It is not a decision to be made lightly. There are some things you should be aware of if you're considering or have added a dog to your family. You will find below a list with quality tips that you can use to make the transition for both you and your pet easier.
It is only natural that your dog needs dental care. Brush his teeth regularly with a dog brush. It is not sufficient to let the vet do it during his regular checkups. You can buy treats designed to aid your pet in maintaining its teeth.
Make sure you use only canine shampoo when giving your dog a wash. Apply the shampoo all over the body using lukewarm lukewarm. After a few moments, use a washcloth to wipe the suds off your pet's nose. Remove the remaining shampoo.
Vacuum them up if your dog's fleas fall from his coat and onto your floor. Remember that fleas can escape from the bag, so throw it out immediately. Tape the bag shut completely before you throw it in the trash.
Ask your vet for tips on how to get your dog to swallow the medication. You should be prepared for any resistance your dog may have to pills or liquids that are not well-flavored. It can be difficult to get a dog take their medicine.
Trim your dog's nail fairly regularly. It is important to keep them short as they can become uncomfortable to walk on and may even develop health problems. You want them to be just touching the ground.
Send your dog to obedience school! The obedience school will make him feel more confident, as he will know what to expect. This will boost his confidence and make him a better pet. You can also call around to see if he is able to sign up for a class.
Be on the lookout when your female dog is in heat. Five miles away, male dogs can detect when your female dog is in heat. You will have to find new homes for your puppies if you dog becomes pregnant.
Use a leash whenever you take your puppy or dog out in public. You can ensure that your dog stays close to you, and avoid them getting lost or into trouble. You can use this to restrain your pet if they become upset by something so they do not hurt someone or another animal.
Dogs, like humans, need to be active for optimal health. Dogs love to run and are natural hunters. Play Frisbee, take your dog for a walk and to the park. It will not only keep him physically fit, but also mentally healthy.
You should regularly brush your dog's teeth. It not only prevents dental disease and problems, but it also helps prevent other illnesses. Infections of the mouth may spread to other parts of the dog, such as the kidneys or the heart. Special toothpaste is available in pet stores for dogs.
Try to bring your dog and the one you are considering to meet. Some dogs find it easier than others to get along. Finding dogs who get along will save you a lot of heartache and headaches in the future.
Consider buying your dog at a shelter. There are many dogs who are well-behaved but whose owners couldn't handle the responsibility of raising them. Visit the shelter several times to find the right dog for you.
Dogs
No matter how gentle and polite your dog is, you should always keep him on a leash when he leaves the fenced-in yard. He may run away because he is distracted by a wild animal or because he has a bad experience with other dogs and their owners. You are responsible for everything your dog does as well as his safety.
It may be tempting to use your favorite shampoo on your pet, but you should avoid this. Dogs' skin can become dry when using human shampoo. Find a good quality dog shampoo instead. Rinse all residue from your dog's fur after bathing.
Protect your dog and your garden if your dog digs. Some plants can be poisonous for dogs. Not to mention, the damage that their paws could do to your prized produce and flowers. Consider installing an electric fence or a fence of the right size to keep your dog out.
Everyone will enjoy living with a pet dog if they have the time, energy and know-how to make it work. You can use the information you've just read to help your family adjust to the new addition. If you train them, love them and take care of their needs, dogs can make great companions and friends.