose, but there are other factors, too. Even if your dog is sick, there are different reasons his nose may be wet and cold. Instead, look at how energetic your dog is, as well as his demeanor and appetite. Evaluating them will give you a better picture of your dog’s health. You can also check your dog’s temperature rectally.
Your training techniques should only use positive reinforcement. Praise your dog and give it a treat when it does something well instead of using punishments to get rid of bad behaviors. Humane treatment is more effective and works better over time. Be kind and you will enjoy great results.
Did you learn all you could from what you just read? If so, you should be in good shape to take proper care of your dog. When your problem is solved, you’ll be glad you did. Use these tips daily for a well-balanced relationship with your furry pal.
