Dogs can be a tremendous source of joy in anyone’s life, provided proper care methods are observed. The key to having a happy and healthy dog is taking the time to learn about their needs. Keep reading to learn more about the many things you can do to keep your dog happy.

There are many pleasures derived from dog ownership, but it is also a serious financial commitment. When you add up the medical care, food and supplies in general, your costs could run from $700-$1000 annually. A sick dog could cost you tens of thousands! Look into doggie health insurance!

Consider the situation before allowing a dog to kiss your face. Dogs are prone to tartar build up and cavities just like people. After all, dogs eat out of the garbage, drink from toilet bowls, and lick all over their body. There is a belief that the mouth of a dog is cleaner than that of a human. It simply is not the case.

When you’re thinking of taking a dog with you when you travel, snap a photo of the animal with your phone. If the worst happens and your pet gets lost, you have a current picture that you can show others or use to make “lost” posters.

Let your lifestyle determine what breed of dog you should bring into your home. Joggers should get a high energy dog, for example. If you are a homebody, a small dog that lounges around a lot is a good fit. When you match your traits and the traits of your pet, you will both be happy.

Ask your vet the amount of food your dog needs daily. Some people feed the dog based on their food package recommendations, but these can be wrong and cause them to be overweight. Speak to the vet about what makes sense for your dog.

A daily brush does a lot more than just prevent shedding. Brushing every day can also help your dog to have a shiny and beautiful coat. This is because the motions you go through while brushing evenly distributes the skin’s oils and helps keep the skin healthy, shiny and soft.

Properly teach your dog how to walk with a leash. Your pet shouldn’t be ahead of you, behind you, or anywhere that isn’t by your side. They should also answer correctly when you say “heel”. This will keep him safe, and it’ll make walks more enjoyable. Even if you’re using a loose leash from time to time, you should still train your dog so that it understands when you issue that command.

Your vet will provide sound advice regarding medication or special needs for your pet, so ensure you pay heed to their words. Dogs do not like having a cone around their head, but it was given for a reason. Vets are professionals who have experience dealing with your situation.

Dogs bring joy to all they meet. But, it is necessary to understand what must be done to have a happy, healthy pet. Hopefully what you learned today offered some valuable insights on how to properly care for your furry companion.

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