If you want a dog, or even if you already have one, you should know that taking care of a dog is hard work. It is not something you can simply jump into right away. Read the tips outlined below if you want to know what you can do to improve your approach to dog care.
Make sure that your dog is spayed or neutered. Research has shown this simple procedure can lessen cancer risks and can give your dog a longer lifespan. In addition, dogs that are spayed or neutered do not have as strong of a desire to wander from their home, meaning that they are less likely to get lost or hit by a car.
Always make sure to keep any prescription medications away from your dog. The same holds true for over-the-counter meds. If your dog has access to these pills, there can be fatal consequences. You should contact your vet right away if your dog swallows some medication.
You shouldn’t allow your pet off your property if it’s not wearing a leash, even if he is extremely well-behaved. Dogs are easily distracted by other animals, cars, and kids, so always make sure to keep your dog on a leash for his own safety. You are the only one responsible for your dog’s safety and his actions.
Try not to force your dog to eat things. If you offer him a treat he doesn’t seem to like, do not make him eat it. It’s important to take your pets likes and dislikes into consideration and to not push them into anything unnecessary.
As soon as you notice your dog engaging in bad behaviors, immediately try to correct them. If you delay too long, the behavior will get harder and harder to correct. It is possible that your dog could injure a person, and that person could be you! So correct unwanted behavior right away.
Train your pet on how to behave correctly when leashed. Your dog should remain at your side and know the command “heel.” Walking in this manner keeps your dog safe, and you are bound to enjoy walks more as well. Even if you’re using loose leashes for walking here and there, make sure the dog understands this command.
Let your dog feel the love that you have for him. Many owners inadvertently spend more time focusing on their pet’s negative behaviors than on all the good things they do. This could lead to trouble down the line. Remember to praise and be affectionate with your dog more frequently than you discipline him. When you do this, you will probably end up with a better behaved dog.
If you only have one dog and they aren’t happy or can’t handle being alone a lot, consider getting them a companion. Dogs like to be around their own kind. Matching a dog up with another of a similar disposition will make your dog very happy.
Be cautious with female dogs in the heat. If you aren’t, you may have to deal with an unwanted pregnancy. Males can smell a female’s scent from a full five miles away. This may also make other dogs fight and it could also get her pregnant which will make her have puppies from an unknown source.
Have your current dog choose your new dog. Though most are sociable, certain dogs are better able to get along with other dogs than others. If you find a dog that is compatible right away, you’ll save yourself some difficulties later.
When you are snacking, it may be tempting to share with your dog. It might be alright to give your dog some foods, but not all foods are good for dogs. Grapes, chocolate, and caffeine are all things that you should never give your pup. These can be fatal if ingested.
Just because your dog’s nose is wet and cold doesn’t mean he’s healthy. Sick dogs often have cold, wet noses. You can tell how your dog is feeling by watching his appetite and energy levels. They’ll all really tell the story of your pet’s health. A rectal thermometer will come in handy to see if your dog is feverish.
Try to always be firm. Dog owners often feel that it is no big deal to sneak foods to their pets or allow them to destroy certain toys. This happens even more with really cute dogs! Be firm, and things will remain intact. For example, you may not mind giving your dog scraps when you’re done, but if you aren’t careful, your dog may think it’s okay to jump up and take an entire steak off your plate!
Be sure to thoroughly and regularly clean the bowls that your dog uses. This will keep your dog clean and sanitary. Wash bowls daily and fill them up with fresh water and food.
If you or family members are away from home and can’t watch your new puppy, consider crate training. This will prevent your puppy from damaging your home, and he will not use the bathroom anywhere he shouldn’t.
Your canine friend needs to be cleaned regularly. While it is not necessary to bathe your dog daily, washing him once a week might be beneficial. Not only will this help you to avert future skin problems – it’ll also help you to keep your house tidy.
If you’ve just got a dog, look into taking a training course together. A well-trained dog who responds properly to commands is a happy dog. You will be happier with him, too. It is simpler to train puppies, but it is possible to train older dogs too.
With the advice given in this article, you’re well on your way to properly caring for your pet. Show a relaxed nature towards the dog and be patient to them as they will reciprocate in kind. Make sure you continue to keep your knowledge levels up-to-date about how to care for your dog.
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