Important Facts An Owner Must Know About Looking After Dogs And Keeping Them Well And Happy

By Author: Jenifer Whitmire
Total Articles: 323
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Dogs are certainly valued members of any family; if well looked after, they can offer years of love and companionship. These loyal and intelligent pets do rely on their human owners to supply them with the care they require in order to stay healthy and happy though. Learning what a dog needs beforehand is recommended to anyone who is considering adopting one.

A dog will require a number of necessary items related to its care. It will need comfortable yet strong collar and leash for when it goes on walks; nylon is a better choice than leather since puppies may like to chew the latter. The dog will also need a suitable carrier for its safe transportation. Sturdy food and water bowls, grooming accessories, a cozy and washable dog bed, and an assortment of chew toys should also be purchased.

Most dogs are always eager when it comes to eating, however owners must take care to ensure only foods which are safe for dogs to eat are given to their pet. Consulting a veterinarian or breeder for a recommendation of which dry dog food is a good idea in order to choose one that will be nutritionally complete. Inexpensive canned ...
... foods should not be used. It can be helpful to feed the dog before its family sits down to eat, so it is less inclined to beg, but an occasional dog-safe scrap can be given as a treat.

Walks are very important; not only for waste elimination but also for exercise and to fulfill their need to explore and socialize with other dogs. Adult animals should be walked at least 4 times each day, and young puppies will need to go out more like every couple hours since they do not yet have full control of their bladders. Crating a dog to house-break him or her is not especially helpful and may upset the animal, making it feel trapped or punished.

A dog will not instinctively know right from wrong behavior unless it is taught the difference in a firm but patient manner. Generally, the "Four P's" should be applied; praise, prevention, patience, and practice. This consistent system of repetition and reward will steer the dog towards positive behavior. Punishment should never be used during training.

Keeping one's dog healthy is very important, so it will be necessary to find an excellent veterinarian. Dogs need regular check-ups and must be kept up to date on their vaccinations. Unless the animal is going to be bred, it is advisable to get it spayed or neutered to prevent the arrival of unplanned puppies and to protect the dog against various types of reproductive cancers.

It will be necessary to "dog-proof" the residence just as new parents have to "child-proof" the home. Eliminating hazards such as cleaning products, poisonous house plants, electrical cords, and small objects which may cause choking is needed. Puppies should not be left unattended if possible.

Proper identification is also important for dogs, in case they get lost. Clearly marked name tags worn on the collar that include the pet's name, owner's name, and contact number work well to accomplish this. Many owners also decide to get their dogs microchipped, which involves a tiny implant being placed under the animal's skin which will make its whereabouts detectable.

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