Dogs provide joy to many lives when they get proper care. Before you can keep a dog happy and healthy, you must learn how. Read on to find some helpful tips for creating a great relationship with your dog.
Owning a dog is quite a large financial commitment. Not only do you have to buy food, but you have to pay their vet bills and purchase other items that they need. You could spend as much as a thousand dollars in one year on your pet! Pet health insurance can help; although you will pay a monthly or yearly fee, you will often be covered if a big medical emergency occurs for your pet.
If you’re taking your pup on a vacation, make sure that you take a picture of him for on your phone. 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.
Praise your dog when he behaves or performs in the way that you have been training him to. This is to let the dog know that you want more of that behavior. It will show your dog that doing the right thing will earn him praise from you.
Avoid pushing things that your dog dislikes onto him. If your dog is not interested in a treat, do not force your pet to eat it. When you first get a dog, you should take some time to get to know what it likes and what it dislikes.
Brushing your dog every day is going to stop them from shedding in your home, but more than that. Brushing every day will also help give them a gorgeous, glossy coat. The brushing motion encourages distribution of the skin’s oil, leaving the coat healthy, soft and glossy.
If you’re going to adopt a new dog from an animal shelter, you need to get a vet appointment scheduled as soon as possible. Shelter dogs could be sick or exposed to different viruses. A full check-up, a clean bill of health, and a full complement of the necessary shots is the best way to start off your relationship with your dog.
Exercise your dog frequently. Exercise and play are necessary for a dog. They keep the dog fit and healthy, both physically and mentally. Whether you take a dog on an extended walk or toss a ball around, your dog and you will both benefit. Every time you play with or exercise your dog, you will find that you are promoting a lasting bond.
Always teach your dog to walk properly on a leash. He should know the “heel” command, stay close to you and not veer far ahead or drag behind. Having a dog that can properly walk on a leash will be more enjoyable for both you and your pup. Understanding that command is great, even if you choose to still walk with a loose leash periodically.
Get your dog’s hair trimmed around its paws so that hair doesn’t get matted up. Use a comb first, then start cutting. If you’d prefer, you could have a groomer do this for you.
There’s nothing like the happiness a dog is able to bring to a person’s home. It’s important to have the right advice and knowledge to keep your dog energetic and happy. Hopefully what you learned today offered some valuable insights on how to properly care for your furry companion.