Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years. It is clear that dogs and humans are meant to be together, and everyone is happy with that arrangement. But, since you’re the human, it’s up to you take care of your dog. Here are a few ways you can make sure your dog is happy and healthy.
Hug your dog, but don’t kiss him. Dog kissing may be adorable, but dogs have awfully dirty mouths. Dogs are always getting into garbage, drink from places like the toilet, and they clean their bodies with their tongues. It’s just a myth that your dog’s mouth is just as, or cleaner, than yours. This is not the truth!
Just like humans benefit from an annual physical, your dog should see the vet at least once a year. It can be difficult to know what could be causing your dog pain since they cant talk to you. Bringing your dog to the vet each year can help stop these health issues from becoming a huge problem.
Dogs can’t talk, so you must learn their body language. If it seems as though your dog holds back when around other dogs or people, don’t insist that they interact. It could end up with someone getting bit. Watch for any of these non-verbal cues and let these guide your actions.
Use your lifestyle to pick the dog breed you need to get. Joggers should get a high energy dog, for example. However, if you’re someone who stays mainly at home then seek out a small dog that loves to be adorned with lots of love while lounging around the house. Keeping a mismatch out of play makes both of you happy.
Positive reinforcement is very important in training your dog. This is to let the dog know that you want more of that behavior. Your dog is looking for ways to please you, and giving him your praise lets him know he has done just that.
Never give your dog a real bone to chew on. Bones can chip and hurt your dog if sharp fragments are ingested. Also, rawhide is better for the health of your dog’s teeth.
You shouldn’t make your dog do something it doesn’t want to do. If you offer him a treat he doesn’t seem to like, do not make him eat it. It will take you a little while to figure out what your dog likes and what he doesn’t, but you’ll get the hang of it.
You can always choose to foster a dog for a few weeks if you’re not sure about making the full commitment of dog ownership. Shelters are full of abused and homeless dogs and they are hard pressed to give them all proper care. Become a foster parent to test the waters.
What types of health problems are typical for your dog? Research his heritage and take preventative steps for problems you know he is a candidate for. You should inquire with your vet about how you can take care of your dog the right way.
Take your pet to the veterinarian regularly. Your dog should see a vet for check-ups, blood tests and to ensure they’re up to date with vaccinations. You will have more frequent vet visits if you have a puppy. Never hesitate to take your dog to the vet if something seems off; remember that your dog can not tell you something is wrong.
When the weather is hot outside, check your dog daily for ticks and fleas. Remove fleas with a special comb. There are a lot of available products that can control fleas and ticks on your dog. Ask your vet which are best.
Take great care of your dog. When learning from this article how to approach it, it becomes easier. Use the tips, and you will find your dog is much happier.