Are you worried about proper care for your dog? Many people feel that taking care of a dog is just too much to handle. Other people may feel like they have a pet that just isn’t going to behave. The tips that follow will help you will all aspects of your dog’s care.
While it’s great to show your dog affection, you shouldn’t kiss them. Dog kisses are adorable, but your dog’s mouth is really dirty. Dogs go through garbage cans, toilet bowls, and love smelling and licking specific body parts of some other dogs. Many people say that dogs have cleaner mouths than people. This is completely wrong!
Just as you need an annual physical exam, dogs do as well. 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. Getting your dog checked up on annually will allow you to know if there are any problems.
Dogs can’t talk, so you must learn their body language. If your pet hesitates when approaching a person or a pet, don’t push them to go near them. That could lead to another person or dog being bitten. Take heed of these non-verbal cues, and act accordingly.
If your dog comes with you on vacations, you need to have an up-to-date picture of it on hand and in your phone. That way, if he happens to get separated from the family, you have an up-to-date picture of him that is easily accessible for showing people or can be downloaded for printing up “lost” flyers.
Beware of flea treatments for your dog. Some medicines can put your children in harms way. Ask your vet about alternative treatments that are more family-friendly, and be sure to keep small children away during applications.
Rawhide Bones
Give your pooch rawhide bones instead of those from real meat. Rawhide limits the danger when your dog is chewing. It has been shown that rawhide bones are safe and great for their teeth, so be sure to not give your dog that ham bone next time.
Your dog needs a dog house if he or she has to remain outside in cold weather. Your dog could get sick if he is left outside in the cold or if the ground is wet. Protect them from precipitation and wind by providing them a dry and spacious shelter.
Don’t try forcing anything into your dog. If your dog doesn’t like a particular treat, don’t force him to eat it. When you are a new dog owner, it may take a while to figure out what he does and doesn’t like.
Be sure your dog is physically active. A dog needs to play and exercise on a regular basis so that it can be happy and healthy. Throw a ball around the park with your dog and play fetch. Besides just getting some exercise, you’ll be creating a bond between you and your dog.
Even if you seek a pure bred animal, you should not overlook the pound. There are people who drop off pets for many different reasons, such as moving abroad or the death of an owner. Call the pound to find ask what dog breeds are in house at the time. It could mean you save a dog in the process!
If you have a dog, your life may be busy. Sometimes, you may feel overwhelmed with the chores. Hopefully, the advice in this piece has helped you feel more prepared to raise a pet. Soon, you’ll be doing a lot less worrying.