Dog 101: How To Take Better Care Of Your Dog
Are you worried about caring for your dog? People can sometimes feel overwhelmed with the amount of care that a dog needs. Some owners are ready to give up on dog training. The tips that follow will help you will all aspects of your dog’s care.
Go on and hug your dog, but do not kiss him. Dogs lick dirty things you don’t even want to think about. Dogs tend to dig through garbage cans, drink out of toilets and explore the hind quarters of other animals. It is not true that a dog has a cleaner mouth than a person. This is not true, at all!
Be sure your dog is neutered or spayed. Your pet stands to enjoy a significantly better (and longer) life. It’s been verified through research that this simple procedure reduces cancer risks and provides other benefits, too. Not only that, but neutered and spayed dogs feel less need to wander away from home, so they are not as likely to be hit by a vehicle or become lost.
Speak with a vet as soon as possible if you are adopting a dog. Shelter dogs have likely been exposed to all kinds of viruses, such as parvo and distemper, which are deadly. The best thing to do is to ensure that you new dog has all the necessary vaccinations before it comes home with you.
Ensure that your dog gets enough exercise. Dogs need routine activity and play in order to stay happy and healthy. Throw a ball around the park with your dog and play fetch. Besides just getting some exercise, you’ll be creating a bond between you and your dog.
Your dog has to be leash trained. He should stay by your side, not in front of or behind you, and respond to the command “heel”. This will not only make your walks more enjoyable, but it will also help keep your dog safe. This command will be very useful if you walk your dog while keeping the leash very loose.
Get your dog’s hair trimmed around its paws so that hair doesn’t get matted up. Try to comb the hair to straighten it before trimming. Go to a professional groomer if you have a hard time doing this yourself.
If you’re the owner of a lone, lonely dog, you should consider getting a second pooch. Dogs are pack animals by their very nature and usually prefer the company of their own kind. Find another dog that has the same energy levels and temperament and you’ll be sure to find something your dog will love!
Dogs tend to get cuts and scrapes on their paws from things they step on. Washing a cut with antiseptic and using a bandage is an effective treatment for when dogs get small cuts. If the cut is relatively deep, bring your dog to the vet.
Set a regular schedule for doggie check-ups at your vet. You need to make sure your pet is caught up on shots, and it’s smart to get tests done for heartworm and other issues. Having a puppy means regular visits to the vet. Never hesitate to take your dog to the vet if something seems off; remember that your dog can not tell you something is wrong.
Dogs are a joy but also present some challenges. Looking after your dog is time-consuming but also very rewarding. If you employ some of the tips you’ve read here, though, you may find it easier to be a responsible dog owner and give your pet the top-quality care it deserves. Soon, you’ll be doing a lot less worrying.