Thursday, September 4, 2014

Make Sure You're Caring For Your Canine Friend Properly

By Clint Arpon


Dogs have the ability to provide companionship and loyalty just as good as a human. Therefore, it is essential for any dog owner to learn all they can about caring for their animals properly and keeping them in the best shape possible. The following article is a wonderful place to begin.

In the same way that a yearly physical is helpful to you, a yearly trip to the veterinarian is a must for your dog. Since your dog can't speak, it may be difficult to know when he is having health issues. An annual checkup can help catch such issues before they become a major problem.

Always have your dog on a leash when he's off your property. You never know when something might spook him or distract him, leading to devastation. You will be to blame if your dog gets hurt for being off his leash.

Let your lifestyle determine what breed of dog you should bring into your home. For example, someone that stays inside a lot would want a calm lap dog and not a hyper breed. Likewise if you are quiet home-body, look for a smaller dog that enjoys pampering and living it up on your sofa. Avoiding a mismatch means both of you will be happier.

Speak with your vet about the amount of food you should be feeding your dog each day. 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 your vet and work out an appropriate eating plan for your dog.

If you want to get a pet from a shelter, find a vet who can examine your new dog. Shelter dogs have likely been exposed to all kinds of viruses, such as parvo and distemper, which are deadly. A full check-up, a clean bill of health, and a full complement of the necessary shots is the best way to start off your relationship with your dog.

Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. A dog needs to play and exercise on a regular basis so that it can be happy and healthy. From a walk to chasing a ball, everything counts. It gives you exercise and helps develop a relationship that will last forever with your dog.

If your dog is a female and in heat, you need to be careful if you're not trying to get her pregnant. A male can pick up on her scent from as far as five miles away! She might instigate problems with fellow dogs, as well as getting pregnant with an unknown mate.

Stimulate your dog mentally by giving him exercise and physical activity. By teaching your dog tricks that he can do around the house, such as grabbing the newspaper, you'll be keeping your dog mentally stimulated. They'll feel like a useful family member and the constant reinforced training will maintain their sharp thinking skills.

If your female dog is in heat be cautious - she could very easily become pregnant. A male dog is able to smell her from up to five miles away. Also, she can cause a fight between other dogs, as well as become pregnant with unwanted litter from an unknown origin.

You dog should go to the vet on a regular basis. At regular intervals your dog needs heartworm testing, vaccinations, and general check-ups. You will need to see a vet more often if the dog is a puppy. If your dog becomes ill or is injured, don't delay in getting him to the vet.

Dog ownership undoubtedly offers lots of benefits, including true friendship. The best thing any prospective or current dog owner can do is spend some time studying up on the needs and care requirements of canines. The advice here will prove to be a good resource for many years.




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