There are many kinds of canines. There are also many kinds of families. It can be a big decision to know which dog is right for you, and how to best care for that dog. Continue reading to learn more about proper dog care.
Having a dog at your home is a big financial commitment. Each dog needs quality food, medical care and general supplies. It can cost you around $1000 each year. 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.
You should take your dog to the vet at least once a year. Because your dog is unable to speak, you may not know for sure when your dog feels sick or has an injury. Annual checkups can catch issues before they develop into something serious.
Neuter or spay your dog. Studies show that these operations help your dog live longer and can reduce cancer risks. Spayed and neutered dogs wander less often as well, so this reduces likelihood of your dog getting hit on the road or lost.
When it’s time for dog training, you’ll want to do it inside your house or in your yard. It’s a bad idea to train a dog in a busy place. They can get distracted, which can make it harder to train them even basic commands.
Never allow your dog to leave your yard without a leash even if he seems very trustworthy and calm. There are quite a few things that could cause your dog to run off unexpectedly. You are the only one responsible for your dog’s safety and his actions.
Don’t buy the cheapest food for your dog. Cheap brands usually are loaded with additives that can be bad for health. Check with animal advocacy groups or consumer reviews to find the best dog foods that are recommended by professionals. Your dog will benefit greatly from better food.
Rawhide is a great alternative to the meat bones that most people feed dogs. Bones can lodge in the mouth or throat, causing devastating injuries. It has been shown that rawhide bones are safe and great for their teeth, so be sure to not give your dog that ham bone next time.
Build or buy a house for your dog if he has to stay outdoors for any length of time in cold weather. Wet feet and cold fur can bring on health problems. Keep your dog out of the wet weather and the wind by building a shelter that keeps them dry and gives them room.
Daily brushing your dog has more benefits that just reducing shedding. Brushing daily will give them a shiny, beautiful coat. When you brush a dog, you are moving the skin’s oils evenly throughout its fur, so it really makes the fur shine and feel great.
Train your pet on how to behave correctly when leashed. He ought to be next to you rather than ahead or behind. He should also respond to the “heel” command. Walking in this manner keeps your dog safe, and you are bound to enjoy walks more as well. Even if you still use the loose leash walk at times, helping your dog to understand this command is a good idea.
Make sure that your dog is not left alone outdoors all day. Understand that dogs need to interact with other people and animals. Your dog may be lonely if it is just him. Not only that, but during heavy rainstorms and snowstorms, it is imperative that you bring your dog indoors as well, to avoid the inclement weather and temperatures.
Keep the fur around your pup’s paws trimmed so that it does not get matted. A comb should be used first to straighten it before you do any cutting. If you have a hard time with this, enlist the services of a groomer.
By now, you should feel a little more confident about owning a dog. This article should have helped ease your worries about your dog care. Keep this article handy for when you need it again.
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