Dogs give humans the loyalty and company that is usually only found in other humans. Therefore, it is essential for any dog owner to learn all they can about caring for their animals properly and keeping them in the best shape possible. This article is a great starting point.
It takes quite a bit of money to take good care of a dog. Every dog requires good quality food, general supplies and medical care; this can range in cost from $700 to $1000 per year. Emergency care for animals can cost thousands of collars, so think carefully about getting pet health insurance.
You should not kiss your dog. While getting kisses from your dog may seem cute, your dog's mouth is extremely dirty. Dogs go through garbage cans, toilet bowls, and love smelling and licking specific body parts of some other dogs. It's an old wives tale that your dog's mouth happens to be cleaner that a human being. It simply is not the case.
It's a great idea to keep a snap-shot of your dog handy (a digital pic on your phone is ideal) whenever you're traveling with him. You'll be prepared to take effective action in case your pet gets lost. You can use your recent photo to illustrate just what your dog looks like as well as to print up flyers, if necessary.
If there are prescription medications in your home, be sure to keep it out of your dog's reach. Your dog could be seriously injured or killed by ingesting a couple of small pills. Call your vet as soon as possible if your dog swallows any pills.
Don't give your dog leftovers from your own plate. Not only will table scraps turn your dog off on their regular food, but it will also teach them to constantly beg. Scraps from the table obesity, digestive problems, or other health issues in dogs. To prevent temptation, have your dog separated from the area you eat in.
Your dog deserves to have quality dog food. The brands that are cheaper have preservatives, additives, as well as other things that aren't good for your dog. Find a list of recommended dog foods from the vet or an advocate for animals. Your dog will be much healthier if you feed it some healthy food.
Solid leash training is a must for any dog. The dog needs to stay beside you, not behind or in front of you. It also needs to know the command "heel". If you walk in this way, you will be sure that your pet is safe so that your walks are more enjoyable. Understanding that command is great, even if you choose to still walk with a loose leash periodically.
Your dog should not be left outside for the entire day. Lots of folks do this, but it's bad because dogs need constant attention. Your dog may be lonely outside if he is the only dog in your household. In addition, in extreme weather, you must bring your dog inside to protect it from the weather and temperature extremes.
Owning a dog is a great experience and will definitely enrich your life. Doing as much research on dog care is the best thing for a dog owner. What you have learned here is going to help you out now and well into the future.
