There are various kinds of dogs out there and many types of family situations. It can be tough to decide what you really want and how to get it. Continue reading to learn more about proper dog care.
Keep in mind that dogs are expensive. Food, supplies and vet bills can add up to $1,000 or more per year. You should also look into purchasing a good pet health insurance policy to avoid high medical bills.
If you’re on any kind of medication, even if it’s over-the-counter, you need to keep it away from your dog. Dogs can have very negative side effects from even small amounts of medications intended for humans. If you notice that your dog has consumed any of your medication, you need to immediately contact your vet.
Less Active
The dog breed you choose should blend in well with your lifestyle. For instance, if you love to run, get a dog that loves to run too, and leave the miniature breed for someone who is less active. If you are more of a homebody, a smaller, less active dog who enjoying being pampered is the better choice. Getting the right fit for you will give you both much more joy.
If a dog does something correctly like sitting before you leash them, give them lots of praise and affection. He needs to understand that this is the right thing to do. This is called positive reinforcement.
Do not buy the cheapest dog food. Cheap brands usually contain ingredients that can be harmful to the health of your dog. Check with an animal advocacy group for a list of foods you should be feeding your dog. Your dog will get good benefits from the right kind of food.
Buy or build a dog house if he is going to be outside for long periods in the winter. Especially if your dog’s feet get wet, exposure to very cold temperatures for long time periods can cause stress and other health issues. Give your dog a shelter that is spacious and dry, and your dog will be protected from the hard winds and dampness.
Bring your shelter dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible after you adopt him. Animals from shelters sometimes have viruses or might have already been sick when taken in by the shelter. It’s smart to ensure your dog has all shots necessary before you take him home.
Schedule a visit to the vet when you get a new pet. Once the dog arrive home, place a call to the vet and schedule that appointment. The vet will check him over and prepare him for vaccinations. Unwanted puppies are a tragedy, so make sure your dog gets spayed or neutered.
If you’ve been considering adopting a dog but still aren’t sure, you could try to become a foster owner first. There are many animals that need love and care. Fostering will help you become adapted to the life of a pet owner, and you will be making a difference in the life of a dog at the same time!
A dog should not be left outside all day. Dogs need to interact with people and other dogs. Your dog will get very lonely if it is left outside by itself. You need to bring your dog inside the house when it is inclement weather outside.
Make sure you provide your dog with affection on a regular basis. In life, it is far too common to give bad behavior more attention than good. With dogs, this can lead to trouble. Give your dog positive reinforcement every time they do something right. Your dog will be far more likely to try to behave properly.
You want to ensure that all trace of pet accidents are removed when they occur within the home. Special cleaners and deodorizers are available to do the job right. If the scent from his excrement remains behind, your dog may be inclined to soil in the same area again and again.
You need to perform daily tick and flea inspections on your dog as spring and summer approaches. Comb your dog with a good flea comb to eradicate fleas. Fleas or ticks can be destroyed through numerous products on the market. Try to get your vet’s opinion on these products or what you can do to help your dog.
Since reading this article, are you more aware of what it takes to properly care for your dog? You have the tools necessary to succeed and it’s up to you follow them in order to make sure the dog is happy and healthy. Apply the tips from this article, and do your best to keep your dog happy.
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