Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years. It is clear that dogs and humans are meant to be together, and everyone is happy with that arrangement. However, since you’re the human, you’re going to have to be sure that you’re caring for the dog properly. Following are some tips that will help you make sure your dog is healthy and happy.
Since your dog cannot talk to you, you have to learn how to listen to your dog’s non-verbal language. If you notice the dog being hesitant in a new situation, don’t force your dog to socialize if it doesn’t want to. This could cause your dog to get scared and to bite. Follow your dog’s body language.
If you have over-the-counter medication or prescription medication in your home, keep it in a place the dog can’t access it. Swallowing a couple pills could can serious health issues, even heart attacks and seizures. Call the vet immediately if you suspect that the dog has swallowed the medication.
Use flea treatments with caution. Many contain ingredients that are dangerous to children. Ask your vet for recommendations instead, and keep children away while you’re applying flea treatments.
When it’s time for dog training, you’ll want to do it inside your house or in your yard. It is not a good idea to train them in areas where a lot of people are present. Your dog may have trouble paying attention, and even the simplest commands could go right over their head.
Make use of hand signals when training your dog versus relying only on verbal commands. These signals will help you keep your dog under control in a noisy environment. Give both methods a try to find out which works best for your particular pup.
When choosing a dog, make sure you consider your lifestyle. For instance, if you love to run, get a dog that loves to run too, and leave the miniature breed for someone who is less active. 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. By selecting the right dog breed, both you and your dog will be more content.
You need to take good care of all your dog’s needs. It is simple when you have the right knowledge, of course. Use the suggested tips and put them into practice with your new dog.