There are a number of different pets available. Have you been considering adding a new member to your family? But, a dog is an animal that can provide love and companionship for its entire life. The following article will give you some great advice to help you take care of your dog.
Owning a dog takes a bit of money. Dogs need good food, medical care and other supplies. This can add up to $500-$1000 a year. Getting emergency care from the vet is costly, so you may need to take a look at health insurance for your pet.
It’s a great idea to keep a snap-shot of your dog handy (a digital pic on your phone is ideal) whenever you’re traveling with him. By doing this, in case your dog gets lost, you can provide others with a picture and easily put up flyers, which will assist in finding your dog.
Be careful when selecting canine flea treatments. They contain carcinogens proven to cause cancer in kids. Speak with your vet to see if there are any alternatives that are healthier choices for your pet and your family.
Avoid letting your dog walk without a leash outside of your property, regardless of how well he behaves. Wild animals could get the dog’s attention and lead him into dangerous places, or unanticipated circumstances could provoke conflicts with others. You are responsible if your dog does this.
Don’t buy your dog cheap dog food. Less expensive dog foods include fillers and additives that are not beneficial to your dog’s health. Contact an animal advocacy group about which foods are best for your dog. Better food will be very beneficial to your dog.
When a dog behaves badly, correct him immediately. Ignoring it for any length of time will only make it that much more difficult to contain later and you never know what could happen as a result of it now. You could end up with a dog that hurts other people, so make sure you’re in control at all times.
Keep the fur around your pup’s paws trimmed so that it does not get matted. Use a comb first, then start cutting. Another option is to take your dog to the groomers and ask for this task to be performed.
If separation anxiety plagues your dog, or you want your dog to feel less lonely, play some music while you are at work. The sounds of the music will provide a sense of security and company for your dog. This may help ease the dog’s fears and calm him down just enough so he isn’t going crazy while he awaits your arrival.
Make sure that your dog gets plenty of exercise- both physical and mental. Find ways for your dog to help you each day, such as training it to fetch the morning paper. This gives him a job to do and he’ll feel fulfilled as a result.
Tag your dog with proper identification to make sure that you can bring him home if he is lost. Consider purchasing a breakaway collar for your pet. This tag needs to have the dog’s name as well as a way to contact you. Micro-chipping is another great option to help in the event that your dog gets lost.
Stepping on sharp objects or glass is a common hazard for dogs waling outside. Small cuts can be treated by washing, flushing with hydrogen peroxide and bandaging. If the cut is deep, it is best to go to a veterinarian.
A dog should always be brought to the vet for regular checkups. Your dog should see a vet for check-ups, blood tests and to ensure they’re up to date with vaccinations. You will need to see a vet more often if the dog is a puppy. If you see any signs of injury or illness, talk to your vet immediately.
Try to use positive reinforcement on your dog. Do not hit your dog as this will only make him fear you. Humane treatment in training is not only better for the dog in the long run, but will be more effective as well. Always treat your dog with kindness during training so you will see a much better end result.
You have to really watch everything your dog eats. Puppies can eat calorie filled foods since they need to grow. However, if they eat the same kinds of foods when they get older they may gain a lot of weight and that isn’t healthy.
Find a good training course for your new puppy. You will have a better life, and so will your dog, if you train it well and teach it to obey the commands you give it. While training a puppy is easier, you can still teach an old dog new tricks.
If you have a new dog, you need to determine where he will sleep. If you will expect your pup to sleep in a crate, don’t ever let him in your bed. If you do let your dog in your bed, you will want to assure it’s something you want to do each and every night.
Bringing a dog into your home is no small matter, but with the knowledge you have gained from this article, you should be ready to take the plunge. Spend some quality time learning all about dogs. By doing this, you will enjoy an incredible furry companion for years to come.