Are you considering adopting a puppy from your local shelter? Would you like to pick up a pure breed dog from a breeder? Whether you wish to have a loveable old mutt or a show dog, you'll have lots of love in your life by getting a pup. You are also taking on a big responsibility, and the article below has the information you need to care for your dog.
It can be quite costly to own a dog. Each dog needs quality food, medical care and general supplies. It can cost you around $1000 each year. Emergency vet care is very expensive, in some cases thousands of dollars, so you might want to consider purchasing pet health insurance.
Take your dog to the vet at least one time a year for checkups. Your dog is not able to talk, so it is not easy to know when he's got arthritis or an aching tooth. Taking your dog for a yearly checkup allows relatively minor problems to be detected before they turn into major issues.
Be wary of the flea treatment you're going to use on your dog. Some treatments contain dangerous ingredients that may put your kids at risk for diseases like cancer. Speak with your vet to see if there are any alternatives that are healthier choices for your pet and your family.
Resist the urge to give your dog table scraps. This will make him want human food every time you have a meal. A dog fed on table scraps will be prone to unhealthy weight gain, disruptive digestive problems, and other health issues. While you and your family dine, keep your dog in another room so that table-feeding isn't an option.
Don't take your dog off of your own property without a leash, no matter how well-behaved he is. Something could distract him, like a squirrel or a cat, causing him to leave your side. Your dog is your responsibility.
If your dog behaves badly, correct the behavior immediately. You should never ignore bad behaviors when they are puppies because this will make it a lot harder to correct down the road. The dog may harm somebody, even you, so control them.
Be sure your dog is physically active. Dogs need consistent physical activity to ensure they are physically and mentally fit. Regardless of the activity you choose, whether it is a game of fetch or a walk around the neighborhood, both of you will benefit. It also grows your bond with the dog.
Make sure your dog knows how to properly walk while it's leashed. 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 not only make your walks more enjoyable, but it will also help keep your dog safe. By having your dog understand this command, it will be very helpful for most situations.
You now know what it takes to care for your dog as best as possible, so you are ready to bring your new mutt or purebred home! Always be open to new information about dog ownership, and learn from your dog as well. You may want to look for a forum of other dog owners to share and learn information. Never stop learning.
