Timing is key when bringing your dog home. Try to introduce him to his new home over the weekend or when you have a couple of days off. Take the time to get to know one other – this will make him feel much more comfortable when he has to spend time in the home alone. Also, if you have children, make sure that they don’t overwhelm him at first. If you have other pets in the house, be extra cautious when introducing the new arrival.
Positive reinforcement is the best way to train your dog. You should congratulate your dog when it displays a good behavior, for instance by giving it a treat or petting it. Talk to your dog in a soft voice and make sure you praise it every time the good behavior is displayed.
If you want to get a pet from a shelter, find a vet who can examine your new dog. A shelter is often a haven for kennel cough and Cute Puppies other diseases. Giving your dog shots before taking it home will keep everyone healthy.
Healthy dogs that are happy are the most fun of all. That is why you need to heed the information presented in this article. You will see that when you really start concentrating on providing the best care for your dog, your dog is a better companion for you and your family.
Take your grown dog to the vet at least once a year. The vet will check to see if the dog’s vaccines up to date. In addition, the vet will check the dog’s teeth and vital signs. If any major health or behavioral issues come up between annual checkups, you should see the vet earlier.
Pet boarding and day-care services are a billion dollar business, so make sure you get your money’s worth if you have to leave home without your dog. Although kennels offer interesting opportunities to socialize, your dog will be happier with familiar surroundings. Thoroughly check references for a sitter-service and keep him in his own home if at all possible. Otherwise, put him in a reputable kennel and Puppies Topic check up on him oft
When selecting a brand of dog food for your pet, read the labels carefully and avoid the cheapest brands. Long-term, the dog will do much better with nutritious, good quality food. Although the food may cost more, you know that your dog is receiving the correct nutrients from quality food.
Always be prepared to pick up after your dog with a scoop and bag. Although most people think that this is simply a polite thing to do so that others don’t step in it, your dog’s excrement is actually hazardous! It contains a bacterium that can contaminate local supplies when it washes through to ground water.
Separation anxiety could be a problem with your dog. If so, show him extra love and attention and leave music on while you are away. The sounds help your dog feel like others are still home and help your dog feel more secure. It may help them conquer their anxiety while waiting for you to return.
If you’re going to be away from your dog for a short period of time, it might be a good idea to invest in a dog crate. A crate for your dog will provide it with a safe and secure area to go into when you aren’t able to watch it for a period of time.
Dogs love to eat grass and other plants. When you’re outside, this may not be much of a problem, but if you maintain houseplants indoors, chances are they are poisonous to dogs. Before bringing a dog into the home, make sure all your houseplants are well out of reach of a dog who may be tempted by a green tasty treat.
Look into subsidized health care for your dog if money is tight. Many local communities, Puppies Topic #2 in cooperation with groups like the SPCA offer discounted services that have proven invaluable to dog owners. Look into getting your dog spayed or neutered and vaccinated for a fraction of veterinary costs at a sponsored event probably close-by to you. Just contact the SPCA or an animal shelter in your town.
If you’re going to be away from your dog for a short period of time, it might be a good idea to invest in a dog crate. A crate for your dog will provide it with a safe and secure area to go into when you aren’t able to watch it for a period of time.
Never allow your dog to be alone with small children, no matter how much you trust his temperament. Many little kids have been attacked by family dogs who have otherwise never demonstrated a tendency towards violence. Sleeping dogs may be woken by a toddler and react negatively or some other offense is committed against the animal that sets him off.
Always be prepared to pick up after your dog with a scoop and bag. Although most people think that this is simply a polite thing to do so that others don’t step in it, your dog’s excrement is actually hazardous!
If your dog is always drinking out of the toilet, try changing how you provide him with water. Most prefer it cold and fresh, hence the attraction to the bathroom, so buy a fountain or thermally insulated dish to keep his water at a more appealing temperature. Also, add ice-cubes when it’s hot out and he’s panting
When you are training your dog, it is always best to incorporate the use of hand signals in addition to using verbal commands. Dogs tend to read body language and signs very well. Try both methods to see which your dog prefers.