Are you interested in rescuing a puppy from the local shelter? Or maybe you interested in buying from a breeder? Whether you wish to have a loveable old mutt or a show dog, you will add hours of enjoyment to your life when you get a pooch. You must care for them properly, and the article below has the information you need to care for your dog.
While hugging your dog will make both of you feel great, refrain from kissing him. In theory, giving a dog a kiss is cute, but realize that the mouth of a dog is generally very dirty. Keep in mind that dogs drink from toilet bowls and eat whatever is on the ground. It is not true that a dog has a cleaner mouth than a person. It is not necessarily true.
If you have prescription or over-the-counter medication in the house, be sure to keep it out of your dog’s reach. Call the vet immediately if your dog has swallowed the medication.
Never allow your dog outside your yard without a leash even if he seems very trustworthy and calm. You will be responsible if your dog does this.
If you are on any kind of medication, you should ensure your dog never gains access to it. Swallowing even one pill can end very badly, with a sick or dying dog. If your dog eats your medication, see a vet right away.
Speak with your vet about how much you’re going to have to feed your dog be eating each day. While some people follow the direction on the back of the dog food packaging, sometimes these guidelines are inappropriate for your dog. Ask your vet what the right meal plan is for the proper amount based on your dog.
Give your dog rawhide bones instead of those from real meat bones. Real bones can chip and are dangerous for the dog.
Use your lifestyle to pick the dog breed you need to get. For example, if you’re a jogger, get a type of dog that can run with you, not a toy-poodle. If you prefer to stay home curled up on your couch, go for a small dog that likes to be spoiled and that will curl up along with you. You will be much happier when you make a choice that is complementary to your lifestyle.
If you get a dog that was in a pound or shelter, you need to get a vet appointment scheduled as soon as possible. Shelter dogs could be sick or may be ill already. You need to be sure that you get your dog gets their shots.
Schedule a veterinary checkup for the new dog. The vet will make sure your pet is as healthy as you think he is and prepare him for vaccinations. You also have your dog neutered or spayed to cut down on pet overpopulation.
Don’t force your dog to eat something. If you’re trying to get your dog to eat a new treat and it’s not showing any interest, don’t force them to eat it. It will take you a little while to figure out what your dog likes and what he doesn’t, but you’ll get the hang of it.
Your dog should not be left outside in the entire day. Dogs are social creatures and need companionship and interaction with others. A dog by himself tends to be lonely and stressed out if he is left alone outside.Also, when the weather gets bad, hurt by other animals or even abducted.
A lot of people give their dogs in the pound because they can’t look after their pet for whatever reason. Just give a quick call to your local pound to find out what breeds they may have available. This action could help you save the life of a dog!
When giving your dog medication or special treatment, follow vet instructions closely. Your dog won’t like a cone, but he has to wear it. If your veterinarian recommends something, it’s because it’s what’s best for your dog. If you ignore recommendations, your dog could have some major health issues.
If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, or you want to give him a little treat, play some music while you are at work. The noise can help him feel more secure and keep him company. This little touch can significantly help reduce its anxiety.
If you have just one dog and he seems pretty lonely when you are gone, consider buying a second dog. Dogs generally like to have companions that are known to be pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs. Match them carefully based on energy levels and temperament so that they can enjoy themselves.
Let your dog know that you care about him. As is the case with most things in life, owners often pay more attention to the bad behavior than the good. With dogs, this can lead to trouble. Rather, stroke, praise and pet your dog at least three to four times more than you scold or speak sternly to him. Your dog is going to behave much more if you do that.
Make sure you make and keep yearly vet appointments for your dog goes to it’s vet for a checkup each year. Annual exams can save a lot of unneeded expenses later on.
Be very careful when you select food for your dog’s food. You may be tempted to give your pet leftovers, but it is difficult to achieve a balanced diet and include all of the right nutrients.
Stimulate your dog mentally by giving him exercise and physical activity. Teaching your dog tricks, such as fetching your shoes or the paper, is a fun activity and it also will stimulate your dog’s mind, keeping him alert and attentive. He will always feel useful and a part of the family, while the constant reinforcement of training will keep his thinking skills sharp.
If you already have a dog at home, it is a good idea to take your old dog along. Dogs are usually social creatures, though not all get along well. Finding dogs that like each other will save you headache and trouble.
Wanting a dog is a piece of cake, but taking responsibility of one and giving it the love it needs is difficult.
Make sure your dog gets an annual health check-up. The vet will be able to spot signs of diabetes, thyroid issues and kidney trouble a while before your dog shows any signs. This saves you money on vet bills later on, or heartache from your pet’s suffering.
Now that you know how to take great care of a dog, it’s time for your new companion to come home with you! Keep reading to find out more. A great place to discuss your dog with other dog lovers would be an online forum. Learning never stops, so keep reading.