A dog needs more than petting and feeding. Dogs need a lot to be as healthy and happy as possible. Want to get a better idea of how your dog needs to be cared for? The following article is filled with helpful tips you can use to care for your dog and train it properly.
Being a dog owner can be very costly. When you add up the medical care, food and supplies in general, your costs could run from $700-$1000 annually. Pet health insurance can help; although you will pay a monthly or yearly fee, you will often be covered if a big medical emergency occurs for your pet.
Your dog cannot speak, so you have to interpret non-verbal cues. If your pet hesitates when approaching a person or a pet, don’t push them to go near them. This could end up in negative biting or fighting behavior. Look out for non-verbal hints so that the dog can guide your actions.
Be wary of the flea treatment you’re going to use on your dog. Many have ingredients that are dangerous to kids. Talk to the vet about different forms of treatment that are safer for use around small kids.
Don’t let a dog go off property without their leash, even if they’re well behaved. He can be scared away by some wild animal, or an unforeseen provocation with another dog can result in an unpleasant situation. Your dog’s actions and safety is your responsibility.
Use hand signals when training your dog along with verbal commands. It may be easier for your dog to learn commands if they see a visual signal. Not every dog will learn the same, so try different techniques with your dog.
Positive reinforcement is very important in training your dog. This will show that you appreciate what your dog is doing. It teaches your pup that he will be rewarded for good behavior.
Instead of feeding your dog meat bones, give him rawhide. Bones can lodge in the mouth or throat, causing devastating injuries. Rawhide bones are tested and veterinary approved, and they can benefit your dog’s teeth and gums too. Treat your dog to one regularly.
Try not to force your dog to do new things. If your dog doesn’t like a particular treat, don’t force him to eat it. Find out your dog’s likes and dislikes and feed him accordingly.
You won’t just stop your dog from shedding on your carpet if you brush him on a daily basis. Daily brushing can help them acquire a beautiful, shiny coat. This is because the motions you go through while brushing evenly distributes the skin’s oils and helps keep the skin healthy, shiny and soft.
Be sure to schedule a check up for your new friend with a trusted veterinarian. Don’t wait to long to make your appointment. The vet will give him a complete health check and set up a vaccination schedule. You should also have your dog neutered or spayed to cut down on pet overpopulation.
If you want a dog but don’t know if you can handle the responsibility, start out as a short-term foster home. There are many less than fortunate dogs in shelters that would love to find a forever home. You can give a hand by fostering a dog without a home and try on the role of dog owner too!
Certain health issues plague particular dog breeds, and you need to know what those conditions are for the type of dog you own. Research the breed of your dog and take steps to ensure he does not get any infections or diseases. Also, talk to your vet about things that can be done to increase the odds for your dog’s breed.
The more you know about your dog, the better off you’ll both be. This will let you keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come. If you were a dog, would you not want your owner to take the time to learn about you?
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