The domestication of dogs is ancient, predating most of human history. Clearly, people and dogs are a good match when it comes to happy companionship. However, as the human, you have to make sure that your dog is well taken care of. You should keep reading to learn more about being a good dog owner.
Owning a dog takes a bit of money. Dogs require quality food, medical care, and general supplies that can vary in costs. It can cost a lot of money to take your dog to the vet in an emergency, so you will want to investigate health insurance for your pet.
Spay or neuter your dog. Studies show that these operations help your dog live longer and can reduce cancer risks. Spayed and neutered dogs wander less often as well, so this reduces likelihood of your dog getting hit on the road or lost.
If you have prescription or over-the-counter medication in the house, make sure that your dog does not have access to it. Taking just a few such pills can have devastating consequences for a dog. If your dog happens to get into any such pills, call your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately.
Know about what could go wrong with flea treatments if you have a dog. There are ingredients in some of them that can risk cancer in your children. Talk to your veterinarian about the safest options, and don't let your kids near the dog while you're doing a treatment.
You need to ask your vet to make sure the food you are feeding them is good. Depending on the type and age of dog, if you purchase the wrong kind of food it may upset their stomach. Use care when feeding your dog.
Which breed you need to buy depends on your lifestyle. If you are very active, think about getting a dog that will run with you. If you prefer to stay at home, seek out a small dog that loves to snuggle on the couch. When you find the perfect match, you'll both be happier!
Your dog's nails should be trimmed regularly. When they start curling under, the dog runs the risk of experiencing pain. Buy some clippers from a pet store and cut them yourself. If you do not want to take this matter into your own hands, hire a professional.
Be sure that your dog has some kind of identification in case it were to escape from your home. A popular way to ensure the return of your dog is to use a breakaway collar and ID tag. All of the necessary contact information, including your dog's name, should be included. Micro-chipping is another great option to help in the event that your dog gets lost.
Your job as the human in your human/dog relationship is to take care of your dog's needs. This job gets a lot easier when you have plenty of dog care information to draw on, and the tips you've just reviewed can be a part of your knowledge base. By applying these tips, you're dog will be happier.
