There are many kinds of canines. There are also many kinds of families. It’s a large decision to make, adopting a dog. Keep reading to find out more about making sure your pet is in good hands.
It can be quite costly to own a dog. You will have to spend between $700 and $1000 a year to cover food and medical expenses. Health insurance for your pet can be a great idea to help you in emergency situations.
It is important to puppy-proof your home. It should be perfectly safe before you bring a dog in. Hide medications and chemicals, cover your trash, and put food where he can’t get to it. Certain plants are toxic, and it’s best to move them, too.
Hugs are great, but steer clear of kisses. While getting kisses from your dog may seem cute, your dog’s mouth is extremely dirty. You don’t know where your dog’s tongue has been, and you’re better off not knowing. Many people believe that dogs’ mouths do not have as much germs as humans’ mouths. This is completely wrong!
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. This may cause a human or the other canine to get bit. Follow your dog’s body language.
Make sure you are using the right flea treatments on your pet dog. Some treatments contain dangerous ingredients that may put your kids at risk for diseases like cancer. Bring up the subject of alternative and family-friendly treatments the next time you see your vet, and always be sure to apply these treatments when no children are present.
Speak with your vet to determine whether or not certain foods are okay to give to your dog. Some foods can cause sickness or an upset stomach. Be careful when it comes to what you feed your pet.
Your lifestyle can help determine what dog breed is a good match for you. Joggers should get a high energy dog, for example. Likewise if you spend quite a lot of time at home you may want to get a dog that likes to be pampered a lot. You will be much happier when you make a choice that is complementary to your lifestyle.
Buy or build a dog house if he is going to be outside for long periods in the winter. If his feet are wet, extreme temperatures can be stressful and bad for his health. Keep your dog safe from the elements by providing him the dry shelter he needs.
As soon as you notice your dog engaging in bad behaviors, immediately try to correct them. If you ignore an unwanted behavior, it is as good as reinforcing it. It will become very difficult to correct the more time passes. In addition, by not taking action, your dog may injure another person, even you. Therefore, ensure you discipline your dog.
Are you feeling better about dog care now? You now have the facts you need in order to feel good about caring for a dog. Make use of these great tips to ensure you properly take care of your dog.