Are you a former or current dog owner? If you’ve already experienced the joy of dog ownership, you know how great its benefits can be. But, in order for it to be as enjoyable as it can be, you should be educated. The following article breaks down the different techniques that you must learn.

Always neuter or spay your pet. Statistics show that doing this can reduce your dog’s cancer risk, which can result in a longer life span. Dogs who have been neutered or spayed are also less likely to run or wander away from home.

If you decide to take your dog with you on a trip, take a photo of him on your phone. This will be helpful should he get lost.

Table Scraps

Keep table scraps to a minimum. If you do, he will hang around you constantly wanting more every time you eat. Your dog may also stop eating his own food as much. “People food” can also make dogs sick and contribute to obesity. Train your dog to sit far away from your dining room so that you and your family won’t be tempted to feed it table scraps.

Don’t let your dog out of your property without wearing a leash, regardless of how well he behaves. Wild animals could grab their attention, causing them to run into dangerous territory, or they may have an unpleasant situation involving other dogs and people. Your dog is your responsibility, so treat him right.

You should talk to your vet about the foods you give your dog. Certain brands may not be right for a small pup and could cause him to get a stomachache or become sick. Be cautious about what types of foods you feed your dog.

Which breed you need to buy depends on your lifestyle. If you jog a lot, buy a dog that likes to run, and not something like a toy poodle. If you prefer to stay home curled up on your couch, go for a small dog that likes to be spoiled and that will curl up along with you. When you find the perfect match, you’ll both be happier!

Speak to your vet about your dog’s eating habits. Although some dog owners stick to the recommended guidelines on the dog food, these guidelines can often be too much for your dog, which can lead to obesity. See what your vet recommends and adapt that to how your dog responds.

Avoid buying your dog bargain-based food. Less expensive brands of dog food often contain artificial coloring, additives, preservatives and so on that can be very bad for your dog. Find a list of recommended dog foods from the vet or an advocate for animals. Your dog will be much better off.

Real Bones

Don’t ever give your dog bones. Real bones can chip and become lodged in harmful place such as the digestive tract. Studies have shown that rawhide bones are good for your dog’s health and their teeth. Don’t give in and let your dog gnaw on real bones. Stick to rawhide.

Trim your dog’s nails on a regular basis. Your dog will be in pain if the nails begin curling. Buy some clippers from a pet store and cut them yourself. It is best to take your dog to the groomer if you do not want to do it yourself.

There are many positives associated with owning a dog. It’s even better if you know what you’re doing. Fortunately, you are doing the right thing by reading articles like the one you read above. Utilize the advice to its fullest.