Arguably, dogs can be as great a loyal companion as any person can. As can be seen, a healthy dog is the result of an informed owner who searches out the information needed to properly care for the pet. The following article is a wonderful place to begin.
If you have medication for you or a family member, be certain your dog cannot reach it. If the dog gets near the pills, then just a few of them could do serious harm and result in a trip to emergency room. If your dog happens to get into any such pills, call your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately.
Choose the correct flea medicine for your dog. Some treatments contain dangerous ingredients that may put your kids at risk for diseases like cancer. Talk to your vet to learn about flea treatments that are safer and more family friendly, and always keep flea medication out of reach of children.
Always have your dog on a leash when he’s off your property. Something could distract him, like a squirrel or a cat, causing him to leave your side. You are the only one responsible for your dog’s safety and his actions.
Purchase a dog that can keep up with your lifestyle. For example, someone that stays inside a lot would want a calm lap dog and not a hyper breed. Likewise if you are quiet home-body, look for a smaller dog that enjoys pampering and living it up on your sofa. Don’t get a dog that you don’t fit in with if you can avoid that.
You need to trim your dog’s nails regularly. If they get too long and start to curl, the result could be painful injuries to the nail beds and your dog’s paws. You can purchase clippers and do this at home. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this on your own then you can hire a groomer to do it for a little bit of money.
Bring your shelter dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible after you adopt him. Dogs from shelters might have been exposed to viruses or might already be sick. Have your dog checked over and given vaccinations as soon as possible.
Be certain that your dog is getting sufficient exercise. Exercise keeps your dog healthy, both physically and mentally. No matter what you do, whether it’s going for a long walk or simply throwing a ball or stick, both you and your dog will benefit. Not only will you both get adequate exercise, these activities help you develop a long lasting bond with your dog.
Avoid keeping your dog outdoors all day, every day. Many people do this, but dogs need interactions with others. If you have a single dog, it may feel lonely outside on its own. Keeping them out for too long also exposes them to the elements, so its best that you bring them inside so they don’t get sick being outside in really bad weather.
Make sure you provide your dog with affection on a regular basis. As with most things, owners tend to focus more on the bad behavior instead of the good. With dogs, this can lead to trouble. Rather, stroke, praise and pet your dog at least three to four times more than you scold or speak sternly to him. Your dog will more likely showcase proper behavior when you do that.
Dog ownership has many benefits and can create great friendships. What any person that wants a dog should do is learn whatever they can about caring for one before they start caring for it. Even if you have a dog already, you need the knowledge you just read. What you have learned here is going to help you out now and well into the future.
