You might already own a dog or are thinking about becoming an owner – either way you are aware that it’s a huge responsibility. It can be hard to jump right in off the bat. Use the following guide to find some great tips on taking good care of dogs.

Make your home doggie-proof. Check your whole home to be sure it is safe prior to bringing a dog home. Hide cleaning supplies and medicines and hide trashcans in a cabinet. Some houseplants are toxic and need to be kept out of your dog’s reach.

Always neuter or spay your pet. Statistics show that doing this can reduce your dog’s cancer risk, which can result in a longer life span. They are also more likely to remain close to home, reducing their risk of becoming lost or getting injured by a car or another animal.

When vacationing with your dog, use the camera on your phone to snap a quick picture. This way, should he get lost, you have a picture you can show others. You can also use the picture to hand our “lost” flyers.

Store your prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines in a safe place where your dog cannot get them. Your dog could be seriously injured or killed by ingesting a couple of small pills. You should contact your vet right away if your dog swallows some medication.

Table Scraps

Avoid giving your pup table scraps. That encourages him to beg and makes him not want his own food. Your dog may develop digestive problems and become fat if you feed it table scraps. Don’t allow your dog to beg at the table while you are eating.

When training a dog, practice in the yard or your home. You shouldn’t train your dog where many other people are present. Your dog may have trouble paying attention, and even the simplest commands could go right over their head.

If your dog needs to be outside during cold months, buy him a house or build him one. If his feet are wet, extreme temperatures can be stressful and bad for his health. Keep your dog safe from precipitation and winds by providing him with a place that is spacious, with a dry floor.

Try not to force your dog to do new things. If your dog is not interested in a treat, do not force your pet to eat it. When you get your dog you should spend some time with it to learn exactly what kinds of things it enjoys.

Correct bad behavior the first time you see it from your dog. If you don’t address it head on, you will discover that it becomes more difficult to control in the future, possibly with disastrous consequences. If you don’t get his behavior under control, your dog could end up biting someone.

Now that you have some more knowledge about dogs, you should have no trouble caring for them. All that it takes is some patience and love. You’ll know that your dog appreciates it by the way it acts. Keep educating yourself to discover more ways to improve your dog’s life and make your time together more enjoyable.

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