
Dogs make for truly great pets. They offer unconditional affection and love to their owners. However, to benefit both you and your dog, it would be to your advantage to know everything you can about them. Here are the basics in learning to understand and care for your dog.
An annual checkup at the vet is a great idea for your dog. Because your dog can’t speak with you, you may have trouble knowing when your dog is feeling pain like if it has arthritis. Check-ups can reveal that and more.
You should have your dog spayed or neutered. Research has shown that by doing this you can be sure your pet can have a longer life and not be at risk for things like cancer. Additionally, dogs who undergo this procedure are much less likely to wander off and maybe get into to an accident.
Since humans don’t speak dog, we need to figure out how to communicate with our pets non-verbally. When dogs seem hesitant upon meeting others, never force an interaction. This might result in another dog or a person being bit. Watch for any of these non-verbal cues and let these guide your actions.
Buy or build a dog house if he is going to be outside for long periods in the winter. Remember that dogs exposed to cold and damp or excessive heat are far more likely to become ill. Give your dog a shelter that is spacious and dry, and your dog will be protected from the hard winds and dampness.
When you are getting dog food for your pet, don’t try to save money and get whatever is cheapest. In the long run, it is beneficial to be feeding your dog high quality, nutritious food. While this may mean paying higher prices for a premium brand, you can be assured your dog is getting the proper nutrients from wholesome sources.
Make sure your dog knows how to properly walk while it’s leashed. He needs to know to heel next to you, not behind you or in front of you. If your pet is leash trained, it’ll be safer, and you’ll enjoy walks more as well. Even if your dog is sometimes walked on a loose leash, it should still know the command anyway.
A dog should not be left outside all day. While this is what many people do, dogs require socialization with people and/or other animals. If you don’t have more than one dog, the dog will get lonely when he’s not around you. Keeping them out for too long also exposes them to the elements, so its best that you bring them inside so they don’t get sick being outside in really bad weather.
If you are in the market for a pedigree pup, you just may find him at the pound. There are often pure bred dogs at shelters and rescues, and they are desperately in need of homes. Call the shelter to find out which dogs they have available. You may get to save a canine’s life if you do this!
In conclusion, unconditional love is provided by a dog to its owner that isn’t found anywhere else in life. You will have to do your homework though, if you want to be a great owner. With the tips you’ve just read through, you can improve your canine care skills. Use these tips and any others you find to become a great dog owner.