Caring for dogs is a huge amount of work. Being a dog owner is almost like being a parent. Just replace barks for cries. Even though it’s a big responsibility, you can learn to do it well. Want some advice? Read on.
Owning a dog is quite a large financial commitment. Food, supplies and vet bills can add up to $1,000 or more per year. Pet insurance can be a good investment because your pet may require emergency care for illness or injury.
It is important to puppy-proof your home. Check your whole home to be sure it is safe prior to bringing a dog home. All cleaning supplies and medications should be moved out of reach of your dog. You should also find a way of securing your trash somewhere that your dog cannot get to, such as in a cabinet. Some indoor plants are poisonous, so put them high up.
Be wary when it comes to flea treatments. Several have cancer causing ingredients, and they can be especially harmful to young children. Discuss family-friendly alternative flea treatments with your vet. Be sure to store all flea treatments out of the reach of children.
Don’t give your dog leftovers from your own plate. This will encourage constant begging and reduce their appetite towards their own food. Your dog may develop digestive problems and become fat if you feed it table scraps. Make your dog leave the room if he begins to beg, or train him to spend mealtimes in another room entirely.
Allow your lifestyle to dictate the type of dog you adopt or purchase. A good example would be if you are a runner. A dog that can keep up with you while you run would be a good choice. Also, if you like to stay at home, find small dogs that prefer sitting on laps and being stroked. Both of you are sure to be happier if you choose a good match.
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, he needs a dog house. If his feet are wet during very cold weather, it will stress him and lead to health problems. Keep your dog safe by giving him shelter.
It’s important to make sure that your pup’s nails stay trimmed. Once the nails start to curl under, they can cause your dog a great deal of pain. It is easy to purchase a pair of clippers and attend to these yourself. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, you can take him to the groomers and have them done for very little money.
If you get a dog that was in a pound or shelter, you must see a vet right away. Dogs in shelters could be sick or may have already been exposed to some viruses. You need to ensure your dog gets their shots.
Make sure to exercise your dog often. In order to stay fit and sharp-minded, a dog needs to spend plenty of time being physically active and playing constructive games. From a walk to chasing a ball, everything counts. It gives you exercise and helps develop a relationship that will last forever with your dog.
If you have just one dog who spends lots of time alone, consider getting a buddy dog. Dogs like to be around their own kind. By choosing another dog that matches your pup’s energy level and temperament, you’ll ensure that your dogs will be great companions for each other.
Stay involved politically for your dog. Keep your eye on potentially-restrictive legislation regarding dogs. That legislations is often motivated by certain breeds or certain dogs that have behaved badly. Stand up for your rights!
Don’t let too many people train your dog. Everybody does things differently, and a dog can be confused by having several commanders. Designate one person to be in charge of training and have others reinforce everything the dog learns by adhering to the same rules and respecting the process.
Dog care is not something that should be taken lightly. Just like having a baby, a puppy requires constant care. While it is not an easy task, it is something you can excel at. This article can help you take better care of a dog.
