A dog is the ideal pet as he is loving, loyal and affectionate. Dogs can be great pets that the whole family can love and they are also great companions for just one person too. If you’d like to better care for a dog, be sure to use these tips.
Make your home dog-proof. Prior to bringing the pooch home, check that the whole home is safe. Do not have any pills out in the open and put all supplies in cabinets. Some plants can be lethal, so move them out of your dog’s reach.
Avoid buying your dog bargain-based food. The cheaper brands actually contain a lot of preservatives, additives and other ingredients that can compromise your dog’s health. Get a list from an animal advocacy or consumer awareness group of the highest recommended foods to give your dog. Better food will be very beneficial to your dog.
Take your time to teach your dog what kind of behavior is right or wrong as soon as it occurs. If you ignore it you might make it worse than before. Bad behaviors that are left uncontrolled can result in human injuries to you, your child, your friend or your neighbor. This is why it’s important to nip them in the bud immediately!
Brushing your pup daily can do much more than reduce shedding in your home. Daily brushing helps the coat to stay beautiful and shiny. When you brush fur, you’re also spreading around the oils that help keep your pet’s coat looking shiny and healthy.
If you choose to adopt a pet, take him or her to the veterinarian as soon as possible. They may be carrying some sort of illness that they picked up at the shelter. Make sure the new puppy gets their required shots before going home.
Be certain that your dog is getting sufficient exercise. Dogs require metal and physical exercise to ensure a happy puppy. Your dog will get the exercise it needs (and you’ll be a little more active yourself!) from virtually any kind of outdoor activity you share with it. This doesn’t just entertain and exercise your dog, it helps you form a bond.
Certain dog breeds are prone to specific health issues, so be aware of what is typical for your dog’s breed. Research his ancestry and take steps to prevent problems he might be prone to. Also, talk to your vet about things that can be done to increase the odds for your dog’s breed.
If you are seeking a dog of a particular breed, be sure to check with your local animal shelter first. Many pet owners will abandon dogs at pounds when they don’t want them or can’t keep them anymore. Contact your pound and ask them what breeds are currently there. You may get to save a canine’s life if you do this!
Make sure that you show your dog affection at all times. As is often the case, dog owners frequently focus on bad behavior instead of good. This can cause issues later. Praise your dog at least 5x more than you discipline him. This increases the chance that your dog will repeat the good behavior rather than the bad.
If you have just one dog and he seems pretty lonely when you are gone, think about finding him a friend. Dogs are animals that love to be with other dogs. Matching a dog up with another of a similar disposition will make your dog very happy.
Your dog needs to have mental stimulation as well as ways to become physically active too. Train your dog to perform useful activities like fetching the newspaper. This kind of play will make your dog feel like a contributing member of the family and keep his mental functioning at a high level.
Become Pregnant
If you do not want your female dog to become pregnant, be careful with her when she goes into heat. Males can smell her scent for miles. Also, she can cause a fight between other dogs, as well as become pregnant with unwanted litter from an unknown origin.
Be sure your dog sees the vet once a year. An annual check-up should include blood tests and any needed booster shots. It’s important to go more often if it’s a pup. If you see any signs of injury or illness, talk to your vet immediately.
There are plenty of things involved in properly taking care of a dog. It is more than just providing food and walking your dog occasionally. Learn how to properly take care of all your dog’s needs. Doing so will give you more enjoyable years with them.