There is nothing easy about dog ownership. You will need to give them the right foods, take them out and care for them daily. Sometimes it can be hard to meet the challenges that come along with owning a pet. Continue reading and learn more about being a responsible pet owner.
It is expensive to own a dog. Every dog requires good quality food, general supplies and medical care; this can range in cost from $700 to $1000 per year. Getting into a vet if you have an emergency can cost quite a bit of money, sometimes in the thousands, so you may need pet health insurance too.
It's good to give hugs, but avoid giving kisses. It is unsanitary to be licked by a dog. Remember that dogs use their tongues to clean themselves, and they like to eat garbage and drink out of the toilet. There is an old wives' tale that says that the mouth of a dog is cleaner than that of a human. This is completely wrong!
Be sure your dog is neutered or spayed. A neutered dog will live longer and have less risks of developing cancer. They are also more likely to remain close to home, reducing their risk of becoming lost or getting injured by a car or another animal.
Train your dog in your backyard or home, as these are safe, convenient areas. Avoid training your dog where many people are present. This can cause your dog to get distracted, which can make training them simple commands almost impossible.
Before giving your dog a new dog food, talk to your vet. Some puppies take longer to develop, and some types of food may be too rich, leading to an upset belly or vomiting. Be safe when taking care of your dog.
Follow through according to your vet's suggestions if your dog needs something special or has medicine. They may not like their cone, but they need it for a purpose. It is always best to follow the recommendations shared by your veterinarian.
If your dog isn't happy or is lonely, consider buying a second dog. Dogs come from packs, so it's in their nature to prefer spending time with a member of their own species. Find another dog that has the same energy levels and temperament and you'll be sure to find something your dog will love!
Make sure you exercise both your dog's mind and its body. By teaching your dog tricks that he can do around the house, such as grabbing the newspaper, you'll be keeping your dog mentally stimulated. This kind of play will make your dog feel like a contributing member of the family and keep his mental functioning at a high level.
This expert advice is something that you will remember so that you may use it with your dog every day. You now know what it takes to be a responsible, caring master. As long as you use what you have learned, your dog will thank you for your efforts with love and affection.
