Dog-related Questions? Let Us Answer Them For You
Owning a dog is fun but you should not take your responsibilities as a dog owner lightly. You must ensure your dog’s happiness and health at all times. Knowing what it takes to achieve this balance with your dog means learning all you can, so educate yourself fully by reading the information which lies below.
Your dog needs an annual physical exam from the vet, just as you need one from your doctor. Since your dog can’t speak, it may be difficult to know when he is having health issues. A checkup once a year will help diagnose any problems.
When bringing dogs on vacation, it pays to take a photo of them to keep on your phone. If the worst happens and your pet gets lost, you have a current picture that you can show others or use to make “lost” posters.
Talk to your vet to learn which foods are appropriate for your particular dog. Puppies may lack the development needed to tolerate certain kinds of food without getting sick. Use your vets advice and common sense to feed your dog properly.
Try giving the dog rawhide versus actual meat bones. Giving them actual bones may cause them to fall apart and become lodged in the digestive tract or oral cavity of your dog. Rawhide is a great treat you can use in lieu of real bones.
Buy or build a home for the dog if they need to stay outside when it’s cold. If the dog gets wet feet that could make him stressed out and cause other health problems as well. A roomy shelter that protects from the windy, rainy, and snowy weather is the best option.
Do not force your dog to eat things. If you have purchased treats the dog does not appear to enjoy, do not force the issue. When you have a new dog, take time to learn what they do and don’t like.
If you’re adopting your pet from a shelter, it’s important that you take it to see a vet immediately. Dogs from shelters might have been exposed to viruses or might already be sick. That is why it’s important to have a full checkup and a course of vaccinations before you bring your puppy home.
Take the time to train your dog on a leash. Make him walk at your side, and do not let him pull far in front of you or stay far behind. Use the command “heel” to prompt him. This will keep him safe, and it’ll make walks more enjoyable. Your dog needs to get used to this.
If you’re thinking about getting a dog, but aren’t sure you want to make the commitment, try serving as a foster home. Thousands of animals are living in shelters, which is less than ideal for many dogs, while they wait for a chance to be adopted. Not only will you be helping a dog in need, but it will help you figure out if you would like to become a dog owner.
This information is all yours, so use it to get started right away. Make an effort to accommodate your dog’s needs, and you will be rewarded. Just remember that it’s unfair to keep a dog if you don’t intend to put in the effort necessary to care for them responsibly.