You can pick from various pets today. It is possible to own cats, fish and even reptiles. If you want unconditional love, turn to a dog. This article can show you just how to take care of one.
Take the time to make sure your house is dog-proofed. Prior to bringing your dog into your home, be sure that it is entirely safe. Put all medication and cleaning supplies away, and keep your indoor trash can inside a cabinet. Some plants that are usually kept in the home are poisonous to pets, so move them where your dog cannot get to them, or put them out of your home completely.
Just like humans benefit from an annual physical, your dog should see the vet at least once a year. Since dogs cannot talk, it’s difficult to know if your dog is in pain. Bringing your dog to the vet each year can help stop these health issues from becoming a huge problem.
If there are prescription medications in your home, be sure to keep it out of your dog’s reach. Swallowing even one pill can end very badly, with a sick or dying dog. When your dog happens to get at your meds, call the vet ASAP.
Make sure you are using the right flea treatments on your pet dog. Some medicines can put your children in harms way. Find out about healthy treatments that can keep you and your pet safe.
When you begin training your pup, start in your yard or home. Training a dog in a very populated area is never a good idea. It will be very distracting for your pup.
Never take your dog outside your yard without a leash. Wild animals can get his attention and cause him to run out into the street, or a provocation could startle him and cause unpleasantness with other dogs or people. Understand that any damage your dog causes to other people and their pets is your responsibility, so you need to always use caution when off your property.
Don’t get sub-par food for your dog that’s from a bargain store. Cheap dog food usually includes fillers (such as corn or soybeans) which are not appropriate for dogs. It may also contain poor quality ingredients which may hurt your dog’s health over time. Use a consumer awareness or animal advocacy group to obtain a list of the best foods that come with the highest recommendations by professionals. This will be very helpful to your dog’s health.
When you first notice behavior problems in your dog, take proper steps to correct the behavior. Ignoring it can help your dog to establish lifelong bad habits. The longer you wait to address the problem, the worse the problem will become. Be sure to control and contain your dog to prevent problems with people.
Never leave a dog outside for long periods of time. Dogs are social creatures and need interaction with others. If your dog is alone outside, it will quickly get lonely. Plus, bad weather can be health and even life threatening to your pet.
Owning a dog is a big responsibility, but this article should make it an easier task. Take the time to continue reading and learning about the wonderful world of dogs. Your pet will never want for anything and will be a faithful companion for years to come.