It’s a big responsibility to care for a dog. In a way, it’s almost as if you have a child, but your dog barks vs crying. With lots of patience and knowledge, owning a dog isn’t as overwhelming as you might think. Keep reading to learn some dog tips.
While hugging your dog will make both of you feel great, refrain from kissing him. Dog kissing may be adorable, but dogs have awfully dirty mouths. Dogs love to dig in garbage, get into the toilet, and then they lick their butts, yuck! It’s just a myth that your dog’s mouth is just as, or cleaner, than yours. This couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Never let the dog go off your land without its leash, regardless of its good behavior. You never know when something might spook him or distract him, leading to devastation. It is your job to keep your dog safe, and to keep him from harming anyone else or causing anyone problems.
Rather than merely using verbal commands, it is wise to utilize hand signals when training your dog. These types of signals are sometimes easier for a dog to learn. Try both methods to see which your dog prefers.
Speak to your vet about your dog’s eating habits. Although some dog owners stick to the recommended guidelines on the dog food, these guidelines can often be too much for your dog, which can lead to obesity. The vet will know what is best for your pet.
Avoid the bargain brands of pet food. Cheap dog food contains lots of preservatives and additives that your dog doesn’t need. Check out professional recommendations from groups online. Your dog will be much healthier if you feed it some healthy food.
Let your dog have rawhide rather than bones from the meat you eat. Real bones can chip and fragments may become lodged in their mouths or digestive tract. Rawhide bones are tested and veterinary approved, and they can benefit your dog’s teeth and gums too. Treat your dog to one regularly.
When a dog behaves badly, correct him immediately. If you ignore it you might make it worse than before. Be sure to control and contain your dog to prevent problems with people.
Ensure that your dog gets enough exercise. Regular exercise and play time promotes the health and happiness of your dog. Regardless of the activities you choose, the dog and you will surely benefit a great deal. It also grows your bond with the dog.
Don’t buy cheap dog food. In the long run, it is beneficial to be feeding your dog high quality, nutritious food. Even though you are paying more, it will save on health bills down the road.
If you’ve been considering adopting a dog but still aren’t sure, you could try to become a foster owner first. There are many less than fortunate dogs in shelters that would love to find a forever home. You can foster one to help out the cause and find out if you want to keep one!
If you have to leave your dog alone for a whole day, leave a radio or a TV on. That noise will help your dog feel more secure, and it will help him feel he’s not alone. It may just be the fix needed for the dog’s anxiety problems until you get back to the house.
If you’ve got just one dog and he doesn’t seem all that happy or is left alone a lot, think about getting him a friend. Dogs prefer living in groups with other animals. Choose a friend for your dog that has the same energy level and temperament and you will make your dog very happy.
To prevent your female dog from getting pregnant, be on the lookout for the times she becomes in heat. A male dog is able to smell her from up to five miles away. This can lead to aggression among other males, and you certainly don’t want to be left with an unexpected litter of pups.
Bad Apples
Be sure to give your dog proper political representation. Keep an eye on legislation that might regulate or restrict your rights as a dog owner. It’s often only motivated by the actions of a specific breed or a few bad apples. Be sure you speak up and let your voice be heard by getting in touch with your local officials. Don’t allow bad apples to interfere with your rights.
You dog should go to the vet on a regular basis. Your dog should see a vet at least twice a year to make sure they are in good health and that they do not need new shots. Puppies have to go to the vet more often than older dogs. If your dog becomes ill or is injured, don’t delay in getting him to the vet.
You need to perform daily tick and flea inspections on your dog as spring and summer approaches. A flea comb can help you remove fleas that you see. To rid your dog of fleas and ticks, look for products that get rid of them. Speak with your vet concerning these products and other options.
Dog care actually takes a bit of time and work. Your dog will need everything it must have to survive, plus attention and love from you. There will be a lot of responsibility, but in the end, it is worth it. Use the information in the article above to help you give your dog the best care you can.
