Dogs are great pets to have and can be very loving if you make sure that you properly care for them. If you want your dog to be healthy and happy, then you must learn to help them with what they need. Continue reading to find out some great advice concerning your relationship with your dog.
When you take your dog on vacation with you, get a snapshot of them for your phone. This way, if you find out that your dog went missing along the way, you will have a recent picture that you can show to people when you go out to look for you pet.
If you’re training your dog, don’t just use verbal commands. Try hand signals as well. Your dog may pick things up much easier when they are given these type of signals. Not every dog will learn the same, so try different techniques with your dog.
If you are not sure whether dog ownership is a good idea for you, then you might want to try being a foster care provider for a needy dog. Many homeless and abused animals are waiting in shelters for someone to adopt them and with over-crowding, resources are slim. Fostering will help you become adapted to the life of a pet owner, and you will be making a difference in the life of a dog at the same time!
Certain dogs are prone to medical conditions and make yourself aware of this before selecting a dog. Research the heritage of your pup and learn how to prevent any common problems. Your vet can also tell you how to give your dog the best odds for overcoming any conditions that are typical for his breed.
If you wish to get a dog that’s a pure breed, you may have some luck with the pound. Many pure bred dogs are abandoned at dog pounds or shelters when owners aren’t able to care for them. Just give a quick call to your local humane society to see what breeds they may have available. This action could also help to save the life of a dog!
If your dog isn’t happy or is lonely, consider buying a second dog. Dogs come from packs, so it’s in their nature to prefer spending time with a member of their own species. Choose another dog whose energy level and temperament matches your dog’s, and you should have a good match.
Get your dog spayed, and if you have a female in heat, take extra care that she does not become pregnant. Male dogs can tell your dog is in heat when they are five miles away. There can be numerous problems, such as causing conflicts with neighbor’s dogs, and getting impregnated with puppies that you don’t know a lot about.
When you train your dog, don’t allow your efforts to be diminished by an excess of trainers. Many people do it differently than just having a few commands to give your dog. Have one person train and make everyone else do exactly the same commands during the day.
Make sure that your dog goes to it’s vet for a checkup each year. Vets can detect diabetes, kidney, and thyroid issues before you see signs. Annual dog physicals can spare lots of money later for owners and keep them from suffering now.
Dogs can cut their paw beds when stepping on glass, rocks or other debris. Wash any small cut your dog has with some antiseptic and then put a bandage on it. If you think the cut is fairly deep you should see a vet.
It is very important that you put a lot of thought into whether or not you’re ready to add a dog to your family. It’s a great deal of responsibility, after all. Take a little bit of time and think over all aspects of having a pet so you’re sure that you’re able to manage it.
Were you aware that vitamins are not good for your dog? Your dog does not need vitamins if you feed it a good diet. Excessive amounts of some vitamins can harm the bones, joints and blood vessels. Consult with your vet before starting your dog on a regimen of vitamins.
You shouldn’t use a chilly, wet nose to gauge your pet’s health. Your dog’s nose may be wet and cold even if they are sick. Instead, monitor your dog’s health through energy levels, demeanor, and appetite. Evaluating them will give you a better picture of your dog’s health. A dog’s temperature can be taken rectally if need be.
A dog can be a great source of happiness in any family. That said, you need to be educated about what it takes to have a happy, healthy dog. Hopefully this article has helped you learn more about caring for your dog.