Are you thinking about bringing a dog into your home? Is there one now living at your house? If the answer to these questions is yes, the following tips are great for you. You should go over the following article to learn more about what being a dog owner entails.
Make your home doggie-proof. Before you bring a dog into your home, you should be sure that the area you’re bringing it to is safe. Hide medications and chemicals, cover your trash, and put food where he can’t get to it. Many common types of house plants can be toxic, so it pays to eliminate or move them.
Just like humans benefit from an annual physical, your dog should see the vet at least once a year. Even the best dog owner will find it difficult or impossible to detect the first signs of health troubles, like a tooth infection or arthritic joints. A checkup once a year will help diagnose any problems.
Spay or neuter your dog. Statistically speaking, dogs who are “fixed” live longer lives and are less prone to cancer. Also, dogs that have been neutered or spayed stick closer to home, limiting their exposure to dangerous traffic and other hazards.
Never allow your dog to leave your yard without a leash even if he seems very trustworthy and calm. A wild animal could draw his attention and make him run off into danger, or an unexpected provocation could result in some unpleasant situation with other people and their dogs. It is your job to keep your dog safe, and to keep him from harming anyone else or causing anyone problems.
If you’re trying to figure out what type of dog you might want to get, take a look at your lifestyle. For example, if you live an active lifestyle it is probably best for you to find an active dog instead of a little dog. However, if you’re someone who stays mainly at home then seek out a small dog that loves to be adorned with lots of love while lounging around the house. Don’t get a dog that you don’t fit in with if you can avoid that.
Don’t purchase cheap dog food. The cheaper dog foods have tons of additives and preservatives which aren’t the best for your dog. Find a list of recommended dog foods from the vet or an advocate for animals. Your dog is going to be healthier if he eats better.
Daily brushing for your dog does more than simply prevent shedding. Brushing daily can ensure your dog’s coat is shiny and healthy looking. The brushing motion will distribute the oil through the dog’s fur.
Make sure that you show your dog affection at all times. Like a lot of things, people notice bad behavior more often that good behavior. This may spell trouble in the future. Remember to praise and be affectionate with your dog more frequently than you discipline him. Your dog is much more likely to showcase the proper behavior if you do so.
Can you remember everything you just read? If you haven’t, take a moment and read them again. Knowing how to care for your dog takes a load off of your mind. Build a strong relationship by using these tips every day.