Are you the owner of an misbehaving pooch? Is their daily behavior cause for concern? Perhaps your dog needs some obedience lessons. The tips that follow will help you train your pet, as well as help you figure out the best way to care for him overall.
Make your home dog-proof. It is important that you try to foresee any problems your dog might run into prior to bringing him home. Cleaning supplies and medications should be locked away, and any indoor trash cans need to be put in a cabinet. Certain plants are toxic, and it’s best to move them, too.
While you can hug your dog, you should avoid kissing your dog. Kisses from dogs are adorable, but they’re a lot less cute when you realize how filthy your dog’s mouth actually is. Dogs dig in trash cans, drink from toilet bowls and sniff and lick various body parts on themselves and other dogs. Many people believe that dogs’ mouths do not have as much germs as humans’ mouths. However, this simply is not the case.
If you have medication is your home, even if it is just over-the-counter medication, place it where your dog cannot access it. Swallowing a couple pills could can serious health issues, even heart attacks and seizures. If you notice that your dog has consumed any of your medication, you need to immediately contact your vet.
Table Scraps
Avoid giving your pup table scraps. This will make him beg more often, and he may gain a preference for human food. Table scraps are also not nutritionally sound for a dog, and this might mean digestive problems, obesity, and other ailments. Keep your dog away from the family dinner table for training purposes and to avoid any temptation.
Never allow your dog to leave your yard without a leash even if he seems very trustworthy and calm. Dogs are easily distracted by other animals, cars, and kids, so always make sure to keep your dog on a leash for his own safety. You are responsible for anything your dog does, as well as for his safety.
It is a good idea to use hand signals when you are trying to train your dog, instead of just relying on verbal commands. Dogs tend to read body language and signs very well. Test out both methods to see which works for you.
Make sure your pet has time each day to stretch his legs and move around. Playing and exercising are two crucial components of any healthy dog’s life. Get out and do something with your dog. Go for a walk or play fetch. This doesn’t just entertain and exercise your dog, it helps you form a bond.
If your dog is undergoing a course of treatment with medication or therapy, make sure you follow your veterinarian’s instructions precisely. Even if your dog resists, it is important for their health that you listen to the veterinarian. Your vet makes recommendations that will help your dog be happy and healthy, so you should follow your vet’s advice.
Help your dog to stay active mentally and help him to exercise enough. You can teach your dog to be helpful with and respectful of things in your house. This gives him a job to do and he’ll feel fulfilled as a result.
Be certain a lost dog can be returned to you by giving him some identification. A breakaway collar that includes an ID tag will ensure the return of your dog if they should wander. The tag should let people know what your dog’s name is along with your contact information. You may also consider having a micro-chip implanted.
Set a regular schedule for doggie check-ups at your vet. Dogs must see their vet for full exams, vaccinations and routine testing. Puppies tend to need the vet more than adults. If your dog appears to be hurt or sick, they need to be brought to the vet immediately.
Allowing your dog’s bad behavior cannot continue. You don’t have to sit back and watch the dog destroy your home or growl at everybody. You have to be the one who guides your dog. Use what you’ve learned and show your dog how to behave.