If you’re looking for love and affection, dogs are for you. Dogs are good for both single people and families alike. If you have a dog, try these tips out to help make its life even better.

It takes a lot of money to raise a dog. Each dog needs quality food, medical care and general supplies. It can cost you around $1000 each year. Getting emergency care from the vet is costly, so you may need to take a look at health insurance for your pet.

It’s a great idea to keep a snap-shot of your dog handy (a digital pic on your phone is ideal) whenever you’re traveling with him. If they’re separated from you, then you’ll have a current photo that you can easily access and show others or to download for “lost” flyers.

If there are prescription medications in your home, be sure to keep it out of your dog’s reach. Just a few of your pills can be disastrous for the dog, inducing a heart attack or seizure. Be sure to contact your vet if your dog swallows your medication.

Never allow your dog to leave your yard without a leash even if he seems very trustworthy and calm. A wild animal may get his attention and cause him to run off, or he may have a bad situation with others and their dogs. Understand that any damage your dog causes to other people and their pets is your responsibility, so you need to always use caution when off your property.

Make use of hand signals when training your dog versus relying only on verbal commands. These types of signals are sometimes easier for a dog to learn. Experiment with each way and determine what works.

Ask your vet how much food your dog should get every day. Some people refer to the label on the package to determine the quantity of food to feed their dogs, but those guidelines are not always right and using them can cause your dog to become overweight. Therefore, ask your vet the acceptable amount of dog food your dog needs to ensure its health and well-being.

It’s important to make sure that your pup’s nails stay trimmed. If they start to curl under then your dog may start to feel pain. You can purchase clippers and do this at home. If you’re uncomfortable clipping them on your own, go to a professional groomer. Nail clipping is very affordable.

If you’re adopting a dog through a local shelter, try scheduling a vet appointment right away. Shelter dogs could be sick or exposed to different viruses. It’s smart to ensure your dog has all shots necessary before you take him home.

So much must be considered in order to take proper care of your beloved dog. There is more to it than taking him for walks and giving him food. It’s important to understand the right choices for caring for any dog. For many years of companionship and joy, follow the great advice in the article above.

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