There is no better friend than a good dog. There is truth in those words. If you learn how to care for and handle your dog, you can have a great relationship with it. Look at the great suggestions if you’d like to forge a closer bond with your canine companion.
It can cost a lot to take care of a dog. Each dog needs quality food, medical care, and general supplies. It can cost you around $1000 each year. In addition, emergency vet visits can cost a ton, so consider purchasing health insurance for your dog.
You may know that chocolate is dangerous for dogs, but you may not know the specifics. Chocolate is dangerous because of the stimulants caffeine and theobromine. Baking chocolate is the most dangerous, with a high amount of stimulants. White chocolate contains the least amount of stimuli. Take your dog to the vet if he ingests chocolate.
Make sure you have the correct dog supplies. Before bringing your dog home for the first time, be sure that you are equipped with the right supplies. Every dog needs a good-sized food and water bowl, a collar and leash, toys, and a comfy place to sleep. Also, remember to purchase an identification tag immediately.
Let your dog know who the boss is! Unless shown otherwise, a dog will naturally assume that he is the pack’s leader – once this has been established, it isn’t easy to persuade him otherwise! When disciplining your dog, be firm in tone but calm. Never physically punish a dog, as this will lead to lifelong mistrust. Also, when he behaves, remember to praise him!
Always follow through with instructions from your vet if your dog has medication or needs special attention. There’s a reason dogs have to endure uncomfortable situations like a cone-collar! A vet’s recommendations are for the good of your pet; if you don’t adhere to these things, it could be not suitable for your pet.
If you have a new puppy in the house that suddenly begins chewing things, do not fear. This could be a sign that your puppy is teething. To keep the puppy from chewing on your belongings, ensure that you have provided him with plenty of chew toys of his own.
Be prepared for natural disasters that also impact your dog. Have an emergency supply of water and food for him and know in advance if your local shelter for people will allow pets inside. Unfortunately, too many pets are injured or lost following storms, floods, and other situations that cause chaos in a community.
Consider an electric fence if you are not allowed to place a wall in your yard but want your dog to run freely there. Electric fences are easy and inexpensive to install and help keep your free roaming pet safely contained. Using them will require a little training, but they are pretty effective if you put the work in.
Put your dog through obedience training. A well-trained dog is a joy to live with for both you and them. Teaching them simple commands like “Come,”� “Heel,”� “Sit,”� and “Stay”� can help curb or prevent troublesome behaviors in no time. You can teach them yourself or learn about obedience courses by contacting the SPCA or the local humane society for class recommendations.
Know the symptoms of dehydration in your dog, as it is a common ailment that can be dangerous. Particularly during hot dry summer months, your dog may pant excessively and experience a loss of skin elasticity. If you see this, encourage him to drink water and add a little Pedialyte to rehydrate him.
If your dog suffers from constipation or diarrhea, you can try feeding the pet canned pumpkin. This is not the same as pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin contains fiber which helps with constipation. In addition, it also absorbs water which helps with diarrhea. Don’t give the dog much, just a teaspoon or two with the dog’s regular meal.
Dogs are awesome. When you know more about dogs and what they need, you can have a better relationship with your pet. Now you know much more about having a happy, healthy dog. You’ll be able to have the best friend you’ve always desired.
