Caring for your dog is a major responsibility. In some ways, it’s almost like taking care of a child, except this child barks instead of crying. While it can seem overwhelming at times, you have the potential to be a great owner. Want some advice? Read on.
Make sure that your dog gets neutered. Studies have shown that this leads to the pet living a longer and much healthier life. In addition, dogs that are spayed or neutered do not have as strong of a desire to wander from their home, meaning that they are less likely to get lost or hit by a car.
If you are going to taking your dog on vacation, take a pic of him on your phone. Therefore, if your animals get lost, there is a recent photo that can be used for the purpose of locating them.
Make sure you are informed of what flea treatments you are using for your dog. Some treatments contain dangerous ingredients that may put your kids at risk for diseases like cancer. Talk with your vet concerning alternative treatments, and do not let small children come near while treating your dog.
Don’t give in to the urge to feed your dog food meant for humans. This will only teach him to beg constantly and also inhibit his appetite toward his regular food. Overfeeding him will lead to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, too. Keep the dog away from your table when you eat to avoid any temptation on both parts.
If you want to keep your dog outside, build him or her a small shelter. A dog can get ill if he is left out in rough weather, so make sure you have a warm, dry dog house where he can rest. Make sure that your dog has a spacious home that they can go into to get out of the weather.
Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise. Playing and exercising are two crucial components of any healthy dog’s life. From a walk to chasing a ball, everything counts. In addition to fulfilling the physical need for exercise, you will foster a strong bond with your dog that will last a lifetime.
Schedule a vet appointment for the new dog. This should be one of the first things that you attend to when you’re bringing home a new pet. The veterinarian will make sure your pet is as healthy as you think he is and also talk to you about vaccinations. Consider having your pup spayed or neutered as there is already an overpopulation problem.
Dog Needs
Your dog needs attention and shouldn’t be left alone outdoors all day. While this happens quite often, a dog needs interaction during the day. A dog with no companions can feel very isolated and stressed out if he is left alone outside. Also, when the weather gets bad, you need to keep your dog inside.
Be careful with your female dog when she is in heat, if you don’t want her getting pregnant. Male dogs can tell your dog is in heat when they are five miles away. The dog might also want to fight other dogs, and become pregnant.
Be sure your dog wears identification so it can always get back home. It’s a good idea to fit your dog with a sturdy collar equipped with ID tags. This tag needs to contain all of your relevant contact details and the name of your dog. You may also consider having a micro-chip implanted.
Stay involved politically for your dog. Watch to see if there are any laws passed that affect your situation as the owner of a dog. These pieces of legislation are typically motivated by a single incident, one particular breed or a limited number of misbehaved dogs. You need to talk to your local officials and stick up for rights of dog owners.
If you already have a dog at home, take your existing dog to meet the potential new one. Dogs are quite social, though not all get along well. If you find one that gets along with your current one, you’ll save yourself a lifetime of headaches.
Dog ownership is not a decision that should be made on a whim. Just like caring for a kid, your dog must have what it needs so it can survive. Taking care of a dog requires consistency and responsibility, and you can do it if you apply yourself. If you need some assistance, reread this article for advice. Your pet will thank you for it!