No two dogs are alike, not only in looks, but in personality. While my dog may be lazy and loving, your dog may be excitable and temperamental. Regardless, there are a few basic tenets of ownership you absolutely need to know. The following article provides a great deal of advice from dog owners who have experienced it all.
If your dog has any sort of medical condition, reconsider what you are feeding him. Most processed foods are laden with preservatives and filler, not what you want to be giving to a dog. Consider commercial preparations with a focus on natural foods or cook your own food instead.
Just like people, dogs need plenty of exercise for optimum health. Dogs are naturally hunters and love to run by instinct. Take your dog to the park, play Frisbee with him and give him a daily walk. This will help keep him physically healthy but will also make him mentally healthier.
When it comes to cooking for a dog, start small. For example, give treats a try as they are easy and any stomach upset they might cause will be of a short duration. If your dog tolerates them well, consider cooking his meals for him as well. Check out online recipes for ideas.
Dogs love people food, but that doesn’t mean it is good for them. Many foods, such as chocolate, onions or garlic, aren’t good for dogs and can cause stomach upset or poisoning. Check out lists online to find out which foods are okay and which are big no-nos to feed dogs.
Although some dogs do well on the recommended amount of food to be given each day, some dogs need more or less. Instead of just going by what your food says to feed your dog, try to keep an eye on your dog’s body. If you notice that your dog is gaining a bit of weight, cut the food intake back a bit.
If you bathe your dog often, watch out for signs of painful earaches that can be problematic for canines. They can happen when too much water gets into the ears. Use cotton balls dabbed in baby oil while giving him a bath, and that should keep water from getting in, even if he splashes around.
While saying “no” to a dog is important, you also have to give him guidance as to what the right thing to do is. For example, if you want him to sit, say “sit”. If he doesn’t do it, then say “no”, and then “sit” again. That’s how he will learn.
When it comes to feeding your dog, make sure that you are using a reputable brand that contains enough nutrition. This is important because there are dog foods that contain an undesirable amount of filler in the food. You want to be sure that your dog is getting the amount of nutrients that it needs in order for it to be healthy.
Dogs of all shapes and sizes make for amazing pets, and a great owner takes the time to learn all about their care. You have done just that, so use the tips you have read here to get down to business. A few simple changes or lessons can really make your dog the happiest he can be.
