Content author-Mccullough Garrison
Are you looking to become a dog owner? Or do you already have a dog? Anyone with an interst in dogs should know what it takes to be a responsible owner. The following information can help you when it comes to man's best friend. Keep reading to learn more about dogs as pets.
Having fresh and clean water available to your dog at all times is a must. Dogs become dangerously dehydrated in a matter of days, so its very important to always have water ready. Dogs will also appreciate water that is clean. If you find it necessary to drink filtered or bottled water because of the quality of water from your tap, then be sure to provide your dog with the same high quality water.
Hot summer days are harder for dogs to handle than humans. Always make sure
http://www.katytimes.com/stories/memorial-hermanns-life-flight-launches-first-air-ambulance-in-nation-for-k9-officers,2051 has enough water to drink. Provide them with a shaded area to rest if they are going to be outside for any length of time. And, if your dog begins acting in an unusual manner, call the veterinarian. Heatstroke could be fatal, so it is important to get medical care as soon as possible.
Never allow your dog to ride in a car unsecured. Sitting on your lap or in the front seat is dangerous both to him and your ability to drive. Always place him in an appropriately sized pet carrier or invest in a pet seat belt that will keep him snug and safe in the middle of the back seat.
Before deciding on what type of dog to get for your family, consider space. Even though you may love the bigger dogs that you can really wrap your arms around, you may not have adequate space for a large breed. Take your home and yard size into consideration before bringing home a new pooch.
Don't forget about your dog when writing your will. Many pets end up being fought over or neglected completely because specific instructions were not left regarding their care. Include a clause that clearly directs your loved ones on what to do with your dog so that he's well taken care of.
When you own a dog, you typically understand the general costs of ownership, such as food, vet visits, and grooming. A generally overlooked cost is emergency situations. Although it may not happen frequently, you should have a bit of money set aside for any emergency that may arise. It's better to be prepared for an emergency vet visit than to wonder how you are going to pay for it.
If your vet gives you medication to take home and administer to your dog, be sure and ask for ideas on getting him to swallow it. Dogs differ in their tolerance of pills and badly-flavored liquids, so have a few tricks up your sleeve in case he resists. Getting a dog to take medicine is important, but often challenging.
How Much Food Should A Dog Eat
Determine your dog's specific exercise regimen. Dogs have different fitness needs based their sex, overall health, age, breed mix, or breed. Every dog should have a couple 10-minute walks a day around the block. Dogs between 6 and 18 months, active breed or mixed breeds, terriers, hounds, and herding dogs will most likely require more fitness than others types of dogs.
Give your dog plenty of exercise for both his body and his mind. By teaching your dog tricks that he can do around the house, such as grabbing the newspaper, you'll be keeping your dog mentally stimulated. Your dog will feel like a useful member of the family, and the reinforcement will keep his training sharp.
How Much Food Should I Feed My Dog Chart
Be clear with your pet during training. The word "no" does not explain anything to your dog, other than that you are unhappy with something. Instead, explain which behavior you do want to see. For example, if your dog jumps on the furniture, tell him to get down instead of just saying the word no.
Clean up after your dog when they go to the bathroom in public. Many dog owners let their dog do their business wherever they please whether its on a sidewalk, neighbor's lawn, etc. They can do their business in public, but you must take a bag with you to clean it up when they're done so that it doesn't cause an unsightly and smelly mess for someone else.
How To Keep Ants Out Of Dog Food
When your dog has a bathroom accident on the floor, be sure to thoroughly clean the area. Use a professional strength cleaner, followed by a proven odor remover. Your dog may do his business in the exact same area if his scent from the excrement lingers.
What
Best Adult Cat Food or regulations concerning pets will affect you? Be on the lookout for any new laws that may be passed which could restrict your rights as a dog owner. Many times new, overly-restrictive ordinances have incredibly broad impacts when they're only intended to affect a tiny minority of pet owners. Stand up for your rights!
Be clear with your pet during training. The word "no" does not explain anything to your dog, other than that you are unhappy with something. Instead, explain which behavior you do want to see. For example, if your dog jumps on the furniture, tell him to get down instead of just saying the word no.
Try out a variety of rewards when training. Each pet is different, and therefore, what motivates him or her is going to be different as well. If food works best for your dog, reward it with tiny hot dog pieces. If he likes to play, engage him in a game when he successfully performs the action you are looking for. A few dogs are even motivated by being petted!
Think carefully about what your dog eats. Some dog foods are better than others, and the pricy ones are not always the best. Talk to a vet about food recommendations for your dog, considering their health, age and breed. This can be a wonderful way to prolong the life of your pet.
In order to potty train a puppy, it is of utmost importance to take the dog outside frequently. Doing this will familiarize your puppy with the association between outside and going to the bathroom. Failure to do this will result in a harder time breaking your new family member of his/ her bad habits.
While my dog and your dog may be polar opposites, they both need the same basic care to stay healthy and happy. This article has given you the foundation of knowledge you need to be a great owner, so make use if it when you can. Here's to wishing you and your pup many happy years to come!