Whether you want to get a dog or already have one, you should know a dog requires a lot of care. You need to be prepared before you jump into it. You should keep reading to learn more being a good dog owner.
It is fine to hug your dog, but avoid those wet kisses. In theory, giving a dog a kiss is cute, but realize that the mouth of a dog is generally very dirty. Dogs are always getting into garbage, drink from places like the toilet, and they clean their bodies with their tongues. Many people believe that the human mouth has more germs than that of a dog – this isn’t true. It simply is not the case.
Just like people need regular yearly physicals, dogs need the same thing. Because your dog is unable to speak, you may not know for sure when your dog feels sick or has an injury. A veterinary checkup can speak when your dog cannot, and it might help you to detect health problems before they become severe.
Always have your dogs spayed or neutered. Research shows that doing this can make your animal live longer and reduce their cancer risks. Additionally, dogs who undergo this procedure are much less likely to wander off and maybe get into to an accident.
Neuter or spay your dog. Studies show that these operations help your dog live longer and can reduce cancer risks. It also keeps dogs from humping, running away from home or becoming violent at puberty.
Since your dog cannot talk to you, you have to learn how to listen to your dog’s non-verbal language. If it seems as though your dog holds back when around other dogs or people, don’t insist that they interact. One of the animals could become aggressive. Always be on the look out for non-verbal hints. If you see them, allow your dog to guide you in the next action you will take.
Training your dog should be done in your yard or inside your home. It is not good to teach them where there are distractions. Too many people causes distractions, making it hard to train them.
When it comes to dog flea treatments, you should proceed with caution. They contain carcinogens proven to cause cancer in kids. Find out about healthy treatments that can keep you and your pet safe.
Never take your dog outside your yard without a leash. He could easily get spooked by something and run off into harm’s way. Your dog’s actions and safety is your responsibility.
Keep table scraps to a minimum. This will make him want human food every time you have a meal. Giving your dog table scraps isn’t good for his health as it could result in weight gain and digestive problems. Make your dog leave the room if he begins to beg, or train him to spend mealtimes in another room entirely.
You need to ask your vet to make sure the food you are feeding them is good. If your puppy is very young, it might not be ready to consume specific brands, and feeding them to your pup can result in sickness. Always be cautious about dog food.
It is a good idea to use hand signals when you are trying to train your dog, instead of just relying on verbal commands. Using signals such as these, your dog may learn things more easily. Not every dog will learn the same, so try different techniques with your dog.
Get a dog house if you have a dog that you leave outside, in case the weather gets bad. Exposure to extreme weather for long periods can cause health issues, particularly if the dog’s feet get wet. Keep your dog safe from the elements by providing shelter.
Your vet can give you some good advice on what you should feed your dog. Depending on the type and age of dog, if you purchase the wrong kind of food it may upset their stomach. Err on the side of caution when feeding food to your dog.
Do not force your dog to do anything. If you purchase a treat your dog doesn’t appear to like, just try another brand rather than making him eat. It’s important to take your pets likes and dislikes into consideration and to not push them into anything unnecessary.
Your lifestyle should be a determining factor in the breed of dog that you choose. For example, if you’re a jogger, get a type of dog that can run with you, not a toy-poodle. If you prefer to stay at home, seek out a small dog that loves to snuggle on the couch. Avoiding a mismatch means both of you will be happier.
Nip bad behavior in the bud. Turning a blind eye to it just makes it harder to fix down the road. You could end up with a dog that hurts other people, so make sure you’re in control at all times.
Stop trying to force your dog to do things. If you’re trying to get your dog to eat a new treat and it’s not showing any interest, don’t force them to eat it. Upon initially bringing a dog into the home, spend some time discovering its likes and dislikes.
Your dog’s claws must be trimmed. The nails can cause the dog discomfort if they start to curl under. Find some good clippers you can use to trim your dog’s nails yourself. If you do not want to take this matter into your own hands, hire a professional.
As soon as you notice your dog engaging in bad behaviors, immediately try to correct them. When you let it go, he thinks it is okay to do. You don’t want to be the owner of a dog who hurts someone, so get a handle on it now.
If you have a dog that can’t function properly when they aren’t around you and develops separation anxiety, try putting on some soft music when you go out. The noise make them feel more secure and keeps them company. Doing this might help your dog get past its anxiety while it awaits your return.
Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise. A dog requires regular exercise and game time; it keeps him healthy and happy, both mentally and physically. No matter what, whether throwing their ball or taking a long walk, you’ll both benefit from it. Besides just getting some exercise, you’ll be creating a bond between you and your 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 prefer living in groups with other animals. Matching a dog up with another of a similar disposition will make your dog very happy.
In the case your dog has separation anxiety, leave music or the television on when you leave your house. Having noise will help your dog feel more secure and comfortable while you are away. It may help them conquer their anxiety while waiting for you to return.
Be politically active on behalf of your pooch! Watch for local legislation that may be passing through the system, restricting and regulating dog owner’s behavior and rights. It’s often only motivated by the actions of a specific breed or a few bad apples. Speak up for the rights of responsible dog owners everywhere by contacting local officials.
Stay involved politically for your dog. Look for changes in the local laws that govern pet ownership in your area. Sometimes, a small number of bad dogs get more publicity than a large number of good dogs. Talk to your local officials on behalf of responsible pet owners worldwide.
It is best to train your dog entirely by yourself. Many people do it differently than just having a few commands to give your dog. Have a single person focus on training your dog, and have anyone else work to reinforce what the dog is learning. No matter what their opinions are, they should stick to the rules set by the trainer.
Were you aware that vitamins are not good for your dog? Your dog does not need vitamins if you feed it a good diet. Excessive amounts of some vitamins can harm the bones, joints and blood vessels. Speak with a vet before starting your dog’s vitamin regimen.
Choosing a dog food needs to be done with great consideration. Since there are so many, you should find one that is made for your particular dog. Though just giving your dog your own leftovers is cheaper, it is not good for their health.
Think about the changes your life will undergo, such as vacation and special events, before choosing to bring a dog into your life. Lots of people want dogs, but actually caring for them requires a real commitment.
With your new knowledge of dogs, you ought to be able to care for them with ease. Be patient, do your best and do not hesitate to get help if you need to. You need to look around to find out more information to make your dog happy.
Use different reward systems to find out what your dog prefers. This will make things more fun and enjoyable for your dog. If find that your dog is motivated by food, a hot dog, cut into small pieces, is a great reward. If your dog is toy driven, short games can be a great reward. Certain dogs just need love and affection whenever they behave.