Are you a current dog owner or did you have one in the past? If this is the case you are aware of how great it is to own a dog. But, there is always more to learn. This article provides excellent information on caring for a dog.

While hugging your dog will make both of you feel great, refrain from kissing him. While those sloppy kisses may be cute, be aware that your dog’s mouth is apt to be crawling with germs and bacteria. Dogs really get into everything, from toilet water to the neighbor’s trash. It’s an old wives tale that your dog’s mouth happens to be cleaner that a human being. Definitely do not believe that!

Whenever you bring your dog along on vacations, take a quick snapshot of him and keep it on your phone. If the worst happens and your pet gets lost, you have a current picture that you can show others or use to make “lost” posters.

Avoid giving your pooch table food. This will encourage constant begging and reduce their appetite towards their own food. Table scraps can also be unhealthy and lead to excess weight and digestive problems. You need to make sure your dog is not near the dinner table. This will make it easier for your pet (and you!) to avoid temptation.

Before giving your dog a new dog food, talk to your vet. Puppies can’t eat adult food and vice versa. Err on the side of caution when feeding food to your dog.

Praise your dog when he behaves or performs in the way that you have been training him to. You want to reinforce your dog’s good behaviors. This will teach the dog that when they do what you wish, they’ll get praised.

Make sure your dog engages in sufficient amounts of exercise. Your dog has to be worked out to stay happy and healthy. No matter what, whether throwing their ball or taking a long walk, you’ll both benefit from it. Not only does it give them the exercise they need, but it also improves your relationship with your dog.

Solid leash training is a must for any dog. He should be on your side, not behind or ahead of you, and he should know how to respond when told to “heel.” This will ensure that your pet is not too far ahead or behind you. This will also help to prevent your dog from choking themselves, when trying to pull ahead.

If you think you want a dog, but are not sure if you are ready for the commitment involved, consider becoming a foster home. Shelters are full of abused and homeless dogs and they are hard pressed to give them all proper care. Fostering a dog will both help the cause and allow you to test drive the responsibility involved with pet ownership.

Keep the fur around your pup’s paws trimmed so that it does not get matted. Straighten the hair with a comb slightly before you do any trimming. If you’re uncomfortable trimming hair, you should probably have your dog groomed by a professional.

Some dog breeds are more prone to problems than others and you should know if your dog could have problems. Research the breed of your dog and take steps to ensure he does not get any infections or diseases. 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.

Let your dog know that you care. Do not focus on just the negatives with your dog. This may spell trouble in the future. Rather, stroke, praise and pet your dog at least three to four times more than you scold or speak sternly to him. When you do this, you will probably end up with a better behaved dog.

Make a careful selection when choosing your dog’s food. There are many options, but you should match your dog to food that was made for his age and size. You might think that you can save money by feeding your dog table scraps, but this is very unhealthy.

Are you aware that vitamins can harm your dog? Don’t give your dog extra vitamins if he’s eating a well-balanced diet. Do not give your dog too many vitamins as this can get them sick. Before you begin giving your dog any vitamins or supplements, make sure that you check with your vet first.

You need to provide your dog with shade and water during the summer. Dogs tend to get overheated easily. Offer an area that has lots of shade during the summer. Keep some cool (and clean) water around. Also, your dog might not like the sun’s rays, so ask the vet if you can get some sunscreen for your dog.

Stick to your guns. Dog owners sometimes think that it is alright to occasionally let their dog have table scraps or destroy a toy. This is particularly the case when the dog is very cute! However, if you’re firm, you’ll be able to avoid problems down the line. If your dog learns that it is not necessary to wait patiently for a few scraps and prefers jumping up to help himself, you may find that the dog takes whatever is in reach without waiting for your permission.

There are many advantages with owning a dog. It’s even better if you know what you’re doing. With these tips fresh in your mind, you’re ready to be a better owner. Apply what you’ve learned here, and enjoy quality time with your pooch.