People have been domesticating dogs for eons. The relationship seems reciprocal, with both dogs and humans benefiting from the arrangement. You, as the person, are responsible for making sure the dog is taken care of well. The following advice will help you keep your dog happy and healthy.
You need to take your older pet to the vet at lease once a day. Since your dog does not speak the human language, he simply cannot tell you if his tooth aches or his arthritis is making it difficult for him to walk. A checkup once a year will help diagnose any problems.
Be sure to have your dog spayed or neutered. This helps reduce the probability of cancer and extends the life of your dog. Spayed and neutered dogs wander less often as well, so this reduces likelihood of your dog getting hit on the road or lost.
Your dog speaks to you, but it is through non-verbal cues. Your job is to learn to listen carefully so you understand the message. Hesitant dogs need to be taken out of fearful situations. It could end up with someone getting bit. Keep eye on non-verbal clues and look toward your dog for your next move.
Resist the urge to give your dog table scraps. This will encourage constant begging and reduce their appetite towards their own food. Overfeeding him will lead to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, too. Make your dog stay out of the room when the family is eating.
When training a dog, practice in the yard or your home. Training in busy areas with lots of people around should be avoided. Distractions occur, making it difficult to get your dog to focus on basic commands.
Carefully consider what your home is like when deciding on a breed of dog. If you love to run, seek out a pooch that will love to run alongside you. If you prefer to stay home curled up on your couch, go for a small dog that likes to be spoiled and that will curl up along with you. Getting a dog that matches your lifestyle will make you both more happy.
Avoid the bargain brands of pet food. Cheaper brands usually contain lots of additives and preservatives that can harm your dog’s health. Use a consumer awareness or animal advocacy group to obtain a list of the best foods that come with the highest recommendations by professionals. Higher quality dog food will offer your dog many health benefits.
Purchase or construct a dog house if your dog must stay outside when the weather is cold. Particularly if his feet get wet, extended exposure to extreme temperatures causes stress and can lead to health complications. Protect your dog from wind and precipitation by giving him a shelter that has a dry floor and plenty of space.
You need to meet all of your dog’s requirements. When you are aware of what to do, the job becomes easier. This piece will be of help. Just put the tips to work in your life, and you’ll see that your dog is even happier.