There are many kinds of dogs, and many different kinds of families who own them. It’s a huge decision to decide what type of dog to get and how to care for it. Read more to determine how you can ensure that your dog is in capable hands–yours!
Keep in mind that dogs are expensive. Food and supplies can run you over one thousand dollars a year. Also, emergency care is a lot if your dog was to ever get sick; you may want to think about pet insurance.
Always neuter or spay your pet. Research has shown this simple procedure can lessen cancer risks and can give your dog a longer lifespan. Dogs who have been neutered or spayed are also less likely to run or wander away from home.
Do not feed your dog “people food”. This will only teach him to beg constantly and also inhibit his appetite toward his regular food. In fact, a steady supply of scraps may encourage your dog to gain unhealthy amounts of weight and set off serious digestive problems. Make your dog leave the room if he begins to beg, or train him to spend mealtimes in another room entirely.
Instead of feeding your dog meat bones, give him rawhide. Bones can fall apart and become lodged between teeth or digestive system. Rawhide is a great treat you can use in lieu of real bones.
Buy or build a home for the dog if they need to stay outside when it’s cold. Your dog could get sick if he is left outside in the cold or if the ground is wet. Protect your dog from wind and precipitation by giving him a shelter that has a dry floor and plenty of space.
Train your pet on how to behave correctly when leashed. Keep your dog at your side when you are taking a walk. Doing this will not only be easier on you, but it will also keep your dog safe. Understanding that command is great, even if you choose to still walk with a loose leash periodically.
If your veterinarian prescribes medication or special care for your pet, make sure you follow their instructions to the letter. For instance, your dog may need a cone and not like it, but your vet prescribed it for a reason. If you fail to listen to your vet, your dog may end up sick or injured.
Local Pound
Even if you are looking for a dog that is a pure breed, always check the local pound. Unfortunately there are many people out there who simply cannot care for their dogs anymore and they end up at the local pound. Just give a quick call to your local humane society to see what breeds they may have available. You can save the life of an abandoned dog this way.
If you have a dog that doesn’t look like it’s very happy because it’s always alone, think about getting your dog a friend. Dogs are pack animals by their very nature and usually prefer the company of their own kind. You need to match like-tempered dogs together.
Your dog needs to have mental stimulation as well as ways to become physically active too. Teach him to get the newspaper and do other helpful things around the house. He can feel useful and like a family member, and continuing to train him will keep his mind sharp.
Proper identification can help ensure that your pet is returned to you if he becomes lost. A common method to make sure your lost dog is returned is to have them wear a breakaway collar with an identification tag. Keep the ID tags updated with your current contact information. It is also possible to get your dog micro-chipped.
Do you think you’re better equipped to be a responsible dog owner with these tips under your belt? This info is what you need to ensure you have a great life with your pet. Use the above advice and keep your dog happy and heathy.
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