If you want a dog, or even if you already have one, you should know that taking care of a dog is hard work. It is not something you can simply jump into right away. The following article has the tips and advice you need to properly care for your dog.
It takes a lot of money to raise a dog. Good quality dog food and medical care can cost between $700-1000 a year. 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.
Your dog needs an annual physical exam from the vet, just as you need one from your doctor. It can be difficult to know what could be causing your dog pain since they cant talk to you. Taking your dog for a yearly checkup allows relatively minor problems to be detected before they turn into major issues.
Be sure to keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets. Taking just a few such pills can have devastating consequences for a dog. Call the vet immediately if you suspect that the dog has swallowed the medication.
If you are not sure of how much to feed your dog each day, talk to your vet about it. Most dog food packages include guidelines but keep in mind that these instructions might not be adapted to your dog. Ask your vet for some recommendations if you are not sure which brands are best for your dog or need help with quantities.
Don’t buy the cheapest food for your dog. Less expensive brands of dog food often contain artificial coloring, additives, preservatives and so on that can be very bad for your dog. Find an advocacy group that can provide you with a list of vet recommended foods. Higher quality dog food will offer your dog many health benefits.
If you want to keep your dog outside, build him or her a small shelter. Adverse weather conditions can be detrimental to your pooch, causing illnesses, anxiety and poor behaviors. Your dog needs a space that is dry and provides him with adequate shelter.
Make sure that your dog’s nails are trimmed weekly. If they start curling under, your dog may experience a lot of pain. Try trimming them with scissors you buy at the store. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself, you can take him to the groomers and have them done for very little money.
Make sure your dog engages in sufficient amounts of exercise. Dogs need consistent physical activity to ensure they are physically and mentally fit. Regardless of the activity you choose, whether it is a game of fetch or a walk around the neighborhood, both of you will benefit. Besides just getting some exercise, you’ll be creating a bond between you and your dog.
If you are in the market for a pedigree pup, you just may find him at the pound. There are people who drop off pets for many different reasons, such as moving abroad or the death of an owner. Speak to the nearest pound to see if an option suits you. You’ll be saving a life.
Leaving a radio playing while you are gone will help your dog stay calm and may alleviate separation anxiety. The noise can help him feel more secure. It might help with any anxiety issues.
Demonstrate plenty of affection to your dog. As is often the case, dog owners frequently focus on bad behavior instead of good. If that persists, your dog may begin to act inappropriately to get your attention. Remember to praise and be affectionate with your dog more frequently than you discipline him. Your dog will probably show proper behavior more if this is done.
Keep a close eye on a female dog when she’s in heat to avoid an unwanted pregnancy. Males can smell a female’s scent from a full five miles away. This may also make other dogs fight and it could also get her pregnant which will make her have puppies from an unknown source.
Take your pet to the veterinarian regularly. Dogs need to be checked for heartworm and other health issues, and need to have any and all necessary vaccinations. Puppies need to go to the vet more often then adult dogs. If your dog becomes ill or is injured, don’t delay in getting him to the vet.
This great knowledge you have gained will help you love your dog that much more. Be patient, do your best and do not hesitate to get help if you need to. Conduct a bit of research and make sure that both you and your dog are happy.