People have been domesticating dogs for eons. Obviously, humans and dogs were intended to be companions, and both parties are pleased with the arrangement. However, as the human, you have to make sure that your dog is well taken care of. These tips will show you how to raise a happy and healthy dog.
Your dog needs annual medical exams. Since dogs cannot talk, it's difficult to know if your dog is in pain. Regular checkups will help you find these issues prior to them becoming a serious problem.
You should have your dog spayed or neutered. Statistically speaking, dogs who are "fixed" live longer lives and are less prone to cancer. In addition, dogs that are spayed or neutered do not have as strong of a desire to wander from their home, meaning that they are less likely to get lost or hit by a car.
If you bring your pet on vacation with you, keep a picture of him with you, particularly on your phone. If he is ever separated from you, it will be easy to show people what he looks like or print out flyers with a recent picture showing that you are looking for him.
Talk with your vet about the foods you should feed your dog. Depending on the type and age of dog, if you purchase the wrong kind of food it may upset their stomach. Err on the side of caution when feeding food to your dog.
Schedule a vet appointment before adopting a shelter dog. Shelter dogs may have come into contact with viruses or may be ill already. It is best to make sure your new puppy gets all the shots needed before you bring it home.
When you get a new dog, it is best that you schedule a check-up at the vet right away. Directly after getting your dog, be sure to make a check up appointment with a trusted vet. Your vet can make health recommendations, make sure that vaccinations are up to date and help with maintenance items like flea care and proper diet. Talk with a vet about your dog being spayed or neutered. There are lots of homeless dogs and you don't want to make the problem worse.
Always teach your dog to walk properly on a leash. He needs to know to heel next to you, not behind you or in front of you. If your pet is leash trained, it'll be safer, and you'll enjoy walks more as well. Understanding that command is great, even if you choose to still walk with a loose leash periodically.
Never leave a dog outside for long periods of time. Many people do this, but dogs need interactions with others. If you don't have more than one dog, the dog will get lonely when he's not around you. Not only that, but during heavy rainstorms and snowstorms, it is imperative that you bring your dog indoors as well, to avoid the inclement weather and temperatures.
When you have a dog, you are going to be responsible for it and will have to meet its needs. It can be a lot easier to do that when you know what kinds of things you must do, so this article can help you. Apply the advice you've just been given, and your dog will be happy and healthy.
