If you are searching for a loving and loyal pet, consider a dog. They are great family pets that provide a companionship for everyone. If you want to take better care of your dog, make good use of the following tips.

It costs a lot to own a dog. Expect to spend from $700 to as high as $1000 in a year to pay for medical attention, food and other items needed. Also, emergency care is a lot if your dog was to ever get sick; you may want to think about pet insurance.

If you are going to taking your dog on vacation, take a pic of him on your phone. In the event that he gets separated from you, you have easy access to a current photo to put on flyers that will help identify him.

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. When you prefer to stay home, choose a small dog who doesn’t need much outdoor time. Steer clear of a breed mismatch if you want to be a happy dog owner.

If you are not sure how often you should feed your dog, ask your vet. Although some dog owners stick to the recommended guidelines on the dog food, these guidelines can often be too much for your dog, which can lead to obesity. Speak with a vet about your dog’s needs and what they should have.

If your dog spends time outside, he should have a good house. You can purchase one or build one yourself if you are handy. Especially if your dog’s feet get wet, exposure to very cold temperatures for long time periods can cause stress and other health issues. Keep your dog safe from precipitation and winds by providing him with a place that is spacious, with a dry floor.

Pay attention to the nails of your canine. If they get too long and start to curl, the result could be painful injuries to the nail beds and your dog’s paws. You can purchase clippers and do this at home. If you lack the confidence to attempt this, take the dog to a professional groomer.

Speak with a vet as soon as possible if you are adopting a dog. Shelters expose dogs to a number of illnesses, and your pet could be ill already. You need to ensure your dog gets their shots.

Your dog should not be left outside all the time. Lots of folks do this, but it’s bad because dogs need constant attention. A dog with no companions can feel very isolated and stressed out if he is left alone outside. If you’re area is experiencing rain or snow, you’ll need to bring your dog inside to prevent your dog from getting ill.

There’s quite a bit behind taking great care of a dog. It’s not as simple as a long walk and regular feedings. Give the proper affection to your dog, and show him a lot of compassion. That way, it will be possible to have lots of happy times together.

By Laura