You need to do more than pet and feed your dog. Your dog also needs constant TLC. What steps must one take to keep their dog happy? The article below provides excellent advice on the right methods of dog care, so continue reading.

Make sure that your home is safe for your dog. Prior to bringing the pooch home, check that the whole home is safe. 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.

Since your dog cannot talk to you, you have to learn how to listen to your dog’s non-verbal language. Hesitant dogs need to be taken out of fearful situations. This could end up in negative biting or fighting behavior. Watch for any of these non-verbal cues and let these guide your actions.

Speak with your vet about how much food should your dog be eating each day. While some people feed their dogs according to the dog food package guidelines, these guidelines can be incorrect and lead to an overweight dog. Ask your vet for the proper amount based on your dog’s needs.

Don’t force anything into a dog. If you have purchased treats the dog does not appear to enjoy, do not force the issue. Upon initially bringing a dog into the home, spend some time discovering its likes and dislikes.

Dedicate enough time to correcting bad behavior right away. Ignoring it for a while can make it harder to correct later and you don’t know what may happen if you don’t. Your dog might hurt someone else, or you, so take steps to control him early on.

Take your new dog to a vet. As soon as your dog is brought to your home you should get an appointment scheduled with the vet. The vet will check him over and prepare him for vaccinations. Also see about getting your dog fixed because there are tons of animals in shelters and adding to that problem isn’t good.

Teach your dog the proper way to walk while on a leash. Your dog should know how to heel and not behind you or ahead of you. If your pet is leash trained, it’ll be safer, and you’ll enjoy walks more as well. The heel command is crucial for your dog, even if a loose leash walk is being used.

Your dog needs attention and shouldn’t be left alone outdoors all day. Many people do this, but dogs need interactions with others. A dog by himself tends to be lonely and not motivated to do anything. In addition to the socializing need, you should not leave a dog to fend for himself in heavy rainstorms or very cold weather. Bring the dog indoors until the inclement weather passes.

The more you know about dogs, the more enjoyable your relationship with your pet will be. This will let you keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come. If the roles were reversed, you want your dog to find out all about you.