Check Out These Wonder Tips About Dogs In The Article Below
Caring for a dog is a lot of work and you should not underestimate the responsibilities of being a dog owner. It’s not something to be taken lightly. The tips presented here will help you be a better owner to your dog.
Since your dog cannot talk to you, you have to learn how to listen to your dog’s non-verbal language. If you notice the dog being hesitant in a new situation, don’t force your dog to socialize if it doesn’t want to. This could end up in negative biting or fighting behavior. Keep an eye out for your dog’s hints, and do what he needs you to do.
Store your prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines in a safe place where your dog cannot get them. Swallowing a couple pills could can serious health issues, even heart attacks and seizures. If your dog does ingest some of your medication, get in touch with your veterinarian immediately.
When you are training your dog, it is always best to incorporate the use of hand signals in addition to using verbal commands. It may be easier for your dog to learn commands if they see a visual signal. Test out both methods to see which works for you.
Train your dog how to properly walk when on a leash. Your dog should remain at your side and know the command “heel.” If you do this, your dog will be safe, and it will be easy for you to handle. Even if your dog is sometimes walked on a loose leash, it should still know the command anyway.
Trimming around the paws of your dog will ensure your dog’s fur doesn’t get matted. Prior to trimming it, straighten the fur using a comb. If you’re too scared, take him to the groomer instead.
If you have a pure bred dog, make sure you educate yourself on what type of problems are “normal” for that breed. If you don’t know the type of dog he is, research it so you will know the type of problems your dog could have. Your vet will be able to tell you how you can help your pet prevent illness that it is prone to getting.
Playing music in your home when you leave for your job may help your dog with separation anxiety. The noise can help him feel more secure. This can significantly help reduce its anxiety.
Really show your dog some love. Most of the time you are paying attention to the very bad things they do and overlooking the good. This could cause lots of problems for you. Praise your dog at least 5x more than you discipline him. Your dog will be far more likely to try to behave properly.
Make sure you are providing your dog with the opportunity for plenty of physical exercise as well as staying mentally active. By teaching your dog tricks that he can do around the house, such as grabbing the newspaper, you’ll be keeping your dog mentally stimulated. Your dog is always going to feel like it’s a part of your family while getting trained so that it’s mentally fit.
Keep a dog tag on your dog at all times. A good way to ensure your dog is returned if he is lost is to attach an identification tag to his collar. The tag needs to have your name and phone number on it. Micro-chipping is an even better method.
Always make an annual checkup appointment for your dog. Vets can do early screening for thyroid issues, diabetes and kidney problems before your dog has symptoms. Annual physicals can save a lot of problems in the future.
If your puppy has an accident, take the time to clean thoroughly. Start with a professional quality cleaner, and follow that up with an odor remover you know will work. Your dog may do his business in the exact same area if his scent from the excrement lingers.
You should be able to take better care of your dog, now that more information is available to you. You just need some patience and love in order to have a happy, appreciative dog. Always keep learning – with dogs there is still so much to learn!