Dogs are often considered among man’s best friends. This saying is quite true. Make sure that you handle a dog with care and compassion. The following tips will prove beneficial to you.
Because dogs cannot speak to you, it is important to learn their non-verbal cues. If it seems as though your dog holds back when around other dogs or people, don’t insist that they interact. This may cause another dog or person to get bit. Look for non-verbal cues and follow what the dog is telling you.
Don’t take your dog off of your own property without a leash, no matter how well-behaved he is. He can be scared away by some wild animal, or an unforeseen provocation with another dog can result in an unpleasant situation. Your dog is your responsibility, so treat him right.
The dog breed you choose should blend in well with your lifestyle. If you like to go out running in the evenings, select a dog that also enjoys vigorous exercise. When you prefer to stay home, choose a small dog who doesn’t need much outdoor time. Getting a dog that matches your lifestyle will make you both more happy.
Be sure to praise your dog freely and consistently whenever he exhibits a desired behavior. You need to reward good behavior. This will also give your dog incentive to be good.
Don’t force your dog to eat something. If your dog doesn’t like a particular treat, don’t make him eat it. It’s important to take your pets likes and dislikes into consideration and to not push them into anything unnecessary.
Clip your dog’s nails. Your dog will be in pain if the nails begin curling. Find some good clippers you can use to trim your dog’s nails yourself. If this idea makes you uneasy, a groomer can easily attend to them for you.
It’s very important for your dog to get the correct amount of exercise. Dogs need game time and regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically healthy and happy. No matter what you do, whether it’s going for a long walk or simply throwing a ball or stick, both you and your dog will benefit. Exercising with your dog will help you establish a bond with it.
When you are getting dog food for your pet, don’t try to save money and get whatever is cheapest. Overall, your dog will benefit form a lifetime of quality food. Although the food may cost more, you know that your dog is receiving the correct nutrients from quality food.
If you think you want a dog, but are not sure if you are ready for the commitment involved, consider becoming a foster home. There are many animals who need a temporary home until they are adopted. Fostering an animal will help animals and help you decide whether or not you would like to keep a dog of your own.
Certain dogs are prone to medical conditions and make yourself aware of this before selecting a dog. If you don’t know the type of dog he is, research it so you will know the type of problems your dog could have. Also, you can speak with the vet to see what can be done so that your pet will have a better chance at avoiding health problems.
You might find a pure breed dog at the pound. A lot of dog owners leave their dogs in the city pound when they can’t look after their dog anymore. Just call your local pound to find out what breeds they have available. You could save a dog’s life by doing so!
Give your dog a lot of love. Owners tend to focus on the bad times, not the good. This may eventually cause problems. Instead make it a habit to praise your dog much more often than any scolding. Make it five times to any one. This increases the chance that your dog will repeat the good behavior rather than the bad.
Dogs need to be exercised physically and mentally in order to stay healthy. You can teach your dog to be helpful with and respectful of things in your house. Your dog is always going to feel like it’s a part of your family while getting trained so that it’s mentally fit.
If your female dog is in heat be cautious – she could very easily become pregnant. A male dog can smell a female in heat from up to five miles away. The end result of letting an in heat dog run free is not only an unwanted litter, but also a dog who is prone to fighting and the resulting injuries.
Dogs are excellent pets. The more you know about them, the more fulfilling your relationship is going to be. You have learned quite a bit from this article, and hopefully you can use it and have a life full of happiness with your dog. It is time to get the best friend you’ve wanted for awhile.