There are a lot of different kinds of pets you can get. You could pick a cat, dog, rat, chinchilla, fish, lizard or snake. However, if you want a pet that will show you lots of love, a dog may be your best bet. This article will show you how to care for your dog once you adopt him.
Just like humans, dogs should go to the vet for a checkup yearly. Dogs can't talk, so how do you know he has arthritis, for example? You need to go to the vet every year to get a check up.
Since your dog cannot talk to you, you have to learn how to listen to your dog's non-verbal language. You should never pressure your pet into interacting with strangers, be they human or canine. This may lead to someone getting bitten. Look for your dog's non verbal cues and react accordingly.
If there are prescription and other medications within your home, keep them away from your dog. Even if the dog were to eat a couple of pills, it could have very life threatening effects. Call your vet as soon as possible if your dog swallows any pills.
In addition to verbal commands, employ a variety of hand signals when training your dog. It may be easier for your dog to learn commands if they see a visual signal. Try both ways and see which is best for your dog.
Speak with your vet to see how much you're going to have to feed your dog daily. The amounts on the label might not apply in your dog's situation. Speak to the vet about what makes sense for your dog.
Don't ever give your dog bones. Bones can lodge in the mouth or throat, causing devastating injuries. Rawhide is completely healthy and improves the teeth, and therefore is preferable to animal bones.
Daily brushing brings great rewards - much more than just a reduction in shedding. It'll also give them a very beautiful and shiny coat. Oil is distributed as you brush their hair, which keeps both fur and skin healthy.
When you buy dog food, avoid the cheap stuff. High quality foods are always your best bet. This may mean higher costs for a better brand, but your dog will get great nutrition from proper sources.
When you get a new dog, schedule a vet visit for soon after you've brought him home. Make an appointment as early as possible. The veterinarian will do a full checkup and set a schedule for his vaccinations. Set up an appointment to have your dog fixed, too.
You should carefully trim the hair near the paws to avoid matted hair. Straighten the hair with a comb slightly before you do any trimming. If you have a hard time with this, enlist the services of a groomer.
Adopting a dog is an important decision, but you should have a better idea of whether or not it is a good option for you after reading this article. Take some time to read more about the amazing world of canines. This way, you and your dog can enjoy many happy years together.
