Would you like to save a little puppy from the pound? Are you interesting in getting a pure bred dog? Whether he is a pure bred or a mutt from the shelter, this dog is sure to give you the love and affection you seek. You have to realize, however, that you’re going to have to be a responsible pet owner. Use the following guide to help you to be sure that you are.
You shouldn’t allow your pet off your property if it’s not wearing a leash, even if he is extremely well-behaved. A dog might run after an animal and get into trouble, or it might get into a fight with another animal. It is your job to keep your dog safe, and to keep him from harming anyone else or causing anyone problems.
When the dog does something right, be sure to lavish praise on him or her. He needs to understand that this is the right thing to do. This shows your pup that when things are done right, he will be rewarded.
If you are not sure of how much to feed your dog each day, talk to your vet about it. Though some folks feed whatever the package recommends, those guidelines are not always appropriate and can lead to overfeeding. Speak with a vet about your dog’s needs and what they should have.
Rawhide bones are the best options for your dog. Pieces can break off of the real bone, which may cause your dog to choke. Rawhide is healthy for their teeth and gums, so don’t share your bones, even if the dog wants it!
If your dog spends time outside, he should have a good house. You can purchase one or build one yourself if you are handy. If his feet get wet, being exposed to extreme weather can cause health issues and stress. Keep your dog safe by giving him shelter.
When you brush your dog every day, you reduce shedding problems and benefit your dog’s health in many ways. Daily brushing can help them acquire a beautiful, shiny coat. This is caused by the motions since brushing distributes oils that keep skin, soft, shiny and healthy.
Listen to your vet when he tells you how to administer medication or care. He might not want to wear that cone on his neck and head, but it’s there for a real reason! The directions that you get from your vet are focused on the health of your pet and ignoring them can be detrimental to your pet.
Let your dog know that you care. Make sure you don’t only focus on the negative things that your dog does. This often results in problems later. Rather, stroke, praise and pet your dog at least three to four times more than you scold or speak sternly to him. This will make it more likely that your dog will behave well.
If you have just one dog and he seems pretty lonely when you are gone, think about finding him a friend. The company could do your pet a lot of good. Choose another dog whose energy level and temperament matches your dog’s, and you should have a good match.
Tag your dog with proper identification to make sure that you can bring him home if he is lost. Keep identification on your dog’s collar. All of the necessary contact information, including your dog’s name, should be included. You may also consider having a micro-chip implanted.
Be politically active on behalf of your pooch! Watch for local legislation that may be passing through the system, restricting and regulating dog owner’s behavior and rights. Breed-specific laws are typically the result of media hype. Take action and speak up on behalf of your pet by calling or emailing local officials.
Always take your dog for his yearly check-up. Your vet may see problems, such as thyroid problems, kidney problems, and diabetes, before you’ll notice any signs. Yearly physical exams can save money down the line and save the dog from suffering unnecessarily.
You now know what it takes to care for your dog as best as possible, so you are ready to bring your new mutt or purebred home! Keep learning to be have a pet that is healthy and happy. Join online forums and mailing lists to talk to other owners. Never stop learning.