There is more to having a dog than simply providing it with food and the occasional petting. Taking care of a dog is a full-time job. But how do you know what it takes to properly care for your pooch? In this article, we provide ample advice culled from some of the best sources in dog training. Read on to learn more.
Spay or neuter your dog. Your pet stands to enjoy a significantly better (and longer) life. It’s been verified through research that this simple procedure reduces cancer risks and provides other benefits, too. Also, dogs that have been neutered or spayed stick closer to home, limiting their exposure to dangerous traffic and other hazards.
When training a dog, practice in the yard or your home. This prevents some of the problems that are associated with training around a lot of other people. Your dog may have trouble paying attention, and even the simplest commands could go right over their head.
Choose a dog in that can easily and happily blend into your lifestyle. For instance, if you are athletic, you might want an active dog, not a poodle. Likewise if you spend quite a lot of time at home you may want to get a dog that likes to be pampered a lot. You and your dog will both be happier if you are a perfect match.
Always give your dog lots of praise and hugs when it does something right. This communicates to your dog that he is doing just exactly what you want. It also teaches your dog that when he does the things you want, he will get praised.
Cheap Dog
Don’t purchase cheap dog food. Cheap dog food contains lots of preservatives and additives that your dog doesn’t need. You can get a list of veterinarian-recommended foods from your vet or from animal advocacy groups or consumer awareness groups. Your dog will benefit greatly from better food.
If you decide to adopt a dog from a shelter, you should schedule an appointment with a veterinarian right away. Dogs from pounds are exposed to more illnesses than others. You need to be sure that you get your animal all of the shots it needs prior to bringing it home.
Plenty of physical activity is one of your dog’s necessities. A dog needs to play and exercise on a regular basis so that it can be happy and healthy. Regardless of the activity you choose, whether it is a game of fetch or a walk around the neighborhood, both of you will benefit. In addition to providing much needed exercise, you will develop a lifelong bond with your pup.
If you’re thinking about getting a dog, but aren’t sure you want to make the commitment, try serving as a foster home. A lot of shelters that take in homeless or abused animals have a way to let you adopt them for a while. Fostering is a great way to help a dog and get a feel for what having a dog is like.
Trimming around the paws of your dog will ensure your dog’s fur doesn’t get matted. Straighten hair with a comb a bit before you trim it. If this process is something with which you are uncomfortable, have a professional groomer do the job.
Certain breeds of dog are prone to certain health problems, and you should be aware of what’s typical for your type of dog. Research the heritage of your pup and learn how to prevent any common problems. Talk to your vet about prevention, too.
There are many ways to show your dog how cherished he is. Similar to other areas of life, dog owners notice a dog’s bad behavior rather than the good. With dogs, this can lead to trouble. Remember to praise and be affectionate with your dog more frequently than you discipline him. This will reinforce that positive behavior brings due rewards, and thus lead to a better behaved pet.
Investing a little time in self-education can pay off big dividends during your time as a dog owner. This will let you keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come. From a dog’s perspective, wouldn’t you want an owner that took time to learn more about you?
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