A dog can provide you with many things, including love and attention. They make for an amazing pet the whole family will love. To ensure that you’re caring for your dog properly, use the tips below.
Go on and hug your dog, but do not kiss him. Dogs lick dirty things you don’t even want to think about. Dogs love to dig in garbage, get into the toilet, and then they lick their butts, yuck! Many people believe that dogs’ mouths do not have as much germs as humans’ mouths. However, this simply is not the case.
Spay or neuter your dog. Research suggests that this small thing can give extended life to your dog by reducing cancer risk. Also, dogs that get fixed won’t feel the need to wander away so that may mean that they won’t get into accidents like getting hit by a vehicle.
If you have medication for you or a family member, be certain your dog cannot reach it. Your dog could have a heart attack or a seizure if it swallows some pills. If your pet does manage to ingest some medicine, contact the vet right away.
Avoid giving your pooch table food. This causes regular begging and will cause him to dislike his food. Table scraps can actually lead to obesity and other health concerns. To prevent temptation, have your dog separated from the area you eat in.
Don’t let a dog go off property without their leash, even if they’re well behaved. A dog might run after an animal and get into trouble, or it might get into a fight with another animal. You are solely responsible for the dog’s actions and for the dog’s safety as well.
If you are not sure how often you should feed your dog, ask your vet. While some individuals give their dogs food by following the package, sometimes these guidelines are inappropriate for your dog. The vet will know what is best for your pet.
Don’t get your dog food based on how cheap it is. Less expensive brands of dog food often contain artificial coloring, additives, preservatives and so on that can be very bad for your dog. Professional associations and dog advocacy groups may offer lists of the highest quality foods available. Your dog will appreciate your research.
Your dog must learn to walk on a leash correctly. The dog needs to stay beside you, not behind or in front of you. It also needs to know the command “heel”. Having a dog that can properly walk on a leash will be more enjoyable for both you and your pup. If you are using a loose leash, you help your dog to realize this is the best way to go about it.
Never leave a dog outside for long periods of time. Many people do this, but dogs need interactions with others. A dog by himself tends to be lonely and not motivated to do anything. Plus, bad weather can be health and even life threatening to your pet.
Always follow your vet’s instructions to a tee. Dogs may resist wearing cones, but they are there for good reason. Your veterinarian only has your dog’s best interests at heart, and if you don’t listen, you may inadvertently cause your dog harm.
If your female dog is in heat be cautious – she could very easily become pregnant. A male is able to smell her from as much as five miles in the distance! As well as possibly causing a fight amongst male dogs in the area, she might actually get pregnant.
Be politically active on behalf of your pooch! Be on the lookout for changes in local laws and ordinances that may restrict and regulate a dog owner’s rights. Sometimes, a small number of bad dogs get more publicity than a large number of good dogs. You can be a great help by showing the local officials that responsible owners should have rights.
Keep vet appointments for your dog. Your vet can identify health issues such as diabetes, kidney disease and thyroid abnormalities before the problem is apparent to you. Annual dog physicals can spare lots of money later for owners and keep them from suffering now.
Have your pet checked out by your vet on a regular basis. At regular intervals your dog needs heartworm testing, vaccinations, and general check-ups. Puppies must visit the vet more often. If your dog becomes ill or is injured, don’t delay in getting him to the vet.
Always think carefully before you bring dog into your home and life. It’s not difficult to love a puppy when you see them for the first time. In order to make sure you are ready for dog ownership, think it through carefully.
Prior to getting a dog, take into consideration your lifestyle and the amount of time you are away from home. No matter how much you may want a furry friend, you may realize that you aren’t ready for that kind of responsibility.
In terms of your dog’s diet, you should monitor things carefully. When a dog is a puppy, he can eat calorie filled foods because he is growing. On the other hand, adult dogs need less food and foods that are lower in calories to keep their weight in check.
If you decide to get a dog, think about a canine training course. By educating yourself from professionals, you and your new furry companion will be happier because you will know how to better care for it. While training a puppy is easier, any dog is able to be trained regardless of their age.
A lot goes into owning and caring for a dog. It’s harder than just walking him or feeding him. Learn how to properly take care of all your dog’s needs. Then you and your pet can have a long and happy life together.
