There is a common saying that a dog can be man’s best friend. This saying is quite true. If you care for your dog and can handle him, you can have a wonderful relationship. The article below contains information you need to read if you’re going to care for a dog.

Take the time to make sure your house is dog-proofed. Check your whole home to be sure it is safe prior to bringing a dog home. Secure the trash can, stow way all medications and put away your regular cleaning supplies. Since some plants are very harmful because of their toxicity, it’s best to get rid of them or put them in an area that the dog cannot get to.

Since you’re not able to speak with your dog like a person, you should pay close attention to the dog’s non-verbal speech. If your dog is fearful or shy, do not insist that they interact. This may cause another dog or person to get bit. Look out for non-verbal hints so that the dog can guide your actions.

Store your prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines in a safe place where your dog cannot get them. Even if the dog were to eat a couple of pills, it could have very life threatening effects. When your dog happens to get at your meds, call the vet ASAP.

In your backyard or in your house itself is the right place to start training your dog. This allows you to control how many people are there while the training takes place. The more people there are, the more difficult training will be. They are going to become distracted, and the easiest commands can be tough.

Even if your dog is well-behaved, never leave home without putting him on a leash. He can be scared away by some wild animal, or an unforeseen provocation with another dog can result in an unpleasant situation. You will be responsible for your dog’s actions and safety.

Don’t get your dog food based on how cheap it is. Cheaper brands have tons of additives, preservatives, and ingredients that can harm a dog’s health. Find an advocacy group that can provide you with a list of vet recommended foods. The higher quality food will benefit your dog profoundly.

Give your dog plenty of exercise for both his body and his mind. Teach him to get the newspaper and do other helpful things around the house. This will make him feel like an active member of the family.

It is important that your dog is equipped with some kind of ID. A good way to ensure your dog is returned if he is lost is to attach an identification tag to his collar. On the tag, make sure to include your pet’s name and your phone number. You can also have your dog micro-chipped.

Get into pet politics! Local legislation that could restrict or regulate the rights of dogs and their owners might be on the table. This is often caused by a few bad dogs, or a particular breed. Stand up for your rights!

Don’t let too many people train your dog. Everyone has their own unique ways of training, and having multiple people trying to train a dog differently can leave it confused. One person should be the trainer, and everyone else can act to reinforce good behaviors.

Dogs are amazing pets. Your relationship with your dog will thrive when you are properly educated. You ought to have gained lots of tips from this piece that can be put to use for the benefit of your dog. The term “man’s best friend” will soon apply to your dog!