Dogs can provide you with companionship and love. However, they are not this way from birth. You need to take the time to encourage good behavior and make sure your dog learns a few commands. The below article will inform you on how to raise a dog properly.
It’s very important to make sure that your home is safe for a dog. Create a safe area to bring a new puppy into the home. Put all medication and cleaning supplies away, and keep your indoor trash can inside a cabinet. Some plants can be lethal, so move them out of your dog’s reach.
Keep a leash on your dog at all times. He could easily get spooked by something and run off into harm’s way. Your dog is your responsibility.
Try using hand signals when training a dog instead of just using verbal commands. Your dog might learn commands more easily using this approach. Try both methods to see which your dog prefers.
Ask the vet about how much the dog should eat each day. While some individuals give their dogs food by following the package, sometimes these guidelines are inappropriate for your dog. Speak with your vet and work out an appropriate eating plan for your dog.
If you want to get a pet from a shelter, find a vet who can examine your new dog. Dogs in shelters could be sick or may have already been exposed to some viruses. It is best to make sure your new puppy gets all the shots needed before you bring it home.
When you are getting dog food for your pet, don’t try to save money and get whatever is cheapest. In the long run, it is beneficial to be feeding your dog high quality, nutritious food. While this may mean paying higher prices for a premium brand, you can be assured your dog is getting the proper nutrients from wholesome sources.
Be sure your dog wears identification so it can always get back home. Keep identification on your dog’s collar. Include your dog’s name and your phone number on the tag. A micro-chip can also be installed on your dog.
Dogs need regular check-ups, too. Dogs need to be checked for heartworm and other health issues, and need to have any and all necessary vaccinations. Puppies need to go to the vet more often then adult dogs. If your dog seems sick or hurt, you should go to the vet immediately.
If your puppy has an accident, take the time to clean thoroughly. Use a cleaner that gets rid of smells. If you leave behind any type of a scent from the dog’s accident they may end up using the bathroom again in that spot.
Do not rely on a cold, wet nose to judge your dog’s health. Your dog’s nose could be wet and cold for many other reasons. You can keep track of your dog’s heath by paying attention to it’s appetite, demeanor, and energy levels. They give you a better indication as to the state of your dog’s health. Their temperature can be checked via their rectum.
Positive reinforcement is the best method of training a dog. Rewards and praise make your pet learn faster than threats and violence. It’s just a much better solution for immediate results and for the long term relationship too. Be kind and you will enjoy great results.
Just because a dog is outside doesn’t mean they need less attention than indoor dogs. If you leave a dog alone too much, it will eventually develop bad habits, such as chewing, digging, and barking. There is also a chance me may become aggressive. Provide them lots of playtime and love to maintain their happiness.
You need to provide your dog with shade and water during the summer. Dogs can quickly overheat and become dehydrated, which can be extremely dangerous. Have a cool, shaded area for your dog in the summer. Provide your dog with some cool water too. Also, the sun’s rays can affect your dog, so ask his vet about sunscreens that are made for dogs.
Always stay firm. When someone owns a dog they sometimes think that they should sneak the dog a snack or allow it to break things in the home. This is particularly the case when the dog is very cute! Do not give in or you will only confuse the dog and end up with more problems. For instance, giving scraps to a dog may seem harmless, but if you keep doing it, the dog may think it is fine to jump on a table and take a whole course.
Since reading the article above, you can see that taking care of your dog is easy. While it has a learning curve, the advice you’ve read here has you on the right track. Use other quality resources, and talk to your vet if you need help with your dog.
