Thinking On Getting A Dog? Read These Tips!

Would you like to rescue a puppy from the local pound? Or perhaps you are interested in purchasing a puppy from a professional breeder? Any dog will enrich your life, whether it is a plain old mixed breed or comes with a fancy pedigree. You are also taking on a big responsibility, and the article below has the information you need to care for your dog.

Make sure that your home is safe for your dog. Create a safe area to bring a new puppy into the home. Make sure anything toxic is put up. Many common household plants are poisonous, so keep them away from your dog or get rid of them.

Consider the situation before allowing a dog to kiss your face. Kisses from dogs are adorable, but they’re a lot less cute when you realize how filthy your dog’s mouth actually is. Dogs go through garbage cans, toilet bowls, and love smelling and licking specific body parts of some other dogs. There is an old wives’ tale that says that the mouth of a dog is cleaner than that of a human. This is not in the least bit true.

You should take your dog to the vet at least once a year. Your dog is not able to talk, so it is not easy to know when he’s got arthritis or an aching tooth. A checkup once a year will help diagnose any problems.

Don’t give in to the urge to feed your dog food meant for humans. If you do, he will hang around you constantly wanting more every time you eat. Your dog may also stop eating his own food as much. Scraps from the table obesity, digestive problems, or other health issues in dogs. Keep the dog away from your table when you eat to avoid any temptation on both parts.

Don’t purchase cheap dog food. The cheaper brands actually contain a lot of preservatives, additives and other ingredients that can compromise your dog’s health. Use an animal advocacy group or some kind of consumer awareness group to see if you can get a list of good foods that are professionally recommended. Your dog is going to be healthier if he eats better.

Genuine meat bones may be tempting, but it’s best to stick to rawhide. Bones can chip and get lodged in the digestive tract or mouth. Rawhide is healthy for their teeth and gums, so don’t share your bones, even if the dog wants it!

If you’re going to adopt a new dog from an animal shelter, you need to get a vet appointment scheduled as soon as possible. Shelter dogs could be sick or exposed to different viruses. Have your dog checked over and given vaccinations as soon as possible.

Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. In order to stay fit and sharp-minded, a dog needs to spend plenty of time being physically active and playing constructive games. From a simple walk to a vigorous game of fetch, both of you will find the time well spent. It gives you exercise and helps develop a relationship that will last forever with your dog.

Don’t leave your dog outside all day long. Dogs are social creatures and need interaction with others. When your dog is the only one you have, leaving him alone will make him sad. You need to bring your dog inside the house when it is inclement weather outside.

Always follow your vet’s instructions to a tee. They might not be fond of having a cone attached to their head, but your vet recommended it. The recommendations of your vet are always in your dog’s best interest.

Now you should know what goes into caring for your pet as best you can so now you should be able to bring a new pet home! Don’t quit trying to learn new tips and advice. Think about signing up for forums if you want to discuss your furry friend with other owners. You will be learning throughout your life, so keep it going.