Owning a dog may bring joy into your life, but it isn’t always a simple job. Dogs are like children, where they need proper food, exercise, cleaning and grooming and to visit a physician. How can you be sure what exactly must be done? The fact is, reading this article will give you the knowledge you need to be the best dog owner ever.
Make your home safe for your dog. Prior to bringing your dog into your home, be sure that it is entirely safe. Place any meds or household cleaning supplies out of reach, and place any trash cans in a cabinet. Some plants that are usually kept in the home are poisonous to pets, so move them where your dog cannot get to them, or put them out of your home completely.
When you are training your dog, you should practice in your home or in your yard. This will give you security and an area that your dog is comfortable. This can cause your dog to get distracted, which can make training them simple commands almost impossible.
Never allow your dog to leave your yard without a leash even if he seems very trustworthy and calm. A dog might run after an animal and get into trouble, or it might get into a fight with another animal. You are solely responsible for the dog’s actions and for the dog’s safety as well.
Make use of hand signals when training your dog versus relying only on verbal commands. This is a very effective way to communicate with your dog. Try both methods to see which your dog prefers.
Carefully consider what your home is like when deciding on a breed of dog. If you like to go out running in the evenings, select a dog that also enjoys vigorous exercise. If you spend more time in the home, a more sedate, indoor dog will fit your lifestyle best. You will be much happier when you make a choice that is complementary to your lifestyle.
A dog that spends a lot of time outside should have a warm and safe shelter in case it is needed. Remember that dogs exposed to cold and damp or excessive heat are far more likely to become ill. Your dog needs a space that is dry and provides him with adequate shelter.
If you want to get a pet from a shelter, find a vet who can examine your new dog. Dogs from pounds are exposed to more illnesses than others. Error on the side of caution and get your dog all its shots.
What types of health problems are typical for your dog? Do what you can to combat those issues early. You can also speak with the vet about steps you can take to increase their lifespan.
If your dog seems lonely because you’re not home all the time, get him a little friend. Dogs naturally live in packs, and they are happiest when they are allowed to do so. Giving them some canine companionship can have a very positive effect on their mood and behavior. Make sure that you match the dogs up by their personality types.
Dog Owners
Stay on top of canine politics for your friend. Watch local legislation that passes to see how it regulates or restricts the rights and behavior of dog owners. These legislatures generally arise from specific breeds or random cases of bad instances. You need to talk to your local officials and stick up for rights of dog owners.
A dog should always be brought to the vet for regular checkups. You need to make sure your pet is caught up on shots, and it’s smart to get tests done for heartworm and other issues. You will need to see a vet more often if the dog is a puppy. When your dog seems to be sick or injured in any way, it is time to go to the vet.
If you already have a dog and want to get another one, allow your existing dog to meet the new one before you make your final decision. Most dogs enjoy another dog’s company, but some dogs do not get along. Compatible dogs are always your best bet.
You might be tempted to share your food with your dog. While some foods are fine for sharing with your dog, there are some that must be avoided. A few foods that you should not allow your dog to have include grapes, chocolate and caffeine. They can cause illnesses and, in some cases, even death, and your dog will not benefit by receiving them.
Don’t judge the health of your dog by his wet, cold nose. There are a lot of reasons your dog might have a cold and wet nose. You can tell how your dog is feeling by watching his appetite and energy levels. These are better signs of how your dog is feeling. You can also check the temperature rectally.
You now know a thing or two about dogs. Starting with these techniques, you can keep learning more and become an experienced dog owner. Just use what you’ve read here and your dog will show its gratitude by loving you for it.